Pediatric Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms: A Multi-level Symptom Theory for Pediatric Cancer.
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BACKGROUND: Children with cancer often experience significant symptom burden and toxicities associated with cancer treatment. Advancing pediatric symptom science through theory-guided research is essential to inform targeted interventions that ameliorate suffering and enhance quality of life. However, current symptom theories do not reflect the complex relationships between the child, family, and clinician. This highlights the need for a new framework encompassing the child's experience, while also integrating family and clinician perspectives. OBJECTIVES: This narrative review introduces a novel pediatric theory of symptoms developed through a comprehensive synthesis of published literature and existing theory. METHODS: The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms was critically evaluated for empirical gaps and areas for enhancement. Through an iterative process of literature review and theoretical refinement, we developed an adapted theory, called The Pediatric Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (Pedi-TOUS). RESULTS: The Pedi-TOUS captures the multidimensional symptom experiences of children with cancer. It integrates diverse perspectives on symptom perception and delineates multi-level, influencing factors and performance outcomes associated with symptom experiences. Notably a novel influencing factor regarding relationships is introduced, emphasizing the collaborative role of caregivers and clinicians in shaping the symptom experience. CONCLUSIONS: The Pedi-TOUS is a responsive adaptation of existing theory, reflecting emerging trends in pediatric oncology symptom science. It provides a robust conceptual basis for future research aimed at elucidating the comprehensive symptom experiences of children with cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Pedi-TOUS can inform clinical practice by guiding the development of tailored, evidence-based interventions to improve symptom management and patient care in pediatric oncology.