Best Practice Recommendations To Support Coping Strategies For Pediatric Oncology Patients

Abstract

This best practice thesis aims to identify the current research and recommendations for coping strategies for pediatric oncology patients. Childhood cancer is a prevalent issue in our society, that can lead to both short and long term negative psychological effects (Aguilar, 2017). Therefore, it is vital to address and expand coping strategies currently used within the pediatric oncology population to ensure that patients are receiving the best individualized and holistic care possible. The articles discussed during the literature review focus on causes of psychological stress as well as methods to improve psychological well-being through incorporating multiple points of view and various intervention strategies. The literature review introduced coping methods for patients to utilize as well as for nurses and parents to use to support their patient’s/child’s coping strategies. Following the identification of the best practice recommendations, a hypothetical implementation will be explained and evaluated through the use of the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Cycle. Strengths and limitations of the theoretical implementation and overall thesis will be discussed during the concluding portion of this thesis.