Parents' experiences of having a child who had a stroke: A systematic review and meta-ethnography

Aim: To explore and synthesize interview-based, qualitative research of parents' experiences of having a child who had a paediatric stroke. Method: A systematic search of literature identified seven studies that used qualitative, interview-based methods to investigate parents' experiences of having a child (younger than 25 years) who had a paediatric stroke. Data were extracted and appraised for quality. All seven studies were included in a meta-ethnography. An advisory group of two parents contributed to the analysis through two consultation meetings. Results: A conceptual model of parents' experiences was developed, highlighting the lack of childhood stroke awareness, insufficient support from healthcare professionals, and the role of societal norms. These factors significantly shaped both the emotional impact on parents and the trajectory of their experiences, from emergency response to adjustment. Interpretation: Greater awareness of childhood stroke, alongside sustained professional support for families, may substantially improve outcomes for parents and their children.