Consultation-liaison in child psychiatry: a review of the past 10 years. Part I: Clinical findings.

OBJECTIVE

To critically review clinical reports on pediatric consultation-liaison psychiatry over the past 10 years.

METHOD

Articles contributing to the understanding of child psychiatric consultation in medical settings were reviewed.

RESULTS

Information related to clinical issues was organized into categorical (disease-oriented), noncategorical, and family studies. Newer articles on ethical considerations in caring for medically ill children are summarized.

CONCLUSIONS

Research has continued to focus on and reflect the importance of the emotional and behavioral needs of children in pediatric settings and the adaptation and stress within families who care for chronically ill children. Given the increased complexity and demands of medical care, the training and skills of a child psychiatrist in pediatric consultation remain a valuable component of comprehensive care for children.