The philosophies which guide us in our approach to the paediatric care of sick children may be summarised as follows.
To provide the highest possible standards of care to the children for whom we are responsible and to achieve this in a reliable and consistent manner.
To recognise that the child is part of a family and that we have a duty to meet the needs of the whole family and to address their worries and concerns at all times.
To recognise that families come from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and therefore to take into account and to respect the varying cultural attitudes which we may encounter.
To acknowledge that there are no problem families or difficult families, there are simply families with problems or with difficulties which are part of our remit to address.
To recognise that we are part of a multi-disciplinary team and to maintain excellent levels of communication with other health professionals and social services at all times.
To maintain accurate record keeping at each attendance with the child and family involved.
To respect the needs and wishes of the family and to recognise that in allowing us to care for their child and to invite us into their home to do so, we are being granted a privilege which we will respect at all times.
