Talking diagnoses with parents: a critical review of pediatricians’ perspectives

Abstract

Pediatricians often engage in sensitive discussions with profound effects on parents of children who have a disability or life-altering medical condition. Understanding how pediatricians choose to converse with parents can inform best practices in a pediatric clinical setting. A critical review examined research published between 2008 and 2023. Seventeen studies were included following a comprehensive evaluation for quality using the LEGEND assessment tool. Our analysis revealed a range of variables that influence how pediatricians share sensitive information with families. Emerging themes comprised: 1) pediatrician’s variables; 2) parent/child variables; and 3) external factors such as degree of training and logistical challenges. Applying a child rights perspective as a principled framework, this critical review revealed an absence of children’s voices in the clinical discourse and in the process of shared decision-making.