Responses by neuropaediatricians to a palliative care questionnaire

Abstract

IntroductionUp to 70% of children currently treated by Palliative Care Units in Europe are neurological patients. Our objective is to assess the knowledge, interest and involvement in paediatric palliative care (PPC) among Spanish paediatric neurologists. Material and methodsWe contacted 297 neuropaediatricians by and attached a 10-question multiple choice test. This questionnaire was related to the level of knowledge of PPC, identification of patients requiring this specific care, involvement of a paediatric neurologist, use of local palliative resources, and formal training in this subject. ResultsParticipation rate was 32% (96/297). Around 90% knew the definition of PPC, could identify patients with a short-term survival prognosis, and had treated children who eventually died due to their illnesses. A “non resuscitation order” had been written by 61% of them at least once; 77% considered the patient's home as the preferred location of death (if receiving appropriate care), 9% preferred the hospital, and 14% had no preference for any of these options. Just over half (52%) had contacted local PC resources, and 61% had referred or would refer patients to be seen periodically by both services (PC and Paediatric Neurology). More than half (55%) consider themselves not trained enough to deal with these children, and 80% would like to increase their knowledge about PPC. ConclusionThe paediatric neurologists surveyed frequently deal with children who suffer from incurable diseases. Their level of involvement with these patients is high. However, there is an overwhelming necessity and desire to receive more training to support these children and their families.