A Family-Centered Intervention to Improve Palliative Care Communication for Pediactric Patients Diagnosed with Cancer: Implementation of the My Wish Policy

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to propose implementation and evaluation of a best practice policy to initiate a continuous conversation about palliative care with pediatric patients diagnosed with cancer, their parents, and the medical team. From a thorough review of recent, relevant literature, strong evidence supports the need to increase communication efforts between pediatric patients, their parents, and the medical team when it comes to discussing palliative care. There is no existing protocol or defined guidelines for implementing a palliative care discussion with pediatric oncologic patients. The proposed policy guidelines focus on exacting a time and protocol for initiating palliative care discussions with this population. An implementation plan and evaluation plan are proposed in accordance with the diffusion of innovation theory.