| Learning Objective #1: Describe 3 domains of knowledge critical to care of children with life-limiting conditions | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Describe differences in knowledge base of evidence-based practice among healthcare providers caring for children with life-limiting conditions |
Design: Cross-sectional survey of hospital-based healthcare providers caring for children with life-limiting conditions.
Sample: 223 staff (physicians, nurses, child life workers, social workers, and chaplains) working in a children’s hospital
Variables: Knowledge of 1) philosophy and principles of palliative care, 2) management of pain and other symptoms, and 3) psychological and spiritual care of children and families.
Methods: Participants completed a 23-item survey adapted from the Palliative Care Quiz for Nursing (PCQN). One open-ended question asked respondents to describe their opportunities to provide palliative care services.
Findings: Significant differences were found among staff across the 3 domains, based on clinical area and discipline. Knowledge deficits were distributed across all 3 domains.
Conclusions: While the survey was brief and provided limited data, it was useful for baseline assessments to assess learning needs and to initiate discussions focused on the provision of pediatric palliative care.
Implications: The results of this study demonstrate the need to provide further education related to pediatric palliative care for healthcare providers.
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Sigma Theta Tau International
July 21, 2004