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Completing the continuum of care. The growth of a pediatric hospice program
1Angela Hospice, Livonia, Michigan, USA. wwin1226@aol.com
Caring : National Association for Home Care Magazine
|February 24, 2001
Insights
Integrating pediatric hospice care involves understanding the five phases families navigate. This includes the journey from admission to grieving the child
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Palliative Care
- Hospice and Palliative Medicine
Background:
- Hospice organizations face unique challenges when integrating pediatric programs.
- Existing adult-focused hospice models require adaptation for pediatric end-of-life care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the process of integrating a pediatric program into an established hospice organization.
- To delineate the five distinct phases of the child and family experience within pediatric hospice care.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of program integration strategies.
- Review of family-centered care models in pediatric hospice.
- Description of the developmental and emotional trajectory for children and families.
Main Results:
- Successful integration requires tailored organizational structures and staff training.
- The five phases identified are: initial contact, adjustment and engagement, symptom management and quality of life focus, end-of-life care, and bereavement.
- Each phase presents specific needs for the child and family.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric hospice program integration is feasible with strategic planning.
- A phased approach supports families through the complex journey of childhood cancer or serious illness.
- Understanding these phases is crucial for providing comprehensive, compassionate end-of-life care for children.
Abstract:
This article examines the process of integrating a pediatric program into an existing hospice organization. It also discusses the five phases a child and family experience, from entering hospice through grieving the loss of the child.