Pre-procedure evaluation and psychological screening of children and adolescents in pediatric clinics

Abstract

Children with severe and/or chronic medical diseases, congenital malformations, and functional impairments have significantly increased risk of developing mental, psychosocial, and family-related problems because of the disease process or different stressful, painful, or traumatic medical treatment procedures. Current studies also demonstrate that pain remains undertreated in children. Hospital personnel need to increase their knowledge of the psychological consequences of serious illness in children so posttraumatic stress reactions can be more effectively prevented. Children present a great challenge because it is necessary to consider their age, developmental level, cognitive and communication skills, previous pain experiences, and associated beliefs. This chapter focuses on factors influencing children’s understanding of and adaptation to severe illness and treatment procedures. We will address factors that are important in the pre-procedure evaluation, discuss relevant interventions and screening tools, and present case examples.