Thalassemia is one of the most common genetic blood disorders in the world. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of counseling program for mothers to improve quality of life of their thalassemic children. Design: A quasi –experimental design was used. Setting: The study was conducted at the Medical Outpatient‟s Clinics at Benha University Hospital and at the Medical Outpatient‟s Clinics of Specialized Pediatric Hospital in Benha. Sample: A purposive sample of 11 mothers accompanying by their thalassemic children was recruited for this study. Tools: data were collected by using two tools I- Interviewing questionnaire to assess socio-demographic characteristics for mothers and their children, children history of thalassemia, mothers‟ knowledge, and practices regarding thalassemia disease II- Pediatric Quality of Life scale. Results: The study findings indicated that less than two thirds of mothers had poor knowledge regarding thalassemia and the mean score of reported mothers‟ practices regarding care of their thalassemic children were inadequate. Also, more than three quarters of thalassemic children had poor quality of life before counseling program which improved after program implementation. Conclusion: The study concluded that, quality of life of thalassemic children improved after implementing of counseling program. This improvement was proved statistically. Recommendations: The study recommended that a counseling program for mothers is strongly needed to improve quality of life of thalassemic children. Also booklet and pamphlet containing knowledge and practices regarding care of thalassemic children, should be distributed for all mothers and their thalassemic children who are attending Medical Outpatient‟s Clinics. |
