Under what beliefs and knowledge do parents answer the question not to vaccinate?
File(s)
Date
2011-05Author
Baade, Lindsey E
Advisor(s)
Westphal, Judith
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Many misconceptions are publicized about immunizations. The factors and
influences that parents cite for not immunizing their children are important to know and
understand as family practice providers in order to provide education on credible
sources of benefits and risks of immunization. The purpose of this study was aimed at
identifying parental beliefs and understanding toward immunization. Further, this study
anticipated to identify immunization implications and practice guidelines for the
advanced practice nurse (APN).
This phenomenological qualitative study used semi-structured interview
questions through snowball sampling to delve into the reasons parents oppose
immunization. While parents affirmed several reasons for not vaccinating their children,
the three major congruent themes were the body knows best, toxic consequences, and
balancing act. The conclusions drawn from this study indicate that parents who do not
vaccinate their children believe that a healthy body, free of toxins, will build natural
immunity to fight off disease. Implications for APNs include providing parents with
credible information, as well as providing parents with information on vaccine
preventable diseases. Implications for future research include re-interviewing these
parents to see if they were at all affected by their decision not immunize.
Subject
Vaccines - Health aspects
Parents - Attitudes
Immunization of infants
Immunization of children
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/53382Description
A Clinical paper submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a degree of Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner