Physical activity in pediatric oncology (PAPO) during treatment – benefits, applications, and tips.

Description: Being active is an essential element for the proper development of the child. Physical activity during childhood and adolescence aims to maintain strength, physical endurance and body weight. It also aims to promote better recovery and integration in the school environment after treatment. Keeping a child or adolescent active can decrease fatigue levels, improve quality of life, maintain heart health, improve functional ability, maintain or improve flexibility, and support bone health. In this presentation, Gabrielle Duhamel, kinesiologist, will discuss physical activity in patients between the ages of 0-18 years old during and after treatment and the important role of the nurse and other healthcare professionals in moving our young patients.

Learning objectives - After this training, the participant will be able to:
• Understand the importance of physical activity in pediatric oncology;
• Have a general understanding of this age group’s development;
• Become acquainted with the main themes in the literature of onco-pediatrics;
• Become aware of the long-term effects of treatments on this population;
• Know the benefits of physical activity and the risks of inactivity;
• Read the recommendations for families related to physical exercise (supervision, safety, duration,
frequency, intensity);
• Identify tips and tricks to get young patients moving;
• Understand the important role of healthcare professionals in getting young patients moving.

Case studies will be presented: day clinic, hospitalization without isolation, hospitalization in isolation, BMT/SCT, end of life.