Peer-reviewed article

Exploring the feasibility of the my hospital passport app: Helping children identify and share coping preferences in medical procedures.

E W Segers, A van den Hoogen, E E Berkelbach van der Sprenkel, L Schoonhoven, E M van de Putte et al. · 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Children frequently experience fear and distress during medical procedures. 'My Hospital Passport' app was co-created to help children identify and share their preferred coping strategies. This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of the app in clinical practice. METHODS: A qualitative feasibility study was conducted in a tertiary pediatric hospital. Semi-structured interviews were held with children (n = 3), parents (n = 8), and HCPs (n = 10) who had used or supported use of the app. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: All participants viewed 'My Hospital Passport' as a valuable communication tool to enhance predictability, trust, and shared understanding around medical procedures. For children and parents, completing the app encouraged reflection and dialogue about coping preferences, contributing to a sense of control and calm. When HCPs acknowledged these preferences, it fostered partnership and predictability. However, when preferences were overlooked, children and parents reported disappointment. HCPs recognized the app's potential to support communication and continuity of care but noted barriers such as lack of integration with electronic health records and limited time during clinical routines. CONCLUSION: 'My Hospital Passport' is an acceptable and feasible tool that helps children prepare for medical procedures by articulating and sharing their coping strategies. Its successful use, however, depends on active engagement by HCPs and structural embedding in care routines. Organizational and technological integration are essential to ensure consistent recognition of children's preferences and sustainable implementation in practice. INNOVATION: 'My Hospital Passport' enables two-way communication on coping strategies, improving procedural support.