| Popis: |
Effective end-of-life (EOL) communication between pediatric oncology providers and child and family members is essential to minimizing unnecessary additional distress and to maximizing quality of life as care goals shift from curative-focused to comfort and end-of-life (EOL) care. EOL communication is information-sharing among children, family members, and health care providers regarding the child’s illness, prognosis, and goals of care as the child transitions to the end of his/her life. Information-sharing comprises components of communication and types of communication within the context of the child’s and family’s lifestyle and culture. Communication experiences that occur at the diagnosis of cancer and early in the ill child’s illness trajectory can leave a lasting imprint and shape future communication experiences. Research indicates that offering the ill child, when appropriate, and family members the opportunity to engage in information-sharing that is direct, open, honest, and caring, optimal short- and long-term outcomes related to goal-concordant and high-quality care and bereavement are achieved. Health care providers are key participants and often the drivers of information-sharing with children and family members about the child’s condition. However, research demonstrates that pediatric oncology providers can struggle with barriers to promoting effective EOL communication. This chapter summarizes the scientific foundation related to EOL communication in pediatric oncology and includes recommendations for clinical practice to achieve optimal communication outcomes during EOL. |
