Goals of patient care: General information

Elucidate the key decision-makers in this family.

Identify siblings / half-siblings and document their date and place of birth. This can identify complexity in the family structure and provide avenues for sibling support provision. It is also required data for the death certificate if needed in the future.

The diagnosis and background summary may be a gentle way into discussions. May be used to clarify diagnosis and current understanding of patient condition by caregivers/child. Recent ‘trigger’ events may be included, ie ICU stays.

Identify the medical professionals involved in the child’s care. This is a good trigger for interdisciplinary communication of important discussions.