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Updated: Jan 15, 2026

Objective Nociceptive Assessment in Ventilated ICU Patients: A Feasibility Study Using Pupillometry and the Nociceptive Flexion Reflex
Published on: July 4, 2018
Perceptions and needs of NICU professionals regarding pediatric palliative care: a qualitative study compared with
Bénédicte Brichard1,2, Manon Le Roux3,4, Brigitte de Terwangne4
1Division of Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, UCLouvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium. benedicte.brichard@saintluc.uclouvain.be.
Background:
Pediatric palliative care (PPC) in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) presents ethical and emotional challenges for healthcare professionals. This study explores perceptions, experiences, and needs of NICU staff concerning PPC in the context of implementing collaboration with a pediatric palliative care reference center (PPCRC).
Methods:
A qualitative descriptive study using a semi-structured questionnaire was conducted among NICU professionals. Among 91 staff, 26 complete responses were thematically analyzed. Results were compared with international literature.
Results:
Respondents highlighted emotional distress, communication challenges, need for ethical guidance, training gaps, and a desire for stronger integration of PPC teams. The collaboration with PPCRC was perceived as helpful by many, although underutilized by some.
Conclusion:
NICU professionals face significant moral and emotional burdens in PPC. Strengthening training, enhancing team cohesion, and promoting earlier PPC integration may improve both care quality and staff well-being.
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