• M Kuhlen, A Schlote, A Borkhardt, and G Janßen.
• Klinik für Kinder-Onkologie-Hämatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Zentrum für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, -Medizinische Fakultät, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf.
• Klin Padiatr. 2014 May 1;226(3):182-7.

IntroductionIn Germany, 500 children die of malignancies per year. Many families wish to be cared for in a home setting at the end-of-life.MethodsFamilies of children who were cared for by the paediatric palliative care team (PPCT) in a home setting between 01.02.2003 to 30.09.2009 were included in the survey. The questionnaire consisted of 87 items with nominal scaled variables and numeric rating scales (NRS; 1-4, lowest to highest satisfaction) as response options.Results84 relatives of 49 children participated (response rate 53.2%). Duration of care varied between 3-246 days. All 49 patients died at home. 98.8% of the respondents were satisfied with their decision for home care. The symptoms pain (86.9%) and fatigue (85.7%) were reported most frequently. Satisfaction with symptom control was high (NRS 3.55±0.49). The respondents were satisfied with communication (NRS 3.73±0.57) and end-of-life care (NRS 3.85±0.90). Satisfaction with psychosocial care (NRS 3.24±0.87) was significantly lower (p<0.05). Parents who stayed in contact with the PPCT by phone and in person were more satisfied with aftercare.DiscussionFrom parental view satisfying home-care of children with cancer is feasible. Symptom control succeeds in a home setting.© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

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