Palliative care for children and young people: a community paediatric nursing perspective

Community children's nursing services are well placed to provide palliative care for children and young people living with life-limiting conditions. The provision of home support can make a real difference to the quality of life for these families. Yet families report that services are fragmented and difficult to access. The range of professionals involved in the care of a child with life-limiting conditions can be daunting for both the child and the family. The key worker role has been identified as advantageous in co-ordinating care. The community children's nursing team is in a prime position to take on this role. Best practice is achieved through an integrated approach to service provision.