The pediatric cancer hospitalization experience: reality co-constructed

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Child Psychology
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Pediatric cancer treatment literature lacks focus on children's lived experiences.
• Qualitative research is essential for understanding patient perspectives.
• Existing reviews primarily cover treatment protocols, not the holistic experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of children during hospitalization for cancer treatment.
• To identify key themes related to the hospitalization process from the child's perspective.
• To inform the development of a comprehensive biopsychosocial health model for pediatric cancer patients.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing data from a larger research project.
• Focus on findings directly related to the hospitalization experience.
• Analysis of patient narratives from San Jorge Children's Hospital, Puerto Rico.

Main Results:

• Children perceive the hospital as a "safe haven" during treatment.
• Key themes include managing pain, asserting control, and demonstrating resilience (thriving in adversity).
• The hospitalization experience is multifaceted, involving psychological and social adaptation.

Conclusions:

• The hospitalization experience significantly impacts children's well-being beyond biological factors.
• Findings support a biopsychosocial model integrating biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.
• Understanding these lived experiences is crucial for improving holistic pediatric cancer care.