SWK-09. SELF-CARE OUTCOMES AND INTERVENTIONS FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE HAD A BRAIN TUMOUR: EVIDENCE AND HYPOTHESES. WHAT SHOULD SELF-CARE INTERVENTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH PAST OR PRESENT BRAIN TUMOUR BE?

Abstract OBJECTIVE To determine the evidence with regards to self-care outcomes and interventions for children who have been treated for a brain tumour and identify when best to intervene. METHODS A scoping review of the literature with regards to self-care interventions, outcomes and mechanisms was undertaken. The information from these themes were populated onto a logic model alongside the clinical expertise of the team. The logic model was used to develop hypotheses to inform subsequent research; and identified areas for further patient and public involvement. RESULTS Of 27 papers found, 13 were deemed relevant. The literature suggested the diagnosis of a brain tumour can have a long-term negative impact on self-care outcomes whilst evidence with regards to interventions to promote self-care is scarce. The child’s physical and cognitive functions were identified as hypothesised factors influencing self-care, while health related quality of life and participation in other life domains were secondary consequences of self-care. The team expertise was further used to hypothesise that parent factors (emotions, identity, actions), the child’s emotional functions and personal factors as well as peer relationships and norms may influence children’s self-care. These factors were not covered in the existing literature. CONCLUSIONS Subsequent research will investigate the hypotheses developed to further specify factors that self-care interventions for children and young people with a brain tumour should target. This will involve specifying when, how and to whom interventions should be targeted.