Critical Review: An Exploration of the Perceptions of Gastrostomy Tube-feeding in Caregivers of Children who have Cerebral Palsy

This critical review examined caregiver perceptions of gastrostomy tube-feeding in children with cerebral palsy. A literature search was completed, and interpretive descriptive studies based on interviews were reviewed. Overall, the articles identified multiple and variable themes that were positive, negative and neutral in nature from the individuals’ experiences. Such themes included: attempts to maintain normalcy, dealing with stigma and attitudinal barriers, relief, loss and lessened feelings of maternal competence.