Ocean Healthcare & Paediatric Complex Care
Ensuring that children in our care receive the support they need is our top priority. That’s why it’s so important that our carers not only possess expertise in paediatric complex care but are also fully equipped to handle any situation. After all, we're caring for children and their well-being is at the heart of everything we do. Building trust with the families we care for is essential, as family plays an incredibly important role in every child's life. Striving to make sure they feel confident and supported every step of the way is at the centre of the care we provide.
Supporting children with life-limiting conditions takes a special kind of person. The carers involved need to have the expertise to handle complex interventions like tracheostomies, feeding tubes and ventilation, while also being there for the emotional needs of both the child and their family. It's a delicate balance—managing the medical care that keeps these children at home and out of the hospital, all while navigating the often-intense emotions that come with such situations.
Common Conditions
Various conditions affect children differently so it’s important to understand the variations that can occur. For example:
Myotubular Myopathy: This is a condition where muscles gradually weaken, making it harder for the child to move. In severe cases, even breathing can become a challenge, so they may need help from a ventilator through a tracheostomy.
Cerebral Palsy: This condition can vary widely. Some children may have very limited movement and difficulty communicating. Others might be mobile but unsteady. Regardless of their mobility, many children with cerebral palsy need tube feeding, regular suctioning and one-on-one support to ensure their safety.
A multidisciplinary team, often including Ocean Healthcare and paediatric complex care specialists, is a group of healthcare professionals who work together to support a child's complex needs and well-being. Each team might include the child's GP, nurse, social worker, and sometimes even a private healthcare provider, like Ocean Healthcare. Collaborating in this way keeps everyone aligned on the child's health, enabling informed decisions about any necessary changes. Whether it's updates from hospital visits, adjustments to medication, or ensuring proper care techniques, teamwork helps ensure the child stays safe and comfortable at home, surrounded by family, rather than needing to be in the hospital.
Creating person-centered care plans for children is all about making sure they get the care they need in a way that feels right for them. It could be something as simple as how they like to be positioned, when and how they’re fed or even little routines they prefer, like counting "1, 2, 3" before changing their tracheostomy tube. Providing care the way they like helps build trust and strengthens the bond between child and their caregiver. This approach, rooted in expertise in paediatric complex care, not only enhances their quality of life but also empowers them to make more decisions for themselves.
Family Centered Care
Family involvement in a child’s care is incredibly important. Families are often facing a tough time as they navigate their child’s condition and may even be grieving the life they imagined for their child. Being part of the care process gives them a sense of control and reassurance that they’re doing everything they can. After all, parents know their child best—they understand their likes, dislikes, and what comforts them. When families and healthcare professionals work together, it ensures everyone is focused on the same goal: the well-being of the child.
Technology is a game-changer in complex care, helping to keep children safe and well-cared for. From ventilators and saturation monitors to feed pumps and suction machines, the right equipment is essential. But it doesn’t stop there—apps also play a key role. These tools let us record visits, document the care a child has received, note any issues or concerns and track medication. They even allow us to update medication instantly and respond to alerts right away. This gives caregivers peace of mind, knowing they have the support and resources they need right at their fingertips.
Emotional & Social Support
It's so important for families to get the emotional support they need when adjusting to the changes that come with a child's condition. Support isn’t just for the affected child and parents—siblings need it too, as they can sometimes feel overlooked. Children's hospices are amazing for this, offering a place where the whole family can visit and feel supported. Everyone's experience is different, but it can be really comforting to connect with other parents who are going through similar challenges. Many families find community in Facebook groups, where they can share stories and tips. There are also special groups for siblings, giving them a chance to talk about how they’re feeling, making sure they feel just as supported.
I hope this gives a better understanding of what’s involved in caring for children with complex needs and highlights just how important it is for professionals and families to work together. By teaming up, we can ensure that every child receives the best possible care, while also supporting the entire family. If you think Ocean Healthcare & paediatric complex care can help support your family, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!
You can call us now on 01803 470025. We'd love to hear from you.
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