Abstract
The benefits of increased parental participation in the care of the hospitalised child is well documented, and care given by parents is found to be effective. To facilitate the child's recovery by providing the parents with information and education about care, and to minimise disruption to the child's and the family's normal life the care after hypospadiasis repair was changed. Outcomes were evaluated in two different ways: a cost-effectiveness analysis for calculating the relative value of the alternative medical interventions, and qualitative interviews with parents to gain an understanding of parents' experiences. The sample consisted of consecutive series of children (n=17) and accompanying parents (n=19). This article describes the parents' views. The results showed that feelings of participation, support and uncertainty were predominant for parents during their child's care and treatment. The results highlighted the importance of evaluating new processes and routines.