Animal assisted interventions in the children's hospital: protocol for a scoping review

The introduction of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAIs) in healthcare is relatively common; however, their actual effectiveness and long-term impact are not so well known, especially in relation to the children's hospital setting.  It is important to plot where and why animal interventions take place but also to focus on how the human animal bond impacts on children in a children's hospital setting.  Family members, including companion animals, are important supports which help children to relax and give them a sense of familiarity to navigate the busy and stressful hospital environment.  The scoping review of the literature proposed will explore the scientific evidence base for AAIs in children's hospitals and will map results prior to undertaking a full scale research project.   Arksey and O'Malley's framework guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute will frame this review protocol.  Appendices are used to ensure transparency of methods. The protocol is presented in narrative style to demonstrate flow, fluency, and appeal to wider readership.