Getting the news that your unborn child or infant has a chronic, complex or life-limiting medical condition can be heartbreaking. The Pediatric Advanced Care Team (PACT) can guide and support you and your family through this difficult period. Our team of experienced, compassionate providers includes neonatologists, social workers and nurse practitioners who provide supportive care for your baby.
Supportive Care for Families of Critically Ill Children
Working as a team with your child’s healthcare providers and specialists, PACT provides a coordinated approach to addressing physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. A main focus of our service is pediatric palliative care for children with life-threatening diseases such as heart disease, neuromuscular disease, cancer or genetic conditions.
Palliative care usually begins when parents start to have questions about how best to care for their child. PACT services can begin in pregnancy, after your child is born or when your child comes home. PACT provides support along the journey for as long as you and your family need them.
What Is Pediatric Palliative Care?
Pediatric palliative care is specialized care for unborn babies, newborns, infants and children with a serious illness, along with their families. It can take place at the same time as medical treatment for the illness.
Palliative care enables children and families to focus on life and what brings them joy. Through a family-centered approach, PACT promotes healing, comfort and meaningful experiences. Palliative care can:
- Improve your child’s quality of life through pain control medications and symptom management
- Educate you, your child and other family members about available options for care and treatment
- Support you and your family in making informed decisions
- Help provide assistance with the transition home from the hospital
Contact Us
To make an appointment with a Washington University pediatric advanced care team specialist at the Women & Infants Center, call 855.925.0631.