Experience of nurses who work with children with palliative care needs: A mixed-method systematic review

Abstract

Abstract Objective The importance of palliative care education for nurses has been recognized worldwide. The study aims to explore the experiences of nurses working with children with palliative care needs and to identify any related educational needs. Methods The electronic databases of CINAHL, Cochrane, PubMed, OVID, Social Care Online, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest were searched for the period 2000–2015. Results Finding revealed that working with children with palliative care needs is an emotionally struggling job for nurses, especially when they try to manage the transition of pediatric patients from curative to palliative care. Staffing level and time constraints comprise a major obstacle in pediatric palliative care. Focusing on invasive treatment and technology in spite of the feelings that it will not improve patients' health status intensifies the feeling of guilt and helplessness for nurses. Finally, nurses asserted the importance of receiving pediatric palliative care education, especially how to communicate with children with palliative care needs and their families. Significance of results Further research is recommended with regard to nurses' experience in communication with children with palliative care needs. Nursing education in pediatric palliative care is significantly important, especially how to communicate with children with palliative care needs and their families.