Use of a projective technique to assess young children's appraisal and coping responses to a venipuncture.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the appraisal, emotional and coping responses of young hospitalized children to three phases of a venipuncture procedure.


METHODS
Exploratory, descriptive.


METHODS
Pediatric unit of a community hospital.


METHODS
Four- to 9-year-old hospitalized children (N = 45).


METHODS
Data were obtained by means of a projective technique and interview format. Content analysis of the children's responses was guided by the use of four published measures (appraisal, behavioral coping strategies, cognitive coping strategies, and helpful interventions).


RESULTS
The children appraised each phase of the venipuncture as a threat, a benefit, or a threat/benefit. The most frequently identified behavioral coping strategies were self-protective behaviors and returning to normal activities. The most frequently identified cognitive coping behaviors were reality-oriented working through, emotion-regulating cognitions, and diversionary thinking. The children reported the most helpful intervention as providing information about the event.


CONCLUSIONS
The children were able, through a projective technique, to appraise a venipuncture and spontaneously identify many cognitive and behavioral coping strategies and interventions to help them manage a venipuncture.
Caty
S
S
School of Nursing, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. scaty@laurentian.nickel.ca
Ellerton
M L
ML
Ritchie
J A
JA
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001154:Art; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D018962:Phlebotomy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000523:psychology; D011385:Projection; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000451:nursing / Q000517:prevention & control*