Foundations of Social Work Practice in Paediatric Palliative Care From the Perspective of the Patient, the Family and the Multidisciplinary Team: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Paediatric palliative care is a complex and painful reality for children, young people and their families, and the professional team caring for them. Social workers are essential in these teams, providing emotional and care support to patients and their families. Each country and hospital have its characteristics, but there needs to be more general information to determine the essential aspects on which social work practice is based. This systematic review aims to identify the theoretical underpinnings of social work in paediatric palliative care to develop a knowledge framework for future intervention strategies. The systematic review included 14 studies between 2018 and 2023, identified by searching four databases using the PRISMA methodology (WOS, SCOPUS, Dialnet Plus and ERIC). From the analysis of the articles, 13 categories were identified as fundamental to the social work approach in the context of paediatric palliative care. These foundations include relational and caring practices and work with the family, main theoretical models, cultural aspects and multidisciplinary work, among others. In addition, new challenges, such as social work with groups and telehealth, are addressed. The findings of this systematic review provide strategic and research directions for social workers working in paediatric palliative care, thus contributing to the profession’s development in this field.