Teamwork
-What do you think are the key qualities of a strong healthcare team, especially when supporting children with complex or life-limiting conditions?
Good communication, trust and loyalty are essential if you want a team to work. If you don’t trust someone, their capabilities and that they will have the team’s best interest at heart, how can you work with them?
-In what ways do you imagine different roles (nurses, doctors, social workers, therapists, spiritual care providers, etc.) working together to support the child and family?
I think if one works together in a team, it’s important to realise what every team member has to offer and allow them to contribute that. We all studied something else and are experts in a specific field: doctors making an evidence-based assessment regarding diagnosis, and pharmaceutical management. Nurses have a more caring and nurturing role. It is important to realise that every person of the interdisciplinary team is key in the holistic management of a paediatric palliative care patient.
Self-Care
What personal strategies do you currently use to manage stress or emotional challenges in your work or studies?
Exercising, debriefing with friends and families, prioritising time with friends, Christianity and time with Jesus
Why do you think self-care is especially important in children’s palliative care, and how might teams support each other emotionally?
To prevent compassionate fatigue and burnout. It can be emotionally draining and one should actively pour into your own cup
