Introduction

The purpose of this study was to present nursing diagnoses and interventions undertaken in the care of a pediatric patient after thoracoscopic mediastinal biopsy with suspected Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Material and methods

A 13-year-old patient after thoracoscopic biopsy of the mediastinum in the immediate postoperative period with prolonged sedation was studied. The child’s legal guardian gave informed and voluntary consent to view the medical records and participate in the study. A case study method was used, which was based on analysis of medical records, observation and nursing interview, as well as analysis of laboratory and imaging studies. Basic vital signs and anthropometric parameters were also measured, and the following scales were used: numeric rating scale, Ramsey, Norton and Aldrete.

Results

The following nursing diagnoses were recognized in the patient: the possibility of respiratory disorders, lack of independence in the postoperative period, reluctance to perform breathing exercises and kinesitherapy, the possibility of bleeding from the histopathological sampling site, and concern about continued functioning. Psychological support of the child and caregivers throughout the therapeutic process was an important element. The patient required measures to limit possible complications associated with the medical procedure, intensive pain management and motivation. Education of the pediatric patient and his caregiver regarding the therapeutic process and further management was also an important element/was also a crucial component/factor.

Conclusions

Nursing diagnoses mainly concerned the physical and psychological spheres of the pediatric patient, interventions were concerned with measures to reduce possible postoperative complications in the early postoperative period, their early recognition and emotional support for the child and caregiver.