LAUSR

ABSTRACT This mixed methods study explored stress in families whose children were hospitalized in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for more than one week. The study aim was to describe sources of stress for families whose children require extended hospitalization in the PICU. Data collection included semi‐structured interviews and completion of the Family Inventory of Life Events and Family System Stressor Strength Inventory. Themes reported in this paper are separation, not knowing, and the child's illness and distress. Additional research is needed to validate these findings in families of other cultures and structures, and in other PICUs. HighlightsSeparation was a primary source of stress for mothers with children at home.The child's illness and its potential effect on the future added to family stress.Despite being told what to expect, families did not feel prepared for changes.Parents reported a relationship between stress and uncertainty about the outcome.Family context must be considered when assessing the stress of PICU hospitalization.