Nursing Approach and Interventions to Prevent Nutritional Deficiencies in Paediatric Oncology: a Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology Nursing
• Nutritional Support
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Pediatric oncology patients face significant risks of nutritional deficits.
• Factors contributing to deficits include cancer treatments, side effects, and psychosocial elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and describe nursing care strategies for preventing nutritional deficiencies in pediatric oncology.
• To synthesize current evidence on nursing interventions in this specialized field.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review following JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searches conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases.
• Deductive content analysis using a pre-existing model for nutritional deficits.

Main Results:

• 32 articles were included from an initial search of 1736.
• Key nursing interventions include symptom assessment, family education, care planning, and psychosocial support.
• Nurses utilize playfulness and environmental adjustments to aid coping and nutritional intake.

Conclusions:

• Nutritional nursing care in pediatric oncology is complex and requires a multifaceted approach.
• Effective care involves a broad range of skills, from symptom assessment to patient-family collaboration.
• Customized care plans are essential for preventing nutritional deficits in this vulnerable population.