Level of Paternal Involvement in Paediatric Patients Care in Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract:

Background: Absent fathers in Pediatric care is prevalent in the healthcare setting. This study explored the level of paternal involvement in caring for Pediatric patients and identify factors affecting their involvement in Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: An exploratory research design was utilized. A purposive sampling technique was used to select twenty (20) father of Pediatric patients admitted in Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from relevant authorities. Data were collected using an interviewer guided questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using statistical product and service solution (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: Findings showed that (45%) were highly involved in their child’s care, 40% were frequently involved in the care, (65%) were physically present with their child in the hospital, (60%) made all decisions concerning the treatment of their children, while (55%) of the mothers wanted their husbands to accompany them to the hospital. Also, 70% of healthcare workers motivated fathers to get involved in the care of their children. Factors affecting involvement includes work/job (85%), time and family living elsewhere (70%), finance (75%). The study found no significant relationship between the level of father’s involvement and the gender of the children (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The study concludes that less than average of the fathers whose child was on admission were highly involved in care due to factors such as time, work, and location of the hospital.