Question

What kind of Effects does therapeutic play have on reducing anxiety in pediatric patients?

Answer 1

Hospitals are a daunting place for children, and most of them experience anxiety and stress ,which affects their physical and physiological health.Hospitalization attacks their playful and magical realm .The need to play is not eliminated when they become ill or are hospitalized ,the children who can play may feel safer during the transoperative period,even in a strange environment.One aspect of such activities is therapeutic play,which provides a structured play activity,follows the principles of play therapy and has specific objectives to be achieved.It helps in reducing anxiety and postoperative pain in hospitalized children.Studies have shown positive effects of therapeutic play intervention on perioperative anxiety,postoperative pain and negative behaviour in children submitted to surgical procedures.it has been found therapeutic play aids in healing ,as play is universal and is pleasurable and enjoyable aspect of childs life.A chiolds ability to play while being in hospital constitutes a sign of health in a particularly difficullt environment,shows that there is a progress in the course of disease.Nurses often use this as a health care strategy for hospitalized children during surgery,invasive procedures and during painful and unpleasant procedures. .it is also effective in reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety.Play therapy among children suffering from a terminal disease may create an atmosphere where young patients,will be able to develop a sense of control of the situation,and they will have the chance to handle their lives in their own way and will be able to externalize their frustration ,fears and feelings.