Contributions of Palliative Care to Pediatric Patient Care

ObjectivesTo provide an overview of pediatric palliative care (PPC) as it relates to children and families living with oncologic disease.Data SourcesJournal articles, clinical research reports, clinical guidelines, and national statistics.ConclusionAs new treatment protocols become available, the need for simultaneous supportive PPC, including adequate pain and symptom management, is evident. Further research and PPC program development is necessary for adherence to the current recommendation that PPC should be initiated at the time of diagnosis and continue throughout the course of a child's disease.Implications for Nursing PracticePalliative care nursing holds a specific role in the pediatric oncology setting. Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses should be adequately trained in PPC because they are in an optimal role to contribute to interdisciplinary PPC for pediatric oncology patients and their families.