Experiences of Siblings of Children in Pediatric Intensive Care

Experiences Reported by Siblings of Children Hospitalized in the PICU

Observational Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris · NCT06664333

This study looks at how having a brother or sister in the pediatric intensive care unit affects the feelings and experiences of siblings aged 10 to 18 years.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages9 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorAssistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Paris and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06664333 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the experiences and emotional impacts on siblings of children hospitalized in pediatric intensive care units. It involves conducting two semi-structured interviews with siblings aged 10 to 18 years, one during the child's hospitalization and another one month after discharge. The study seeks to gather qualitative data on the psychological effects, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and major depressive syndrome, that may arise from this challenging experience. The research is conducted at Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital and Robert Debré Hospital in Paris.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are siblings aged 10 to 18 years whose brother or sister is currently hospitalized in a pediatric intensive care unit.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those whose sibling has passed away or those unable to participate in interviews due to language barriers or intellectual disabilities.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the emotional needs of siblings, leading to better support systems for families during pediatric intensive care situations.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data specifically on siblings in pediatric intensive care, similar studies focusing on family dynamics in critical care settings have shown the importance of addressing the needs of all family members.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children and adolescents aged 9 to 18 years
* Whose sister or brother is hospitalized in pediatric intensive care at Necker-Enfants Malades hospital or Robert Debré hospital
* Holders of parental authority and children or adolescents informed and consenting to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Death of patients
* Language barrier (French not mastered)
* Inability to participate in a semi-structured interview (intellectual disability)

Where this trial is running

Paris and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Intensive Care PediatricPediatric intensive care hospitalisationSiblingsSemi-structured interviewsPost-traumatic stress disorderMajor depressive syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.