EFFECTIVENESS OF REIKI IN PAIN MANAGEMENT IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION

BACKGROUND Reiki, recognized by the WHO among complementary treatments, supports and integrates conventional therapy in various hospital settings. Studies have confirmed the positive results produced by Reiki in terms of psychophysical well-being in adult patients suffering from oncological pathologies, while the literature regarding the pediatric oncology population is currently scarce. OBJECTIVES This study intends to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of Reiki in providing pain relief among pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant hospitalized in the Pediatric Oncohematology Department. METHODS This pilot study enrolled pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation to examine the impact of Reiki on pain. The changes in pain at different times were analyzed: during the Reiki session, before and after the session, and on the day of the session compared to a day of rest. RESULTS The pilot study analyzed 88 Reiki sessions conducted with nine patients. The results indicate a significant decrease in pain in the short and medium term with a sustained effect in the long term. CONCLUSIONS This study investigates the application of Reiki as a supportive intervention for pediatric patients during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Preliminary results suggest that the integration of Reiki into clinical practice, administered by trained pediatric nurses, may promote well-being and alleviate suffering in children with cancer.