From The Conversation · Emilee Flynn · · 1m 20s
Pediatric Palliative Care for Seriously Ill Children
Pediatric palliative care helps children with life-threatening illnesses and their families manage pain and quality of life.
In brief
Pediatric palliative care helps children with life-threatening illnesses and their families manage pain and quality of life. Pediatric palliative care addresses unique needs of seriously ill children and families by reducing pain and improving quality of life. Originally reported by The Conversation.
Quick answers
- What is pediatric palliative care?
- Pediatric palliative care helps children facing serious illness who may be nearing the end of their lives.
- What is the key takeaway from Pediatric Palliative Care for Seriously Ill Children?
- Pediatric palliative care addresses unique needs of seriously ill children and families by reducing pain and improving quality of life.
What is pediatric palliative care?
Pediatric palliative care helps children facing serious illness who may be nearing the end of their lives.
Why pediatric palliative care matters
Children with life-threatening conditions need a different kind of care than other patients do.
Global impact of pediatric palliative care
Globally, an estimated 7 million children die annually and benefit from pediatric palliative care.
Holistic care approach
Pediatric palliative care teams include physicians, nurses, social workers, and child life specialists to support families.
Benefits for children and families
Children receiving pediatric palliative care have less pain, nausea, and distressing symptoms.
US access to pediatric palliative care
Nearly 80% of U.S. children’s hospitals have formal palliative care programs.
Global disparities in access
Over 21 million children worldwide need pediatric palliative care but face limited access.
Healthcare gaps in low-income countries
Children in low- and middle-income countries have less access to medical care and palliative services.
Key illnesses in developing nations
In developing countries, 30% of pediatric palliative care cases involve HIV, 18% prematurity complications, and 16% congenital issues.
The one thing
Pediatric palliative care addresses unique needs of seriously ill children and families by reducing pain and improving quality of life.
