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Animal-Assisted Interventions in Paediatric Hospitals: An Investigation of Italian Healthcare Personnel Attitudes

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Evidence of the beneficial effects of animal-assisted interventions (AAI) on patients admitted to paediatric hospitals is growing. However, there is still little information about healthcare professionals' knowledge of and attitudes towards AAI, both as a complement to medical treatments and as a tool for improving the workplace environment. The present study explores the perspectives of Italian paediatric hospital staff after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: An online questionnaire was developed and distributed to paediatric hospital personnel across Italy. The questionnaire addressed topics including AAI' impact on the hospital environment, their role as a resource for patients and families, their effect on staff well-being, and the perception of the feasibility of AAI implementation in hospitals. Data were analysed descriptively and qualitatively. RESULTS: A total of 44 respondents took part in the survey. Most respondents agreed that AAI could improve hospital environments and serve as a valuable resource for patients and families. However, results were more mixed about the effects of AAI on staff well-being and the feasibility of their implementation. Qualitative analysis identified recurring themes including the positive impact of AAI on emotions/general well-being, improved compliance and treatment outcomes, and reduced stress and distress. Concerns included organisational/logistical challenges, hygiene issues, and potential impact on staff workload. Notably, most participants felt that the COVID-19 pandemic had not affected their perception of AAI safety. CONCLUSIONS: Most respondents viewed AAI favourably and supported their implementation as a means of benefiting patients and caregivers. Concerns mainly related to organisational and logistical barriers highlight areas that require further exploration in future research.

Source: Children

DOI: 10.3390/children12030352

Authors: Cinzia Correale, Sofia Orlando, Marta Borgi, Simonetta Gentile, Simona Cappelletti

Institutions: Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Libera Università Maria SS. Assunta, Istituto Superiore di Sanità

Language: English

Topic: Human-Animal Interaction Studies

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896