Effectiveness and appropriateness of therapeutic play intervention in preparing children for surgery: A randomized controlled trial study

Abstract

PURPOSE. This paper aims to examine the effectiveness and appropriateness of using therapeutic play in preparing children for surgery. DESIGN/METHOD. A randomized controlled trial was employed. Children (7-12 years of age; n = 203) admitted for surgery during a 13-month period were recruited. RESULTS. The results support the effectiveness and appropriateness of using therapeutic play in preparing children for surgery. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. The study results promote awareness in nurses and parents that play is a very important part of children's lives, and heighten the importance of integrating therapeutic play as an essential component of holistic and quality nursing care to prepare children for surgery. © 2008 Blackwell Publishing.