Hospice care for children

Written for those involved in the care of dying children, this book describes different models of care, the developmental stages of children’s understandings of death, the crucial aspects of pain and symptom control, and psychological distress. The book outlines Children’s Hospice International’s Program for All-Inclusive Care for Children and their Families. Particular attention is given to the necessary emotional support for staff, grieving parents, and surviving siblings.

Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Ram Yogev

This book covers the concept of hospice care for children. «It is intended to serve as a useful tool for the reader who is taking care of a dying child. «The audience includes general pediatricians, family practitioners, any pediatric subspecialists dealing with dying children (i.e., oncology, pediatric AIDS, cystic fibrosis), nurses, social workers, and lay persons dealing with death (parents, teachers, clergy). «The lack of an algorithm for a model of care is a deficiency. The tables are too crowded and the type is too small. The few figures are worthless. However, the overall appearance of the book is good, and the appendixes are very helpful. «This is a timely book that covers an important topic well. The increased number of HIV-infected children living longer will make this book useful to any pediatricians and subspecialists who have not previously taken care of children in need of hospice care. The detailed index makes the use of this book easier. The book should be in all medical libraries and in the offices of pediatricians or family practitioners who are taking care of children with chronic diseases who need hospice care.