Nivel de ansiedad y depresión en pacientes pediátricos oncológicos en cuidados paliativos y el rol de enfermería en su detección temprana: Revisión Sistemática
Palabras clave:
Cuidados de enfermería; neoplasias; cuidados paliativos; ansiedad; depresiónResumen
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/gt.v9i18edespsep.0414
Resumen
El cáncer pediátrico en cuidados paliativos puede generar ansiedad, depresión, miedo y distrés que afectan el bienestar del niño y su familia; como objetivo analizar la evidencia sobre estas alteraciones emocionales y el rol de enfermería en su detección temprana y abordaje integral. Se realizó una revisión sistemática conforme a PRISMA 2020. Se consultaron PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, SciELO, LILACS, Cochrane Library y Redalyc, considerando publicaciones entre 2021 y 2026. La pregunta PICO incluyó pacientes pediátricos oncológicos en cuidados paliativos, intervenciones de enfermería, cuidado habitual y resultados relacionados con ansiedad, depresión, bienestar emocional y calidad de vida. Se emplearon descriptores DeCS/MeSH vinculados con cuidados de enfermería, cáncer pediátrico, cuidados paliativos, ansiedad y depresión. Como resultado se incluyeron 35 estudios mediante el cribado psicosocial, la comunicación terapéutica y las intervenciones no farmacológicas, como realidad virtual, juego terapéutico, relajación, actividades artísticas y estrategias cognitivo-conductuales, contribuyen a reducir ansiedad, miedo y distrés. También se identificaron beneficios del apoyo educativo y emocional a padres y cuidadores. En cuidados paliativos, la integración temprana del equipo, la continuidad asistencial y la preparación de enfermería favorecieron la identificación de necesidades emocionales y una atención más humanizada. Por tanto, se concluyó que la detección sistemática y las intervenciones tempranas de enfermería pueden fortalecer el bienestar emocional y la calidad de vida. Se requiere incorporar cribado periódico, apoyo familiar, comunicación terapéutica y capacitación específica en cuidados paliativos pediátricos.
Palabras claves: Cuidados de enfermería; neoplasias; cuidados paliativos; ansiedad; depresión.
Abstract
Pediatric cancer in palliative care can lead to anxiety, depression, fear, and distress that affect the well-being of the child and their family; the objective of this study is to analyze the evidence regarding these emotional disturbances and the role of nursing in their early detection and comprehensive management. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020. The following databases were searched: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, SciELO, LILACS, the Cochrane Library, and Redalyc, considering publications from 2021 to 2026. The PICO question included pediatric cancer patients in palliative care, nursing interventions, standard care, and outcomes related to anxiety, depression, emotional well-being, and quality of life. DeCS/MeSH terms related to nursing care, pediatric cancer, palliative care, anxiety, and depression were used. As a result, 35 studies were included. The findings showed that psychosocial screening, therapeutic communication, and non-pharmacological interventions—such as virtual reality, therapeutic play, relaxation, artistic activities, and cognitive-behavioral strategies—contribute to reducing anxiety, fear, and distress. Benefits of educational and emotional support for parents and caregivers were also identified. In palliative care, early team integration, continuity of care, and nursing preparedness facilitated the identification of emotional needs and more humanized care. Therefore, it was concluded that systematic screening and early nursing interventions can enhance emotional well-being and quality of life. It is necessary to incorporate periodic screening, family support, therapeutic communication, and specific training in pediatric palliative care.
Keywords: Nursing care; neoplasms; palliative care; anxiety; depression.
Información del manuscrito:
Fecha de recepción: 15 de junio de 2026.
Fecha de aceptación: 17 de agosto de 2026.
Fecha de publicación: 11 de septiembre de 2026.
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