Effect of a telenursing training program on the quality of life of mothers of 7-12-year-old children with leukemia in Iran: A pre-test and post-test, randomized controlled trial

Abstract

This research sought to evaluate how tele-nursing education influences the quality of life (QoL) of mothers whose children (ages 7–12) have leukemia. This study was a randomized controlled trial with a pretest–posttest design. It was conducted in 2025 among mothers of pediatric leukemia patients hospitalized in pediatric subspecialty centers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Sampling was conducted using convenience sampling, followed by simple random allocation to the intervention (N=39) and control groups (N=39). Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the World Health Organization QoL Questionnaire (WHOQOL). The intervention comprised six tele-nursing educational sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, delivered via video or audio calls. The content included child care principles, maternal self-care, psychological support, and coping strategies. The control group received only routine care. A post-test assessment was conducted 2 weeks after the intervention. Tele-nursing education resulted in a statistically significant improvement in all WHOQOL domains among mothers in the intervention group. Following the intervention, scores in the physical, psychological, social relationship, and environmental dimensions increased significantly compared with those of the control group (P=0.001). The total QoL score also improved notably following the educational program. Moreover, the independent t-test indicated significant differences between the two groups in all assessed domains, with the intervention group exhibiting superior outcomes. Tele-nursing education significantly enhanced the QoL of mothers of children with leukemia by providing continuous, accessible, and supportive care without time or location constraints. As a cost-effective and efficient approach, tele-nursing can be integrated into health systems to strengthen family-centered care and improve psychosocial outcomes in families of children with cancer.