Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing

Intimate partner violence is a significant public health issue facing communities across the country and worldwide, and we know that many children are witness or exposed to the violence. Substantial research related to exposure of children to family violence exists; however, research specific to adolescents exposed to intimate partner violence remains minimally explored.

This mixed-methods study sought to understand the experiences and perspectives of Latinx teens with histories of exposure to intimate partner violence. The study combined focus groups with (n = 25) Latinx teens and pretests and posttests using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and Attitudes and Beliefs about Violence.

Twenty-five Latinx teens participated in the groups. The participants were 13–17 years old, with a mean age of 14.3 years. Participants provided several perspectives in which teens deal with exposure to intimate partner violence. Teens stated that “safety” was identified as “protecting themselves” or “protecting their siblings.” Findings suggest a need for teens to discuss intimate partner violence issues and develop positive and effective coping strategies.

This study sought to understand Latinx teens' experiences of their exposure to intimate partner violence. Study limitations included a small high-risk sample from a nonprofit agency located in south Texas adjacent to the U.S.–Mexico border offering services to domestic violence and sexual assault victims and their children. This study shows promise for developing an evidence-based program that is developmentally and culturally appropriate for teens exposed to family violence.

Caring for an infant and family at the end-of-life for the infant requires a unique set of nursing skills and characteristics. Nurses who have that skill set can shed light on the role and the individual strengths needed for success.

A phenomenological approach was used to examine the perceived traits and skills needed for these nurses. Eight participants were interviewed about their experience of working with these families. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using codes and categories. Four themes emerged.

The four themes identified were flexibility, making memories, compassion, and nonjudgment.

Understanding some of the characteristics required for this unique role can help nurses self-reflect and continue to care for these families and themselves during this sacred time. The findings have value for all pediatric nurses who care for children who may die.

The medical and surgical care of individuals diagnosed with an anorectal malformation (ARM) has become increasingly standardized with greater attention to the importance of holistic and long-term treatment approaches. Development of opportunities for social connection and peer support among individuals diagnosed with an ARM and their families is a valuable contribution to care for this population. The desire to increase these types of opportunities in our center led to the development of a family education and peer support day for individuals with ARM and their families.

We identify and describe five priorities for event development: (a) securing hospital and center-based leadership support, (b) maximizing family input, (c) limiting financial burden, (d) maintaining an interdisciplinary approach, and (e) building on existing connections.

A 1-day event was developed, which included educational presentations, Question and Answer with an expert panel, group discussion, and group activities. The event was attended by 42 participants including 28 caregivers, 12 patients, and two siblings, representing 18 distinct family groups. Overall feedback for the event (response rate: 50%) was positive.

The development of a family education and support event was found to be a valuable experience for providers, patients, and families. Families appeared to benefit from both the education provided and the opportunity to engage with others with similar lived experiences. Implications for future events include greater emphasis on opportunities for peer connections, greater emphasis on the adolescent experience, and expansion of included diagnoses.