Predicting Pediatric Distress During Radiation Therapy Procedures: The Role of Medical, Psychosocial, and Demographic Factors

Abstract

Modifiable treatment and psychological variables directly relate to pediatric radiation therapy-related distress. Implementation of developmentally appropriate and cost-effective interventions to reduce procedural radiation therapy distress is warranted.

A Qualitative Analysis of Children's Emotional Reactions During Hospitalization Following Injury

“…These results extend the literature on children's experiences with chronic illness to include children with injury (Jacob et al, 2006; Klosky et al, 2007). Consistent with studies of ill children, results suggest children facing medical treatment for injury are concerned about procedures, such as surgery, stitches, and needle sticks (Hildenbrand et al, 2011; Klosky et al, 2007).…”

“…Consistent with studies of ill children, results suggest children facing medical treatment for injury are concerned about procedures, such as surgery, stitches, and needle sticks (Hildenbrand et al, 2011; Klosky et al, 2007). Being away from home and not well-informed about procedures can exacerbate distress (Carney et al, 2003).…”

“…In addition to procedural concerns, children in this study expressed a desire to return to school to see friends, similar to children with cancer (Klosky et al, 2007). The relationship between social support and positive psychosocial adjustment has been empirically supported in the pediatric oncology literature (Hildenbrand et al, 2011), and may operate similarly for children with injury.…”

Costs for Childhood and Adolescent Cancer, 90 Days Prediagnosis and 1 Year Postdiagnosis: A Population-Based Study in Ontario, Canada

“…Some children older than 15 years may be referred to an adult cancer center [27], thus accounting for some proportion of the lower costs in adolescents. With respect to treatment, radiation therapy for young children is resource-intensive and costly because children may require extra time, personnel, and, in many cases, anesthesia to keep them calm [53,54]. 3.…”

A Mixed Methods Assessment of Coping with Pediatric Cancer

“…In particular, they endure demanding healthcare regimens (Pai et al, 2007), painful medical procedures (Hedström, Haglund, Skolin, & von Essen, 2003; Klosky et al, 2007; Kuppenheimer & Brown, 2002), unpleasant treatment side effects (Bryant, 2003; Patterson, Holm, & Gurney, 2003), and the threat of death (Pai et al, 2007). Moreover, children and their families frequently report psychosocial cancer-related stressors, such as distressing emotional reactions (Hildenbrand, Clawson, Alderfer, & Marsac, 2011), disruption in routines and in social, occupational, and family roles (Kazak, Simms, & Rourke, 2002; Woodgate, Degner, & Yanofsky, 2003), and issues with peers including bullying and restricted participation in peer activities (Hildenbrand et al, 2011).…”