Death of a child in the emergency department

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Clinical Ethics
• Bereavement Care

Background:

• Child death in the emergency department (ED) presents significant challenges for clinicians.
• Existing guidelines require updates to address evolving best practices in pediatric end-of-life care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a revised technical report and policy statement on patient- and family-centered care for children dying in the ED.
• To examine current literature on critical aspects of pediatric end-of-life care in the ED setting.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on family presence, termination of resuscitation, and clinician bereavement.
• Analysis of ethical considerations in caring for patients, families, and staff during pediatric death.

Main Results:

• Reaffirmation of patient- and family-centered care principles.
• Identification of key areas for improved practice, including communication, forensic responsibilities, and ritualistic practices.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced guidance is needed for managing pediatric deaths in the ED.
• Support for ED clinicians and robust bereavement protocols are essential for compassionate care.