Measuring the Effects of an Animal-Assisted Intervention for Pediatric Oncology Patients and Their Parents: A Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial

作者：McCullough Amy^*; Ruehrdanz Ashleigh; Jenkins Molly A.; Gilmer Mary Jo; Olson Janice; Pawar Anjali; Holley Leslie; Sierra-Rivera Shirley; Linder Deborah E.; Pichette Danielle; Grossman Neil J.; Hellman Cynthia; Guerin Noemi A.; O'Haire Marguerite E.

来源：Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing, 2018, 35(3): 159-177.

DOI：10.1177/1043454217748586

• pediatric oncology
• stress
• health-related quality of life
• parent
• animal-assisted intervention

Objective: This multicenter, parallel-group, randomized trial examined the effects of an animal-assisted intervention on the stress, anxiety, and health-related quality of life for children diagnosed with cancer and their parents. Method: Newly diagnosed patients, aged 3 to 17 years (n = 106), were randomized to receive either standard care plus regular visits from a therapy dog (intervention group), or standard care only (control group). Data were collected at set points over 4 months of the child's treatment. Measures included the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Pediatric Inventory for Parents, and child blood pressure and heart rate. All instruments were completed by the child and/or his/her parent(s). Results: Children in both groups experienced a significant reduction in state anxiety (P < .001). Parents in the intervention group showed significantly decreased parenting stress (P = .008), with no changes in stress among parents in the control group. However, no significant differences between groups over time on any measures were observed. Conclusions: Animal-assisted interventions may provide certain benefits for parents and families during the initial stages of pediatric cancer treatment.

• 出版日期2018-5