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Physical problems and psychosocial function in children with cancer

Karin Enskär1, Louise von Essen

  • 1Department of Nursing Science, School of Health Sciences, Jönköping University, Sweden.

Paediatric Nursing
|May 27, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Children with cancer experience more psychosocial distress than physical problems, especially during treatment. Fatigue is a common physical issue, and missed school impacts life satisfaction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Child Psychology
  • Nursing Care

Background:

  • Children with cancer face unique physical and psychosocial challenges.
  • Understanding these issues is crucial for effective care and support.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe physical and treatment-related problems in children with cancer.
  • To assess psychosocial function in this population.

Main Methods:

  • The Life Situation Scale for Children was administered to 39 children (aged 7-12).
  • Participants visited pediatric wards in Sweden.

Main Results:

  • Fatigue was the most reported physical problem.
  • Children undergoing treatment reported more physical issues than those who finished.
  • Psychosocial distress was more prevalent than physical distress.
  • Inability to attend school correlated with lower life satisfaction.

Conclusions:

  • The treatment period is linked to greater distress than post-treatment.
  • Psychosocial distress appears more impactful for children with cancer than physical symptoms.
  • Nurses should recognize the heightened distress during treatment and prioritize psychosocial support.
Abstract

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