The Impact of a Family-Friendly Hospital: A Patient Perspective.

Introduction: When a seriously ill and dying parent is hospitalized, the families are at risk of developing problems. Only sparse evidence is available on the effects of creating family-friendly rooms in hospitals. Aim: This study investigates how a seriously ill parent to children aged 0–18 experiences staying in a hospital room with family-friendly furnishing. Methods: From September 2012 to September 2015, seriously ill and dying patients with children ages 0–18 were offered the opportunity to stay in a family-friendly room at the North Denmark Regional Hospital. The sick parents were interviewed about how the changed room impacted themselves, their children, and their family. Results: The analysis led to three themes: (1) The ability to visit a sick parent, (2) maintaining family functions and relationships, and (3) room for children and adults. Conclusion: By offering the families a hospital room with cozy furniture and a big TV screen, seriously ill parents see that their children are more comfortable when visiting the hospital. A family-friendly hospital is not just an idealistic thought, it is a real opportunity to improve the final period of a dying parent's life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]