What it means
Also called a stepfamily. It forms when parents with children from a past marriage or relationship come together, sometimes with children they then have together. Members may need time to adjust to new roles, rules and relationships, and children may divide their time between two homes.
For the nurse
Ask who the family members are and who has legal authority to make health care decisions for a child, since a stepparent may not have it.
At a glance
| Also written | blended families, stepfamily, stepfamilies |
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Related terms
caregiver
A person who looks after someone who needs help, such as a family member, friend or paid helper.