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Jorem J, Dahlberg J, Pedersen R. Vaccination without consent – best for the people or the patient? TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2021; 141:21-0220. [PMID: 33876610 DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.21.0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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Solbakk JH, Bentzen HB, Holm S, Heggestad AKT, Hofmann B, Robertsen A, Alnæs AH, Cox S, Pedersen R, Bernabe R. Back to WHAT? The role of research ethics in pandemic times. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2021; 24:3-20. [PMID: 33141289 PMCID: PMC7607543 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-020-09984-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic creates an unprecedented threatening situation worldwide with an urgent need for critical reflection and new knowledge production, but also a need for imminent action despite prevailing knowledge gaps and multilevel uncertainty. With regard to the role of research ethics in these pandemic times some argue in favor of exceptionalism, others, including the authors of this paper, emphasize the urgent need to remain committed to core ethical principles and fundamental human rights obligations all reflected in research regulations and guidelines carefully crafted over time. In this paper we disentangle some of the arguments put forward in the ongoing debate about Covid-19 human challenge studies (CHIs) and the concomitant role of health-related research ethics in pandemic times. We suggest it might be helpful to think through a lens differentiating between risk, strict uncertainty and ignorance. We provide some examples of lessons learned by harm done in the name of research in the past and discuss the relevance of this legacy in the current situation.
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Wikstøl D, Pedersen R, Magelssen M. Public attitudes and health law in conflict: somatic vs. mental care, role of next of kin, and the right to refuse treatment and information. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:3. [PMID: 33390168 PMCID: PMC7780687 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05990-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Norwegian law and regulations regarding patient autonomy and the use of coercion are in conflict with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Oviedo Convention on several points. A new law concerning the use of coercion in Norwegian health services has been proposed. In this study we wanted to investigate the attitudes of the Norwegian lay populace with regards to some of these points of conflict. Methods An electronic questionnaire with 9 propositions about patient autonomy, the use of coercion, the role of next of kin, and equality of rights and regulations across somatic and mental health care was completed by 1617 Norwegian adults (response rate 8.5%). Results A majority of respondents support the patient’s right to refuse treatment and information in serious illness, that previously expressed treatment preferences should be respected, that next of kin’s right to information and authority in clinical decision-making should be strengthened, and that this kind of legal regulations should be equal across somatic and mental health care. Conclusions The findings in this study suggest that the opinions of the Norwegian lay populace are in conflict with the national law on several points relating to patient autonomy, the role of next of kin and use of coercive measures, and different legal regulation of somatic vs. mental health care. The study suggests that the populace is more in line with the CRPD, which supports equal rights across somatic and mental health care, and the Oviedo Convention, which does not allow for the same degree of strong paternalism regarding coercive measures as the current Norwegian law. This can be taken to support the recently proposed legislation on the use and limitation of coercion in Norwegian health services. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-020-05990-0.
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Heggestad AKT, Magelssen M, Pedersen R, Gjerberg E. Ethical challenges in home-based care: A systematic literature review. Nurs Ethics 2020; 28:628-644. [PMID: 33334250 DOI: 10.1177/0969733020968859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Because of the transfer of responsibility from hospitals to community-based settings, providers in home-based care have more responsibilities and a wider range of tasks and responsibilities than before, often with limited resources. The increased responsibilities and the complexity of tasks and patient groups may lead to several ethical challenges. A systematic search in the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SveMed+ was carried out in February 2019 and August 2020. The research question was translated into a modified PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome) worksheet. A total of 40 articles were included. The review is conducted according to the Vancouver Protocol. The main findings from the systematic literature review show that ethical challenges experienced by healthcare and social care providers in home-based care are related to autonomy and balancing ethical principles, decisions regarding intensity of care, challenges related to priority settings, truth-telling, and balancing the professional role. Findings regarding ethical challenges within home-based care are in line with findings from institutional healthcare and social care settings. However, some significant differences from the institutional context are also highlighted.
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Larsen BH, Magelssen M, Dunlop O, Pedersen R, Førde R. Ethical dilemmas in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2020; 140:20-0851. [PMID: 33322868 DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.20.0851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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Saevareid TJL, Pedersen R, Thoresen L. Nursing home residents with cognitive impairment can participate in advance care planning: A qualitative study. J Adv Nurs 2020; 77:879-888. [PMID: 33230934 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To describe advance care planning in nursing homes when residents with cognitive impairment and/or their next of kin participated and identify associated challenges. DESIGN A qualitative study of nine advance care planning conversations in four Norwegian nursing home wards. During the implementation of advance care planning, we purposively sampled residents with cognitive impairment, their next of kin and healthcare personnel. The implementation followed a "whole-ward" approach aimed at involving the whole ward in fostering an inclusive, holistic advance care planning discussion. Involving as many residents as possible, preferably together with their next of kin, were central. METHODS From observed and audio-recorded advance care planning conversations that took place from November 2015 to June 2016, we conducted a thematic analysis of the transcripts and field notes. Reporting adhered to the COREQ guidelines. RESULTS Residents actively relayed their preferences regarding healthcare and end-of-life issues, despite the cognitive impairment. Next of kin provided constructive support and conversations were largely resident-focused. However, involving residents was also challenging, findings included: residents' preferences were often vague, relevant medical information from healthcare personnel lacked and the next of kin were sometimes unaware of the resident's previously held preferences. Moreover, residents tended to focus more on the past and present than the future end-of-life care. CONCLUSIONS Residents with cognitive impairment can participate actively and meaningfully in advance care planning, if the healthcare personnel actively listens. However, several challenges can arise. Supported decision-making can improve communication and resident involvement, reinforcing a relational understanding of autonomy. IMPACT Persons with cognitive impairment should be invited to participate in advance care planning. Their participation may make its benefits and more person-centred care attainable to persons that are often not involved. Successful involvement of persons with cognitive impairment in advance care planning may rely on robust implementation.
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Hestmark L, Romøren M, Heiervang KS, Weimand B, Ruud T, Norvoll R, Hansson KM, Norheim I, Aas E, Landeweer EGM, Pedersen R. Implementation of guidelines on family involvement for persons with psychotic disorders in community mental health centres (IFIP): protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:934. [PMID: 33036605 PMCID: PMC7547488 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05792-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family involvement for persons with psychotic disorders is under-implemented in mental health care, despite its firm scientific, economic, legal and moral basis. This appears to be the case in Norway, despite the presence of national guidelines providing both general recommendations on family involvement and support in the health- and care services, and specific guidance on family interventions for patients with psychotic disorders. The aim of this project is to improve mental health services and the psychosocial health of persons with psychotic disorders and their relatives, by implementing selected recommendations from the national guidelines in community mental health centres, and to evaluate this process. METHODS The trial is cluster randomised, where 14 outpatient clusters from community mental health centres undergo stratified randomisation with an allocation ratio of 1:1. The seven intervention clusters will receive implementation support for 18 months, whereas the control clusters will receive the same support after this implementation period. The intervention consists of: 1. A basic level of family involvement and support. 2. Family psychoeducation in single-family groups. 3. Training and guidance of health care personnel. 4. A family coordinator and 5. Other implementation measures. Fidelity to the intervention will be measured four times in the intervention arm and two times in the control arm, and the differences in fidelity changes between the arms constitute the primary outcomes. In each arm, we aim to include 161 patients with psychotic disorders and their closest relative to fill in questionnaires at inclusion, 6 months and 12 months, measuring psychosocial health and satisfaction with services. Clinicians will contribute clinical data about patients at inclusion and 12 months. Use of health and welfare services and work participation, for both patients and relatives, will be retrieved from national registries. We will also perform qualitative interviews with patients, relatives, health care personnel and leaders. Finally, we will conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis and a political economy analysis. DISCUSSION This project, with its multilevel and mixed methods approach, may contribute valuable knowledge to the fields of family involvement, mental health service research and implementation science. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03869177 . Registered 11.03.19.
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Magelssen M, Karlsen H, Pedersen R, Thoresen L. Implementing clinical ethics committees as a complex intervention: presentation of a feasibility study in community care. BMC Med Ethics 2020; 21:82. [PMID: 32873310 PMCID: PMC7466831 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00522-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background How should clinical ethics support services such as clinical ethics committees (CECs) be implemented and evaluated? We argue that both the CEC itself and the implementation of the CEC should be considered as ‘complex interventions’. Main text We present a research project involving the implementation of CECs in community care in four Norwegian municipalities. We show that when both the CEC and its implementation are considered as complex interventions, important consequences follow – both for implementation and the study thereof. Emphasizing four such sets of consequences, we argue, first, that the complexity of the intervention necessitates small-scale testing before larger-scale implementation and testing is attempted; second, that it is necessary to theorize the intervention in sufficient depth; third, that the identification of casual connections charted in so-called logic models allows the identification of factors that are vital for the intervention to succeed and which must therefore be studied; fourth, that an important part of a feasibility study must be to identify and chart as many as possible of the causally important contextual factors. Conclusion The conceptualization of the implementation of a CEC as a complex intervention shapes the intervention and the way evaluation research should be performed, in several significant ways. We recommend that researchers consider whether a complex intervention approach is called for when studying CESS implementation and impact.
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Rostoft S, van den Bos F, Pedersen R, Hamaker ME. Shared decision-making in older patients with cancer - What does the patient want? J Geriatr Oncol 2020; 12:339-342. [PMID: 32839118 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Shared decision-making in cancer care, where we move away from the paternalistic "the doctor knows best" attitude to involving the patient in decisions regarding her or his health, is now universally accepted in western societies. However, in many situations this is easier said than done. For instance, if the interaction with the patient is not performed in a skillful manner, shared decision-making can make the patient feel unsafe - shouldn't the specialist know how to treat a serious disease such as cancer? Why would the doctor ask the patient about this? In other cases, what the patient wants in unrealistic, for example a severely frail patient aged 85 years with more than one life-limiting comorbidity who is diagnosed with an advanced cancer and has a goal of living to be at least 100 years. And what does a patient with advanced dementia want in the context of a cancer disease? In this perspectives piece, we will describe different scenarios that may arise within geriatric oncology and shared decision-making, make recommendations about how to handle such situations, and provide some food for thought.
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Husum TL, Thorvarsdottir V, Aasland O, Pedersen R. 'It comes with the territory' - Staff experience with violation and humiliation in mental health care - A mixed method study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2020; 71:101610. [PMID: 32768105 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2020.101610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate staff's experiences with violation and humiliation during work in mental health care (MHC). A total of 1160 multi-professional MHC staff in Norway responded to an online questionnaire about their experiences with different kinds of violation and humiliation in the MHC setting. In addition, a sample of professionals (eight MHC nurses) were recruited for in-depth individual interviews. METHOD The study used an explorative mixed method with a convergent parallel design; this included a web-based questionnaire to MHC staff in combination with individual interviews. The sample is considered to be equivalent to staff groups in MHC in Norway. RESULTS Between 70 and 80% of the staff reported experiencing rejection, being treated with disrespect, condescending behaviour or verbal harassment. Male workers were significantly more often victims of serious physical violence, and women were significantly more often targets for sexual harassment. In interviews, participants said they considered being exposed to violence and humiliation to be part of the job when working in MHC, and that experience, as well as social support from colleagues, helped MHC practitioners to cope better with violent situations and feel less humiliated at work. DISCUSSION A high amount of MHC staff report experiences of being violated and humiliated during work. The participants' perceptions of the users and their behaviour seem to influence their experience of feeling violated and humiliated. Knowledge about the dynamics of aggression between staff and users in MHC may be used in safeguarding staff and users, prevent coercion and heighten the quality of care.
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Heggestad AKT, Førde R, Pedersen R, Magelssen M. Prioriteringsutfordringer i helse- og omsorgstjenesteni kommunene under covid-19-pandemien. TIDSSKRIFT FOR OMSORGSFORSKNING 2020. [DOI: 10.18261/issn.2387-5984-2020-01-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Stolper M, Pedersen R, Molewijk B. Examining the Doing of Ethics Support Staff. A Dialogical Approach Toward Assessing the Quality of Facilitators of Moral Case Deliberation. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2020; 20:42-44. [PMID: 32116179 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2020.1714805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
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Magelssen M, Pedersen R, Miljeteig I, Ervik H, Førde R. Importance of systematic deliberation and stakeholder presence: a national study of clinical ethics committees. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2020; 46:66-70. [PMID: 31488518 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2018-105190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Case consultation performed by clinical ethics committees (CECs) is a complex activity which should be evaluated. Several evaluation studies have reported stakeholder satisfaction in single institutions. The present study was conducted nationwide and compares clinicians' evaluations on a range of aspects with the CEC's own evaluation. METHODS Prospective questionnaire study involving case consultations at 19 Norwegian CECs for 1 year, where consultations were evaluated by CECs and clinicians who had participated. RESULTS Evaluations of 64 case consultations were received. Cases were complex with multiple ethical problems intertwined. Clinicians rated the average CEC consult highly, being both satisfied with the process and perceiving it to be useful across a number of aspects. CEC evaluations corresponded well with those of clinicians in a large majority of cases. Having next of kin/patients present was experienced as predominantly positive, though practised by only half of the CECs. The educational function of the consult was evaluated more positively when the CEC used a systematic deliberation method. CONCLUSIONS CEC case consultation was found to be a useful service. The study is also a favourable evaluation of the Norwegian CEC system, implying that it is feasible to implement well-functioning CECs on a large scale. There are good reasons to involve the stakeholders in the consultations as a main rule.
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Thoresen L, Pedersen R, Lillemoen L, Gjerberg E, Førde R. Advance care planning in Norwegian nursing homes - limited awareness of the residents' preferences and values? A qualitative study. BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:363. [PMID: 31870302 PMCID: PMC6929496 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-019-1378-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 52% of all deaths in Norway occur in nursing homes. Still advance care planning (ACP) is scarce and heterogeneous. To improve the implementation and practice of ACP in nursing homes, knowledge about health care professionals' views on ACP is vital. The objective of this study is to explore nurses and physicians' aims and experiences with carrying out ACP in nursing homes. METHODS Semi-structured group interviews were conducted with 20 health care professionals, recruited from nursing homes where ACP was performed regularly. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The primary aim of the nursing home professionals when doing ACP in nursing homes were to build alliances with next of kin to avoid misunderstandings and future conflicts. Two main experiences with ACP were described: i) due to the sensitivity of ACP issues, it was important to balance directness with being sensitive, and ii) when the physicians raised questions concerning future medical treatment, the answers from residents as well as next of kin were often hesitant and unclear. CONCLUSION Our study add insights into how ACP is practiced in nursing homes and the professionals' agenda. A focus on medical issues and achieving consensus with next of kin may result in lack of involvement of the residents and limited awareness of the residents' needs. Interdisciplinary approaches, ACP-training and tailored guidelines may improve the implementation and practice of ACP.
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Sævareid TJL, Thoresen L, Gjerberg E, Lillemoen L, Pedersen R. Improved patient participation through advance care planning in nursing homes-A cluster randomized clinical trial. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2019; 102:2183-2191. [PMID: 31200952 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To improve patient participation in advance care planning in nursing homes where most patients have some degree of cognitive impairment. METHODS This was a pair-matched cluster randomized clinical trial with eight wards in eight Norwegian nursing homes. We randomized one ward from each of the matched pairs to the intervention group. We included all patients above 70. The primary outcome was prevalence of documented patient participation in end-of-life treatment conversations. The intervention included implementation support using a whole-ward approach where regular staff perform advance care planning and invite all patients and next of kin to participate. RESULTS In intervention group wards the patients participated more often in end-of-life treatment conversations (p < 0.001). Moreover, the patient's preferences, hopes AND worries (p = 0,006) were more often documented, and concordance between provided TREATMENT and patient preferences (p = 0,037) and next of kin participation in advance care planning with the patient (p = 0,056) increased. CONCLUSION Improved patient participation - also when cognitively impaired - is achievable through advance care planning in nursing homes using a whole-ward approach. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Patients with cognitive impairment should be included in advance care planning supported by next of kin. A whole-ward approach may be used to implement advance care planning. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN registry (ID ISRCTN69571462) - retrospectively registered.
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Bruun H, Huniche L, Stenager E, Mogensen CB, Pedersen R. Hospital ethics reflection groups: a learning and development resource for clinical practice. BMC Med Ethics 2019; 20:75. [PMID: 31651308 PMCID: PMC6813973 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-019-0415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An ethics reflection group (ERG) is one of a number of ethics support services developed to better handle ethical challenges in healthcare. The aim of this article is to evaluate the significance of ERGs in psychiatric and general hospital departments in Denmark. Methods This is a qualitative action research study, including systematic text condensation of 28 individual interviews and 4 focus groups with clinicians, ethics facilitators and ward managers. Short written descriptions of the ethical challenges presented in the ERGs also informed the analysis of significance. Results A recurring ethical challenge for clinicians, in a total of 63 cases described and assessed in 3 ethical reflection groups, is to strike a balance between respect for patient autonomy, paternalistic responsibility, professional responsibilities and institutional values. Both in psychiatric and general hospital departments, the study participants report a positive impact of ERG, which can be divided into three categories: 1) Significance for patients, 2) Significance for clinicians, and 3) Significance for ward managers. In wards characterized by short-time patient admissions, the cases assessed were retrospective and the beneficiaries of improved dialogue mainly future patients rather than the patients discussed in the specific ethical challenge presented. In wards with longer admissions, the patients concerned also benefitted from the dialogue in the ERG. Conclusion This study indicates a positive significance and impact of ERGs; constituting an interdisciplinary learning resource for clinicians, creating significance for themselves, the ward managers and the organization. By introducing specific examples, this study indicates that ERGs have significance for the patients discussed in the specific ethical challenge, but mostly indirectly through learning among clinicians and development of clinical practice. More research is needed to further investigate the impact of ERGs seen from the perspectives of patients and relatives.
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Bruun H, Pedersen R, Stenager E, Mogensen CB, Huniche L. Implementing ethics reflection groups in hospitals: an action research study evaluating barriers and promotors. BMC Med Ethics 2019; 20:49. [PMID: 31311525 PMCID: PMC6636139 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-019-0387-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An ethics reflection group (ERG) is one of a range of ethics support services developed to better handle ethical challenges in healthcare. The aim of this article is to evaluate the implementation process of interdisciplinary ERGs in psychiatric and general hospital departments in Denmark. To our knowledge, this is the first study of ERG implementation to include both psychiatric and general hospital departments. Methods The implementation and evaluation strategies are inspired by action research, using a qualitative approach and systematic text condensation of 28 individual interviews and 4 focus groups with clinicians, ethics facilitators and ward managers. Results The implementation process was influenced by both structural factors and factors related to clinicians having different values, interests and experiences. Structural barriers and promotors in the process to implement ERG included the following sub-categories: Organizational factors, recruitment and training of ethics facilitators, the deliberation model, planning and recruitment of participants to the ERGs, the support of the ward managers and the project group. Barriers and promotors found among clinicians included the following sub-categories: Expectations and pre-understandings of ERGs, understandings of a physician’s job, challenges experienced by ethics facilitators. At the end of the study, when it was decided that the ERGs should be continued, the implementation strategies were remodeled by the participants to meet new challenges. Conclusion The study of ERG implementation identified important structural and professional barriers and promotors that are likely to be relevant to anyone wanting to implement ethics support services across various types of healthcare services.
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Sævareid TJL, Førde R, Thoresen L, Lillemoen L, Pedersen R. Significance of advance care planning in nursing homes: views from patients with cognitive impairment, their next of kin, health personnel, and managers. Clin Interv Aging 2019; 14:997-1005. [PMID: 31213786 PMCID: PMC6549780 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s203298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Advance care planning (ACP) performed by regular staff, which also includes patients with cognitive impairment and their next of kin, is scarcely studied. Thus, we planned an implementation study including key stakeholders (patients, next of kin, and health care personnel) using a whole-ward/system approach to ACP. We explored how they experienced ACP and its significance. Patients and methods: This qualitative study is part of a mixed-method implementation study of ACP. In four nursing homes, we did qualitative interviews and audio-recordings of meetings. We completed 20 individual semistructured interviews with participants soon after ACP conversations. The interviews included patients with cognitive impairment, their next of kin, and health care personnel. We also conducted four focus group interviews with staff and managers in the nursing homes and audio-recorded four network meetings with the project teams implementing ACP. Results: All participants appreciated taking part in ACP. Patients and next of kin focused more on the past and present than future treatment preferences. Still, ACP seemed to contribute to a stronger patient focus on end-of-life conversations. More generally, ACP seemed to contribute to valuable information for future decision-making, trusting relations, improved end-of-life communication, and saving time and resources. Conclusion: Safeguarding a strong patient focus on ACP and fostering a person-centered care culture in nursing home wards seem to be achievable through implementation of ACP that includes regular staff, patients with cognitive impairment, and their next of kin.
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Husum TL, Legernes E, Pedersen R. "A plea for recognition" Users' experience of humiliation during mental health care. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2019; 62:148-153. [PMID: 30616849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies reveal that users of mental health care services sometimes experience humiliation during care. These experiences may influence the users' recovery process and treatment satisfaction. METHOD Thirteen informants with experience in mental health services were recruited for semi-structured interviews. Informants were recruited through collaboration with users' organisations. Modified text condensation was used for analysis of the qualitative data. RESULTS Users' experiences with humiliation in mental health care were sorted into three main themes. These are themes related to different perspectives between staff and users; themes related to violence of user autonomy; and experiences related to staff attitudes. DISCUSSION The service users in this study spoke about many different kinds of experiences with humiliation during care. It was a main finding that the feeling of not being recognized for one's own perception of the situation was experienced as a humiliation. This study is a contribution to a better understanding of the humiliation process between staff and users in mental health care services. The findings may be used to improve interaction between staff and users, improve quality of care and to prevent such experiences.
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Schei E, Johnsrud RE, Mildestvedt T, Pedersen R, Hjörleifsson S. Trustingly bewildered. How first-year medical students make sense of their learning experience in a traditional, preclinical curriculum. MEDICAL EDUCATION ONLINE 2018; 23:1500344. [PMID: 30064330 PMCID: PMC6070970 DOI: 10.1080/10872981.2018.1500344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional preclinical curricula based on memorization of scientific facts constitute learning environments which may negatively influence both factual understanding and professional identity development in medical students. Little is known of how students themselves experience and interpret such educational milieus. OBJECTIVE To investigate first-year medical students' view of the physician role, and their perception of the relevance and quality of teaching in a science-based preclinical curriculum. DESIGN Focus group interviews with thematic text analysis. RESULTS Students portrayed the good physician as communicative, humble, and open, combining biomedical knowledge and moral strength. When asked how medical school supported the development of such characteristics, two partly contradictory discourses emerged. The critical discourse identified decontextualized knowledge, poor pedagogy, lack of critical thinking, and contact with faculty. Students who voiced critical comments also articulated trust that the system would provide the competence they needed, that basic biological knowledge is needed before clinical practice, and that being on your own conveys freedom and responsibility, and helps you grow up. CONCLUSION Trust in the educational system, within a substandard learning environment, created cognitive dissonance that students resolved through rationalization, whereby they negated that factual overload and lack of relevance, reflection, and personal feedback was problematic. The cost of this mechanism is possibly that inferior teaching is perceived as normal, necessary, and good enough. If so, these future physicians' ability to critically evaluate and create quality in medical education and practice, may be weakened.
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Sævareid TJL, Lillemoen L, Thoresen L, Førde R, Gjerberg E, Pedersen R. Implementing advance care planning in nursing homes - study protocol of a cluster-randomized clinical trial. BMC Geriatr 2018; 18:180. [PMID: 30103692 PMCID: PMC6090595 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-018-0869-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Close to half of all deaths in Norway occur in nursing homes, which signals a need for good communication on end-of-life care. Advance care planning (ACP) is one means to that end, but in Norwegian nursing homes, ACP is not common. This paper describes the protocol of a project evaluating an ACP-intervention in Norwegian nursing homes. The aims of this research project were to promote the possibility for conversations about the end of life with patients and relatives; promote patient autonomy; create a better foundation for important decisions in the case of medical emergencies and at the end of life; and gain experiences in order to find out what characterizes good ACP and good implementation strategies. METHODS/DESIGN This study was a mixed method study including a cluster-randomized clinical trial. Eight nursing home wards or "clusters" were pair-matched, and one ward from each pair was randomly selected for a 12-month intervention. The intervention consisted of implementing an ACP-guideline. Implementation strategies were training and supervision of project teams and staff in using the guideline, written information to patients and next of kin, and information meetings with nursing home staff. The project was evaluated using both quantitative and qualitative data, and both outcome and process evaluation. Quantitative data included patient chart reviews of ACP, diagnoses, patient preferences for decision-making and treatment, values and wishes that are more general, documented life-prolonging treatment and hospitalizations, and concordance between patient wishes and treatment. The primary outcome was documented ACP. Qualitative data included observations of conversations, interviews with patients, next of kin and health care personnel, logs from project coordinators and conversations, and transcripts from meetings with project teams in the intervention group. DISCUSSION This project attempted to increase the quality and use of ACP in Norwegian nursing homes (NH). A mixed methods approach, inclusion of patients with dementia, attempts to involve, as many patients as possible, and a sustainable implementation plan adapted to real life in nursing homes were strengths of the project.
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Svendsen EJ, Pedersen R, Moen A, Bjørk IT. Exploring perspectives on restraint during medical procedures in paediatric care: a qualitative interview study with nurses and physicians. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2018; 12:1363623. [PMID: 28889788 PMCID: PMC5653956 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2017.1363623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ and physicians’ perspectives on and reasoning about the use of restraint during medical procedures on newly admitted preschoolers in somatic hospital care. We analysed qualitative data from individual interviews with a video recall session at the end with seven physicians and eight nurses. They had earlier participated in video recorded peripheral vein cannulations on preschool children. The data were collected between May 2012 and May 2013 at a paediatric hospital unit in Norway. The analysis resulted in three main themes: (1) disparate views on the concept of restraint and restraint use (2), ways to limit the use of physical restraint and its negative consequences, and (3) experience with the role of parents and their influence on restraint. Perspectives from both healthcare professions were represented in all the main themes and had many similarities. The results of this study may facilitate more informed and reflective discussions of restraint and contribute to higher awareness of restraint in clinical practice. Lack of guidance and scientific attention to restraint combined with conflicting interests and values among healthcare providers may result in insecurity, individual dogmatism, and a lack of shared discussions, language, and terminology.
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Svendsen EJ, Moen A, Pedersen R, Bjørk IT. "But Perhaps they could Reduce the Suffering?" Parents' Ambivalence toward Participating in Forced Peripheral Vein Cannulation Performed on their Preschool-Aged Children. J Pediatr Nurs 2018; 41:e46-e51. [PMID: 29548603 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to provide a better understanding of how parents experience the use of restraint during the performance of peripheral vein cannulation (PVC) on their child. DESIGN/METHODS Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were performed with seven parents and one close relative who had accompanied their 3-5-year-old child while the child resisted the medical procedure of PVC. The analysis was guided by symbolic interactionism and resulted in two themes. RESULTS The first theme that emerged, "Negotiating What Quality of Performance Should be Expected", was based on 1) Parents expected child-friendly encounters, 2) Performance of PVC caused unexpected and unnecessary suffering for the child, and 3) Parents explained and excused the performance of PVC. The second theme: "Negotiating One's Own Role and Participation in a Child's Suffering During the Procedure", was based on 1) Parents desired to be acknowledged and approached for suggestions regarding ways to ease the trauma surrounding the procedure, 2) Parents expressed uncertainty regarding the consequences that the procedure would have for the children, and 3) Parents desired to play a protective role, and they tended to engage in self-criticism. CONCLUSION When the PVC was less child-friendly, poorly planned and chaotic or performed with lacking skills, the parents became unwilling partners in the unnecessary suffering of the child. A practical implication is that if pediatric health care providers are aiming for the reduction of restraint, they must better understand parents' expectations and experiences and ensure that the use of restraint is used as the last resort.
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Bruun H, Lystbaek SG, Stenager E, Huniche L, Pedersen R. Ethical challenges assessed in the clinical ethics Committee of Psychiatry in the region of Southern Denmark in 2010-2015: a qualitative content analyses. BMC Med Ethics 2018; 19:62. [PMID: 29914461 PMCID: PMC6006832 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-018-0308-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this article is to give more insight into what ethical challenges clinicians in mental healthcare experience and discuss with a Clinical Ethics Committee in psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark. Ethical considerations are an important part of the daily decision-making processes and thereby for the quality of care in mental healthcare. However, such ethical challenges have been given little systematic attention – both in research and in practices. Methods A qualitative content analysis of 55 written case-reports from the Clinical Ethics Committee. The Committee offers clinicians in mental healthcare structured ethical analyses of ethical challenges and makes a thorough written case-report. Results The ethical challenges are grouped into three overarching topics: 1. Clinicians and their relation to patients and relatives. 2. Clinicians and institutional aspects of mental healthcare 3. Clinicians and mental healthcare in a wider social context. Through presentation of illustrative examples the complexity of daily clinical life in mental healthcare becomes evident, as well as typical interests, values and arguments. Conclusions This qualitative study indicates that difficult ethical challenges are an inherent part of mental healthcare that requires time, space and competence to be dealt with adequately.
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Hem MH, Molewijk B, Gjerberg E, Lillemoen L, Pedersen R. The significance of ethics reflection groups in mental health care: a focus group study among health care professionals. BMC Med Ethics 2018; 19:54. [PMID: 29871682 PMCID: PMC5989396 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-018-0297-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Professionals within the mental health services face many ethical dilemmas and challenging situations regarding the use of coercion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of participating in systematic ethics reflection groups focusing on ethical challenges related to coercion. METHODS In 2013 and 2014, 20 focus group interviews with 127 participants were conducted. The interviews were tape recorded and transcribed verbatim. The analysis is inspired by the concept of 'bricolage' which means our approach was inductive. RESULTS Most participants report positive experiences with participating in ethics reflection groups: A systematic and well-structured approach to discuss ethical challenges, increased consciousness of formal and informal coercion, a possibility to challenge problematic concepts, attitudes and practices, improved professional competence and confidence, greater trust within the team, more constructive disagreement and room for internal critique, less judgmental reactions and more reasoned approaches, and identification of potential for improvement and alternative courses of action. On several wards, the participation of psychiatrists and psychologists in the reflection groups was missing. The impact of the perceived lack of safety in reflection groups should not be underestimated. Sometimes the method for ethics reflection was utilised in a rigid way. Direct involvement of patients and family was missing. CONCLUSION This focus group study indicates the potential of ethics reflection groups to create a moral space in the workplace that promotes critical, reflective and collaborative moral deliberations. Future research, with other designs and methodologies, is needed to further investigate the impact of ethics reflection groups on improving health care practices.
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