Coping behaviors of young children during a chest tube procedure in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Abstract

This descriptive correlational study examined the coping behaviors of young children experiencing a chest tube procedure in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and explored specific variables that may affect coping. A developmental model of stress and coping among children provided the theoretical framework for the study. A sample of 24 children, age 2.9 to 6.8 years old, participated. Mothers completed the Dimensions of Temperament Scale-Revised and a demographic information form. In the PICU, children's coping behaviors during chest tube removal were observed and recorded on the Children's Coping Strategies Checklist-Intrusive Procedures. Analysis used descriptive statistics, correlations, chi-squares, t-tests, and repeated-measures analysis of variance. Findings indicate that the predominant coping behaviors represented a self-protective approach to the procedure, followed by reaching out and controlling behaviors, and information-seeking behaviors. Correlations between coping and nine temperament dimensions revealed significant results between coping and Activity-General, Activity-Sleep, and Flexibility.