Knowledge, attitudes and practices of critical care unit personnel regarding pediatric palliative care: a cross-sectional study

Few studies have evaluated the perceptions of healthcare providers in China regarding pediatric palliative care, particularly in critical care units (PICUs), where many children receive palliative care. To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in five cities in China (Shanghai, Suzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu and Yunnan) between November 2022 and December 2022.

The analysis included 204 participants (122 females), with 158 nurses and 46 physicians. The average knowledge, attitude and practice scores were 9.75 ± 2.90 points (possible range, 0-13 points), 38.30 ± 3.80 points (possible range, 12-60 points) and 35.48 ± 5.72 points (possible range, 9-45 points), respectively. Knowledge score was higher for physicians than for nurses (P < 0.001) and for personnel with previous training in pediatric palliative care (P = 0.005). According to structural equation modelling knowledge had a direct positive effect on attitude (β = 0.69 [0.28-1.10], p = 0.001), and indirect on practice (β = 0.82 [0.36-1.28], p < 0.001); attitude had significant effect on practice as well (β = 1.18 [0.81-1.56], p < 0.001).

There is room for improvement in the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care. The findings of this study may facilitate the design and implementation of targeted education/training programs to better inform physicians and nurses in China about pediatric palliative care.