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Table 1 Examples of non-verbal cues and relational availability to observe the quality of life

From: How do professionals assess the quality of life of children with advanced cancer receiving palliative care, and what are their recommendations for improvement?

Positive

Negative

Smiles

Laughs

Better eye contact

Bright-eyed

Relaxed facial features

Relaxed body and breathing rhythm

Is awake for longer periods of time

Responds more to questions

Accepts and participates more in care

Chats more and shows a desire to interact with the environment

Is more involved in activities

Engages in his/her occupations and plays

Absent gaze

Avoids eye contact

Frowns

Body tension and restless breathing

Has difficulty calming down

Is agitated, screams, cries

Self-mutilation

Is closed off

Is curled up in bed

Appears discouraged

Responds to questions sparingly or not at all

Refuses to see professionals and to receive care

Diminished relational availability

Irritability

Sleeps most of the time