Date of Award

10-13-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MSc in Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Laila Ladak

Second Advisor

Dr. Rashida Ferrand

Third Advisor

Dr. Saleem Akhtar

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Globally, congenital heart diseases (CHDs) encompass a range of structural abnormalities involving the heart and great vessels, constituting the most common category of congenital anomalies. Over the past decade, significant advancements in medical and surgical interventions have led to increased survival rates. Managing a child with CHD, particularly post-surgery, can be physically, emotionally, and psychologically taxing for parents and caregivers. These stressors may negatively impact their mental health and health related quality of life (HRQoL).
Purpose: The study aims to explore stress, resilience, and mental well-being among parents of children following congenital heart surgery and to understand how these factors, along with coping mechanisms and social support, influence their HRQoL.
Methodology: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted. The study used purposive sampling to recruit parents caring for children with CHD who have undergone surgery from a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. The study presents a detailed analysis of 15 semi-structured, indepth interviews, utilising Virginia Braun and Victoria Clarke’s thematic analysis approach.
Findings: Three major themes emerged: (i) An arduous healthcare journey; (ii) The catastrophic burden of caregiving; (iii) Adaptive responses and coping mechanisms. The research found that parental experiences are relatively uniform across different geographical regions. However, differences in sociodemographic factors and the clinical profiles of children significantly influence their experiences.
Conclusion: Parents often experience increased stress at the time of diagnosis, which gradually diminishes as they adapt to the circumstances. The way parents adapt plays a crucial role in their overall HRQoL. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare providers to assess family resources and to offer comprehensive psychosocial support to promote resilience and improve overall HRQoL.

First Page

1

Last Page

181

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