Palliative Medicine (Pediatric)
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada · 1.0 · 23 EPAs
Also available in French.
Every EPA in the published guide, shown as the form DebriefMD fills in, with its fields and answer options.
Transition to Discipline
TTD-1P
Applying the palliative medicine approach to assessment
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the application of a holistic approach to information gathering, which considers the child’s medical condition, symptoms, level of function, social circumstances and support, values, beliefs, and cultural considerations. - This EPA may be observed with any new consult, admission or follow-up visit.
Direct observation or case review with supervisor, Core or TTP palliative medicine resident, or clinical nurse specialist/nurse practitioner Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of observation: direct; case review Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 direct observation - At least 1 observation by supervisor
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of observation
- direct
- case review
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Elicit an accurate, relevant history
- ME 2.2 Elicit information about the child’s and/or family’s understanding of the illness
- ME 2.2 Gather information about the child’s social circumstances and supports
- ME 2.2 Use validated tools to assess functional status and symptoms
- ME 2.2 Perform a physical examination relevant to the presentation
- ME 2.2 Synthesize and organize clinical information for presentation to a supervisor
Communicator
- COM 1.2 Optimize the environment for child and family comfort, dignity, privacy, engagement, and safety
- COM 1.1 Communicate using a child- and family-centred approach
- COM 2.3 Seek and synthesize relevant information from other sources (e.g., family, medical record)
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
TTD-2P
Sharing information with children and families
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the application of communication skills, to include demonstrating empathy and compassion, attending to expressions of emotion, and using plain language. - It includes identifying and managing barriers to giving and receiving information e.g., need for translator. - An important aspect of this EPA is creating safety and room for open discussion in conveying relevant information regarding the child’s case, including conversations about disease trajectory, prognosis, and death.
Direct observation by supervisor or other health care professional Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 observation by supervisor
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Communicator
- COM 1.2 Optimize the environment for child and family comfort, dignity, privacy, engagement, and safety
- COM 1.1 Demonstrate empathy, respect and compassion
- COM 3.1 Provide accurate information
- COM 3.1 Use developmentally appropriate language and avoid medical jargon
- COM 1.5 Recognize when strong emotions (such as anger, fear, anxiety, or sadness) are affecting an interaction and respond appropriately
- COM 3.1 Verify and validate the child’s and/or family’s understanding
- COM 4.3 Answer questions from the child and/or family
- COM 4.1 Communicate in a manner that is respectful, non-judgmental, and culturally aware
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
TTD-3P
Managing the on-call duties of Palliative Medicine
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes responding to calls from families as well as physicians, surgeons, and other health care professionals and may be observed during daytime as well as overnight/weekend activities. - It includes being available when unexpected/unscheduled events arise, gathering information, recognizing the urgency of a request, triaging, and providing appropriate advice about initial management and/or child disposition as well as recognizing issues that can be managed remotely (by telephone) versus those that require in-person assessment. - It also requires documentation of clinical encounters and safe and effective handover. - An important aspect of this EPA is recognizing one’s own limits and seeking assistance.
Direct observation and/or review of cases and documentation Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different assessors
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Gather information to establish the clinical question
- ME 2.1 Determine the urgency of the situation
- ME 2.4 Provide recommendations for management
- ME 2.4 Determine if an in-person assessment is required
Communicator
- COM 5.1 Prepare documentation that accurately conveys the encounter(s) and outcome
Collaborator
- COL 3.2 Summarize and prioritize issues for handover to an accepting physician
Leader
- L 2.1 Apply knowledge of local protocols and resources
Professional
- P 1.1 Respond punctually to requests or calls from children and families or other health care professionals
- P 1.1 Work within one’s own limits, asking for assistance as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Foundations
F-1P
Providing consultation for children with less complex needs
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes all aspects of a palliative medicine consultation: applying a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to the assessment, gathering information from the history, physical exam and other sources, working effectively with other members of the palliative medicine team as well as with the referring service, assessing the resources required by the child and family, and providing advice regarding management. - This EPA may be observed in any care setting. - This EPA includes children with a serious illness that is potentially life-limiting but who are not currently in crisis and whose condition is not further complicated by multiple medical/mental health comorbidities or management challenges including those due to social determinants of health, geographic and/or cultural complexities.
Direct observation or case review with verification of key findings by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of observation: direct; case review - Setting: inpatient; outpatient Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 2 direct observations - At least 1 observation in inpatient setting - At least 1 observation in outpatient setting
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of observation
- direct
- case review
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Apply a biopsychosocial approach to the clinical assessment
- ME 2.2 Elicit a history and perform a physical exam
- ME 2.2 Use validated tools to assess functional status and symptoms
- ME 2.2 Assess prognosis using disease specific indicators, including clinical signs, symptoms, and investigations
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan
Communicator
- COM 2.3 Seek and synthesize relevant information from other sources (e.g., family, medical record)
- COM 3.1 Explain the palliative care philosophy to the child and family
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Integrate the assessment and perspectives of other members of the interprofessional team
- COL 1.3 Work effectively with the referring physician and/or service
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Facilitate access to needed services and resources
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-2P
Managing children with common symptoms
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the management of symptoms that are common in palliative medicine practice such as anxiety, depression, irritability or agitation, delirium, demoralization, fatigue, nausea, poor appetite, constipation, dyspnea, dystonia/spasticity, and sleep disturbance. - It includes assessing the cause of the problem from a biopsychosocial-spiritual perspective, educating the child and family about the symptoms and their management, and providing non-pharmacologic and/or pharmacologic treatment as relevant.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor, Core or TTP palliative medicine resident, or clinical nurse specialist/nurse practitioner Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Symptom (select all that apply): anxiety; constipation; delirium; demoralization; depression; dyspnea; dystonia/spasticity; fatigue; irritability or agitation; nausea; poor appetite; sleep disturbance; other (please specify) - Setting: inpatient; outpatient Collect at least 5 observations of achievement - A variety of symptoms - At least 1 observation in the outpatient setting - At least 2 observations by supervisor
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Symptom
- anxiety
- constipation
- delirium
- demoralization
- depression
- dyspnea
- dystonia/spasticity
- fatigue
- irritability or agitation
- nausea
- poor appetite
- sleep disturbance
- other (please specify)
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Apply a biopsychosocial approach to the clinical assessment
- ME 2.2 Elicit a history and perform a physical exam
- ME 2.2 Use validated tools to assess functional status and symptoms
- ME 2.2 Assess response to previously attempted treatments, including side effects, toxicity and efficacy
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan, which may include non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic and/or interventional treatment(s) as relevant
- ME 2.4 Select and prescribe appropriate monitoring strategies
Communicator
- COM 1.6 Integrate the child’s and family’s beliefs, concerns, expectations and experiences relevant to the presenting problem
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Work with the child and/or family to increase their understanding of their symptoms and health care needs
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-3P
Managing children with pain
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes assessing the cause of the pain from a biopsychosocial-spiritual perspective, educating the child and family about pain and its management, and providing non-pharmacologic and/or pharmacologic treatment as relevant. - An important aspect of this EPA is the demonstration of an evidence-based approach to the selection of one pain management strategy over another.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor, Core or TTP palliative medicine resident, or clinical nurse specialist/nurse practitioner Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Pain management (select all that apply): cannabinoids; fentanyl; hydromorphone; gabapentinoids; morphine; oxycodone; SNRI/SSRI; TCA; antiepileptic agents; NSAIDs/steroids; physical/psychological/spiritual/existential strategies - Child: verbal; non-verbal - Child at home: no; yes Collect at least 5 observations of achievement - A variety of pain management strategies - At least 1 verbal child - At least 1 observation in the home setting - At least 2 observations by supervisor
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Pain management
- cannabinoids
- fentanyl
- hydromorphone
- gabapentinoids
- morphine
- oxycodone
- SNRI/SSRI
- TCA
- antiepileptic agents
- NSAIDs/steroids
- physical/psychological/spiritual/existential strategies
Child
- verbal
- non-verbal
Child at home
- no
- yes
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Apply a biopsychosocial approach to the clinical assessment
- ME 2.2 Elicit a history and perform a physical exam
- ME 2.2 Use validated tools to assess functional status and symptoms
- ME 2.2 Assess response to previously attempted treatments, including side effects, toxicity and efficacy
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan, which may include non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic and/or interventional treatment(s) as relevant
- ME 2.4 Select and prescribe the appropriate dose and regimen
- ME 2.4 Select and prescribe appropriate monitoring strategies
Communicator
- COM 1.6 Integrate the child’s and family’s beliefs, concerns, expectations and experiences relevant to the presenting problem
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Work with the child and/or family to increase their understanding of their symptoms and health care needs
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-4P
Exploring suffering
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the application of open and empathic communication to explore the physical, psychological, socio-cultural, and/or spiritual/existential aspects of suffering. - The observation of this EPA must be based on an encounter in which at least two components (i.e., physical, psychological, socio-cultural and/or spiritual/existential) are explored.
Direct observation by supervisor or another member of the interprofessional team, or case discussion with supervisor with input from another team member who was present at the encounter Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of observation: direct; case review - Interlocutor (select all that apply): child/youth; sibling/family; other Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 direct observation by supervisor - At least 1 observation with sibling/family as interlocutor
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of observation
- direct
- case review
Interlocutor
- child/youth
- sibling/family
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Assess the presence, nature, and sources of an individual’s suffering, exploring underlying depression or anxiety
Communicator
- COM 1.1 Demonstrate empathy, respect and compassion
- COM 2.1 Set up the conversation and ask permission to proceed
- COM 2.1 Invite the child and/or family member to share what they are experiencing
- COM 2.1 Use empathic listening, appropriate non-verbal communication, and play and expressive art to demonstrate attentiveness, interest and responsiveness
- COM 1.4 Identify, verify and validate non-verbal cues
- COM 4.1 Validate the child’s and/or family member’s experience of illness and suffering
- COM 4.1 Identify the individual’s strengths and resources in dealing with suffering
- COM 2.2 Summarize and close the encounter effectively
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-5P
Discussing and documenting goals of care
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes exploring the child’s and/or family’s values and wishes in order to prioritize and set goals of care. - This includes assessing their understanding of the child’s current status and anticipating the disease trajectory and possible complications of treatment.
Direct observation by supervisor or Core or TTP palliative medicine resident Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Ascertain the child’s and family’s understanding of the child’s condition
Communicator
- COM 1.1 Demonstrate empathy, respect and compassion
- COM 1.1 Seek permission from the child and/or their family to talk about their values and wishes for their care
- COM 3.1 Provide information about the disease trajectory and possible complications
- COM 2.1 Explore the child’s and/or family’s values and wishes for their care
- COM 3.1 Share information and explanations that are clear and accurate
- COM 3.1 Use developmentally appropriate language and avoid medical jargon
- COM 4.1 Communicate in a manner that is respectful, non-judgmental, and culturally aware
- COM 1.3 Demonstrate an understanding of the disease experience from the child’s and family’s perspective
- COM 3.1 Recommend goals of care based on the child’s and/or family’s values and wishes for their care
- COM 2.2 Summarize and close the encounter effectively
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-6P
Supporting children and families near the time of death
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the last hour(s) and days of life as well as the immediate period after a child’s death. - This includes communicating with the child and/or family, acknowledging their concerns about and describing the dying process, providing support for anticipatory grief and bereavement, and recognizing risk factors for complicated grief and bereavement. - This includes recognizing when to consult with other members of the interprofessional team and seeking assistance as necessary.
Direct observation by supervisor or other health care professional (e.g., Core or TTP palliative medicine resident, nurse practitioner, palliative medicine nurse, clinical nurse specialist, or counsellor) Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Last hour(s) of life: no; yes Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 observation in last hours of life
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Last hour(s) of life
- no
- yes
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Recognize risk factors for complicated grief and bereavement
- ME 2.4 Provide supportive counselling and resources for coping with loss
Communicator
- COM 1.1 Demonstrate empathy, respect, and compassion
- COM 4.1 Validate the child’s and/or family’s experiences and/or concerns
- COM 3.1 Provide information about the process of dying and signs of impending death
- COM 4.1 Ask about and integrate rituals and end-of-life practices in keeping with the family’s cultural, spiritual and religious beliefs
Professional
- P 1.1 Work within one’s own limits, asking for assistance as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-7P
Completing medico-legal responsibilities at time of death
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the medico-legal responsibilities of the palliative medicine physician after a child’s death. - This includes death pronouncement and managing medico-legal responsibilities at the time of death, such as preparing a death certificate and following local/institutional procedures for notification of death, including considerations regarding notification of the medical examiner/coroner, autopsy and organ donation.
Case discussion and/or documentation review by supervisor or Core or TTP resident Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Task completed (select all that apply): death pronouncement; death certificate; discussion re. medical examiner/coroner notification; organ donation; request for autopsy; other Collect at least 1 observation of achievement - At least 1 death certificate
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Task completed
- death pronouncement
- death certificate
- discussion re. medical examiner/coroner notification
- organ donation
- request for autopsy
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Determine the time and nature of death
Professional
- P 3.1 Prepare the death certificate in a complete and timely manner
- P 3.1 Adhere to requirements for notification of death, including considerations for mandatory reporting to the medical examiner/coroner
- P 3.1 Apply knowledge of procedures for autopsy and/or organ donation
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-8P
Facilitating family meetings
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on leading meetings for the purposes of discussing complex issues related to clinical status, child and family expectations, illness trajectory, and/or possible complications. - This includes creating a safe space and room for free discussion, eliciting concerns, providing information, encouraging participation from all members, attending to meeting flow and organization, facilitating shared decision making, and summarizing and documenting decisions reached during the meeting. - This EPA includes complex communication scenarios such as those requiring the use of an interpreter.
Direct observation and documentation review by supervisor, which may include input from other health care professionals Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Focus of meeting: disposition planning; transfer between care settings; other (please specify) Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different focus of meetings
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Focus of meeting
- disposition planning
- transfer between care settings
- other (please specify)
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Ascertain participants’ understanding of the situation and the reason for the encounter
Communicator
- COM 1.4 Respond to non-verbal communication and use appropriate non-verbal behaviours to enhance communication
- COM 3.1 Share information and explanations that are clear and accurate
- COM 4.3 Use communication skills and strategies that help the child and family make an informed decision
- COM 1.5 Recognize when strong emotions (such as anger, fear, anxiety, or sadness) are affecting an interaction and respond appropriately
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Determine who is part of the meeting and their roles, both from the family side and the health care team side
Leader
- L 3.1 Encourage free discussion and participation from attendees
- L 3.1 Attend to meeting flow, organization, and time management
- L 3.1 Summarize and clarify key points and discussions
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for a meeting, reviewing its purpose and background information
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-9P
Working effectively within an interprofessional team
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on respectful and effective collaboration with the care team. - This includes understanding and valuing the role and scope of practice of interprofessional team members (e.g., nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, spiritual care providers). - The observation of this EPA is not based on a single patient encounter, but rather on the resident performance over a period of at least one week.
Direct and indirect observation by supervisor with input from members of the interprofessional team Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Input provided by (select all that apply): nurse; social worker; pharmacist; spiritual care; other Collect 3 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Input provided by
- nurse
- social worker
- pharmacist
- spiritual care
- other
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the scope and expertise of other health care professionals within the specialist palliative care team
- COL 1.3 Communicate effectively with other physicians and health care professionals
- COL 1.1 Respond appropriately to input from other health care professionals
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Facilitate access to needed services and resources
Professional
- P 1.1 Respond punctually to requests or calls from children and families or other health care professionals
- P 1.1 Behave in a professional manner
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Core
C-1P
Providing consultation for children with more complex needs
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on a comprehensive consultation that includes the history and physical examination, collateral information, and medical investigations, and development of a management plan in collaboration with the child, family, and interprofessional team. - Examples of complex needs include children with frailty/fragility, severe symptoms, complex psychosocial concerns, challenges in access to resources (e.g., geographic, different funding models), multiple concurrent illnesses, and with a rapid decline. - This EPA may be observed in any setting.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor or TTP palliative medicine resident Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Demographic: antenatal; neonate; infant; child; adolescent - Setting: inpatient; outpatient Collect 8 observations of achievement - At least 1 direct observation - At least 1 from each demographic group - At least 1 from each setting - At least 2 different assessors
Suggested observations: 8
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Demographic
- antenatal
- neonate
- infant
- child
- adolescent
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Perform a clinical assessment that addresses all relevant issues
- ME 2.2 Assess physical, functional, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual domains
- ME 2.2 Assess the child’s and/or family’s level of distress and resiliency
- ME 2.2 Select and/or interpret investigations
- ME 2.2 Assess prognosis using disease specific indicators, including clinical signs, symptoms, validated tools, and investigations
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan
- ME 4.1 Determine the need for referral to another health care professional
Communicator
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Integrate the assessment and perspectives of other members of the interprofessional team
- COL 1.3 Work effectively with the referring physician and/or service
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Facilitate access to needed services and resources
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-2P
Providing ongoing care
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on reassessing the child’s condition, reviewing, and adapting the management plan based on changes in condition, response to treatment, and/or changes in goals of care. - This includes applying a holistic approach to ongoing management as an integrated strategy that considers the child’s symptoms, medical conditions, and anticipated course, and is aligned with the child’s and family’s overall goals of care. It also involves participating in dignity-conserving care and legacy/memory-making. - This includes working effectively with the interprofessional team, negotiating shared care, and planning for transitions of care/handover as needed.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor or TTP resident Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of observation: direct; case review - Setting: inpatient; outpatient - Virtual visit: no; yes Collect 8 observations of achievement - At least 1 direct observation - At least 1 from each setting - At least 1 virtual visit - At least 2 different assessors
Suggested observations: 8
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of observation
- direct
- case review
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Virtual visit
- no
- yes
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Perform a clinical assessment that addresses all relevant issues
- ME 2.2 Assess physical, functional, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual domains
- ME 2.2 Assess the child’s and/or family’s level of distress and resiliency
- ME 2.2 Assess response to treatment as well as changes in condition or goals of care
- ME 2.2 Anticipate transitions and future health needs
- ME 2.4 Develop recommendations for management, which may include modification of current therapy
Communicator
- COM 4.3 Engage the child and family in goal setting and shared decision- making regarding recommendations for management
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Collaborator
- COL 1.3 Work effectively with the referring physician and/or service
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Work with the child and family to increase their understanding of their condition and health care needs
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-3P
Providing contingency plans to manage emergencies and/or acute changes in the child’s condition
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on anticipatory planning and preparation of the child, family and health care providers. - This includes applying knowledge of the expected course of the child’s illness and local system resources. - It includes understanding what is available in that setting and organizing the appropriate resources (e.g., symptom management kit, oxygen equipment) and providing anticipatory guidance for management, as relevant. - This EPA may be observed in any setting, including at times of transition of care (e.g., discharge home, transfer to community).
Case review by supervisor, which may include review of documentation, prescriptions, and communication with interprofessional team Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Issue addressed (select all that apply): death at home; potential for catastrophic event (e.g., bleed, pain crisis, dyspnea, acute airway obstruction); social or geographical complexities; other Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 1 plan for death at home - At least 1 plan addressing the potential for catastrophic event (e.g., bleed, pain crisis, dyspnea, acute airway obstruction) - At least 2 different assessors
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Issue addressed
- death at home
- potential for catastrophic event (e.g., bleed, pain crisis, dyspnea, acute airway obstruction)
- social or geographical complexities
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Assess prognosis using disease specific indicators, including clinical signs, symptoms, validated tools, and investigations
- ME 4.1 Anticipate changes in the child’s condition and the evolving needs of the child and their family
- ME 2.4 Determine the current and future needs for health care resources and service
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan adapted to the setting of care
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Convey information and provide anticipatory guidance to the child and family regarding the care needs and treatment plan
- COM 4.3 Answer questions from the child and/or family
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Consult as needed with other health care professionals, including other physicians
- COL 3.2 Summarize and document issues for the accepting physician providing rationale for key decisions and recommendations for management
Leader
- L 2.1 Apply knowledge of the resources and/or services available in other care settings
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Work with other health care professionals to address barriers to access resources and services
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-4P
Managing children with complex symptoms
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes assessing the cause of the problem and providing non- pharmacologic and/or pharmacologic treatment as relevant. - Examples of complex symptoms include severe, refractory or rare presentations such as intractable nausea and vomiting, intractable seizures, refractory dyspnea, refractory sialorrhea, severe feeding intolerance, and severe neurologic irritability, as well as symptoms that in and of themselves are not complex but become complex to assess and/or manage when present as a cluster.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor or TTP palliative medicine resident Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of observation: direct; case review - Age group: infant; child; adolescent - Symptom (select all that apply): complex cluster; intractable nausea and vomiting; intractable seizures; refractory dyspnea; refractory sialorrhea; severe feeding intolerance; severe neurologic irritability; other (please specify) - Setting: inpatient; outpatient Collect 6 observations of achievement - At least 1 direct observation - At least 1 from each age group - At least 4 different symptoms - At least 1 in outpatient setting
Suggested observations: 6
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of observation
- direct
- case review
Age group
- infant
- child
- adolescent
Symptom
- complex cluster
- intractable nausea and vomiting
- intractable seizures
- refractory dyspnea
- refractory sialorrhea
- severe feeding intolerance
- severe neurologic irritability
- other (please specify)
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Perform a clinical assessment that addresses all relevant issues
- ME 2.2 Assess physical, functional, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual domains
- ME 2.2 Use validated tools to assess functional status and symptoms
- ME 2.2 Select and/or interpret investigations
- ME 2.2 Assess response to previously attempted treatments, including side effects, toxicity and efficacy
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan, which may include non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic and/or interventional treatment(s) as relevant
- ME 2.4 Select and prescribe the appropriate dose and regimen
- ME 2.4 Select and prescribe appropriate monitoring strategies
Communicator
- COM 1.6 Integrate the child’s and family’s beliefs, concerns, expectations and experiences relevant to the presenting problem
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Work with the child and/or family to increase their understanding of their symptoms and health care needs
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-5P
Using advanced pain management strategies
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes identifying children that are not responding to and/or have complications from their current pain therapy and providing or facilitating management. - Examples of advanced pain management strategies include methadone rotation, continuous opioid infusion, ketamine, lidocaine, physical and/or psychological/existential strategies, and referral for interventional management techniques (neuraxial, nerve blocks, cementoplasty).
Direct observation, case discussion, and/or documentation review by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Pain management strategy: continuous intravenous opioid infusion; continuous subcutaneous opioid infusion; ketamine infusion; lidocaine infusion; methadone rotation; physical and/or psychological/existential strategies; referral for interventional procedure; other Collect 5 observations of achievement - At least 1 continuous subcutaneous opioid infusion - At least 1 ketamine and/or lidocaine infusion - At least 1 methadone rotation - At least 1 use of physical and/or psychological/existential strategies
Suggested observations: 5
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Pain management strategy
- continuous intravenous opioid infusion
- continuous subcutaneous opioid infusion
- ketamine infusion
- lidocaine infusion
- methadone rotation
- physical and/or psychological/existential strategies
- referral for interventional procedure
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.4 Determine the most appropriate pain management strategy, which may include non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic and/or interventional treatment(s) as relevant
- ME 2.4 Select or adjust dosage based on factors such as response, tolerability, age, and pharmacokinetic considerations
- ME 5.1 Apply strategies for safe prescribing
- ME 2.4 Select and implement a monitoring strategy, including laboratory monitoring as relevant
Communicator
- COM 4.2 Explore the child’s and/or family’s beliefs and attitudes towards medications and other therapeutic options
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-6P
Identifying and addressing existential distress and suffering
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on applying advanced communication skills to recognize and respond to children and families who are experiencing existential distress and suffering. - Examples include responding to the following situations: total pain; requests to hasten death (e.g., MAID); continuous palliative sedation therapy; non-initiation or withdrawal of specific therapies. - This includes being a witness to and normalizing their suffering, and supporting and guiding as appropriate, including coordinating support from other professionals (e.g., social work, psychologist, community services). It also involves participating in dignity-conserving care and legacy/memory-making. - It may include addressing anticipatory or complicated grief.
Direct observation by supervisor, nurse practitioner, spiritual care provider, or social worker Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Assess the presence, nature, and sources of an individual’s suffering, exploring demoralization, depression, or anxiety
- ME 2.2 Identify the overlap between physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and existential symptoms
- ME 2.2 Identify the impact of pain and intractable symptoms on psychological well- being and quality of life
- ME 4.1 Determine the need for referral to another health care professional
Communicator
- COM 2.2 Gather information about what the child and/or family member is experiencing
- COM 2.2 Explore requests for hastened death
- COM 4.1 Validate the child’s and/or family member’s experience of illness and suffering
- COM 4.1 Identify the individual’s strengths and resources in dealing with suffering
- COM 3.1 Provide information about potential non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions for suffering
- COM 4.1 Communicate in a manner that is respectful, non-judgmental, and culturally aware
- COM 4.3 Use communication skills and strategies that help the child and family make an informed decision
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-7P
Devising management plans regarding potentially life-prolonging or disease- focused interventions in accor…
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the care provided when there is a decision about not initiating or discontinuing potentially life-prolonging or disease-focused interventions. - This includes sharing information with the family and team about what to expect with the illness trajectory, symptoms, or issues that may arise, and making a plan of care. - Examples of life-prolonging or disease-focused interventions include: ventilation; NIPPV; feeding tubes; transfusions; cancer therapy; dialysis; ICD; surgical or procedural intervention.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor or TTP palliative medicine resident Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Intervention (select all that apply): cancer therapy; dialysis; feeding; ICD; invasive or non-invasive ventilation; surgical or procedural intervention; transfusion support; other Collect 4 observations of achievement - At least 3 different interventions - At least 1 observation of feeding intervention
Suggested observations: 4
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Intervention
- cancer therapy
- dialysis
- feeding
- ICD
- invasive or non-invasive ventilation
- surgical or procedural intervention
- transfusion support
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Assess prognosis using disease specific indicators, including clinical signs, symptoms, validated tools, and investigations
- ME 4.1 Anticipate changes in the child’s condition and the evolving needs of the child and their family
- ME 2.1 Ascertain the child’s and/or family’s understanding of the child’s condition
- ME 2.3 Discuss and clarify previously established advanced directives and goals of care
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan for the role of life-prolonging or disease- focused interventions in the child’s care
Communicator
- COM 2.1 Explore the child’s and/or family’s values and wishes for their care
- COM 3.1 Provide information about the disease trajectory and possible complications, symptoms, or issues that may arise
- COM 3.1 Work with children and their families to help them understand the relevant options for care
- COM 4.3 Support the child and/or family in making decisions regarding care that are consistent with their values and goals
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey clinical reasoning and the rationale for recommendations
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-8P
Recognizing and managing children with an emergent/urgent presentation
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on timely assessment and management, including consulting with/referring to other services for definitive management of the problem. - Examples of emergent/urgent presentations include pain or dyspnea crisis, severe agitation, airway obstruction, acute bowel obstruction, suicidality, bleeding, spinal cord compression, superior vena cava syndrome, seizures, or other acute changes in the child’s status.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Presentation: acute bowel obstruction; airway obstruction; bleeding; dyspnea crisis; pain crisis; seizures; severe agitation; spinal cord compression; suicidality; superior vena cava syndrome; other - Setting: inpatient; outpatient Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 1 child with dyspnea crisis - At least 1 child with pain crisis - At least 1 observation in the inpatient setting - At least 1 observation in the outpatient setting
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Presentation
- acute bowel obstruction
- airway obstruction
- bleeding
- dyspnea crisis
- pain crisis
- seizures
- severe agitation
- spinal cord compression
- suicidality
- superior vena cava syndrome
- other
Setting
- inpatient
- outpatient
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Determine the urgency of the situation
- ME 2.2 Perform a history and physical exam relevant to the child’s presentation, in a time-effective manner
- ME 2.3 Review goals of care and realign if needed
- ME 2.2 Select and/or interpret investigations
- ME 2.2 Develop a differential diagnosis
- ME 2.4 Develop and implement an initial management plan
- ME 4.1 Determine the need for and urgency of referral for definitive management
- ME 4.1 Determine appropriate disposition and/or setting for ongoing care
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Share information about the child’s condition and plans for management clearly and compassionately
- COM 5.1 Prepare documentation that accurately conveys the encounter(s) and outcome
Professional
- P 1.1 Work within one’s own limits, asking for assistance as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-9P
Leading discussions with children, families, and/or other health care professionals in emotionally charged…
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the application of advanced communication and conflict resolution skills to address difficult situations that involve children, families, and/or members of the health care team. - This EPA may be observed in any scenario that is emotionally charged. Examples include the following scenario types: new adverse diagnosis; new complication; poor prognosis; disclosing imminent death; non-initiation or discontinuation of specific therapies; other change in health status; difference of opinion with another care provider; disclosing medical error; conflicting goals of care; or dealing with a child or family complaint.
Direct observation by supervisor, TTP palliative medicine resident, or other health care professional (spiritual care provider, social worker, ethicist) Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Demographic: antenatal; infant; child; adolescent Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 antenatal
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Demographic
- antenatal
- infant
- child
- adolescent
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Ascertain participants’ understanding of the situation and the reason for the encounter
Communicator
- COM 1.1 Demonstrate empathy, respect and compassion
- COM 3.1 Share information and explanations that are clear and accurate
- COM 3.1 Verify understanding of information conveyed
- COM 1.4 Identify, verify and validate non-verbal cues
- COM 4.3 Answer questions in a respectful manner
- COM 2.2 Manage the flow of the encounter
- COM 1.5 Recognize when strong emotions (such as anger, fear, anxiety, or sadness) are affecting an interaction and respond appropriately
- COM 1.5 Establish boundaries as needed in emotional situations
- COM 2.2 Summarize and close the encounter effectively
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Professional
- P 4.3 Facilitate debriefing discussions with the interprofessional team
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-10P
Leading the clinical team
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on managing a clinical service in the role of the senior resident. - This includes triaging clinical responsibilities, organizing the daily workload for the medical team, working effectively with the interprofessional team, and coordinating patient care. - It also includes providing clinical supervision and teaching for junior learners, supporting their well-being to mitigate the impact of providing care for children who may be suffering and their families. - At this stage, this EPA does not include the role of the physician most responsible for medical decisions. - The observation of this EPA is not based on a single patient encounter, but rather on the resident performance over a period of at least one week.
Direct and indirect observation by supervisor, which must include input from other team members Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different assessors
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 1.5 Triage clinical activities
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Assign responsibilities to members of the health care team appropriate to their scope of practice and level of expertise
- COL 1.3 Communicate effectively with other physicians and health care professionals
Leader
- L 4.1 Manage time and prioritize tasks
- L 3.1 Organize and coordinate the daily work of the team
- L 4.2 Run the service efficiently, safely, and effectively
Scholar
- S 2.4 Provide junior learners with teaching and clinical supervision
Professional
- P 1.1 Respond punctually to requests or calls from children and families or other health care professionals
- P 4.3 Support junior learners to manage the personal stress associated with caring for children with palliative needs and their families
- P 1.1 Behave in a professional manner
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Transition to Practice
TTP-1P
Leading a palliative medicine service
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the role of the physician most responsible for patient care. - This includes managing the clinical, operational, and administrative aspects of patient care, including judicious use of resources, and planning for discharge or transitions in care. - It also includes leveraging relationships with colleagues in the interprofessional team to coordinate, expedite and optimize care, as well as supporting and enhancing well- being within the team. - It may include other responsibilities of the attending physician, such as supervising and completing assessments for junior learners. (e.g., “junior attending” role). - The observation of this EPA is not based on a single patient encounter, but rather on the resident performance over a period of at least one week.
Direct and indirect observation by supervisor Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 1.1 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for decisions regarding patient care, acting in the role of most responsible physician
- ME 2.4 Manage urgent and complex clinical situations
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with the interprofessional team
Leader
- L 4.1 Set priorities and manage time to fulfil diverse responsibilities
- L 4.1 Integrate supervisory and teaching responsibilities into the overall management of the clinical service
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise into decision making
Professional
- P 4.3 Monitor and support well-being within the team
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2022 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.