Animal assisted therapy as palliative care for pediatric oncology patients

Integrative Literature Review

Abstract

Recognized as an innovative type of healthcare, palliative care has become more popular in Brazil, especially in the last decade. The present review sought to raise methods used for joint palliative care of animal assisted therapy (AAT) in children with cancer, aggregating information to improve nursing care for these patients and their families. Descriptors of the subject already included on the selected topic were used as eligibility criteria, classifying the ones that add to the more humanized care and a better quality of life, seeking differentiated care for pediatric oncology patients. AAT brings great benefits to patients who are subjected to daily contact with animals. The review points to a paucity of publications related to the role of the nurse in the palliative care provided in pediatric oncology in undergraduate nursing courses, including the role of nurses in the adherence of assisted therapy. In this sense, it is suggested that new research on the subject be implemented.