Relaxation Therapy & Peace Care

Essential Information

Summarize

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        Preamble

        Liu Jun'e (Vice Dean, School of Nursing, Capital Medical University)

 

        I am delighted to introduce this parent guidebook on 'Palliative Care and Comfort Care for Children with Cancer,' translated and compiled by the Sunflower Volunteers. The International Union Against Cancer (UICC) has designated February 15th as International Children's Cancer Day, aiming to raise global awareness of children's health and the importance of creating a supportive living environment for them. Each year, over 250,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer, and many children and their families face significant physical and emotional challenges that can affect treatment plans. Some patients may even die from complications arising from the disease or related treatments. The goal of palliative care is to provide the best possible symptom management for patients and their families, enhance their quality of life, and emphasize family involvement and mental health support. This guidebook covers practical palliative care techniques such as 'how to communicate with your child,'  'symptom management,' and 'end-of-life care.' It also addresses the physical and mental well-being of family members, including 'how parents and siblings can cope with cancer' and 'counseling for grief.' The content is straightforward yet professional and practical. While not the most comprehensive resource, it offers valuable insights and references for parents caring for children with cancer. We walk together through the valley, supporting each other all the way!

 

What is pediatric palliative care

        

 

Child palliative care is both a philosophy and a treatment model, designed for children with progressively worsening critical illnesses and their families, also known as hospice care. It provides comprehensive care for children, covering physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects, while offering essential support to the families of these children. The multidisciplinary care team includes medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, psychological counselors, and therapists, as well as the child's family members and accessible community service groups. The goal of pediatric palliative care is to provide the best possible quality of life for children as their conditions continue to progress.

 

 

 

The key to palliative care is the appropriate management of symptoms and emotional, spiritual, and social support for children, families, schools, and communities. Care should respect the child's and family's autonomy as much as possible. Palliative care for children also includes support for the family in their grief and pain during treatment and after the child's death.

Epidemiological

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Etiology & Risk Factors

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Examination & Diagnosis

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Clinical Management

Why do children need soothing therapy?

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        The purpose of palliative care for children and families:

 

        • Help children stay comfortable and help them do things that are important and interesting to them;

        • Provide support in making difficult family decisions;

        • Help parents to support sick children;

        • Help parents to support other siblings;

        • Provide practical assistance in the area of equipment, medicines and temporary care;

        • Help the whole family get over the loss of a loved one.

 

When does pediatric palliative care begin?

 

 

        Palliative care can begin at any time when a child is ill, regardless of the severity of the illness, whether it has been cured or not, or whether it is treatable. For many children with cancer, it is difficult to determine when to transition from curative treatment to palliative care. This decision depends on each child's condition and their response to treatment. Some children may undergo prolonged treatment to try to cure the disease, while the final phase of palliative care might be relatively short.

 

 

        Initially, pediatric palliative care begins when you decide to stop aggressive chemotherapy. Over time, you may further discuss where the child should receive care and the level of supportive care needed. Your expectations for a cure might gradually shift to a different focus —— enjoying a high-quality life with your child and ensuring they pass away peacefully and with dignity.

 

Does soothing treatment mean giving up treatment?

 

 

        It's not always the case. Sometimes it's challenging to predict the outcome of serious illnesses. The goal of palliative care is to alleviate the child's pain and other symptoms, as well as provide emotional support to the entire family. Regardless of the treatment chosen, the child can benefit from palliative care. In this way, families can' hope for the best while preparing for the worst.'

 

 

What are the differences between pediatric and adult soothing treatments?

 

 

        While there are many similarities between the palliative care of adults and children, there are also very distinct differences. These include:

 

 

 

        • Fewer children die each year than adults;

        • Many rare childhood diseases do not occur in adults;

        • Multiple family members may be affected by the same genetic factors;

        • The time span of illness in children can be several years, which may require a transition from pediatric to adult palliative care;

        • Child palliative care involves the whole family, especially parents and siblings, who are vulnerable to life changes brought about by diagnosis because they anticipate the pain of bereavement;

        • Child soothing providers need to be aware of the ongoing physical, emotional and cognitive development of the child throughout childhood and respond to changes in communication and interaction levels and understanding for each child;

        • Children do not have the right and ability to make decisions related to treatment, parents have the right to decide;

        Education and recreation are necessary when a child is seriously ill.

 

Who can help me start the soothing treatment?

 

 

        The professionals involved in the child's palliative care may include doctors, nurses, social workers, psychological counselors, pharmacists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. Despite the large number of people involved, it is essential to have professional medical staff as the core team to coordinate the child's treatment. This way, if new situations or problems arise, you will have someone to consult. Additionally, your family and friends are always ready to offer assistance, such as helping with childcare, shopping, washing clothes, and cooking. This support will allow you to spend more time with your family and take a break. You can even appoint a family member or friend as the 'family spokesperson' to handle external communications about what's happening at home. You don't need to feel that everyone who offers help or visits must be welcomed. These are precious moments for you and your child, and you have the right to decide how to spend them.

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References

        References:

                1. https://www.caresearch.com.au/QuoCCA/Portals/6/Documents/Palliative-Care-for-Children-with-Cancer.pdf

                2. https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/palliative-care-children-introduction

                3. http://www.icpcn.org/faq/

Audit specialists

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