PENERAPAN TERAPI BERMAIN PUZZLE UNTUK MENGURANGI KECEMASAN AKIBAT HOSPITALISASI PADA ANAK DENGAN ISPA DI RUMAH SAKIT TK II PUTRI HIJAU MEDAN

One of the vulnerabilities of preschool-aged children is their lower immunity compared to adults, making them more susceptible to infections. Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) are acute infections affecting one or more parts of the respiratory tract, from the nose to the alveoli, often requiring children to undergo hospitalization. Hospitalization can lead to psychological responses in children, such as anxiety. Therefore, play therapy is highly recommended as a nursing intervention during hospitalization, particularly for children experiencing anxiety, by diverting their attention to enjoyable activities such as playing puzzles. This study aims to describe the application of puzzle play therapy for hospitalized children experiencing anxiety. This research uses a descriptive method with a case study design that includes the nursing care process. The results showed that the implementation of play therapy in hospitalized children can help reduce anxiety. Initial assessment of two children indicated severe anxiety. After the implementation of puzzle play therapy, both children showed mild or resolved anxiety. In conclusion, puzzle play therapy is effective in reducing anxiety in hospitalized children. It is recommended that puzzle play therapy be applied as an intervention for hospitalized children to help alleviate anxiety.