Listening to children and young people in healthcare consultations

Abstract

The involvement of children and young people in consultations about aspects of their health or illness is often limited, with their role in diagnosis and decision-making on treatment options secondary to that of parents or carers. However, research shows that most children and young people want greater involvement, that this can both improve their understanding of their illness and positively influence healthcare outcomes. Policy recommendations increasingly require health professionals to involve children and young people in healthcare, but there is little available guidance on building the knowledge and skills needed to do so effectively. This book meets that need, including an overview of the particular issues involved and providing structured guidance for different types of consultations, including children with learning difficulties, disabled children and children as carers. Edited by eminent researchers, and with highly experienced contributors, this book is an invaluable resource for GPs and GP registrars, paediatric and emergency consultants and specialist registrars, nurses, paramedics, healthcare educators and trainees, and all those who work with children and young people in health-related contexts.