METHODOLOGICAL ANALYSIS REGARDING PEDIATRIC ONCOHEMATOLOGY PAPERS

This paper is a literature review in pediatric psychooncology with the aim of analyzing, according to methodology, researches concerning the impact of oncohematological treatment for parents. Papers published in the main international journals between 1996 and 2006 were considered for this review, resulting in 11 papers with qualitative metholodogy, nine studies with quantitative methodology, eight longitudinal researches and only one manuscript with mixed methods. A relevant number of different instruments has been used, besides developing scales and questionnaires with specific goals regarding the research in this field. Interviews have also promoted the understanding of processes, changes, and the caregiver ́s perception related to diagnosis and treatment. Advantages concerning the combination of different quantitative and qualitative methodologies are discussed in order to comprehend the several aspects in health related processes during pediatric oncohematological treatment. Besides, longitudinal studies have been very useful the understanding of the changes during the treatment process, which involves several demands, challenges and difficulties not only for the pediatric patients, but for parents and caregivers. SQS 406 D 206, Brasília DF Brasil. Telf.: (61) 8172-9030. e-mail: marinak@unb.br. ANÁLISE METODOLÓGICA EM ONCO-HEMATOLOGIA www.sp-ps.pt 528