Abstract
Objectives
Engagement of pediatric patients in conversations about their healthcare can lead to better psychological and physical outcomes. We used a communication tool called “What Matters to Me” (WMTM) to provide insight into what seriously ill children want to tell their healthcare providers about what is important to them.
Research Approach
Content analysis of completed tools
Participants
21 pediatric patients hospitalized on a stem cell transplant unit.
Methodological Application
Direct content analysis.
Findings
Three themes were identified: importance of personal identity, preferences for communication, and preferences for care delivery.
Interpretations
Children and adolescents with serious medical illnesses are willing to share what matters to them with members of their care team. WMTM provides an opportunity for pediatric units to systematically offer this opportunity to pediatric patients.
Findings for Psychosocial Providers
Children and adolescents are able to identify and share what matters to them with their healthcare providers, providing an opportunity for engagement in medical care.
Disclosure statement
The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.