The use of children’s stories in nursing care for the child: an integrative review

Abstract

Objective: To identify how children’s stories can be used in child care. Method: Integrative literature review, conducted in databases between 2000 and 2018, in three languages. Full research articles were included that agreed with the following question: “How can children’s stories be used in child care?”. Results: From the analysis of 16 selected articles, three categories emerged: The use of stories in the hospital; Specialized nursing intervention; and Stories in the educational dimension. Final considerations: Evidence shows benefits to children, families, institutions and nursing. The use of children’s stories as a care intervention can occur in different situations and settings, values; boosts bonds, reduces anxiety in children and families, encourages children’s participation in care, and promotes health education. It is a low-cost and still incipient strategy in nursing.