Care For Children

Does My Child Need Palliative Care?

Hospice & Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois has the largest pediatric palliative care program in northern Illinois, providing care for children with acute pain, chronic pain and palliative care needs at home, in the hospital and in residential care facilities.

Relieving the pain and suffering of a child is crucial for the patient and the entire family. Our care team is devoted to improving the quality of life for children who come to us. Our palliative care program utilizes a combination of clinical care, care coordination, and consultation with your physicians, integrative therapies such as massage, music, art, and play, and social services.

We believe children have the right to the best level of pain relief and symptom management that can be safely provided. The use of multiple ways of addressing discomfort gives the best results. Families too have an important role in helping to relieve the child’s discomfort. Our goal is to have staff and families work together to evaluate discomfort promptly and treat it effectively. Common causes of pain and discomfort include surgery, IVs, infections, and sore muscles from being in bed. Most symptoms can be treated and relieved.

The palliative care team wants to do all they can to relieve pain and increase comfort. We will discuss options that may work effectively for your child.

The Team

The team includes experts in pain and symptom management. You and your child may meet team members that include physicians, nurses, child life specialists, integrative therapists, chaplains and social workers. We are committed to providing the best possible care and comfort for your child and will work together with you and your primary care team to provide the best plan for your child.