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Abstract
Background:
Paediatric palliative care
is a specialized approach
designed to improve the quality
of life for children facing
life-limiting illnesses, and
their families. This comprehensive
review explores the various
interventions implemented
within the realm of paediatric
palliative care, encompassing
physical, emotional, social,
and spiritual dimensions.
Methods
: A systematic literature
search was conducted across
major medical databases, identifying
studies, reviews, and guidelines
related to paediatric palliative
care interventions. The selected
articles were critically appraised
to extract information on
diverse aspects of care, including
symptom management, psychosocial
support, family-centred approaches,
and ethical considerations.
Results:
The review synthesizes evidence
on the holistic nature of
paediatric palliative care,
highlighting the effectiveness
of multidisciplinary teams
in addressing the complex
needs of children and their
families. Physical symptom
management, encompassing pain
control and other symptom
alleviation strategies, emerged
as a crucial component. Psychosocial
support interventions, including
counselling and therapeutic
approaches, were found to
enhance emotional well-being
for both children and their
caregivers.
Discussion:
Effective communication emerged
as a fundamental aspect, fostering
shared decision-making and
open dialogue about the child’s
illness, prognosis, and treatment
options. The family-centred
approach recognized the pivotal
role of families in the care
continuum, emphasizing their
needs and preferences. Ethical
considerations surrounding
end-of-life care were explored,
emphasizing the importance
of navigating complex decision-making
processes with sensitivity
and respect for cultural and
religious beliefs.
Conclusion:
Paediatric palliative care,
as revealed through this comprehensive
review, constitutes a multifaceted
and evolving field. The integration
of diverse interventions,
coupled with ongoing research
and advancements, underscores
the commitment to enhancing
the quality of life for children
facing life-limiting illnesses
and their families. Future
directions include continued
collaboration between healthcare
professionals, increased awareness,
and further research to optimize
care practices and outcomes
in paediatric palliative care.
Keywords:
paediatric palliative care,
multidisciplinary care, symptom
management, psychosocial support,
family-centred care, ethical
considerations
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