Dignity in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare Research
• Bioethics
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• Children possess limited self-advocacy, increasing vulnerability to dignity infringements.
• The concept of dignity in pediatrics is significantly under-researched compared to adult populations.
• Existing research often focuses on dignity in end-of-life care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and characterize the definition, evaluation, and measurement of dignity in pediatric research.
• To identify key themes and gaps in the current understanding of pediatric dignity.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
• Searched multiple databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, etc.) from inception to April 2023.
• Included English-language publications on children (0-18 years) focusing on dignity.

Main Results:

• Forty-four articles met inclusion criteria; 45% were original research.
• Key themes in dignity definitions included respect, communication, autonomy, and privacy.
• Only 43% of studies measured or evaluated dignity; 34% discussed dignity therapy.

Conclusions:

• There is a limited body of published research on dignity in pediatrics.
• Opportunities exist to expand scholarship on pediatric dignity through collaboration.
• The goal is to enhance dignity-centered care throughout a child's illness and end-of-life journey.