Play therapy in childhood cancer treatment

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate through the literature about the importance and necessity of play therapy in children's cancer treatment, seeking to improve the quality of life as a whole and adherence to treatment. Bibliographic review: After the confirmation of the oncological diagnosis in childhood, abrupt changes occur in the life of the patient and their families, followed by intense routines of exams, invasive procedures, hospitalization for long periods, resulting in the removal of what the child knew as "living”. Thus, play therapy emerges as a therapeutic tool of great value in approaching cancer patients. In this way, this therapeutic practice aims to alleviate the anxiety resulting from the illness and hospitalization process, through tools such as toys, games, movies, songs or even verbal interaction that allow the pediatric patient to express their feelings and understand them. Final considerations: Play therapy highlights significant changes in the child's life, reducing anxiety, sadness and especially the fear that permeate them, in addition to providing more confidence in the multidisciplinary team and in the treatment as a whole. Based on the above, play therapy has the ability to transform and intensify the quality of life of a pediatric oncology patient, becoming essential for health improvement.