Overview
This is a prospective, observational cohort study of pediatric patients ages 2-12 undergoing radiation therapy at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Description
Primary Objective:
The primary objective of this study is to characterize procedural anxiety trajectories in pediatric patients ages 2-12 undergoing radiation therapy. Anxiety will be measured using the Modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale Short Form (mYPAS-SF) at standardized clinical milestones (simulation, first week of treatment, mid-treatment, and final treatment week).
Secondary Objectives:
Secondary objectives are to explore associations between observed anxiety levels and treatment-related contextual factors, including:
- Treatment fraction number
- Anesthesia use
- Child-life support
- Parent or caregiver presence
- Waiting times of 30 minutes or longer
- Time of day
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
To be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent from a parent or legal guardian.
- For children age 7 and older, provision of informed assent in addition to parental consent, consistent with institutional guidelines.
- Stated willingness of parent/guardian and child (as appropriate) to comply with study procedures (i.e., observation during scheduled radiation therapy appointments).
- Male or female, ages 2-12 years.
- Scheduled to undergo radiation therapy at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Exclusion Criteria:
An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Has already completed the simulation session for radiation therapy prior to enrollment.
- Declines parental consent or, when applicable, child assent.
