About Palliative Care
Palliative Care Mission: To provide compassionate, comprehensive and consistent care to children living with serious illnesses, and their families.
Palliative Care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) offers active support for patients and their families who are faced with a life-threatening diagnosis. Palliative Care is appropriate at any time during an illness and can be provided at the same time as treatment that is aimed to cure. The goal is to enhance quality of life.
Pediatric Palliative Care Team is composed of but not limited to: family member, pediatric palliative care doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, child life specialists, music therapists, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacists, and nutritionists to ensure the child and family receive as much support as needed and desired.
Family Member
Parent or legal guardian who is responsible for their child’s care. Depending on the dynamics of the family, several relatives may be part of the palliative care team. You are the ultimate expert on what your child needs and are responsible for keeping the “Big Picture” in mind- i.e.; your child's short and long term needs, quality of life versus quantity and the entire health of your family. Each specialist will be focusing on your child through their individual lens of care. It’s up to you to consider all the recommendations and make the decision that is right for your child and family.
Pediatrician
Provides direct medical care, manages pain and physical symptoms, and communicates with other physicians to develop a care plan that suits all involved.
Pediatric Nurse
Assists in coordinating care through changing phases of illness, assesses patient and family’s symptoms and practical care needs.
Social Worker
Offers counseling, works with the child to promote normal development, and provides referral information for local and government resources.
Chaplain
Provides support to the child and family by discussing spiritual beliefs, including the meaning and value of life. Chaplains work with the family’s personal source of spiritual or pastoral support. Assists with growing home care needs and complex transitions from hospital to home.
Child Life Specialist
Helps child maintain a sense of normalcy, increases understanding at the patient’s developmental level and assists with legacy building and memory building.
Music Therapist
Offers creative approaches to exploring inner feelings, relaxation, and creating joyful moments.