Quality of life in children undergoing tonsillectomy: a cross-sectional survey

Ying Zhou1, Mingqi Peng2, Jing Zhou3

  • 1Department of Nursing, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 72, Guangzhou Road, Gulou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.

Insights

The quality of life for children after tonsillectomy is often suboptimal, influenced by factors like age, tonsillitis history, and family income. Targeted nursing interventions are crucial for improving pediatric quality of life post-tonsillectomy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Quality of Life Research
  • Health Outcomes

Background:

  • The impact of tonsillectomy on children's quality of life (QoL) requires further elucidation.
  • Understanding QoL status and influencing factors is vital for optimizing postoperative care in pediatric tonsillectomy patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the current quality of life in children following tonsillectomy.
  • To identify key factors influencing the quality of life in this pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 118 children undergoing tonsillectomy was evaluated.
  • The Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 (PedsQL™ 4.0) was utilized for QoL assessment.
  • Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and logistic regression, identified influencing factors.

Main Results:

  • The average PedsQL™ 4.0 total score was 70.28 ± 13.15.
  • Significant associations were found between QoL and age, history of tonsillitis, parental education, and family income.
  • Independent factors influencing QoL included younger age (≤5 years), longer tonsillitis history (≥3 years), parental high school education, and lower family income (≤5000 RMB).

Conclusions:

  • Children undergoing tonsillectomy experience diminished quality of life.
  • Age, tonsillitis history, parental education, and socioeconomic status are significant determinants of pediatric QoL post-tonsillectomy.
  • Early, targeted nursing strategies addressing these factors are recommended to enhance post-tonsillectomy QoL in children.
Abstract

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