DEVELOPMENT OF A CARE MODEL FOR CHILD PATIENTS WITH TRANSFUSION-DEPENDENT THALASSEMIA (TDT) AT PRANANGKLAO HOSPITAL

Abstract

          The objectives of this action research were 1) to investigate challenges in caring for children with Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia (TDT) at Phranangklao hospital, 2) to develop a care model for children with TDT at Phranangklao hospital, and 3) to evaluate the effectiveness of this care model. The research followed the action research process, including planning, action, observation, and reflection, during the period from June to September 2023. Participants included multidisciplinary personnel, pediatric thalassemia patients requiring blood transfusions, and their caregivers. Data collection methods comprised in-depth interviews, focus groups, observations, recordings, and satisfaction assessments. Data analysis involved content analysis and statistical analysis.

          The research findings revealed that:

          1. Problems of caring for children with TDT at Phranangklao hospital were founded in 4 main points: 1) delayed service, long waiting times, 2) standards and guidelines not yet comprehensive, 3) unclear educational activities and 4) development of information systems.

          2. The care model comprised 1) reducing service steps, 2) supporting self-management, 3) developing care standards and guidelines, and 4) developing information databases.

          3. The average satisfaction level of multidisciplinary personnel with the care model was high (M = 4.40, SD = .69), and the average satisfaction level of service recipients with the care model was very high (M = 4.62, SD = .54).

          4. Service procedures at the outpatient clinic could be reduced from 17 steps to 5 steps, reducing waiting time from 160 minutes to 42 minutes. The average number of days spent in the hospital decreased from 603 minutes to 495 minutes.