Calidad de vida en cuidados paliativos pediátricos: mapeo de determinantes, intervenciones y retos de implementación
Quality of life in pediatric palliative care: mapping of determinants, interventions, and implementation challenges
Resumen
RESUMEN
La calidad de vida en niños y adolescentes que reciben cuidados paliativos constituye un eje esencial en la atención pediátrica contemporánea. Este estudio realizó una revisión narrativa de la literatura publicada entre 2015 y 2025, con el propósito de mapear la evidencia disponible sobre los factores que determinan la calidad de vida, las estrategias de intervención y los retos en la implementación de programas paliativos. Se analizaron 40 artículos provenientes de bases de datos como Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, Redalyc, Medline, Scielo, Pubmed, CINAHL y documentos técnicos de organismos de salud global. Los resultados mostraron que el bienestar de esta población depende de la integración de dimensiones físicas, emocionales, sociales y espirituales, siendo determinantes el control del dolor, la comunicación abierta, el acompañamiento familiar y el apoyo espiritual. Las intervenciones más efectivas incluyen terapias expresivas, educación continua al personal sanitario y atención domiciliaria, que favorecen un final de vida más sereno y acompañado. Persisten desafíos relacionados con la inequidad económica, la falta de políticas públicas y la escasa formación profesional. En conjunto, la evidencia confirma que los cuidados paliativos pediátricos no solo alivian el sufrimiento, sino que dignifican la vida y fortalecen el sentido de humanidad en cada etapa del proceso vital.
ABSTRACT
Quality of life in children and adolescents receiving palliative care is a key component of contemporary pediatric care. This study conducts a narrative review of the literature published between 2015 and 2025, with the aim of mapping the available evidence on the factors that determine quality of life, intervention strategies, and challenges in implementing palliative programs. Forty articles from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, Redalyc, Medline, Scielo, Pubmed, CINAHL as well as technical documents from global health organizations, were analyzed. The results showed that the well-being of this population depends on the integration of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions, with pain control, open communication, family accompaniment, and spiritual support being decisive factors. The most effective interventions include expressive therapies, continuing education for healthcare personnel, and home care, which promote a more peaceful and supportive end of life. Challenges related to economic inequality, a lack of public policies, and limited professional training persist. Taken together, the evidence confirms that pediatric palliative care not only alleviates suffering, but also dignifies life and strengthens a sense of humanity at every stage of the life process.
Recibido: 24-10-2025
Aprobado: 09-12-2025
Publicado: 02-02-2026
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