A Qualitative Study of the Care Experience of Mothers of Asthmatic Children from Low-Income Families.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the experiences and caregiving perspectives of mothers from low-income families who have children with asthma,and to establish a foundation for the development of tailored nursing strategies specifically designed for families facing similar circumstances. Method: A descriptive qualitative research method was employed. Fifteen mothers of asthmatic children from low-income families receiving treatment at the Respiratory Centre of Chongqing Children's Hospital were purposefully sampled from June to December 2021. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather data on their caregiving experiences, and thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the interview data. Results: The interviewees were 27-42 years old (SD=32.3 years), 33.3% were full-time mothers(A woman who quit work, in order to focus on taking care of the child and the family ), 53.3% had one child, 46.6% had a college degree or higher, and 100% had health insurance. Through in-depth interviews, four main themes and eight sub-themes were identified, including (a) insufficient knowledge about the disease, (b) anxiety and uncertainty, (c) insufficient social support system, and (d) insufficient resources for medical services. The first theme describes a weak willingness to learn and medication discontinuation at will. The second theme describes financial burden and psychological stress, the third theme describes lack of family support and low social participation, and the fourth theme describes insufficient health insurance support and unequal distribution of healthcare resources. Conclusion: Mothers from low-income families with asthmatic children face substantial psychological burdens and familial pressures. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to actively engage with and deepen their understanding of these mothers' caregiving experiences and psychological well-being. By doing so, positive coping strategies can be developed, promoting the physical and mental health of these mothers and improving asthma control in their children.