Journal of Vocational Nursing
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): OCTOBER 2026

PLASTICINE PLAY THERAPY TO REDUCE HOSPITALIZATION ANXIETY IN A PRESCHOOL CHILD WITH TYPHOID FEVER: A CASE STUDY

Zahwa Febrina (Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember)
Ayu Dewi Nastiti (Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember)
R.A Helda Puspitasari (Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember)
Nurul Fahmi Rizka Laily (Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember)
Lelly Rahmawati Jaya (Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Oct 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Typhoid fever is an infectious disease that frequently necessitates hospitalization in pediatric patients. Children may experience anxiety during hospitalization as a result of environmental unfamiliarity, invasive procedures, and reduced opportunities for play. Plasticine play therapy is a nonpharmacological nursing intervention that can help alleviate anxiety in children during their hospitalization. This study aimed to describe the implementation of plasticine play therapy among children with typhoid fever experiencing anxiety during hospitalization. Methods: In this case employed a case study design involving a preschool-aged child diagnosed with typhoid fever and a nursing problem of anxiety. Data were collected through interviews, observations, physical assessments, documentation review, and anxiety evaluation using the Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS) Parent Report. Plasticine play therapy was administered for three consecutive days, with each session lasting 5–10 minutes. Results: A reduction in the patient's anxiety score was observed from 62 on the first day to 39 on the second day and 21 on the third day. Additionally, the patient appeared calmer, more cooperative, and was able to interact and concentrate better during treatment. Conclusion: Play therapy using plasticine shows potential in reducing anxiety levels in this patient during hospitalization.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JoViN

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Nursing Public Health

Description

This journal specifically welcomes research that aims to evaluate and understand complex care interventions that use the most appropriate design and methods for interesting research questions. Journal Scope: Fundamental Nursing Focuses on the knowledge that shapes the understanding of paradigms, the ...