Children's own perspectives demonstrate the need to improve paediatric perioperative care

Gunilla Lööf1,2, Nina Andersson-Papadogiannakis3, Charlotte Silén1

  • 1Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden.

Nursing Open
|October 30, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Children

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Anesthesiology
  • Child Psychology
  • Perioperative Care

Background:

  • Understanding children's experiences with anesthesia and surgery is crucial for improving care.
  • Previous research has not fully captured the nuanced perspectives of children undergoing these procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore children's perspectives and emotional responses to anesthesia and surgery.
  • To identify factors influencing children's confidence or fear during the perioperative period.

Main Methods:

  • Interpretative qualitative design using interviews with children aged 4-15.
  • Data collected in three phases: before, immediately after, and one month post-surgery.
  • Qualitative content analysis (manifest and latent) of interview data.

Main Results:

  • Two primary themes emerged: 'Fearful' and 'Confident' regarding anesthesia and surgery.
  • Factors influencing these themes included comprehension of procedures, continuous information, and healthcare provider interaction.
  • Children's perceived significant events may differ from healthcare providers' priorities.

Conclusions:

  • Children's understanding and processing of information are key to building trust and confidence.
  • Healthcare providers should acknowledge the child's unique perspective and significant events.
  • Tailored communication strategies are essential for a positive perioperative experience in pediatric patients.
Abstract

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