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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Breaking bad news by pediatric nurses: a scoping review
Viviane Layse Silva Rosado1, Tarcísio Tércio das Neves Júnior1, Hellen Anaídh de Oliveira2
1Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Enfermagem, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil.
Objective:
To map characteristics of bad news communication by nurses in pediatrics.
Method:
Scoping review according to JBI and PRISMA-ScR recommendations. Searches were conducted between March and May 2024 in six databases, one virtual library, and seven thesis/dissertation repositories, without temporal or language restrictions. Two independent/blinded reviewers performed the selection, and a third resolved disagreements. Data collection used an instrument adapted from the Cochrane Data Collection form, with descriptive synthesis and analysis according to scientific literature.
Results:
31 studies comprised the sample, 13 addressing the communication of bad news to the child/adolescent, 10 to their families, and eight encompassing both audiences. Breaking bad news in pediatrics has specific characteristics, considering the child's developmental stages, family context, and cultural factors. Facilitating factors include the collaboration of the multiprofessional team and the bond established through the nurse's longer contact time with the child/adolescent. Among the difficulties, the lack of preparation, knowledge, self-confidence, experience, and security stand out. The nurse's actions include supporting, welcoming, and encouraging the family and child/adolescent.
Conclusion:
Breaking bad news communication is a complex practice that requires adaptation to the cognitive and emotional aspects of the child/adolescent and family, and is hindered by limitations in professional preparation.
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