COPING STRATEGIES TO MANAGE PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS IN PARENTS OF CHILDREN UNDERGOING HAEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION

Abstract

Abstract Background: Haemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an intensive procedure that represents an adjustment challenge for both children and their parents. Parents struggle to cope with stress related to their child’s illness, treatment, and possibilities of survival. Most psychological interventions have focused on parents of children with cancer, with little research considering interventions to promote parental coping in the HSCT setting. Objectives: To review existing evidence exploring coping strategies used by psychologically distressed parents of children undergoing HSCT, and to evaluate the therapeutic intervention provided to support them. Method: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted using MEDLINE, CINHAL, PsycINFO, Science Direct, and PubMed, between April and June 2020. Critical analysis of the included studies utilised the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP, 2018) and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ, 2007). Results: Ten identified studies examined clinical interventions provided and strategies reported by parents to promote coping with their child’s undergoing HSCT. The included studies presented heterogeneity in study designs, and their methodological quality varied. Prominent themes presented the significance of social support, information giving, and financial consideration. Only one study presented the potential short-term benefit of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on levels of anxiety and depression, as well as longer-term benefits on posttraumatic stress levels. Conclusion: General findings in this review highlighted the paucity of research in this area, and the variety of study designs used. This confirms the need for further research to assist in the development of effective interventions that promote adaptive functioning of parents in the HSCT setting.