"How Could the Procedure be Done to Care for Them?": An Interpretive Description Study of Procedural Care in a Pediatric Oncology Setting

Abstract

Objectives: This study addressed the research question "What are the components of Procedural Care in oncology that contribute to the best possible experience of medical procedures?"

Method: Using an interpretative description approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore lived experiences of procedural care within their cancer journey or a supportive role.

Results: Seventeen interviews were completed with five health professionals (nursing and allied health), four young persons and eight carers, and transcribed verbatim. Three central organizing concepts were applicable across the three cohorts to describe the best possible "procedural care" experience: "Giving Us Choice," "Teaching Us" and "Supporting Us." Young people value having autonomy over decisions regarding procedures, with control across a continuum.

Conclusions: Young people and their carers felt empowered through supportive "procedural care" which was underpinned by principles of person-centred care, including collaboratively creating treatment plans and education on language use that was applicable regardless of the environment (eg, home vs hospital).

Implications for nursing practice: Nursing confidence in delivering "procedural care" may shape a child's lifelong engagement with healthcare and increase nursing workforce wellbeing.

Keywords: Oncology; Patient-centered care; Pediatric medical traumatic stress; Pediatrics; Procedural care; Procedural support.