AIM To identify meaningful outcomes of children and their caregivers attending a paediatric brain centre. METHOD We compiled a long list of outcomes of health and functioning of children with… Click to show full abstract
AIM To identify meaningful outcomes of children and their caregivers attending a paediatric brain centre. METHOD We compiled a long list of outcomes of health and functioning of children with brain-related disorders such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, (genetic) neurodevelopmental disorders, and acquired brain injury. We incorporated three perspectives: patients, health care professionals, and published outcome sets. An aggregated list was categorized using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health: Children and Youth version in a patient validation survey for children and parent-caregivers to prioritize outcomes. Outcomes were considered meaningful when ranked 'very important' by 70% or more of the participants. RESULTS We identified 104 outcomes from the three perspectives. After categorizing, 59 outcomes were included in the survey. Thirty-three surveys were completed by children (n = 4), caregivers (n = 24), and parent-caregivers together with their child (n = 5). Respondents prioritized 27 meaningful outcomes covering various aspects of health and functioning: emotional well-being, quality of life, mental and sensory functions, pain, physical health, and activities (communication, mobility, self-care, interpersonal relationships). Parent-caregiver concerns and environmental factors were newly identified outcomes. INTERPRETATION Children and parent-caregivers identified meaningful outcomes covering various aspects of health and functioning, including caregiver concerns and environmental factors. We propose including those in future outcome sets for children with neurodisability.
               
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