End-of-life care for children and adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the complexities in end-of-life care of children and adolescents dying cancer-related deaths.

Data sources: Research studies, review articles, and government reports.

Conclusion: The complexities in providing competent and compassionate care to the dying child and the family is intense, undeniable, and may in some clinical situations be unavoidable.

Implications for nursing practice: It is important for all those involved with the care at the end of life for a child or adolescent dying a cancer-related death create the framework that will support the provikion of competent and compassionate end-of-life care.