Pediatric palliative care for children with cancer: a concept analysis using Rodgers' evolutionary approach

Background Providing access to pediatric palliative care (PPC) for children living with a serious illness, such as cancer, is of critical importance, although this specialized intervention, as a novel concept, still seems vague and complicated. The present study analyzed the concept of PPC for children with cancer. Methods Rodgers' evolutionary method was employed for the concept analysis. Articles on PPC, particularly those for children suffering from cancer, published between 2010 and 2021 were searched in valid academic research databases. The inclusion criteria for the full-text articles were based on the characteristics, antecedents, and consequences of PPC for children with cancer. Results In total, 19 relevant articles were selected and then reviewed and analyzed after applying the inclusion criteria and the final sampling. The analysis of the concept of PPC for children affected with cancer revealed four characteristics, including PPC as holistic and integrated care, PPC as patient- and family-centered care, PPC as early-start continuous care, and PPC as interdisciplinary and team-based care. Some effective factors could also act as antecedents for this concept, i.e., health care providers' training and expertise as well as human resources and financing. Moreover, improved quality of life, symptom reduction, and coordination between patient care and family support were among the PPC consequences for such children. Conclusions The study results demonstrated that delivering PPC to children with cancer demanded a comprehensive view of its various dimensions. Furthermore, numerous factors need to be delineated for its accurate and complete implementation.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the concept of pediatric palliative care (PPC) for children with cancer and identified several characteristics and antecedents of PPC, as well as the consequences for these children, including improved quality of life and symptom reduction. The study highlights the need for a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to deliver PPC to children with cancer.