Final answer:
Parents commonly experience fear as an initial reaction to their child's illness or injury, which can be associated with feelings of helplessness and concern for the child's future.
Step-by-step explanation:
A common initial reaction of parents to illness or injury and hospitalization in their child is fear. This emotional response is driven by concerns for the child's well-being and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. The prospect of a serious health issue can lead to feelings of helplessness and fear about the child's future and the impact on the family. Situations involving serious illness may also trigger a sequence of responses similar to those identified by Elizabeth Kübler-Ross in her five-stage model of grief, which includes denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Parents may experience these emotions as they come to terms with their child's condition.