Investigating hospital play
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the role of play experiences in paediatric hospital settings
IRAS ID
300180
Contact name
Paul Ramchandani
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Cambridge
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 31 days
Research summary
This study seeks to explore young patients’ and healthcare professionals’ experiences and perceptions of play within the paediatric hospital environment. Play is an essential, undeniable aspect of childhood and is recognised by the United Nations as a right of all children. With an enhanced recognition of the importance of play in children’s lives no matter the situational context of their childhood environment - even a hospital - elements of play are more often being incorporated into paediatric spaces. Through observations and semi-structured interviews, this qualitative study will collect information from those who are actively involved in hospital play: healthcare professionals and the patients themselves. The delivery of healthcare is of paramount importance in hospital environments; as such, it is critical to first understand the provisions and parameters for hospital play that currently exist and how they factor into providing care for children, be it medical, psychological, or developmental. We will use two complementary types of research methods. First, we will use observations of the ward environment to get an understanding of how play exists within the culture of paediatric hospital care: who is involved, where play occurs, what hospital play entails, and more. Second, we will undertake interviews with staff and with young people and their families to understand their personal experiences, perceptions, and beliefs about play in hospital. The goal is for this research to collate a comprehensive understanding of hospital-based play that stems from those directly facilitating, utilising, or engaging in playful experiences, and to contribute to opportunities to improve upon or develop meaningful provisions that emphasise the importance of play in paediatric settings.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/YH/0232
Date of REC Opinion
24 Nov 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion