Child-friendly healthcare: A concept analysis

This study aims to analyze the concept of Child-friendly Healthcare (CFH) using Walker and Avant's conceptual analysis framework to clarify its meaning, attributes, and implications for clinical practice.

The study employed Walker and Avant's conceptual analysis method, which involves a systematic process comprising concept selection, setting objectives, exploring potential uses, defining attributes, constructing a model case, identifying contrary cases, determining antecedents and consequences, and examining empirical referents. A scoping review was conducted across multiple sources, including online dictionaries, scientific databases, and grey literature, with a focus on literature relevant to CFH.

A total of 37 articles were reviewed, revealing diverse definitions and interpretations of CFH across various contexts. The concept was defined by five key attributes: (1) child interests-prioritized quality services, (2) child-friendly environments and spaces, (3) social interaction, (4) child participation, and (5) development facilitation. The study also identified the antecedents and consequences of CFH, developed model and contrary cases, and examined empirical referents to offer a comprehensive understanding of the concept.

This analysis effectively clarified the concept of CFH, highlighting its core attributes and providing valuable insights for clinical nursing practice. The findings suggest that CFH can be used as a framework to guide child-centered healthcare practices, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided to pediatric patients.

Conducting a concept analysis of CFH can significantly contribute to improving patient health outcomes, supporting institutional development, and fostering future research and practical applications in child healthcare settings.