Uncovering the Meaning of Parent–Nurse Relationships in Childhood Cancer Care: A Gadamerian Hermeneutic Study

Abstract

The diagnosis of cancer in a child thrusts parents into a complex healthcare system where they find themselves developing new relationships with pediatric oncology nurses. While parents and nurses acknowledge the meaningfulness and complexity of these relationships, many find it difficult to articulate. The purpose of this study was to understand the meaning and experience of the parent–nurse relationship in childhood cancer care. This study employed the tenets of Gadamerian hermeneutic philosophy. Data analysis looked to articulate meaningful interpretations of the interviews with parents and nurses of children with cancer through interpretive data analysis and utilized the hermeneutic circle as a way of conceptualizing and understanding the interpretive process. Sixteen interviews (n = 8 parents, n = 8 nurses) were completed. The findings suggested that both parents and nurses of children with cancer navigate through an evolving inner world unique to the cancer experience. The parent–nurse relationships were mutually identified as dynamic, complex, and emotionally laden, and drew on the shared strength, trust, humanity, and interconnectedness of one another. The parent–nurse relationships played a significant role in traversing the challenges encountered with entry into and navigation through the pediatric cancer world. The findings provide practical knowledge to inform and enhance relationship development at the clinical level, impact how relationship development is taught at the academic level, and inform professional development. This study contributes to the understanding of parent–nurse relationships and opens the door for integration of innovative practices in nursing education and clinical care.