Therapeutic play in the care of children : nurses' knowledge and awareness

Abstract

The use of therapeutic play is an important component of a comprehensive psychosocial approach to working with sick children. It is documented that this type of play renders the child less anxious and more co-operative for medical procedures. In addition the role of the nurse in the use of therapeutic play, to help children through procedures is strongly advocated. The purpose of this study was to primarily explore the knowledge nurses have regarding the use of therapeutic play, and their awareness of its beneficial use during intravenous cannulation. This study was conducted at St Luke's Hospital on the three general paediatric wards. The sample consisted of thirty-two nurses, and a descriptive non-experimental approach was chosen. A questionnaire was delivered and analysis was mainly qualitative. The data revealed that overall, nurses appeared to be aware of their role in the use of therapeutic play. However, they did not always show knowledge about its use and benefits. Factors which could influence the knowledge and awareness of nurses regarding the benefits of therapeutic play were identified. The implications of the study and recommendations were discussed.