How Pediatric Oncology Nurses Can Foster the Establishment of Trust With Children and Their Parents: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background: Children with cancer and their parents experience high levels of stress and can struggle with their mental health during active treatment. Pediatric oncology nurses are well positioned to establish therapeutic relationships with children/parents and offer support. Since trust is the foundation of therapeutic relationships, the purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive overview of how pediatric oncology nurses develop trust with children and their parents. Method: A sub-analysis of 28 articles retrieved from a large scoping review using the Joanna Briggs methodology was completed to synthesize evidence on how trust is established between pediatric oncology nurses and children/parents. Data from included studies were extracted and thematically analyzed to present key themes. Results: Trust was foundational to the provision of quality, patient- and family-centered nursing care. Key themes include: relationships, communication, nurses’ approach, nurses’ expertise, parental support, partnership, and mistrust. Discussion: Pediatric oncology nurses should be made aware of the trust-building strategies identified in this review. Findings from this review should be utilized to inform future research that further investigates how trust is established between pediatric oncology nurses and children/parents, including how trust creates an environment for establishing therapeutic relationships and the provision of psychosocial support.