A meta‐synthesis of the experience of paediatric nurses in communication with children

Abstract

Aim

This study aimed to conduct a meta-synthesis to explore the experiences of paediatric nurses in communication with children.

Method

We conducted a meta-synthesis review, following the outline proposed by Sandelowski, Barrosso & Voils. Our search encompassed six electronic databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO (MEDLINE), Web of Science, SAGE, and Wiley. The Primary keywords used were “nurse”, “child”, “communication”, and “qualitative”. We included qualitative articles in English within the field of paediatric nursing between 1990 and 2023. Initially, 1980 records were identified which reduced to 1339 references after removing duplicates. Subsequently, we assessed 112 full-text articles for eligibility and 14 relevant studies were ultimately included in our review. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme checklist with no study being excluded based on quality criteria. Data were synthesized using the qualitative thematic analysis method.

Results

The data analysis yielded three themes and seven sub-themes. These themes include swinging between triadic and dyadic communication, applying a hybrid of communication methods, and influential factor in communication.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the significance of establishing a balanced approach between dyadic communication (nurse and child) and triadic communication (nurse–parent–child) in paediatric care. Paediatric nurses emphasized the simultaneous use of verbal and non-verbal methods to enhance effective communication. Additionally, identifying the influential factors in communication can aid in developing and improving nurses' competency in communication skills within paediatric departments.

Implications

Understanding the communication process and the factors that influence it can be instrumental in equipping paediatric nurses with enhanced communication skills in their practice.

Impact

Establishing a balanced approach between dyadic communication (nurse and child) and triadic communication (nurse–parent–child) in paediatric care is crucial. Paediatric nurses emphasized the simultaneous use of verbal and non-verbal methods to enhance effective communication. Identifying the influential factors in communication can aid in developing and improving nurses' competency in communication skills within paediatric departments.