The importance of supportive relationships with general practitioners, hospitals and pharmacists for mothers who 'give medicines' to children with severe and profound intellectual disabilities

A purposeful sample of 15 mothers of children with severe and profound intellectual disabilities participated in this hermeneutic phenomenological study through interviews and completion of a diary. The aim of the study was to explore mothers' lived experience of 'giving medicines' to children with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. Findings yielded multiple themes, one of which gave insight into the importance of supportive relationships with health professionals. The general practitioner (GP), hospital and pharmacist are key in providing supportive elements to mothers' daily role. Having the support of a helpful GP was key in helping mothers cope on a daily basis for child related queries on illness, getting prescriptions or seeking advice. Accessibility to the hospital and avoiding the emergency department with their child was recommended. The pharmacist was central to the daily activities relating to 'giving medicines' and a good relationship resulted in a happier mother.