Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Hospitalization for prolonged medical treatment can have profound psychological and social consequences for children. This study examines the role of psycho-social support provided by nurses to pediatric patients undergoing long-term treatment in tertiary care hospitals. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was employed, involving 120 children aged 5-15 years admitted for more than four weeks. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, observational checklist, and child behavior assessment tools. Results revealed that consistent emotional support, play therapy, communication, and family inclusion significantly improved the emotional well-being of children. The findings emphasize the need for structured psycho-social nursing protocols to reduce anxiety, depression, and behavioral disturbances in long-term pediatric inpatients.