Needs of children during the critical illness of a parent or sibling.

The needs and significance of well children in the family typically have not been considered when addressing family-centered care. Health care providers and overstressed parents may have little awareness of or insight into the needs and concerns of these children. Without informed and sensitive interventions, however, these children may be at risk for significant long-term negative effects. This article discusses some of the needs and responses of well children who have a critically ill parent or sibling. Using a developmental framework, the author suggests interventions that may benefit these often forgotten but very vulnerable family members.