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Description
Pediatric cancer is a medical condition defined by the development of cancerous cells in children and adolescents. Play is a child’s job; it creates a sense of belonging, fills their internal desire to participate in various environments, and allows them to develop sensory, motor, and cognitive skills. The PEOP model further structured this study by providing a comprehensive framework that considers the interactions between the child, their environment, and their occupational participation. This research project used a qualitative, exploratory design to understand how play-based interventions may enhance FCC in the pediatric oncology setting. Thematic analysis was utilized to create five themes, each containing two corresponding subthemes to explore the role of play-based OT in pediatric oncology. Play served as a means for emotional regulation and resilience. An essential aspect for uplifting caregivers and strengthening their confidence in engaging with their child's play was caregiver education. Engaging in play was discovered to be a channel for self-expression while additionally serving as a tool for children to process their medical experience and cancer journey. Several limitations in this study will be mentioned; the sample size of seven participants was relatively small, which may affect the diversity of experiences among caregivers and OTPs. This study emphasizes the significance of FCC within play-based OT in supporting children and their caregivers during their pediatric oncology journey.
Publication Date
Spring 4-21-2025
Publisher
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Keywords
Pediatric cancer, Play-based occupational therapy, Family-centered care, Caregiver education, Emotional resilience
Medical Subject Headings
Pediatric cancer, Play-based occupational therapy, Family-centered care, Caregiver education, Emotional resilience
Disciplines
Health Communication | Occupational Therapy | Other Mental and Social Health
Recommended Citation
Hope, O. B., & Orozco Arteaga, J. (2025, April 21). Family-Centered Care in Pediatric Oncology. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/22
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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Health Communication Commons, Occupational Therapy Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons
Comments
Poster presented at the in-person Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on April 21st, 2025.