Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Safety is part of the healthcare quality domain. Child and adolescent participation concerning their own safety in their healthcare and its overall quality is a poorly investigated issue. This study aims at developing theoretical and practical research methods to analyze the subject. METHODS: A theoretical study, which included literature review using the keywords “child” AND (“safety” OR “quality”) AND “patient rights”, secondary search and critical analysis of the papers found; with subsequent analysis of legislation regarding the theme and the authors scientific publications. RESULTS: According to legislation focused on this theme, The Child Rights Convention (CRC) recognizes children as rights holders as patients. Each child must be evaluated with respect to the possibility of participating in their healthcare, but this does not usually occur. Strategies that incorporate healthcare literacy, effective communication, patient-centered care may help to engage children in their healthcare process. We point out family and patient centered rounds, therapeutic play, stories telling and interactive technologies as practice tools for implementing this strategy. CONCLUSION: Child and adolescent participation in the quality and safety of their healthcare is an established right and there is need to incorporate this theme in healthcare education. There are strategies that can be implemented in daily practice with the help of healthcare professionals, that reflect positively on quality and safety in Pediatric care.