Pediatric resident physicians perceptions of competency in pediatric palliative care.

Introduction: The American Academy of Pediatrics advises pediatric residencies to address end-of-life care in their curricula¹. However, studies show pediatric residents do not feel prepared to deliver or discuss end-of-life care with patients and families². This study’s purpose is to investigate resident perceptions of pediatric palliative care and related resident training to determine gaps in resident education and guide curricular development.

Research Question/Hypothesis: A semi-structured focus group will provide insight into curricular deficiencies in palliative care and help guide curricular development.

Study Design: We conducted a semi-structured focus group to assess resident viewpoints regarding palliative care curricula.

Results/Conclusion: The focus group data identified gaps in residency training. One resident stated she “didn’t know what [she] was doing going into that first [end-of-life] discussion.” Another stated he had “little experience treating chronic pain.” Another reported she “wouldn’t even know where to start in talking to parents…without being super abrupt.” Collectively, OSU residents reported they did not feel sufficiently trained in end-of-life care and had a desire to increase palliative care training.