Impact of the ICU on pediatric patients and their families: a scoping review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v8i19.2757

Keywords:

Psychology, Intensive Care Unit, Pediatrics

Abstract

Introduction: Hospitalization in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) generates an intense emotional and psychosocial impact on children and their families, making the presence and practice of Psychology fundamental in this critical care environment. Objective: To map and analyze research on the role of Psychology in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU), exploring the scientific production regarding the emotional and psychosocial impacts of hospitalization. Methodology: This is a scoping review, with analysis of studies published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The bibliographic survey was conducted on the BVS and PubMed platforms, focusing on articles that address the interface between Psychology and PICU. Results: The relevance of psychological support in the intensive care setting was identified, with emphasis on the need for a biopsychosocial approach that addresses both the physical and emotional dimensions of the patient and their family. Despite the limited number of studies on the topic, psychological interventions capable of minimizing the negative effects of hospitalization, promoting psychological and emotional well-being in a critical context, were found. Final Considerations: The scarcity of literature reflects the complexity of practice in the PICU, but underlines the need for further research in the area to consolidate the importance of Psychology and the development of intervention strategies that promote comprehensive care.

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Author Biographies

Renata Gonçalves Rosa Mourão, Fundação de Ensino e Pesquisa em Ciências da Saúde, Distrito Federal, Brasil

Psicóloga pelo Centro Universitário de Brasília (2022). Residente Multiprofissional em Saúde da Criança pela Escola de Saúde Pública do Distrito Federal (ESP/DF).

Adriana de Rezende Dias, Fundação de Ensino e Pesquisa em Ciências da Saúde, Distrito Federal, Brasil

Psicóloga pela Universidade de Brasília (1994), com Mestrado em Psicologia pela mesma instituição (1999). Possui formação em Psicanálise, com atuação clínica, e é Especialista em Educação na Saúde para Preceptores do SUS. Atua como psicóloga hospitalar intensivista no Hospital Materno Infantil de Brasília Dr. Antônio Lisboa (HMIB). É também preceptora e tutora do Programa de Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde da Criança.

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Published

2025-12-03

How to Cite

MOURÃO, R. G. R.; DIAS, A. de R. Impact of the ICU on pediatric patients and their families: a scoping review. JRG Journal of Academic Studies, Brasil, São Paulo, v. 8, n. 19, p. e082757, 2025. DOI: 10.55892/jrg.v8i19.2757. Disponível em: http://revistajrg.com/index.php/jrg/article/view/2757. Acesso em: 3 dec. 2025.

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