Multifaceted Assessment of Quality of Life in Hospitalized Adolescents Aged 11-18 with Cardiological Problems

Cardiological conditions in adolescents can impair health-related quality of life (HRQoL), influencing physical, emotional, and social functioning. Identifying sociodemographic and psychosocial determinants is essential for targeted multidisciplinary interventions involving pediatric cardiologists, nurses, and psychologists. This study assessed HRQoL in hospitalized adolescents with cardiologic problems.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 adolescents aged 11-18 years hospitalized in a pediatric cardiology ward in Poland (June-December 2022). HRQoL was measured using the validated Polish version of the KIDSCREEN-52 questionnaire. Data on demographics, family and financial situation, and pain were collected. Non-parametric tests and Spearman's correlations were applied; p < 0.05 was considered significant.

The highest HRQoL scores were observed in Social Acceptance (mean 86.3 ± 17.9), while the lowest scores were found in School Environment (49.2 ± 21.4). Boys had significantly higher Physical Well-being and Self-perception scores than girls (p = 0.019, p = 0.031). Older age correlated negatively with Moods and Emotions (r = -0.216, p = 0.031) and Peer Relationships (r = -0.300, p = 0.002). Rural residence was associated with stronger family relationships (p = 0.025). A better financial status correlated with higher family relationship and financial resource scores. Pain was linked to poorer physical and emotional well-being.

The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of adolescents hospitalized for cardiac conditions is mainly affected by socio-demographic factors, such as gender, age, place of residence, perceived socioeconomic status, and experiences of pain and discomfort. Girls, older adolescents, urban residents, and those reporting poorer socioeconomic conditions and pain had lower HRQoL scores in specific areas. Conversely, family structure and the presence of chronic diseases did not significantly influence HRQoL outcomes.