[Play as a care strategy for children with cancer].

OBJECTIVE

To understand the influence of play in the care process as perceived by children with cancer.

METHOD: A descriptive, exploratory and qualitative study conducted in a children's cancer unit in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. Data were collected between October 2013 and January 2014 by means of photographic records and semi-structured interviews with eight children, and content analysis with emphasis on two categories: Auxiliary instruments during play; and The influence of play in the process of care.

RESULTS

Recreational activities involve watching television, using computers, games and toys, drawing, the playroom and the clown, which provide fun, feelings of joy, distraction and interaction with other people.

CONCLUSION

There are several activities at the hospital that are considered play-related and, for the children, they all benefit their care process.