If a child has an Advanced Care Directive (outlining preferences and values for medical treatment and care), the clinicians involved in the child’s care who are activating this directive, should do so in consultation with the child's medical treatment decision maker or responsible family member.
Effective communication and consent are crucial in both developing and activating an Advanced Care Directive. If the child’s medical treatment decision maker or responsible family member is not fluent in English, a professional healthcare interpreter should be used.
As a child's health or the family's situation change, their preferences may also change. Therefore, it is important to review and confirm the Advanced Care Directive and document in the patient's medical notes each time a child is reviewed.
