title: Pediatric advance care planning: a systematic review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Advance care planning (ACP) is increasingly regarded as the gold standard in the care of patients with life-limiting illnesses. Research has focused on adults, but ACP is also being practiced in pediatrics. We conducted a systematic review on empirical literature on pediatric ACP (pACP) to assess current practices, effects, and perspectives of pACP.
  
  
  METHODS
  We searched PubMed, BELIT, and PSYCinfo for empirical literature on pACP, published January 1991 through January 2012. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened by 3 independent reviewers for studies that met the predefined criteria. The evidence level of the studies was assessed. Relevant study outcomes were retrieved according to predefined questions.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We included 5 qualitative and 8 quantitative studies. Only 3 pACP programs were identified, all from the United States. Two of them were informed by adult programs. Major pACP features are discussions between families and care providers, as well as advance directives. A chaplain and other providers may be involved if required. Programs vary in how well they are evaluated; only 1 was studied by using a randomized controlled trial. Preliminary data suggest that pACP can successfully be implemented and is perceived as helpful. It may be emotionally relieving and facilitate communication and decision-making. Major challenges are negative reactions from emergency services, schools, and the community.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There are few systematic pACP programs worldwide and none in Europe. Future research should investigate the needs of all stakeholders. In particular, the perspective of professionals has so far been neglected.
authors: Coordination Center for Pediatric Palliative Care (KKIP), University Children's Hospital, Munich, Germany. julia.lotz@med.uni-muenchen.de
authors: Julia D
authors: JD
authors: Lotz
authors: Ralf J
authors: RJ
authors: Jox
authors: Gian Domenico
authors: GD
authors: Borasio
authors: Monika
authors: M
authors: Führer
mesh_terms: D032722:Advance Care Planning / Q000639:trends*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods