Palliative Care in Paediatrics

Since beginning my journey in community based paediatric physiotherapy 6 years ago I have worked with a number of children with life limiting, complex physical disabilities. With the implementation of the NDIS scheme I have been fortunate to work closely with families throughout their palliative care journey. Of particular note, are two separate clients who I have worked with until the later stages of their disease progression. These two cases have sparked a particular interest and passion in supporting such children to live meaningful lives, whatever that may look like for them and their families.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) acknowledges the important role community-based services play in the palliative care journey. In relation to paediatric palliative care, WHO states “Palliative care for children is the active total care of the child's body, mind and spirit, and also involves giving support to the family’. The needs of each child and their family are forever evolving in the palliative care space. For this reason, it is of great importance that the multidisciplinary team continue to adapt treatment and care approaches to suit each family’s individual circumstances.

How can physiotherapy help in palliative care:

· Strength and movement programs to assist with pain management and mobility/transitions in the home or community environment

· Optimisation of respiratory health

· Equipment prescription to enhance quality of life or reduce manual handling in the home

With advancements in medicine, the paediatric palliative care space is growing rapidly. It is wonderful to see allied health input continuing to expand in this area of our healthcare system.

References:

F.Benini et al (2022). “International Standards for Pediatric Palliative Care: From IMPaCCT to GO-PPaCS” Journal of Pain and Symptom Management

Volume 63, Issue 5, May 2022, Pages e529-e543

Care Search Australia: allied health engagement: https://www.caresearch.com.au/tabid/6372/Default.aspx