E-learning resource when a parent is dying with cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Developing an e-learning training resource for healthcare professionals to facilitate communication with parents on preparing their children for the death of a parent with cancer
IRAS ID
224668
Contact name
Eilis McCaughan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Ulster University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
There are few tasks more difficult than preparing children for the death of a parent. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon phenomenon. In 2015, 23,600 parents died in the UK leaving dependent children. The final phase of a parent's illness is exceptionally stressful for children who are at risk for adverse psychological reactions such as anger, despair, and social isolation. It is evident from the literature that parents need and desire support but there is a lack of knowledge regarding what the inherent support needs of parents are to undertake this task. Healthcare professionals in frontline roles are well placed to support patients to prepare their children for the death of a parent. However, they report a lack of knowledge and confidence in their skills surrounding this challenging aspect of care. The purpose of this research therefore is to develop an e-learning training resource for healthcare professionals on supporting families when a parent is dying with cancer. This study involves three phases using both Face to face interviews and focus groups.
Phase 1 of this study will explore the lived experience and support needs of parents with cancer as they prepare their children for the death of a parent with cancer.
Phase 2 will explore healthcare professionals’ view of their role in supporting parents prepare their children for the death of a parent with cancer.
Data from Phase 1 and 2, will be used in Phase 3 to develop an educational intervention which will be available as an e-learning module for healthcare professionals using Yardley’s person-based approach on supporting families when a parent is dying with cancer.REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SW/0155
Date of REC Opinion
7 Aug 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion