Fears Associated with Pediatric Surgery: A Metasynthesis of Experiences from Children, Adolescents, Families, and Healthcare Professionals.

PURPOSE: To explore fears related to pediatric surgery as perceived by children, adolescents, families, and healthcare professionals.

DESIGN

Qualitative metasynthesis.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted across MEDLINE, Complementary Index, Web of Science, Academic Search Ultimate, CINAHL, DOAJ, and Supplemental Index. Study selection followed PRISMA guidelines, based on the review aim, predefined criteria, and quality assessment. Three authors independently conducted a thematic analysis.

FINDINGS: Following the screening of titles, abstracts, full texts, and references, 18 studies were included. Three themes were identified: "Fears Related to Uncertainties in the Surgical Process"; "The Impact of the Family's Emotional Climate on Surgical Fears"; and "Coping with Surgical Fear and Emotional Self-Protection Strategies".

CONCLUSIONS

The findings highlight the importance of increasing awareness of surgical fears, supporting healthcare professionals in their early recognition and communication, and considering age-appropriate, holistic, and family-centered approaches to perioperative care.