Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: Invasive procedures in pediatric nursing practice require a child-centered approach to minimize pain levels associated with manifestations of stress, anxiety, and long-term traumatic reactions. Method: This cross-sectional study aimed at identifying nurses' perception of stress, anxiety, and pain levels in children and adolescents (0-18 years) undergoing invasive procedures, and strategies used to minimize the associated distress. Based on a literature review, an online questionnaire was developed that evaluates the distress associated with frequent invasive procedures and strategies used to reduce discomfort. Results: analyses indicate that nurses perceived adolescents as experiencing less stress than children in all the invasive procedures. Pediatric specialist nurses perceived a significantly higher total level of distress (an index that indicates stress, anxiety or pain in the whole group of procedures) compared to nurses with other specialties or generalist nurses, in all age groups. Non-pharmacological strategies were the most frequently used strategies used by nurses for minimizing distress in children, including distraction (51.2%), preparation (30.7%), and sensory techniques (14.6%). Pharmacological strategies, such as topical anesthetics and light sedation, were less frequently used. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of specialized training and knowledge concerning strategies to reduce distress in pediatric invasive procedures, suggesting the need for more significant investment in education and support for nursing professionals to improve patient experience.
Source: Frontiers in Pediatrics
Authors: Júlia Neto, Rita Fernandes, Luísa Andrade, Ilda Fernandes, Teresa Martins, Maria do Céu Barbieri-Figueiredo, Fernanda Carvalho, Lígia Lima
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4410417263