Humanization and Childhood Cancer

Abstract

This paper seeks to address the complexity and importance of the appropriate management of children and adolescent oncology patients, for a broad perception of the humanized way that should be adopted in the relationship between doctor versus patient and doctor versus family. With this, it is aimed to understand the practical importance of the humanized approach, both for the family members and patients to face the disease in a lighter way, as well as for better adherence to treatment and an eventual more positive outcome. The analysis of the social consequences of facing a terminal disease is essential to understand the mitigation of these factors through a humanized approach. Above all, in relation to those responsible for the child under treatment, who suffer together and are the first to be notified about the evolution of the patient's clinical picture. Daily conduct is established to facilitate the patients' routine, such as activities that stimulate the children's creativity and promote their social interaction. Although it is not an escape from reality, it can be considered a less aggressive way of experiencing it. Following the discussion, the difficulties observed by childhood oncology patients, who face invasive procedures, as well as the constant presence of the possibility of death, are addressed. Therefore, this reality leads us to understand the need for a closer relationship between the physician and the patient and family members, to a humanized approach with the aim of alleviating suffering throughout the treatment.