Establishing a protocol for parental presence in recovery.
This study aimed to contribute to providing a quality service that is sensitive to the needs of children undergoing surgery and their parents. An action research approach, focusing on parents' perceptions of coming into recovery, was used. A retrospective survey design was utilized to establish parents' views. A response rate of 71% (n = 100) was achieved. A short prospective study carried out concurrently achieved a 50% (n = 50) response from questionnaires handed out in recovery. Almost all the parents (98%) from both studies felt that they and their child had benefited from the parents' presence in recovery. When given the choice, 100% of parents came to recovery. The structural location and information given to parents preoperatively helped to ensure that parents were easy to find when the time was right to come to recovery. Communication between recovery staff, children and parents before surgery was recognized as a significant factor. A protocol for allowing parents into the recovery room has been produced. Staff who had preconceived ideas about parents' presence now identified the practice as good and considered that it contributed to the quality of the service.