Parents' experiences when their child is undergoing an elective colonoscopy.

PURPOSE: The purpose was to illuminate parents' experiences when their children are undergoing an elective colonoscopy performed using polyethylene glycol-based regimes for bowel preparation. DESIGN AND METHODS: Individual interviews with 12 parents were performed and analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: The parents' experiences were structured into one theme: "Charged with conflicting emotions" with three categories: "Being forced to force," "Losing one's sense of being a parent" and "Standing without guidance." PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Understanding parents' experiences can help healthcare staff guide parents in helping their children undergo a colonoscopy.