Home care for children dying of cancer.

The feasibility of home care as an alternative to hospitalization for children dying of cancer was studied. The home care system was defined as nurse-directed with a consultant physician and did not entail extensive participation by other health professionals. Of 58 children cared for at home during the 2-year project, 79% died at home and 21% died in the hospital or en route to it. The findings, as shown by interview data, suggest that home care at the end stage of life is a viable alternative for children dying of cancer and for their families.