The pediatric palliative care team at University of Iowa Children’s Hospital collaborates with the patient’s medical team to coordinate care and manage symptoms. Palliative care is intended to achieve the best possible quality of life for the child and family, and when death is inevitable, to support the child and family. The goals of the pediatric palliative care program include:

• Provide support and counseling for the child and their family members dealing with the emotional, social, and spiritual stress of illness
• Focus on comfort and quality of living when a cure is not possible
• Manage pain and other symptoms related to the illness
• Promote a sense of well-being and peace of mind