Ethical dilemmas for pediatricians administering palliative sedation to children in Brazil

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to analyze the use of pediatric palliative sedation and understand how it is connected to medical training and the doctor-patient relationship in Brazil. This is a cross-sectional exploratory study using an online survey targeted at pediatricians working in Brazil to evaluate concepts of palliative sedation and aggressive symptom management. The lack of specific training, protocols, and institutionalized guidelines can create uncertainties in palliative care. This also contributes to the increased end-of-life suffering those children and their families face. Improving education in pediatric palliative care is an urgent and pressing need in Brazil.