Conversations About Children When an Important Adult Is at End of Life: An Audit. (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hanna, Jeffrey R.; Rapa, Elizabeth; Miller, Mary; Turner, Madeleine; Dalton, Louise J.
• Is Part Of: American journal of hospice & palliative care. Volume 39:Number 7(2022)
• Page Start: 806
• Page End: 811
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: end of life -- children -- dying -- communication -- healthcare professionals -- social care professionals -- family-centered care -- psychosocial support; Hospice care -- Periodicals; Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; 362.175
• DOI: 10.1177/10499091211046241
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-9091

Abstract

Purpose: Health and social care professionals report it challenging to have conversations with families when an important adult in the life of a child is at end of life, often feeling this aspect of care is the responsibility of other colleagues. This study aimed to understand professionals' perceived role in family-centered conversations as part of routine care at end of life, and how to promote this element of care in clinical practice. Methods: An audit was completed with 116 professionals who work in palliative care including doctors and nurses that attended a 2-day virtual congress. Results: Professionals (73.2%) felt confident about starting a conversation with adult patients at end of life about important children. However, enquiring about relationships with children was largely dependent on the age of the patient. 64.7% of respondents reported signposting families to websites and services that provide family support. Most professionals (76.7%) wanted training to equip them with the skills and confidence to having family-centered conversations at end of life, with videos demonstrating how to provide these elements of care the most preferred option. Conclusions: Short training resources should be developed to equip professionals with the necessary skills toward having conversations about children with patients and relatives in clinical appointments. There is a need for professionals to ask every patient about important relationships with children.