COVID-19 in pediatric palliative care: what can we learn from the pandemic and possible future directions.

INTRODUCTION: Patients in pediatric palliative care (PPC) live with multiple comorbidities which represent a risk factor for severe form of COVID-19.

METHODS: This monocentric retrospective study was performed at the PPC Center of Padua (Italy). Testing methodology, prevention strategies and infection characteristics were documented and compared during the first and second peak of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESULTS: Between April-June 2020 a population swab screening was performed and a strong reduction of the habitual family support was observed. Between November 2020-January 2021 swab testing was limited to specific cases and the support network for families was partially restored. Incidence of COVID-19 was low, resulting in 0.04% of total pediatic cases in the Veneto Region. No severe forms were observed.

CONCLUSION: The use of adequate preventive measures by families and support networks associated with testing in specific contests is safe, cost effective and has a minor impact on caregiver's care load.