The relationship between fatigue and quality of life in children with chronic health problems: a systematic review

J Spec Pediatr Nurs. 2007 Apr;12(2):105-14. doi: 10.1111/j.1744-6155.2007.00099.x.

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review synthesized the literature regarding fatigue in children with chronic health problems and examined the relationship to quality of life.

Conclusions: Most studies that have examined fatigue and its relationship to quality of life in children with chronic health problems have focused on children with cancer. Studies found that children often reported fatigue and that it decreased quality of life.

Practice implications: Quantifying fatigue in children with chronic illnesses and disabilities is critical for pediatric nursing assessment. Understanding the impact of fatigue on children with chronic health problems is a first step in improving their quality of life.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Attitude to Health
  • Child
  • Child Welfare
  • Chronic Disease / prevention & control
  • Chronic Disease / psychology*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Fatigue / diagnosis
  • Fatigue / etiology
  • Fatigue / prevention & control
  • Fatigue / psychology*
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Nursing Research / organization & administration*
  • Patient Care Planning
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Psychology, Child*
  • Quality of Life / psychology*
  • Research Design
  • Surveys and Questionnaires