eczema

Atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition globally. The burden of atopic dermatitis on children and adults is extensive and there is also significant impact on the lives of patient caregivers and family members. It is important to be able to measure this impact to inform clinical decisions and to plan appropriate patient and carer support.

The Women's and Children's Health Network (WCHN), South Australia (SA), became a designated Best Practice Spotlight Organisation (BPSO) site in 2019 following a three year candidature, through the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) with host organisation, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) SA Branch.

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an extremely common childhood disease, with considerable impact on the quality of life of affected children and their families. While pruritus is the hallmark symptom of this disease, AD has been well-documented to impact patients beyond physical symptoms, resulting in behavior problems, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.

Objective: This literature review outlines how atopic dermatitis impacts the quality of life of families of children affected by AD.