title: Parents' experiences of splinting programs for babies with congenital limb anomalies.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To explore parent experiences with participation in splinting programs for their child with a congenital limb anomaly in the child's first year of life. While parent participation is recognized as integral to successful outcomes of splinting programs for these children, little is known about factors influencing their participation.
  
  
  METHODS
  Through purposive sampling, 10 families recruited from outpatient clinics at a pediatric tertiary care facility participated in semi-structured interviews in this qualitative study utilizing interpretive description methodology. Constant comparative and concurrent data collection and analysis were employed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Themes identified: (1) An experience of adjustment; (2) The value of timely and comprehensive information; (3) Appreciation of support networks; and (4) Characteristics unique to splinting programs. Practical suggestions for program enhancements are outlined.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Addressing parents' information, support, and individual needs are keys to promoting active parent participation in their child's splinting program, contributing to positive outcomes for their child.
authors.affiliation: British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada.|Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.|Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
authors.forename: Kim M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Durlacher
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada.|Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.|Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Verchere
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.|Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.|Department of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.|Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, Vancouver, Canada.
authors.forename: Jill G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Zwicker
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D017880:Limb Deformities, Congenital / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000379:methods; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013165:Splints
keywords: Parents; infant; limb anomalies; participation; splints