← Publications

Publication

"It's like a fireball dropped in my lap": Experiences of social workers working in pediatric palliative care

Karakaya C · Social work in health care · 2026

Clinical focusGrief & bereavement
MethodologyQualitative

The aim of this qualitative study is to examine the experiences of social workers in pediatric palliative care. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight social workers in pediatric palliative care clinics. Data were analyzed using content analysis, producing five themes. Findings show that social workers assume multifaceted roles. Social workers develop strategies to cope with the intense emotional labor involved. Despite being essential multidisciplinary team members, limited recognition and resources restrict their effectiveness. Social workers emphasized the need for specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric palliative care, but noted that limited training, mentorship, supervision, and systemic support restrict professional capacity.

DOI
10.1080/00981389.2026.2717506

View publication ↗

Synced from the TRENDS in Pediatric Palliative Care Zotero library, curated by The Siden Research Team. ICPCN does not host or verify the full text.