Experiences of communication in the caring process by children aged 7–13 where there is a requirement for nitrous oxide for needle related procedures

Abstract

The aim of the study was to describe the experiences of communication in the caring process for children aged 7–13 years when they receive nitrous oxide during needle-related examinations and treatments. The study was of a qualitative nature and has been viewed through the lens of qualitative content analysis. Seventeen children aged 7–13 years participated, and visual and textual information was used to prepare each child. The categories described the following important activities for communication: The child has the possibility to learn about the procedure; trust in communication is based on one’s own experiences; the child is disturbed in the communication during the procedure; the healthcare professional is responsive to the situation of the child; and children’s emotions affect the communication. The results show that the children appreciated procedure-specific information and they felt that they have knowledge of what is going to happen. Accordingly, the children feel that they can reduce their distress when they are in control.