Sleep is essential for a child's development, influencing cognitive function, emotional stability, recovery, and overall well-being. Prolonged and intensive treatments for pediatric oncology patients can lead to sleep disturbances that are often overlooked by caregivers and healthcare professionals as temporary side effects. Symptoms may include difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, reduced sleep duration, or perceived poor sleep quality. Recent studies indicate that sleep disturbances affect between 13% to 50% of leukemia survivors and up to 80% of children with central nervous system tumors. A recent study in Hong Kong found that approximately 45% of pediatric oncology survivors continue to face sleep challenges, underscoring the global and local relevance of this issue.
These sleep disturbances in this vulnerable group often result from factors such as pain and nausea due to chemotherapy side effects, which can be exacerbated by corticosteroids. The immediate discomfort caused by sleep disruptions can significantly affect treatment adherence, daily activities, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
While pharmacological approaches remain the standard treatment for pediatric sleep disturbances, this method carries significant risks, including potential drug interactions and dependence. Non-pharmacological options, however, empower patients and caregivers to manage sleep issues without increasing medication use, promoting a proactive approach to sleep health.
In response to the need to enhance sleep quality among pediatric oncology patients, the Dreamcatchers Programme was developed as a nurse-led initiative. This program focuses on relaxation and offers sustainable strategies for improved sleep through sleep hygiene practices, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), and breathing exercises for both patients and caregivers. Evidence-based interventions equip nurses with holistic techniques that address gaps in their knowledge and skills.
This project proposal details a randomized controlled pilot study aimed at evaluating the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the Dreamcatchers Programme, setting the groundwork for a standardized sleep management protocol in pediatric oncology care.
Children who can read and communicate in Chinese
Aged 6 to 12 years old (school-aged children).
Diagnosed with cancer and currently undergoing active treatment.
Identified as experiencing sleep disturbances, defined by a Chinese Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score of ≥5.
Diagnosed with hematological diseases unrelated to cancer (e.g., sickle cell anemia, thalassemia).
Presence of severe cognitive impairment, which may hinder the ability to follow instructions or engage with intervention components.
Chinese University of Hong Kong
Lead sponsor
Hong Kong Children's Hospital
Collaborator