[Paediatric palliative care and the nursing role]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Palliative Care
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Paediatric palliative care formally recognized in France in 2008.
• Definition encompasses care from antenatal period to age 19 for children with life-limiting conditions.
• Healthcare professionals frequently encounter these patients in various settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define paediatric palliative care in the French context.
• To highlight the necessity of multi-disciplinary care for children with life-limiting illnesses.
• To emphasize the importance of coordination among healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on the definition and scope of paediatric palliative care in France.
• Analysis of care requirements for children with life-limiting diseases.
• Discussion of the role of nurses and multi-disciplinary teams.

Main Results:

• Paediatric palliative care is a distinct field since 2008 in France.
• Care extends from prenatal to age 19 for children facing life-limiting conditions.
• Effective care necessitates collaboration across diverse health and social services.

Conclusions:

• Paediatric palliative care is crucial for children with life-limiting diseases.
• A coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach is vital for optimal patient outcomes.
• Nurses play a key role in delivering and coordinating this specialized care.