Effectiveness of Therapeutic Play on Anxiety Among Hospitalized Preschool children

Author Name: Hiral Bhardiya

Volume: 03/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/07.2025-82629848/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. M.Sc. (Nursing), Assistant Professor, Pioneer Nursing College, Vadodara. Gujarat

ABSTRACT

Hospitalization poses a significant threat to the psychological and emotional stability of preschool children. With limited cognitive maturity and emotional expression skills, children aged 3–6 often react to the unfamiliar hospital setting with intense anxiety, fear, and resistance to treatment. This study evaluates the role of therapeutic play as a non-pharmacological nursing intervention to reduce anxiety levels in hospitalized preschool children. Conducted in selected hospitals of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, this research employed a one-group pre-test post-test design involving 60 preschool children selected through purposive sampling. The Modified Hamilton Anxiety Scale was used to assess anxiety levels before and after the therapeutic play intervention. Children participated in structured play sessions over two consecutive days, involving age-appropriate activities like coloring, musical toys, and storytelling. The mean pre-test anxiety score was 22.68, which significantly reduced to 12.12 in the post-test (p < 0.001). The findings support the inclusion of therapeutic play in pediatric nursing care, as it effectively reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of comfort, expression, and understanding in hospitalized children. In addition to enhancing emotional outcomes, therapeutic play supports patient cooperation with treatment and fosters a child-friendly hospital culture. The study further emphasizes the importance of educating healthcare providers on the psychosocial needs of children and equipping pediatric units with play-based resources.

Key words: Therapeutic play, anxiety, preschool children, hospitalization, pediatric nursing, emotional well-being, non-pharmacological intervention