Clinical practices for communicating the diagnosis in pediatric oncology: a systematic review

Abstract

Communication of diagnosis in chronic disease has been little studied in pediatric oncology. Clinical practices for disclosure are mainly carried out at the end of life, not at the onset of the disease, and there does not seem to be clarity on how to communicate to families. Objective: to understand the current communication practices of diagnosis in children and young people with oncologic disease. Method: systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines. Results: A total of 17 studies were obtained that met the inclusion criteria. Two protocols for communicating the diagnosis were identified and several recommendations were found for disclosure according to the patient’s age, the right to be informed, and the importance of involving the family. Discussion: validated communication practices are required that respond to the mental health needs in pediatric oncology, considering the culture and environment of patients and their families, and other barriers to effective communication.

Keywords

• truth disclosure
• oncology
• communication barriers
• psycho-oncology
• systematic review