Exploring experiential influences on cognitive and neurodevelopment in infants and young children living with chronic health conditions

Clinical implications have been discussed. <br><br>Secondly, an empirical investigation was conducted to gain an understanding of potential factors shaping mother and child experiences influencing cognitive development in preschoolers living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD). A qualitative design employing the use of purposeful sampling methods was used. 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) was used in the transcription of interviews.

Interviews were coded and organised into 4 superordinate themes to include: ‘The Diagnosis,’ ‘Interactions with the Healthcare System,’ ‘A Transformative Experience’ and ‘The Infant Experience’. The findings highlight the emotional impact of receiving a CHD diagnosis, influencing mothers' perceptions of the challenges ahead. The lack of support and information about CHD, particularly within the context of a strained National Health Service (NHS) and Health Service Executive (HSE), dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic offered up-to-date perspective and consideration of these factors on infant cognitive development.

Initiatives to improve communication and information provision for mothers, in addition to important follow-up procedures have been recommended.<br>