Enhancing paediatric palliative care: A rapid review to inform continued development of care for children with life-limiting conditions.

Aim: Following the establishment of paediatric palliative care services over recent decades, this study sought to identify information to inform future policy and practice.

Methods: A rapid review using thematic synthesis was conducted to synthesise existing information about improving paediatric palliative care. Information was extracted in relation to key areas for investment and change: quality, access, advance care planning, skills, research, collaboration and community awareness.

Simulation-based education to promote confidence in managing clinical aggression at a paediatric hospital.

Background: An increasing number of incidents involving aggressive behaviour in acute care hospitals are being witnessed worldwide. Acute care hospital staff are often not trained or confident in managing aggression. Competent management of clinical aggression is important to maintain staff and patient safety.

Improving paediatric advance care planning: Results of a learning needs analysis and simulation-based education programme.

Aim: To assess clinicians' experience, attitudes and confidence with advance care planning (ACP) at a quaternary paediatric referral centre using a learning-needs survey, and then apply this information to develop and examine the feasibility of simulation-based education for this topic.

Methods: An electronic learning-needs survey was distributed to medical, nursing and allied health clinicians from departments who provide primary care for children with life-limiting conditions. Results were incorporated into the design of a simulation-based education session which was piloted with the Royal Children's Hospital Oncology Department.

Evaluating the impact of national education in pediatric palliative care: the Quality of Care Collaborative Australia.

Purpose: The Quality of Care Collaborative Australia (QuoCCA) provided pediatric palliative care education across Australia with the aim of improving the quality of services. The education was delivered through a collaboration of six tertiary pediatric palliative care services, through funding for Nurse Educators, Medical Fellows, a National Allied Health Educator, and national project staff.

Methods: Pre- and post-education surveys were completed by participants immediately following the education, and confidence and knowledge were measured along nine domains related to the care of the child and family, including managing a new referral, symptom management, medications, preparing the family, and using local agencies.

We are not alone: international learning for professionals caring for children requiring palliative care.

Background: Educational opportunities for professionals working with children requiring palliative care are central to future development within the specialty across countries. International educational initiatives involving a range of professionals are important for learning with and from others working within the field.

Aim: To explore the experiences and value to students from participating in an international online discussion forum.