Effect of Postoperative Holistic Nursing Care on Children's Satisfaction and Nursing Image Perception

This study is designed as a single-center, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of postoperative holistic nursing care on children's satisfaction with care and their perception of nursing image. The study will be conducted in the Pediatric Surgery Clinic of Antalya Training and Research Hospital.

The target population consists of children aged 8-11 years who are hospitalized for surgical procedures. A total of 70 participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n=35) or the control group (n=35). Randomization will be performed using an appropriate random allocation method to ensure equal distribution between groups.

All participants will receive routine postoperative nursing care according to institutional standards. In addition to routine care, children in the intervention group will receive a structured holistic nursing intervention consisting of mandala coloring accompanied by music during the postoperative period. This intervention is designed to promote emotional expression, relaxation, and active participation in the care process. The activity will be implemented in a safe and supervised clinical environment.

Data will be collected using the Child Information Form, the Pediatric Surgery Patient Satisfaction Scale, and the Perceived Nursing Image Scale for Children. These instruments are validated tools used to assess satisfaction with nursing care and children's perception of the nursing profession. Outcome measurements will be obtained during the postoperative hospitalization period prior to discharge.

The primary outcomes of the study are (1) children's satisfaction with nursing care and (2) perceived nursing image scores. The study hypothesizes that children who receive holistic nursing care will report higher satisfaction levels and more positive perceptions of nursing compared to the control group.

This research aims to contribute to evidence-based pediatric surgical nursing practice by evaluating the effectiveness of holistic, non-pharmacological supportive care interventions in improving children's hospital experiences.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 8 to 11 years
• Hospitalized in the pediatric surgery clinic
• Undergoing a surgical procedure
• In the postoperative period during hospitalization
• Able to communicate verbally
• Parent/guardian consent and child assent obtained

Exclusion criteria

• Cognitive impairment preventing completion of questionnaires
• Hearing impairment preventing participation in music intervention
• Severe postoperative complications requiring intensive care
• Refusal to participate