Sestrinski glasnik, Vol. 31 No. 2, 2026.
Review article
https://doi.org/10.11608/sgnj.31.2.5
Nurses' Psychosocial Support to Parents and Children with Leukaemia: A Literature Review
Barbara Kegl
; Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za zdravstvene vede, Žitna ulica 15, 2 000 Maribor, Slovenija
*
Kaja Podjavoršek
; Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za zdravstvene vede, Žitna ulica 15, 2 000 Maribor, Slovenija
Petra Klanjšek
; Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za zdravstvene vede, Žitna ulica 15, 2 000 Maribor, Slovenija
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction: Leukaemia poses numerous challenges for children and their parents, as it significantly interferes with their daily lives. In the care of children with leukaemia and their parents, a comprehensive approach is essential, including support for psychological and emotional distress.
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the psychosocial approaches of nurses in supporting parents and children with leukaemia during the acute phase of treatment.
Methods: An integrative review of the scientific literature was conducted in the PubMed, CINAHL Ultimate, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect databases using predefined search strings, and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible studies were full-text articles published between 2015 and 2025 in English that addressed psychosocial nursing support or psychosocial interventions for children with leukaemia and/or their parents during acute treatment. The study selection process was reported using a PRISMA flow diagram. The included studies were analysed using content analysis and open coding.
Results: Ten articles were included. The findings indicate that nurses’ psychosocial support can reduce anxiety, enhance emotional stability, and improve the quality of life of children with leukaemia and their parents. Four main themes emerged: children’s psychological well-being, parental support, psychosocial interventions, and communication and relationships.
Discussion and Conclusion: Psychosocial support is a key element of high-quality, comprehensive care for children with leukaemia and their families. Nurses play a crucial role in recognising emotional distress, providing continuous support, and fostering a trusting relationship with both children and parents. Their close and consistent contact with families allows them to identify psychosocial needs early and respond with appropriate supportive interventions.
Keywords
psychosocial support; paediatric oncology; parents; distress; interventions; leukaemia
Hrčak ID:
350211
URI
Publication date:
15.8.2026.
Visits: 0 *