Shorey S, Ng ED. The Lived Experiences of Children and Adolescents with Non-Communicable Disease: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies.
J Pediatr Nurs 2020;
51:75-84. [PMID:
31926405 DOI:
10.1016/j.pedn.2019.12.013]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM
Children and adolescents with non-communicable disease face more difficulties in achieving developmental milestones than their healthy peers, which affect their life and overall wellbeing. A non-disease-specific approach is important in identifying common challenges faced by children and adolescents across multiple non-communicable diseases.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Qualitative studies reporting first-hand accounts of children and adolescents aged 4 to19 years with non-communicable disease.
SAMPLE
A library search was conducted in five electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses) for original qualitative English language papers. Fifty-five articles met the inclusion criteria and were subjected to a two-step meta-synthesis.
RESULTS
Initial reports of negative emotional experiences and disease perceptions were mixed with gradual acceptances of their diseases and positive coping strategies. Children and adolescents with non-communicable disease all desired a normal life, but physical limitations often led to social exclusions and self-imposed restrictions. Although most were highly appreciative of the support received from family, friends, and healthcare providers, they still struggled with disease management, the need for autonomy, and the fear of illness disclosure.
CONCLUSIONS
The impacts of non-communicable disease on children and adolescent's lives suggest a need for joint efforts between parents, clinicians, and educators to ensure children and adolescents' positive development of the self, acceptance and positive coping.
IMPLICATIONS
This review is able to inform the development of future educational and psychosocial intervention programs in the school and healthcare setting, and also encourages a revision of education policies to be more flexible and accommodating.
Collapse