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Medical care

Medical care

Medical care in pediatric palliative care focuses on alleviating symptoms and increasing comfort. Think of pain, shortness of breath, nausea, restlessness, or fatigue. We always focus on what helps a child feel as comfortable as possible—with attention to things like rest, sleep, nutrition, and daily care.

Besides medical treatments , complementary care can also offer support, such as massage, music, or relaxation techniques. Anything that contributes to well-being is welcome.

Medical care

From treatment to support

Some children initially undergo a process aimed at recovery. This is called curative care. Sometimes, this treatment eventually runs out, or it's clear from the outset that a cure isn't possible.

In pediatric palliative care, the goal shifts from getting better to living as well as possible — with attention to what a child needs physically, emotionally, and practically.

The course of a palliative care process

The palliative care process has four phases. They sometimes overlap or overlap. The needs of a child and family change accordingly.

Palliative care route copy

1. Disease-specific palliative care

Treatment still focuses on combating the disease, often with the goal of alleviating symptoms or prolonging life.

2. Symptom-oriented palliation

When treatment is less effective or has too many side effects, the focus increasingly shifts to controlling symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath or nausea.

3. The dying phase

In this phase, signs that death is approaching become visible. Care focuses on peace, closeness, and preventing discomfort.

4. The phase after death

Even after death, care is provided. Parents and siblings receive support for as long as needed. This aftercare helps families move forward, step by step.

What does medical care look like in practice?

Medical care in the palliative phase may consist of:

  • pain treatment or other symptom management
  • support with nutrition, drinking and swallowing
  • breathing assistance, oxygen or ventilation
  • support for epilepsy, muscle tension or irritability
  • adjustments in daily care, such as lifting, rest periods or sleep hygiene
  • complementary care that provides relaxation or comfort
  • coordination between hospital, general practitioner, pediatrician and the Children's Comfort Team

The most important starting point: care that suits the child, the family and their values.

Joint decision-making and looking ahead

Medical care also includes timely, open conversations about wishes, boundaries, and treatment options. Parents and professionals take the time together to explore what quality of life means for a child. This is proactive care planning, and it plays a crucial role. It helps families and healthcare professionals consider what a child needs, what care fits into daily life, and which choices provide peace of mind, both now and in the future.

By exploring the situation beforehand, a plan emerges that provides direction and peace of mind. Especially in very vulnerable situations—for example, when a child's condition suddenly deteriorates—proactive care planning helps prevent emotional responses. A carefully considered framework is then already in place, supporting parents and professionals in making decisions that align with the family's wishes and values.

Proactive care planning provides direction, overview, and stability, especially at times when a family is faced with many challenges simultaneously.

Tools that help to look ahead are: