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Lemoyne S, Van Bastelaere J, Nackaerts S, Verdonck P, Monsieurs K, Schnaubelt S. Emergency physicians' and nurses' perception on the adequacy of emergency calls for nursing home residents: a non-interventional prospective study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1396858. [PMID: 38962739 PMCID: PMC11220277 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1396858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A considerable percentage of daily emergency calls are for nursing home residents. With the ageing of the overall European population, an increase in emergency calls and interventions in nursing homes (NH) is to be expected. A proportion of these interventions and hospital transfers may be preventable and could be considered as inappropriate by prehospital emergency medical personnel. The study aimed to understand Belgian emergency physicians' and emergency nurses' perspectives on emergency calls and interventions in NHs and investigate factors contributing to their perception of inappropriateness. Methods An exploratory non-interventional prospective study was conducted in Belgium among emergency physicians and emergency nurses, currently working in prehospital emergency medicine. Electronic questionnaires were sent out in September, October and November 2023. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the overall results, as well as to compare the answers between emergency physicians and emergency nurses about certain topics. Results A total of 114 emergency physicians and 78 nurses responded to the survey. The mean age was 38 years with a mean working experience of 10 years in prehospital healthcare. Nursing home staff were perceived as understaffed and lacking in competence, with an impact on patient care especially during nights and weekends. General practitioners were perceived as insufficiently involved in the patient's care, as well as often unavailable in times of need, leading to activation of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and transfers of nursing home residents to the Emergency Department (ED). Advance directives were almost never available at EMS interventions and transfers were often not in accordance with the patient's wishes. Palliative care and pain treatment were perceived as insufficient. Emergency physicians and nurses felt mostly disappointed and frustrated. Additionally, differences in perception were noted between emergency physicians and nurses regarding certain topics. Emergency nurses were more convinced that the nursing home physician should be available 24/7 and that transfers could be avoided if nursing home staff had more authority regarding medical interventions. Emergency nurses were also more under the impression that pain management was inadequate, and emergency physicians were more afraid of the medical implications of doing too little during interventions than emergency nurses. Suggestions to reduce the number of EMS interventions were more general practitioner involvement (82%), better nursing home staff education/competences (77%), more nursing home staff (67%), mobile palliative care support teams (65%) and mobile geriatric nursing intervention teams (52%). Discussion and conclusion EMS interventions in nursing homes were almost never seen as necessary or indicated by emergency physicians and nurses, with the appropriate EMS level almost never being activated. The following key issues were found: shortages in numbers and competence of nursing home staff, insufficient primary care due to the unavailability of the general practitioner as well as a lack of involvement in patient care, and an absence of readily available advance directives. General practitioners should be more involved in the decision to call the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and to transfer nursing home residents to the Emergency Department. Healthcare workers should strive for vigilance regarding the patients' wishes. The emotional burden of deciding on an avoidable hospital admission of nursing home residents, perhaps out of fear for medico-legal consequences if doing too little, leaves the emergency physicians and nurses frustrated and disappointed. Improvements in nursing home staffing, more acute and chronic general practitioner consultations, and mobile geriatric and palliative care support teams are potential solutions. Further research should focus on the structural improvement of the above-mentioned shortcomings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Lemoyne
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joanne Van Bastelaere
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Nackaerts
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Philip Verdonck
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Koenraad Monsieurs
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sebastian Schnaubelt
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Emergency Medical Service Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Abraham K, Kanters TA, Wagg AS, Huige N, Hutt E, Al MJ. Benefits of a digital health technology for older nursing home residents. A de-novo cost-effectiveness model for digital health technologies to aid in the assessment of toileting and containment care needs. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295846. [PMID: 38166006 PMCID: PMC10760782 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was first, to introduce a comprehensive, de-novo health economic (HE) model incorporating the full range of activities involved in toileting and containment care (T&CC) for people with incontinence, capturing all the potential benefits and costs of existing and future Digital Health Technologies (DHT) aimed at improving continence care, for both residential care and home care. Second, to use this novel model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the DHT TENA SmartCare Identifi in the implementation of person-centred continence care (PCCC), compared with conventional continence care for Canadian nursing home residents. The de-novo HE model was designed to evaluate technologies across different care settings from the perspective of several stakeholders. Health states were based on six care need profiles with increasing need for toileting assistance, three care stages with varying degrees of toileting success, and five levels of skin health. The main outcomes were incremental costs and quality-adjusted life years. The effectiveness of the TENA SmartCare Identifi was based primarily on trial data combined with literature and expert opinion where necessary. Costs were reported in CAD 2020. After 2 years, 21% of residents in the DHT group received mainly toileting as their continence care strategy compared with 12% in the conventional care group. Conversely, with the DHT 15% of residents rely mainly on absorbent products for incontinence care, compared with 40% with conventional care. On average, residents lived for 2.34 years, during which the DHT resulted in a small gain in quality-adjusted life years of 0.015 and overall cost-savings of $1,467 per resident compared with conventional care. Most cost-savings were achieved through reduced costs for absorbent products. Since most, if not all, stakeholders gain from use of the DHT-assisted PCCC, widespread use in Canadian residential care facilities should be considered, and similar assessments for other countries encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Abraham
- Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Andre Kanters
- Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adrian Stuart Wagg
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Gothenburg Continence Research Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nicole Huige
- Essity Hygiene and Health AB, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Edward Hutt
- Medica Market Access Ltd, Tonbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Maiwenn Johanna Al
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Lopez RP, Wei A, Locke JR, Plys E. Advanced-Comfort: Usability Testing of a Care Planning Intervention for Nursing Home Residents With Advanced Dementia. J Gerontol Nurs 2023; 49:15-23. [PMID: 37906044 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20231010-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Many nursing home (NH) residents with advanced dementia receive burdensome interventions rather than interventions that promote comfort or quality of life. The purpose of the current study was to test the usability of a novel intervention, ADVANCED-Comfort, which aims to enhance the provision of personalized care for residents with advanced dementia. The intervention comprises structured care plan meetings between the NH team and proxies of residents with dementia (e.g., family members). Using the ADVANCED-Comfort workbook, proxies create individualized care plans addressing six domains adapted from the Age-Friendly Health System Framework. The purpose of this article is to describe the intervention and its theoretical underpinnings and report the usability of the intervention evaluated with surveys, observation, and exit interviews. The study demonstrated that proxies and NH staff found the intervention usable (acceptable, appropriate, and feasible). Based on these preliminary findings, additional testing of the ADVANCED-Comfort intervention is warranted. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(11), 15-23.].
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SM-Rahman A, Meinow B, Hydén LC, Kelfve S. Patterns of long-term care utilization during the last five years of life among Swedish older adults with and without dementia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286930. [PMID: 37874798 PMCID: PMC10597483 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aims of this study were to compare the patterns of long-term care (LTC) use (no care, homecare, residential care) among people with and without dementia aged 70+ in Sweden during their last five years of life and its association with sociodemographic factors (age, gender, education, cohabitation status) and time with a dementia diagnosis. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all people who died in November 2019 aged 70 years and older (n = 6294) derived from several national registers. A multinomial logistic regression was conducted to identify which sociodemographic factors predicted the patterns of LTC use. RESULTS Results showed that the time with a dementia diagnosis and cohabitation status were important predictors that influence the patterns of LTC use during the last five years of life. Nearly three-quarters of people living with dementia (PlwD) used residential care during the last five years of life. PlwD were more likely to reside in residential care close to death. Women who lived alone, with or without dementia, used residential care to a higher degree compared to married or cohabiting women. CONCLUSIONS Among people without a dementia diagnosis, as well as those who were newly diagnosed, it was common to have no LTC at all, or use LTC only for a brief period close to death. During the last five years of life, PlwD and those living alone more often entered LTC early and used residential care for a longer time compared to people without dementia and people living alone, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atiqur SM-Rahman
- Department of Culture and Society (IKOS), Division Ageing and Social Change (ASC), Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Faculty of Health, School of Health Policy and Management, York University, York, Canada
| | - Bettina Meinow
- Department of Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Solna, Sweden
- Stockholm Gerontology Research Center, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars-Christer Hydén
- Department of Culture and Society (IKOS), Division Ageing and Social Change (ASC), Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Dementia Research (CEDER), Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Susanne Kelfve
- Department of Culture and Society (IKOS), Division Ageing and Social Change (ASC), Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Solna, Sweden
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Lai YC, Tsai KT, Ho CH, Liao JY, Tseng WZ, Petersen I, Wang YC, Chen YH, Chiou HY, Hsiung CA, Yu SJ, Sampson EL, Chen PJ. Mortality rate and its determinants among people with dementia receiving home healthcare: a nationwide cohort study. Intern Emerg Med 2023; 18:2121-2130. [PMID: 37253992 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03319-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
People with dementia (PwD) who receive home healthcare (HHC) may have distressing symptoms, complex care needs and high mortality rates. However, there are few studies investigating the determinants of mortality in HHC recipients. To identify end-of-life care needs and tailor individualized care goals, we aim to explore the mortality rate and its determinants among PwD receiving HHC. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a Taiwanese national population database. People with new dementia diagnosis in 2007-2016 who received HHC were included. We calculated the accumulative mortality rate and applied Poisson regression model to estimate the risk of mortality for each variable (adjusted risk ratios, aRR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). We included 95,831 PwD and 57,036 (59.5%) of them died during the follow-up period (30.5% died in the first-year). Among comorbidities, cirrhosis was associated with the highest mortality risks (aRR 1.65, 95% CI 1.49-1.83). Among HHC-related factors, higher visit frequency of HHC (> 2 versus ≦1 times/month, aRR 3.52, 95% CI 3.39-3.66) and higher level of resource utilization group (RUG, RUG 4 versus 1, aRR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.25-1.51) were risk factor of mortality risk. Meanwhile, HHC provided by physician and nurse was related to reduced mortality risk (aRR 0.79, 95% CI 0.77-0.81) compared to those provided by nurse only. Anticipatory care planning and timely end-of life care should be integrated in light of the high mortality rate among PwD receiving HHC. Determinants associated with increased mortality risk facilitate the identification of high risk group and tailoring the appropriate care goals. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier is NCT04250103 which has been registered on 31st January 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chen Lai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kang-Ting Tsai
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Han Ho
- Department of Medical Research, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Information Management, Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Yu Liao
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Zhe Tseng
- Department of Family Medicine and Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Irene Petersen
- Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, UCL, University College London, London, UK
| | - Yi-Chi Wang
- Department of Family Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Han Chen
- Department of Family Medicine, An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yi Chiou
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chao Agnes Hsiung
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Sang-Ju Yu
- Taiwan Society of Home Health Care, Taipei, Taiwan
- Home Clinic Dulan, Taitung, Taiwan
| | - Elizabeth Lesley Sampson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Royal London Hospital, East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ping-Jen Chen
- Department of Family Medicine and Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK.
- School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Stiel S, Brütt AL, Stahmeyer JT, Bockelmann AWE, Schleef T, Völkel A, Hoffmann F. Implementation, barriers, and recommendations for further development of advance care planning for the last phase of life in nursing homes in Germany (Gut-Leben): protocol for a mixed-methods study. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:27. [PMID: 36964521 PMCID: PMC10036959 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01147-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing home entry often marks the transition into the end-of-life. In 2018, Germany legally introduced reimbursement for advance care planning (ACP according to § 132 g SGB V) in nursing homes that applied for ACP approval to improve end-of-life care. The Gut-Leben project aims to evaluate the implementation and barriers of ACP in nursing homes in Germany, with a special focus on the federal state of Lower Saxony, and provide practical recommendations for further development of end-of-life care. METHODS This mixed-methods study spreads across five work packages (WP) over a three-year period. WP 1 will explore the approval process, implementation, and barriers to ACP in nursing homes. Data will be collected through a national postal survey in a random sample of n = 600. WP 2 will explore whether documented ACP reports are applicable as a data source for research (expecting up to 500 available ACP reports). In WP 3a and 3b, data on the ACP process will be collected in n = 15 approved nursing homes in Lower Saxony over a 12-months period. For WP 3a and WP 3b, data on ACP conversations (n = 600) and on end-of-life care paths (n = 300) will be collected by facilitators and nurses of the respective nursing homes. In WP 4, residents' characteristics upon entry and changes in these characteristics over the length of stay are analyzed, utilizing claims data from the AOK Lower Saxony (expected sample of about 100,000 people entering nursing homes over a 10-years period). WP 5 connects, interprets, and reflects on the findings from WP 1-4 through focus groups and individual interviews with facilitators, nursing staff, residents, relatives, and care providers. Within a participatory approach, a practice advisory board will be set up existing of personal of nursing homes and will be closely involved in the whole research process. DISCUSSION In summary, the Gut-Leben project provides insight into the implementation and barriers of ACP in nursing homes according to German legislation for the first time, including practitioners' and residents' perspectives. Insights will help the further development of ACP in Germany through practical recommendations based on quantitative and qualitative data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Stiel
- Institute for General Practice and Palliative Care, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Anna Levke Brütt
- Junior Research Group for Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Jona T Stahmeyer
- Health Services Research Unit, AOK Niedersachsen, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne W E Bockelmann
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Schleef
- Institute for General Practice and Palliative Care, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anna Völkel
- Junior Research Group for Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Fassmer AM, Allers K, Helbach J, Zuidema S, Freitag M, Zieschang T, Hoffmann F. Hospitalization of German and Dutch Nursing Home Residents Depend on Different Long-Term Care Structures: A Systematic Review on Periods of Increased Vulnerability. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023; 24:609-618.e6. [PMID: 36898411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate proportions of hospitalized nursing home residents during periods of increased vulnerability, ie, the first 6 months after institutionalization and the last 6 months before death, and comparing the figures between Germany and the Netherlands. DESIGN Systematic review, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022312506). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Newly admitted or deceased residents. METHODS We searched MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL from inception through May 3, 2022. We included all observational studies that reported the proportions of all-cause hospitalizations among German or Dutch nursing home residents during these defined vulnerable periods. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's tool. We assessed study and resident characteristics and outcome information and descriptively reported them separately for both countries. RESULTS We screened 1856 records for eligibility and included 9 studies published in 14 articles (Germany: 8; Netherlands: 6). One study for each country investigated the first 6 months after institutionalization. A total of 10.2% of the Dutch and 42.0% of the German nursing home residents were hospitalized during this time. Overall, 7 studies reported on in-hospital deaths, with proportions ranging from 28.9% to 29.5% for Germany and from 1.0% to 16.3% for the Netherlands. Proportions for hospitalization in the last 30 days of life ranged from 8.0% to 15.7% (Netherlands: n = 2) and from 48.6% to 58.0% (Germany: n = 3). Only German studies assessed the differences by age and sex. Although hospitalizations were less common at older ages, they were more frequent in male residents. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS During the observed periods, the proportion of nursing homes residents being hospitalized differed greatly between Germany and the Netherlands. The higher figures for Germany can probably be explained by differences in the long-term care systems. There is a lack of research, especially for the first months after institutionalization, and future studies should examine the care processes of nursing home residents following acute events in more detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Fassmer
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany.
| | - Katharina Allers
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Jasmin Helbach
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Sytse Zuidema
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Freitag
- Division of General Practice, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Tania Zieschang
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany
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8
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[Reasons for hospitalization of people with dementia-A scoping review]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 56:42-47. [PMID: 35420353 PMCID: PMC9876850 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-021-02013-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitalization represents a high burden for people with dementia, which can accelerate the decline of cognitive and motor skills. Behavioral changes and orientation problems may be increased in people with dementia during hospitalization. Some hospitalizations are potentially preventable by improved outpatient care. OBJECTIVE To provide an up to date overview of the most common reasons for hospitalization of people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in the databases PubMed®, CINAHL and PsycINFO® in May 2020 to conduct the scoping review. Studies in German and English published between July 2010 and May 2020 were included. RESULTS The most common reasons for hospitalization, which were named in the 14 included studies, were infectious diseases, especially respiratory infections and urinary tract infections, cardiovascular diseases (in general or specific, e.g. heart failure) and injuries, poisoning, fractures and falls, and gastrointestinal diseases. CONCLUSION Most of the most common reasons for hospitalization are ambulatory care-sensitive hospital cases. Strengthening outpatient care for people with dementia may help prevent hospitalizations.
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de Graaf L, Roelofs T, Janssen M, Luijkx K. Live and let live: Residents' perspectives on alcohol and tobacco (mis)use in residential care facilities. Int J Older People Nurs 2023; 18:e12508. [PMID: 36229901 PMCID: PMC10078196 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol and tobacco use could cause health problems in older adults. Older adults who become in need of 24/7 care due to physical and/or neurological disabilities may need to move to a Residential Care Facility (RCF). RCFs aim to provide person-centred care (PCC) to enhance quality of life (QoL) of residents. OBJECTIVES This study aims to explore perspectives of residents on alcohol and tobacco use, which is essential to provide PCC. METHODS A qualitative research design was chosen, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Residents who use alcohol and/or tobacco and those who do not use these substances were purposively selected in two organisations on two types of units: psychogeriatric units and units providing care for residents with mainly physical disabilities. The results were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Thematic analysis resulted in five themes: Current use and self-reflection, knowledge and attitudes, addiction or habit, policies and availability, dependency versus autonomy. CONCLUSION Residents in this study value their autonomy regarding alcohol and tobacco use. They experience dependency on their (in)formal caregivers to use these substances and acknowledge that their use could cause a nuisance to others, challenging the ability of caregivers to implement PCC. Future research could assess how to integrate providing PCC to residents by offering choices and autonomy, while considering the addictive component of these substances, health and safety risks for all. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This study could help care professionals to become aware of the habits and wishes of residents regarding alcohol and tobacco use and to discuss the possibilities and limitations within RCFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette de Graaf
- Department of Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Mijzo, Waalwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Tineke Roelofs
- Department of Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Mijzo, Waalwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Meriam Janssen
- Department of Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Katrien Luijkx
- Department of Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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10
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Kruschel I, Micke H, Wedding U. [Nursing Home: Strategies to avoid unnecessary emergency admissions]. MMW Fortschr Med 2022; 164:32-39. [PMID: 36413293 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-022-2046-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Kruschel
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Palliativmedizin, Jena, Deutschland
| | - Henriette Micke
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| | - Ulrich Wedding
- Abteilung für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland.
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11
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Osakwe ZT, Obioha CU, Muller K, Saint Fleur-Calixte R. A Description of Persons With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias Receiving Home Health Care: A National Analysis. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2022; 24:00129191-990000000-00045. [PMID: 36178738 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The end-of-life period of individuals with Alzheimer disease and related dementias receiving home health care (HHC) is understudied. We sought to describe characteristics of HHC patients with Alzheimer disease and related dementias at risk of death within a year, based on clinician assessment. We conducted a secondary data analysis of a 5% random sample of the Outcome and Assessment Information Set data set for the year 2017. We used Outcome and Assessment Information Set-C item M1034 to identify HHC patients with overall status of progressive condition leading to death within a year. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the association between sociodemographic, functional, clinical, and caregiving factors and likelihood of decline leading to death within a year, as identified by HHC clinicians. Clinician perception of decline leading to death within a year was higher for Whites (vs Blacks or Hispanics) (odds ratio [OR], 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.69-0.80], and OR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.57-0.69], respectively). Factors associated with increased odds of decline leading to death within a year included daily pain (OR, 1.11 [95% CI, 1.06-1.17]), anxiety daily or more often (OR, 1.58 [95% CI, 1.49-1.67]), shortness of breath (OR, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.34-1.57]), use of oxygen (OR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.52-1.69]), disruptive behavior (OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.20-1.31]), and feeding difficulty (OR, 2.25 [95% CI, 2.09-2.43]). High symptom burden exists among HHC patients with Alzheimer disease and related dementias identified to have a status of decline leading to death within a year.
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Hanna K, Cannon J, Gabbay M, Marlow P, Mason S, Rajagopal M, Shenton J, Tetlow H, Giebel C. End of life care in UK care homes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:91. [PMID: 35641946 PMCID: PMC9155982 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00979-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the experiences of End of Life (EoL) care in UK care homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS UK care home staff and family carers of residents in care home took part in remote, semi-structured interviews from October to November 2020, with 20 participants followed-up in March 2021. Interviews were conducted via telephone or online platforms and qualitatively analysed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Forty-two participants (26 family carers and 16 care home staff) were included in a wider qualitative study exploring the impact on dementia care homes during the pandemic. Of these, 11 family carers and 9 care home staff participated in a follow-up interview. Following descriptive thematic analysis, three central themes concerning EoL care during the pandemic specifically, were conceptualised and redefined through research team discussions: 1) Wasting or losing time; 2) Maintaining control, plans and routine; and 3) Coping with loss and lack of support. Lack of suitable, meaningful visits with people with dementia in care homes resulted in negative feelings of guilt and abandonment with both family carers and care home staff. Where families experienced positive EoL visits, these appeared to breach public health restrictions at that time. CONCLUSION It is recommended that care homes receive clear guidance from the government offering equitable contact with relatives at EoL to all family members, to support their grieving and avoid subsequent negative impacts to emotional wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Hanna
- School of Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GB, England.
| | | | - Mark Gabbay
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR ARC NWC, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Stephen Mason
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Manoj Rajagopal
- Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
| | | | | | - Clarissa Giebel
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR ARC NWC, Liverpool, UK
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Garland A, Keller H, Quail P, Boscart V, Heyer M, Ramsey C, Vucea V, Choi N, Bains I, King S, Oshchepkova T, Kalashnikova T, Kroetsch B, Steer J, Heckman G. BABEL (Better tArgeting, Better outcomes for frail ELderly patients) advance care planning: a comprehensive approach to advance care planning in nursing homes: a cluster randomised trial. Age Ageing 2022; 51:6552807. [PMID: 35325020 PMCID: PMC8946666 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nursing home (NH) residents should have the opportunity to consider, discuss and document their healthcare wishes. However, such advance care planning (ACP) is frequently suboptimal. Objective Assess a comprehensive, person-centred ACP approach. Design Unblinded, cluster randomised trial. Setting Fourteen control and 15 intervention NHs in three Canadian provinces, 2018–2020. Subjects 713 residents (442 control, 271 intervention) aged ≥65 years, with elevated mortality risk. Methods The intervention was a structured, \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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}{}$\sim$\end{document}60-min discussion between a resident, substitute decision-maker (SDM) and nursing home staff to: (i) confirm SDMs’ identities and role; (ii) prepare SDMs for medical emergencies; (iii) explain residents’ clinical condition and prognosis; (iv) ascertain residents’ preferred philosophy to guide decision-making and (v) identify residents’ preferred options for specific medical emergencies. Control NHs continued their usual ACP processes. Co-primary outcomes were: (a) comprehensiveness of advance care planning, assessed using the Audit of Advance Care Planning, and (b) Comfort Assessment in Dying. Ten secondary outcomes were assessed. P-values were adjusted for all 12 outcomes using the false discovery rate method. Results The intervention resulted in 5.21-fold higher odds of respondents rating ACP comprehensiveness as being better (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.53, 7.61). Comfort in dying did not differ (difference = −0.61; 95% CI −2.2, 1.0). Among the secondary outcomes, antimicrobial use was significantly lower in intervention homes (rate ratio = 0.79, 95% CI 0.66, 0.94). Conclusions Superior comprehensiveness of the BABEL approach to ACP underscores the importance of allowing adequate time to address all important aspects of ACP and may reduce unwanted interventions towards the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Garland
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Heather Keller
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick Quail
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Veronique Boscart
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Conestoga College, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michelle Heyer
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Conestoga College, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
| | - Clare Ramsey
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Vanessa Vucea
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nora Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ikdip Bains
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seema King
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tatiana Oshchepkova
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Brittany Kroetsch
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Steer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - George Heckman
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Fleischmann-Struzek C, Rose N, Freytag A, Spoden M, Prescott HC, Schettler A, Wedekind L, Ditscheid B, Storch J, Born S, Schlattmann P, Günster C, Reinhart K, Hartog CS. Epidemiology and Costs of Postsepsis Morbidity, Nursing Care Dependency, and Mortality in Germany, 2013 to 2017. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2134290. [PMID: 34767025 PMCID: PMC8590172 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.34290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Sepsis survivorship is associated with postsepsis morbidity, but epidemiological data from population-based cohorts are lacking. OBJECTIVE To quantify the frequency and co-occurrence of new diagnoses consistent with postsepsis morbidity and mortality as well as new nursing care dependency and total health care costs after sepsis. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This retrospective cohort study based on nationwide health claims data included a population-based cohort of 23.0 million beneficiaries of a large German health insurance provider. Patients aged 15 years and older with incident hospital-treated sepsis in 2013 to 2014 were included. Data were analyzed from January 2009 to December 2017. EXPOSURES Sepsis, identified by International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) hospital discharge codes. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES New medical, psychological, and cognitive diagnoses; long-term mortality; dependency on nursing care; and overall health care costs in survivors at 1 to 12, 13 to 24, and 25 to 36 months after hospital discharge. RESULTS Among 23.0 million eligible individuals, we identified 159 684 patients hospitalized with sepsis in 2013 to 2014. The mean (SD) age was 73.8 (12.8) years, and 75 809 (47.5%; 95% CI, 47.2%-47.7%) were female patients. In-hospital mortality was 27.0% (43 177 patients; 95% CI, 26.8%-27.3%). Among 116 507 hospital survivors, 86 578 (74.3%; 95% CI, 74.1%-74.6%) had a new diagnosis in the first year post sepsis; 28 405 (24.4%; 95% CI, 24.1%-24.6%) had diagnoses co-occurring in medical, psychological, or cognitive domains; and 23 572 of 74 878 survivors (31.5%; 95% CI, 31.1%-31.8%) without prior nursing care dependency were newly dependent on nursing care. In total, 35 765 survivors (30.7%; 95% CI, 30.4%-31.0%) died within the first year. In the second and third year, 53 089 (65.8%; 95% CI, 65.4%-66.1%) and 40 959 (59.4%; 95% CI, 59.0%-59.8%) had new diagnoses, respectively. Health care costs for sepsis hospital survivors for 3 years post sepsis totaled a mean of €29 088/patient ($32 868/patient) (SD, €44 195 [$49 938]). New postsepsis morbidity (>1 new diagnosis) was more common in survivors of severe sepsis (75.6% [95% CI, 75.1%-76.0%]) than nonsevere sepsis (73.7% [95% CI, 73.4%-74.0%]; P < .001) and more common in survivors treated in the intensive care unit (78.3% [95% CI, 77.8%-78.7%]) than in those not treated in the intensive care unit (72.8% [95% CI, 72.5%-73.1%]; P < .001). Postsepsis morbidity was 68.5% (95% CI, 67.5%-69.5%) among survivors without prior morbidity and 56.1% (95% CI, 54.2%-57.9%) in survivors younger than 40 years. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, new medical, psychological, and cognitive diagnoses consistent with postsepsis morbidity were common after sepsis, including among patients with less severe sepsis, no prior diagnoses, and younger age. This calls for more efforts to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, define optimal screening for common new diagnoses, and test interventions to prevent and treat postsepsis morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Fleischmann-Struzek
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Norman Rose
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Antje Freytag
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Melissa Spoden
- Research Institute of the Local Health Care Funds, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hallie C. Prescott
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Anna Schettler
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Department for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Lisa Wedekind
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Bianka Ditscheid
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Josephine Storch
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Sebastian Born
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Schlattmann
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Konrad Reinhart
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operative Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christiane S. Hartog
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operative Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Klinik Bavaria, Kreischa, Germany
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Unplanned hospital transfers from nursing homes: who is involved in the transfer decision? Results from the HOMERN study. Aging Clin Exp Res 2021; 33:2231-2241. [PMID: 33258074 PMCID: PMC8302553 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-020-01751-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Emergency department visits and hospital admissions are common among nursing home residents (NHRs) and seem to be higher in Germany than in other countries. Yet, research on characteristics of transfers and involved persons in the transfer decision is scarce. Aims The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of hospital transfers from nursing homes (NHs) focused on contacts to physicians, family members and legal guardians prior to a transfer. Methods We conducted a multi-center study in 14 NHs in the regions Bremen and Lower Saxony (Northwestern Germany) between March 2018 and July 2019. Hospital transfers were documented for 12 months by nursing staff using a standardized questionnaire. Data were derived from care records and perspectives of nursing staff and were analyzed descriptively. Results Among 802 included NHRs, n = 535 unplanned hospital transfers occurred of which 63.1% resulted in an admission. Main reasons were deterioration of health status (e.g. fever, infections, dyspnea and exsiccosis) (35.1%) and falls/accidents/injuries (33.5%). Within 48 h prior to transfer, contact to at least one general practitioner (GP)/specialist/out-of-hour-care physician was 46.2% and varied between the NHs (range: 32.3–83.3%). GPs were involved in only 34.8% of transfer decisions. Relatives and legal guardians were more often informed about transfer (62.3% and 66.8%) than involved in the decision (21.8% and 15.1%). Discussion Contacts to physicians and involvement of the GP were low prior to unplanned transfers. The ranges between the NHs may be explained by organizational differences. Conclusion Improvements in communication between nursing staff, physicians and others are required to reduce potentially avoidable transfers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40520-020-01751-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Scheckel B, Stock S, Müller D. Cost-effectiveness of group-based exercise to prevent falls in elderly community-dwelling people. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:440. [PMID: 34311698 PMCID: PMC8314607 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02329-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies indicate that strength-balance training for active fall prevention can prevent fractures in older people. The present modelling study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of fall prevention exercise (FPE) provided to independently living older people compared to no intervention in Germany. METHOD We designed a Markov model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a group-based FPE-program provided to independently living people ≥75 years from the perspective of the German statutory health insurance (SHI). Input data was obtained from public databases, clinical trials and official statistics. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was presented as costs per avoided hip fracture. Additionally, we performed deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses and, estimated monetary consequences for the SHI in a budget impact analysis (BIA). RESULTS For women, the costs per hip fracture avoided amounted to €52,864 (men: €169,805). Results of deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results. According to the BIA, for the reimbursement of FPE additional costs of €3.0 million (women) and €7.8 million (men) are expected for the SHI. CONCLUSIONS Group-based FPE appears to be no cost-effective option to prevent fall-related hip fractures in independently living elderly. To allow a more comprehensive statement on the cost effectiveness of FPE fracture types other than hip should be increasingly evaluated in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Scheckel
- Institute of Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Stephanie Stock
- Institute of Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dirk Müller
- Institute of Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
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Gracner T, Agarwal M, Murali KP, Stone PW, Larson EL, Furuya EY, Harrison JM, Dick AW. Association of Infection-Related Hospitalization With Cognitive Impairment Among Nursing Home Residents. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e217528. [PMID: 33890988 PMCID: PMC8065379 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.7528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Hospitalizations for infections among nursing home (NH) residents remain common despite national initiatives to reduce them. Cognitive impairment, which markedly affects quality of life and caregiving needs, has been associated with hospitalizations, but the association between infection-related hospitalizations and long-term cognitive function among NH residents is unknown. Objective To examine whether there are changes in cognitive function before vs after infection-related hospitalizations among NH residents. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study used data from the Minimum Data Set 3.0 linked to Medicare hospitalization data from 2011 to 2017 for US nursing home residents aged 65 years or older who had experienced an infection-related hospitalization and had at least 2 quarterly Minimum Data Set assessments before and 4 or more after the infection-related hospitalization. Analyses were performed from September 1, 2019, to December 21, 2020. Exposure Infection-related hospitalization lasting 1 to 14 days. Main Outcomes and Measures Using an event study approach, associations between infection-related hospitalizations and quarterly changes in cognitive function among NH residents were examined overall and by sex, age, Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) diagnosis, and sepsis vs other infection-related diagnoses. Resident-level cognitive function was measured using the Cognitive Function Scale (CFS), with scores ranging from 1 (intact) to 4 (severe cognitive impairment). Results Of the sample of 20 698 NH residents, 71.0% were women and 82.6% were non-Hispanic White individuals; the mean (SD) age at the time of transfer to the hospital was 82 (8.5) years. The mean CFS score was 2.17, and the prevalence of severe cognitive impairment (CFS score, 4) was 9.0%. During the first quarter after an infection-related hospitalization, residents experienced a mean increase of 0.06 points in CFS score (95% CI, 0.05-0.07 points; P < .001), or 3%. The increase in scores was greatest among residents aged 85 years or older vs younger residents by approximately 0.022 CFS points (95% CI, 0.004-0.040 points; P < .05). The prevalence of severe cognitive impairment increased by 1.6 percentage points (95% CI, 1.2-2.0 percentage points; P < .001), or 18%; the increases were observed among individuals with ADRD but not among those without it. After an infection-related hospitalization, cognition among residents who had experienced sepsis declined more than for residents who had not by about 0.02 CFS points (95% CI, 0.00-0.04 points; P < .05). All observed differences persisted without an accelerated rate of decline for at least 6 quarters after infection-related hospitalization. No differences were observed by sex. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, infection-related hospitalization was associated with immediate and persistent cognitive decline among nursing home residents, with the largest increase in CFS scores among older residents, those with ADRD, and those who had experienced sepsis. Identification of NH residents at risk of worsened cognition after an infection-related hospitalization may help to ensure that their care needs are addressed to prevent further cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeja Gracner
- RAND Corporation, Arlington, Virginia
- Now with RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
| | - Mansi Agarwal
- Center for Health Policy, Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York
- Now with Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Komal P. Murali
- Center for Health Policy, Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York
| | - Patricia W. Stone
- Center for Health Policy, Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York
| | - Elaine L. Larson
- Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
| | - E. Yoko Furuya
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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Jin X, Abe K, Taniguchi Y, Watanabe T, Miyawaki A, Tamiya N. Trajectories of Long-Term Care Expenditure During the Last 5 Years of Life in Japan: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2021; 22:2331-2336.e2. [PMID: 33676888 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.01.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the significant utilization of long-term care (LTC) services at the end of life, evidence on the trajectory of LTC expenditure in later life is scarce. This study aims to identify distinct trajectories of LTC expenditure in the last 5 years of life and to examine whether these trajectories differ according to cause of death. DESIGN A nationwide retrospective longitudinal cohort study based on linked data of National LTC Claims and the Japan's National Vital Statistic. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Participants comprised decedents aged 70 years or older and who died in 2017. METHODS We assessed 5 years of monthly LTC expenditure among participants and applied group-based trajectory model to identify distinct trajectories of LTC expenditure. Subsequently multinominal logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate how these trajectories vary according to cause of death. RESULTS Among 1,124,335 decedents, 4 distinct trajectories of LTC expenditure were identified: persistently low (58.5%), late increase (9.8%), progressive increase then late decrease (8.8%), and persistently high (22.9%). Approximately 80.7% of total LTC expenditure was spent by the persistently high group. After adjustment for age and sex; deaths due to age-related physical debility and dementia were associated with persistently high LTC expenditure. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Ongoing discussions of LTC policy and reducing LTC expenditure may be more effective when emphasizing persistently high spenders. In addition, budget allocation for LTC at the end of life should be combined with data for health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Jin
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Services Research, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan; Health Services Research & Development Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiro Abe
- Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Takemi Program in International Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuta Taniguchi
- Health Services Research & Development Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan; Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Taeko Watanabe
- Health Services Research & Development Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyawaki
- Health Services Research & Development Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan; Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nanako Tamiya
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Services Research, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan; Health Services Research & Development Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Applying the Knowledge-to-Action Framework to Engage Stakeholders and Solve Shared Challenges with Person-Centered Advance Care Planning in Long-Term Care Homes. Can J Aging 2021; 41:110-120. [PMID: 33583447 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980820000410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
As they near the end of life, long term care (LTC) residents often experience unmet needs and unnecessary hospital transfers, a reflection of suboptimal advance care planning (ACP). We applied the knowledge-to-action framework to identify shared barriers and solutions to ultimately improve the process of ACP and improve end-of-life care for LTC residents. We held a 1-day workshop for LTC residents, families, directors/administrators, ethicists, and clinicians from Manitoba, Alberta, and Ontario. The workshop aimed to identify: (1) shared understandings of ACP, (2) barriers to respecting resident wishes, and (3) solutions to better respect resident wishes. Plenary and group sessions were recorded and thematic analysis was performed. We identified four themes: (1) differing provincial frameworks, (2) shared challenges, (3) knowledge products, and 4) ongoing ACP. Theme 2 had four subthemes: (i) lacking clarity on substitute decision maker (SDM) identity, (ii) lacking clarity on the SDM role, (iii) failing to share sufficient information when residents formulate care wishes, and (iv) failing to communicate during a health crisis. These results have informed the development of a standardized ACP intervention currently being evaluated in a randomized trial in three Canadian provinces.
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Janbek J, Frimodt-Møller N, Laursen TM, Waldemar G. Dementia identified as a risk factor for infection-related hospital contacts in a national, population-based and longitudinal matched-cohort study. NATURE AGING 2021; 1:226-233. [PMID: 37118634 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-020-00024-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between incident dementia and rates of infection-related hospital contacts. We conducted a registry- and population-based matched-cohort study of all Danish residents who were born in or before 1950, included from 1 January 2000 or their 65th birthday (whichever came later), who were alive and resided in Denmark at the start of the study, excluding those who had received a dementia diagnosis before 1 January 2000 or their 65th birthday (n = 1,712,100). A total of 129,660 people (403,744 person years) with incident dementia were matched with 297,476 people (1,918,784 person years) without dementia. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of infection-related hospital contacts were calculated using Poisson regression, by infection type, sex and age. The IRR for any infection-related contact in dementia was 1.5, was highest for nervous and urinary system infections and sepsis, decreased with increasing age and was higher in men. More people with than without dementia had contacts five years before the index date. Our findings show that dementia is a risk factor for infection-related hospital contacts and infections might be an early sign of dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Janbek
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Niels Frimodt-Møller
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Munk Laursen
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Department of Economics and Business Economics, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Fröhlich GM, Jeschke E, Eichler U, Thiele H, Alhariri L, Reinthaler M, Kastrati A, Leistner DM, Skurk C, Landmesser U, Günster C. Impact of oral anticoagulation on clinical outcomes of COVID-19: a nationwide cohort study of hospitalized patients in Germany. Clin Res Cardiol 2021; 110:1041-1050. [PMID: 33416918 PMCID: PMC7791911 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-020-01783-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of concomitant long-term medication—with a focus on ACE inhibitors and oral anticoagulation—on clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease 2019. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study using claims data of the biggest German health insurance company AOK, covering 26.9 million people all over Germany. In particular, patient-related characteristics and co-medication were evaluated. A multivariable logistic regression model was adopted to identify independent predictors for the primary outcome measure of all-cause mortality or need for invasive or non-invasive ventilation or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Results 6637 patients in 853 German hospitals were included. The primary outcome occurred in 1826 patients (27.5%). 1372 patients (20.7%) died, 886 patients (13.3%) needed respiratory support, and 53 patients (0.8%) received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. 34 of these patients survived (64.2%). The multivariable model demonstrated that pre-existing oral anticoagulation therapy with either vitamin-K antagonists OR 0.57 (95% CI 0.40–0.83, p = 0.003) or direct oral anticoagulants OR 0.71 (95% CI 0.56–0.91, p = 0.007)—but not with antiplatelet therapy alone OR 1.10 (95% CI 0.88–1.23, p = 0.66)—was associated with a lower event rate. This finding was confirmed in a propensity match analysis. Conclusions In a multivariable analysis, a therapy with both direct oral anticoagulants or vitamin-K antagonists—but not with antiplatelet therapy—was associated with improved clinical outcomes. ACE inhibitors did not impact outcomes. Prospective randomized trials are needed to verify this hypothesis. Graphic abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00392-020-01783-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg M Fröhlich
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | - Uwe Eichler
- AOK Research Institute (WIdO), Berlin, Germany
| | - Holger Thiele
- Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig and Leipzig Heart Institute, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Laila Alhariri
- School of Medicine, University Hospital Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Reinthaler
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - David Manuel Leistner
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Skurk
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulf Landmesser
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Straße 2, 10178, Berlin, Germany
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Impact of Dementia on Health Service Use in the Last 2 Years of Life for Women with Other Chronic Conditions. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:1651-1657.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2020.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Bicknell R, Lim WK, Maier AB, LoGiuidice D. A study protocol for the development of a multivariable model predicting 6- and 12-month mortality for people with dementia living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Australia. Diagn Progn Res 2020; 4:17. [PMID: 33033746 PMCID: PMC7538167 DOI: 10.1186/s41512-020-00085-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For residential aged care facility (RACF) residents with dementia, lack of prognostic guidance presents a significant challenge for end of life care planning. In an attempt to address this issue, models have been developed to assess mortality risk for people with advanced dementia, predominantly using long-term care minimum data set (MDS) information from the USA. A limitation of these models is that the information contained within the MDS used for model development was not collected for the purpose of identifying prognostic factors. The models developed using MDS data have had relatively modest ability to discriminate mortality risk and are difficult to apply outside the MDS setting. This study will aim to develop a model to estimate 6- and 12-month mortality risk for people with dementia from prognostic indicators recorded during usual clinical care provided in RACFs in Australia. METHODS A secondary analysis will be conducted for a cohort of people with dementia from RACFs participating in a cluster-randomized trial of a palliative care education intervention (IMPETUS-D). Ten prognostic indicator variables were identified based on a literature review of clinical features associated with increased mortality for people with dementia living in RACFs. Variables will be extracted from RACF files at baseline and mortality measured at 6 and 12 months after baseline data collection. A multivariable logistic regression model will be developed for 6- and 12-month mortality outcome measures using backwards elimination with a fractional polynomial approach for continuous variables. Internal validation will be undertaken using bootstrapping methods. Discrimination of the model for 6- and 12-month mortality will be presented as receiver operating curves with c statistics. Calibration curves will be presented comparing observed and predicted event rates for each decile of risk as well as flexible calibration curves derived using loess-based functions. DISCUSSION The model developed in this study aims to improve clinical assessment of mortality risk for people with dementia living in RACFs in Australia. Further external validation in different populations will be required before the model could be developed into a tool to assist with clinical decision-making in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Bicknell
- Department of Medicine and Aged Care, @AgeMelbourne, Melbourne Health–Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, 6 North Main Building, Royal Melbourne Hospital, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050 Australia
| | - Wen Kwang Lim
- Department of Medicine and Aged Care, @AgeMelbourne, Melbourne Health–Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, 6 North Main Building, Royal Melbourne Hospital, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050 Australia
| | - Andrea B. Maier
- Department of Medicine and Aged Care, @AgeMelbourne, Melbourne Health–Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, 6 North Main Building, Royal Melbourne Hospital, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050 Australia
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, @AgeAmsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dina LoGiuidice
- Department of Medicine and Aged Care, @AgeMelbourne, Melbourne Health–Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, 6 North Main Building, Royal Melbourne Hospital, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050 Australia
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Choi N, Garland A, Ramsey C, Steer J, Keller H, Heckman G, Vucea V, Bains I, Kroetsch B, Quail P, King S, Oshchepkova T, Kalashnikova T, Boscart V, Heyer M. Problems With Advance Care Planning Processes and Practices in Nursing Homes. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:2012-2013. [PMID: 32826160 PMCID: PMC7434431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2020.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nora Choi
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Clare Ramsey
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Ikdip Bains
- University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Seema King
- University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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25
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Poss J, McGrail K, McGregor MJ, Ronald LA. Long-Term Care Facility Ownership and Acute Hospital Service Use in British Columbia, Canada: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:1490-1496. [PMID: 32646822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2020.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies report higher hospitalization rates in for-profit compared with nonprofit long-term care facilities (LTCFs), but have not included staffing data, a major potential confounder. Our objective was to examine the effect of ownership on hospital admission rates, after adjusting for facility staffing levels and other facility and resident characteristics, in a large Canadian province (British Columbia). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Our cohort included individuals resident in a publicly funded LTCF in British Columbia at any time between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2016. MEASURES Health administrative data were extracted from multiple databases, including continuing care, hospital discharge, and Minimum Data Set (MDS 2.0) assessment records. Cox extended hazards regression was used to estimate hospitalization risk associated with facility- and resident-level factors. RESULTS The cohort included 49,799 residents in 304 LTCF facilities (116 publicly owned and operated, 99 for-profit, and 89 nonprofit) over the study period. Hospitalization risk was higher for residents in for-profit (adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR] 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-1.38) and nonprofit (adjHR 1.37; 95% CI 1.32-1.41) facilities compared with publicly owned and operated facilities, after adjustment for staffing, facility size, urban location, resident demographics, and case mix. Within subtypes, risk was highest in single-site facilities: for-profit (adjHR 1.42; 95% CI 1.36-1.48) and nonprofit (adjHR 1.38, 95% CI 1.33-1.44). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This is the first Canadian study using linked health data from hospital discharge records, MDS 2.0, facility staffing, and ownership records to examine the adjusted effect of facility ownership characteristics on hospital use of LTCF residents. We found significantly lower adjHRs for hospital admission in publicly owned facilities compared with both for-profit and nonprofit facilities. Our finding that publicly owned facilities have lower hospital admission rates compared with for-profit and nonprofit facilities can help inform decision-makers faced with the challenge of optimizing care models in both nursing homes and hospitals as they build capacity to care for aging populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Poss
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Kimberlyn McGrail
- Centre for Health Services and Policy Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margaret J McGregor
- Community Geriatrics, Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lisa A Ronald
- Community Geriatrics, Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Paramedics' Perspectives on the Hospital Transfers of Nursing Home Residents-A Qualitative Focus Group Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17113778. [PMID: 32466568 PMCID: PMC7312002 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions are common among nursing home residents (NHRs). Little is known about the perspectives of emergency medical services (EMS) which are responsible for hospital transports. The aim of this study was to explore paramedics’ experiences with transfers from nursing homes (NHs) and their ideas for possible interventions that can reduce transfers. We conducted three focus groups following a semi-structured question guide. The data were analyzed by content analysis using the software MAXQDA. In total, 18 paramedics (mean age: 33 years, male n = 14) participated in the study. Paramedics are faced with complex issues when transporting NHRs to hospital. They mainly reported on structural reasons (e.g., understaffing or lacking availability of physicians), which led to the initiation of an emergency call. Handovers were perceived as poorly organized because required transfer information (e.g., medication lists, advance directives (ADs)) were incomplete or nursing staff was insufficiently prepared. Hospital transfers were considered as (potentially) avoidable in case of urinary catheter complications, exsiccosis/infections and falls. Legal uncertainties among all involved professional groups (nurses, physicians, dispatchers, and paramedics) seemed to be a relevant trigger for hospital transfers. In paramedics’ point of view, emergency standards in NHs, trainings for nursing staff, the improvement of working conditions and legal conditions can reduce potentially avoidable hospital transfers from NHs.
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Omissions of Care in Nursing Home Settings: A Narrative Review. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:604-614.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2020.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Collingridge Moore D, Payne S, Keegan T, Deliens L, Smets T, Gambassi G, Kylänen M, Kijowska V, Onwuteaka-Philipsen B, Van den Block L. Associations between Length of Stay in Long Term Care Facilities and End of Life Care. Analysis of the PACE Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082742. [PMID: 32316148 PMCID: PMC7215712 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Long term care facilities (LTCFs) are increasingly a place of care at end of life in Europe. Longer residence in an LTCF prior to death has been associated with higher indicators of end of life care; however, the relationship has not been fully explored. The purpose of this analysis is to explore associations between length of stay and end of life care. The analysis used data collected in the Palliative Care for Older People in care and nursing homes in Europe (PACE) study, a cross-sectional mortality follow-back survey of LTCF residents who died within a retrospective 3-month period, conducted in Belgium, England, Finland, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland. Primary outcomes were quality of care in the last month of life, comfort in the last week of life, contact with health services in the last month of life, presence of advance directives and consensus in care. Longer lengths of stay were associated with higher scores of quality of care in the last month of life and comfort in the last week of life. Longer stay residents were more likely to have advance directives in place and have a lasting power of attorney for personal welfare. Further research is needed to explore the underlying reasons for this trend, and how good quality end of life care can be provided to all LTCF residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Collingridge Moore
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)15-2459-4457
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK;
| | - Thomas Keegan
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, UK;
| | - Luc Deliens
- VUB-UGhent End of Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.D.); (T.S.); (L.V.d.B.)
| | - Tinne Smets
- VUB-UGhent End of Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.D.); (T.S.); (L.V.d.B.)
| | - Giovanni Gambassi
- Department of Geriatrics and Orthopaedic Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marika Kylänen
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, (00)271 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Violetta Kijowska
- Unit for Research on Aging Society, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Bregje Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Lieve Van den Block
- VUB-UGhent End of Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.D.); (T.S.); (L.V.d.B.)
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Rausch C, Hoffmann F. Prescribing medications of questionable benefit prior to death: a retrospective study on older nursing home residents with and without dementia in Germany. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2020; 76:877-885. [PMID: 32219538 PMCID: PMC7239800 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-020-02859-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose We studied the prevalence of medications of questionable benefit in the last 6 months of life among older nursing home residents with and without dementia in Germany. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted on claims data from 67,328 deceased nursing home residents aged 65+ years who were admitted between 2010 and 2014. We analyzed prescription regimens of medications of questionable benefit in the 180–91-day period and the 90-day period prior to death for residents with dementia (n = 29,052) and without dementia (n = 38,276). Factors associated with new prescriptions of medications of questionable benefit prior to death were analyzed using logistic regression models among all nursing home residents and stratified by dementia. Results A higher proportion of nursing home residents with dementia were prescribed at least one medication of questionable benefit in the 180–91-day (29.6%) and 90-day (26.8%) periods prior to death, compared with residents without dementia (180–91 days, 22.8%; 90 days, 20.1%). Lipid-lowering agents were the most commonly prescribed medications. New prescriptions of medications of questionable benefit were more common among residents with dementia (9.8% vs. 8.7%). When excluding anti-dementia medication, new prescriptions of these medications were more common among residents without dementia (6.4% vs. 8.0%). The presence of dementia (odds ratio [OR] 1.40, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.32–1.48) and excessive polypharmacy were associated with new prescriptions of medications of questionable benefit prior to death (OR 4.74, 95%CI 4.15–5.42). Conclusion Even when accounting for anti-dementia prescriptions, the prevalence of nursing home residents with dementia receiving medications of questionable benefit is considerable and may require further attention. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00228-020-02859-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rausch
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstraße 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, FA10, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Widerströmska huset, Tomtebodavägen 18A, SE, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstraße 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
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Hoffmann F, Allers K. [Hospitalization of nursing home residents in the last phase of life: an analysis of health insurance data]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 54:247-254. [PMID: 32185465 PMCID: PMC8096747 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-020-01716-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hintergrund Im internationalen Vergleich versterben Pflegeheimbewohner in Deutschland häufig im Krankenhaus. Daten zu längeren Zeiträumen vor dem Tod und zu regionalen Unterschieden fehlen. Ziel der Arbeit Es werden Häufigkeiten von Krankenhausaufenthalten bei Pflegeheimbewohnern in verschiedenen Perioden vor dem Tod analysiert. Zudem werden Unterschiede nach Alter, Geschlecht, Pflegestufe, Demenz und Bundesländern untersucht. Material und Methoden Wir verwendeten Daten einer großen Krankenkasse und schlossen Pflegeheimbewohner im Mindestalter von 65 Jahren ein, die zwischen dem 01.01.2010 und dem 31. 12.2014 verstarben. Outcome war mindestens ein Krankenhausaufenthalt nach Heimeintritt in verschiedenen Phasen des letzten Lebensjahres. Vertiefende Analysen wurden für die Zeiträume 0 (entspricht Versterben im Krankenhaus), 28 und 365 Tage vor Tod durchgeführt. Ergebnisse Von den insgesamt 67.328 verstorbenen Bewohnern (mittleres Alter: 85,3 Jahre; 69,8 % weiblich), verstarben 29,5 % im Krankenhaus. In den letzten 28 bzw. 365 Tagen vor Tod hatten 51,5 % bzw. 74,3 % mindestens einen Krankenhausaufenthalt. Diese Werte waren in ostdeutschen Bundesländern höher. In allen Zeiträumen wurden Männer häufiger hospitalisiert. Bewohner mit höherer Pflegestufe wurden seltener stationär behandelt, besonders unmittelbar vor dem Tod. Demenz hatte keinen nennenswerten Einfluss auf die Hospitalisierungshäufigkeiten. Diskussion Etwa die Hälfte der Pflegeheimbewohner wird im letzten Lebensmonat stationär behandelt, und ein Drittel verstirbt im Krankenhaus, was, international betrachtet, hoch ist. Dass wir keine Unterschiede bei Bewohnern mit und ohne Demenz fanden, widerspricht ebenso internationalen Befunden. Somit besteht erheblicher Handlungsbedarf, die palliative Versorgung von Pflegeheimbewohnern zu optimieren.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Hoffmann
- Department für Versorgungsforschung, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Deutschland.
| | - Katharina Allers
- Department für Versorgungsforschung, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Deutschland
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Hoffmann F, Allers K. Ten-year trends in end-of-life hospitalizations of nursing home residents in Germany, 2006-2015. Maturitas 2020; 134:47-53. [PMID: 32143776 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated trends in end-of-life hospitalizations among nursing home residents (NHR) over 10 years and looked at differences between age groups and sexes as well as the length of terminal hospital stays. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study based on health insurance claims data of the AOK Bremen/Bremerhaven. All NHR aged 65 years or more who died between 2006 and 2015 were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We assessed the proportions of decedents who were in hospital on the day of death and during the last 3, 7, 14 and 30 days of life, stratified by two-year periods. Multiple logistic regressions were conducted to study changes over time, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS A total of 10,781 decedents were included (mean age 86.1 years, 72.1 % females). Overall, 29.2 % died in hospital, with a slight decrease from 30.3 % in 2006-2007 to 28.3 % in 2014-2015 (OR 0.86; 95 % CI 0.75-0.98). Of the 3150 terminal hospitalizations, 35.5 % lasted up to 3 days and the mean length of stay decreased from 9.0 (2006-2007) to 7.5 days (2014-2015). When looking at the last 7, 14 and 30 days of life, no changes over time were found. Male sex and younger age were associated with a higher chance of end-of-life hospitalization in almost all analyses. CONCLUSIONS End-of-life hospitalizations of NHR are common in Germany. There has been a small decrease during recent years in the proportion of in-hospital deaths, but not of hospitalizations during the last 7, 14 and 30 days of life. This might be explained by shorter durations of hospital stays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Hoffmann
- Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Department of Health Services Research, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Katharina Allers
- Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Department of Health Services Research, Oldenburg, Germany
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Fassmer AM, Pulst A, Spreckelsen O, Hoffmann F. Perspectives of general practitioners and nursing staff on acute hospital transfers of nursing home residents in Germany: results of two cross-sectional studies. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:29. [PMID: 32046652 PMCID: PMC7014634 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01108-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Visits in emergency departments and hospital admissions are common among nursing home (NH) residents and they are associated with significant complications. Many of these transfers are considered inappropriate. This study aimed to compare the perceptions of general practitioners (GPs) and NH staff on hospital transfers among residents and to illustrate measures for improvement. Methods Two cross-sectional studies were conducted as surveys among 1121 GPs in the German federal states Bremen and Lower Saxony and staff from 1069 NHs (preferably nursing staff managers) from all over Germany, each randomly selected. Questionnaires were sent in August 2018 and January 2019, respectively. The answers were compared between GPs and NH staff using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U tests and χ2-tests. Results We received 375 GP questionnaires (response: 34%) and 486 NH questionnaires (response: 45%). GPs estimated the proportion of inappropriate transfers higher than NH staff (hospital admissions: 35.0% vs. 25.6%, p < 0.0001; emergency department visits: 39.9% vs. 20.9%, p < 0.0001). The majority of NH staff and nearly half of the GPs agreed that NH residents do often not benefit from hospital admissions (NHs: 61.4% vs. GPs: 48.8%; p = 0.0009). Both groups rated almost all potential measures for improvement differently (p < 0.0001), however, GPs and NH staff considered most areas to reduce hospital transfers importantly. The two most important measures for GPs were more nursing staff (91.6%) and better communication between nursing staff and GP (90.9%). NH staff considered better care / availability of GP (82.8%) and medical specialists (81.3%) as most important. Both groups rated similarly the importance of explicit advance directives (GPs: 77.2%, NHs: 72.4%; p = 0.1492). Conclusions A substantial proportion of hospital transfers from NHs were considered inappropriate. Partly, the ratings of possible areas for improvement differed between GPs and NH staff indicating that both groups seem to pass the responsibility to each other. These findings, however, support the need for interprofessional collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Maximilian Fassmer
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, School VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Pulst
- Department of Health Services Research, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.,Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Ove Spreckelsen
- Division of General Practice, Department of Health Services Research, School VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Division of Outpatient Care and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Services Research, School VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Braggion M, Pellizzari M, Basso C, Girardi P, Zabeo V, Lamattina MR, Corti MC, Fedeli U. Overall mortality and causes of death in newly admitted nursing home residents. Aging Clin Exp Res 2020; 32:275-280. [PMID: 31894560 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-019-01441-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of a rapidly ageing population, there is a lack of population-based data on mortality among nursing home residents in Southern Europe. AIMS To assess mortality rates, their determinants, and causes of death in newly admitted nursing home residents in the Veneto region (northeastern Italy). METHODS 19,392 subjects aged ≥ 65 years admitted to regional nursing homes during 2015-2017 were recruited in a cohort mortality study based on linked health records. Risk factors for mortality were investigated by Cox regression. The distribution of causes of death was retrieved from death certificates. RESULTS Mortality peaked in the first 4 months after admission; thereafter the monthly mortality rate fluctuated around 3% in males and 2% in females. Overall mortality was 23% at 6 months and 34% at 1 year. In addition to age, gender, and dependency, main risk factors for mortality were recent hospitalization (first 4 months after entry into the facility), and the burden of comorbidities (subsequent follow-up period). The most represented causes of mortality were similar in the first and in the subsequent period after admission: cardio-cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, respiratory diseases, and infections. DISCUSSION The first months after admission represent a period at high risk of mortality, especially for patients with a recent hospitalization. Causes reported in death certificates suggest mainly an acute deterioration of pre-existing chronic conditions. CONCLUSION Health care plans should be personalized for newly admitted vulnerable patients. Palliative care needs should be recognized and addressed for high-risk non-cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Braggion
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Michele Pellizzari
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Paolo Girardi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valentina Zabeo
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Lamattina
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Corti
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Ugo Fedeli
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy.
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Strautmann A, Allers K, Fassmer AM, Hoffmann F. Nursing home staff's perspective on end-of-life care of German nursing home residents: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:2. [PMID: 31900141 PMCID: PMC6942381 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0512-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing homes are becoming more important for end-of-life care. Within the industrialised world, Germany is among the countries with the most end-of-life hospitalizations in nursing home residents. To improve end-of-life care, investigation in the status quo is required. The objective was to gain a better understanding of the perspectives of nursing home staff on the current situation of end-of-life care in Germany. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted as a postal survey among a random sample of 1069 German nursing homes in 2019. The survey was primarily addressed to nursing staff management. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Staff was asked to rate different items regarding common practices and potential deficits of end-of-life care on a 5-point-Likert-scale. Estimations of the proportions of in-hospital deaths, residents with advance directives (AD), cases in which documented ADs were ignored, and most important measures for improvement of end-of-life care were requested. RESULTS 486 (45.5%) questionnaires were returned, mostly by nursing staff managers (64.7%) and nursing home directors (29.9%). 64.4% of the respondents rated end-of-life care rather good, the remainder rated it as rather bad. The prevalence of in-hospital death was estimated by the respondents at 31.5% (SD: 19.9). Approximately a third suggested that residents receive hospital treatments too frequently. Respondents estimated that 45.9% (SD: 21.6) of the residents held ADs and that 28.4% (SD: 26.8) of available ADs are not being considered. Increased staffing, better qualification, closer involvement of general practitioners and better availability of palliative care concepts were the most important measures for improvement. CONCLUSIONS Together with higher staffing, better availability and integration of palliative care concepts may well improve end-of-life care. Prerequisite for stronger ties between nursing home and palliative care is high-quality education of those involved in end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Strautmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Department of Health Services Research, School VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 114-118, D-26129, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Katharina Allers
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Falk Hoffmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Abstract
BACKGROUND End-of-life hospitalizations in nursing home residents are common, although they are often burdensome and potentially avoidable. AIM We aimed to summarize the existing evidence on end-of-life hospitalizations in nursing home residents. DESIGN Systematic review (PROSPERO registration number CRD42017072276). DATA SOURCES A systematic literature search was carried out in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus (date of search 9 April 2019). Studies were included if they reported proportions of in-hospital deaths or hospitalizations of nursing home residents in the last month of life. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed the quality of studies. Median with interquartile range was used to summarize proportions. RESULTS A total of 35 studies were identified, more than half of which were from the United States (n = 18). While 29 studies reported in-hospital deaths, 12 studies examined hospitalizations during the last month of life. The proportion of in-hospital deaths varied markedly between 5.9% and 77.1%, with an overall median of 22.6% (interquartile range: 16.3%-29.5%). The proportion of residents being hospitalized during the last month of life ranged from 25.5% to 69.7%, and the median was 33.2% (interquartile range: 30.8%-38.4%). Most studies investigating the influence of age found that younger age was associated with a higher likelihood of end-of-life hospitalization. Four studies assessed trends over time, showing heterogeneous findings. CONCLUSION There is a wide variation in end-of-life hospitalizations, even between studies from the same country. Overall, such hospitalizations are common among nursing home residents, which indicates that interventions tailored to each specific health care system are needed to improve end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Allers
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Rieke Schnakenberg
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Achterberg WP, Everink IH, van der Steen JT, Gordon AL. We're all different and we're the same: the story of the European nursing home resident. Age Ageing 2019; 49:3-4. [PMID: 31838507 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afz145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wilco P Achterberg
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Irma H Everink
- Department of Health Services Research and Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jenny T van der Steen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Adam L Gordon
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Royal Derby Hospital; Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Derby, UK
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Reilev M, Lundby C, Jensen J, Larsen SP, Hoffmann H, Pottegård A. Morbidity and mortality among older people admitted to nursing home. Age Ageing 2019; 49:67-73. [PMID: 31763682 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afz136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND the increasing number of multimorbid older people places high demands on future health care systems. To inform the discussion on how to structure future care strategies, we aimed to describe the temporal relationship between admission, and morbidity and mortality in nursing home residents. METHODS data on 5,179 older individuals admitted to 94 Danish nursing homes in 12 municipalities during 2015-2017 were linked to the nationwide Danish health registries to retrieve information on the temporal relation between nursing home admission and morbidity and mortality. RESULTS at the time of nursing home admission, the majority were women (63%). Male residents were younger than women (median 82 vs 85 years) and had a higher prevalence of comorbidities (median Charlson score 2 vs 1 among women). The median survival after nursing home admission was 25.8 months, with the 3-year survival being 37%. Three-year survival was lower among men (29 vs 43% among women) and among the oldest residents (23% among those aged ≥90 years vs 64% among individuals ≤65 years). In addition to age and sex, predictors of mortality included hospitalisations prior to nursing home admission and a high burden of comorbidity. The rate of hospitalisations, primarily for reasons related to frailty, increased substantially during the 9 months prior to nursing home admission. CONCLUSION we provide detailed information on differences in morbidity and mortality across age span and sex at the time of nursing home admission, thereby contributing to the ongoing discussion of how to structure the future health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Reilev
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Carina Lundby
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Hospital Pharmacy Funen, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Anton Pottegård
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Hospital Pharmacy Funen, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Allers K, Fassmer AM, Spreckelsen O, Hoffmann F. End-of-life care of nursing home residents: A survey among general practitioners in northwestern Germany. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 20:25-30. [PMID: 31760683 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.13809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe general practitioners' (GPs) perspectives on end-of-life care of nursing home residents. METHODS We carried out a cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 1121 GPs in the German federal states of Bremen and Lower Saxony in 2018. Data were compared between GPs with a qualification in palliative medicine and those without such qualifications, and multivariable logistic regression was performed. RESULTS Overall, 375 questionnaires were returned (response rate 34%). The majority of GPs (71%) agreed that nursing home residents are treated too often in hospitals at the end of life, and more than half rated end-of-life care in nursing homes as "rather poor" (54%). For both questions, GPs with a qualification in palliative medicine showed higher agreements. In the multivariable analysis, a prior qualification in palliative medicine was also strongly associated with rating end-of-life care as "rather poor" (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.10-3.23). Respondents cited higher staffing ratios and better trained nursing staff as the most important measures to improve end-of-life care. Furthermore, it was estimated that just 37% of residents have an advance directive, with only one-third including valid information on end-of-life hospitalizations. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that GPs tend to be critical regarding end-of-life care in nursing homes. To improve end-of-life care, better training in palliative care for nursing staff and GPs might be warranted. In addition, advance care planning can help to ensure that residents' wishes are respected. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 25-30.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Allers
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Alexander M Fassmer
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Ove Spreckelsen
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Falk Hoffmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Hoffmann F, Strautmann A, Allers K. Hospitalization at the end of life among nursing home residents with dementia: a systematic review. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:77. [PMID: 31506100 PMCID: PMC6737675 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0462-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Half of nursing home residents (NHR) suffer from dementia. End-of-life hospitalizations are often burdensome in residents with dementia. A systematic review was conducted to study the occurrence of hospitalizations at the end of life in NHR with dementia and to compare these figures to NHR without dementia. Methods A systematic literature search in MEDLINE, CINAHL and Scopus was conducted in May 2018. Studies were included if they reported proportions of in-hospital deaths or hospitalizations of NHR with dementia in the last month of life. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed quality of studies. Results Nine hundred forty-five citations were retrieved; 13 studies were included. Overall, 7 studies reported data on in-hospital death with proportions ranging between 0% in Canada and 53.3% in the UK. Studies reporting on the last 30 days of life (n = 8) varied between 8.0% in the Netherlands and 51.3% in Germany. Two studies each assessed the influence of age and sex. There seem to be fewer end-of-life hospitalizations in older age groups. The influence of sex is inconclusive. All but one study found that at the end of life residents with dementia were hospitalized less often than those without (n = 6). Conclusions We found large variations in end-of-life hospitalizations of NHR with dementia, probably being explained by differences between countries. The influence of sex and age might differ when compared to residents without dementia. More studies should compare NHR with dementia to those without and assess the influence of sex and age. Trial registration PROSPERO registration number CRD42018104263.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Hoffmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Anke Strautmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Allers
- Department of Health Services Research, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 140, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
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Pulst A, Fassmer AM, Schmiemann G. Experiences and involvement of family members in transfer decisions from nursing home to hospital: a systematic review of qualitative research. BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:155. [PMID: 31164101 PMCID: PMC6549333 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-019-1170-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nursing home residents (NHR) are characterized by increasing frailty, multimorbidity and care dependency. These conditions result in frequent hospital transfers which can lead to negative effects on residents’ health status and are often avoidable. Reasons for emergency department (ED) visits or hospital admissions are complex. Prior research indicated factors influencing transfer decisions in view of nursing staff and general practitioners. The aim of this systematic review is to explore how family members experience and influence transfers from nursing home (NH) to hospital and how they are involved in the transfer decision. Methods A systematic literature search was performed in Medline via PubMed, Ebsco Scopus and CINAHL in May 2018. Studies were eligible if they contained information a) about the decision to transfer NHR to hospital and b) the experiences or influence of family members. The review followed Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) approach for qualitative systematic reviews. Screening, selection and quality appraisal of studies were performed independently by two reviewers. Synthesis of qualitative data was conducted through meta-aggregation. Results After screening of n = 2863 articles, in total n = 10 qualitative studies were included in the review. Results indicate that family members of NHR experience decision-making before hospitalization differently. They mainly reported NH-related, hospital-related, and family/resident-related factors influencing the transfer decision. The involvement of family members in the decision-making process varies - from no involvement to insistence on a decision in favor of their personal preferences. However, hospital transfer decisions and other treatment decisions (e.g. advance care planning (ACP) discussions) were commonly discussed with physicians and nurses. Conflicts between family members and healthcare providers mostly arose around the interpretation of resident’s best interest. In general, family members perceive discussions as challenging thus leading to emotional stress and discomfort. Conclusion The influence of NHR family members concerning hospital transfer decisions varies. Family members are an important link for communication between resident and medical staff and for communication between NH and hospital. Interventions aiming to reduce hospitalization rates have to take these findings into account. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12877-019-1170-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pulst
- Department of Health Services Research, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Grazer Str. 4, 28359, Bremen, Germany. .,Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Alexander Maximilian Fassmer
- Department of Health Services Research, School VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstraße 114-118, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Guido Schmiemann
- Department of Health Services Research, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Grazer Str. 4, 28359, Bremen, Germany.,Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, 28359, Bremen, Germany
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Hoffmann F, Allers K. Dying in hospital among nursing home residents with and without dementia in Germany. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2019; 82:293-298. [PMID: 30909116 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nursing home residents (NHR) often suffer from dementia. As end-of-life care of NHR with dementia and without might differ, our aim was to investigate patterns of in-hospital deaths in NHR with and without dementia. DESIGN Retrospective observational study. SETTING German nursing homes. PARTICIPANTS Deceased NHR. MEASUREMENTS Using data of a large German health insurance fund, we included NHR aged 65+ years who died between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2014. We assessed proportions of in-hospital deaths stratified by dementia status as well as by age, sex, level of care and length of stay. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to explore the association of these variables with in-hospital death. RESULTS Data on 67,328 decedents were included (mean age 85.3 years, 69.8% female), of whom 43.1% suffered from dementia. Overall, 29.5% died in hospital, with similar figures found for those with dementia (29.2%) and those without (29.8%). Differences between NHR with and without dementia were noticeable regarding age and length of stay. In those with dementia, the proportion of in-hospital deaths decreased linearly with age from 37.0%-20.2% (65-74 to 95+ years). These results are supported by the multivariate analyses. The terminal hospital stay was up to 3 days in 32.6%. This length did not differ by dementia status. CONCLUSIONS Germany has a high proportion of NHR in-hospital deaths. Surprisingly, we found no differences in these figures between NHR with and without dementia, although predictors for in-hospital death seem to differ between these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Hoffmann
- Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Department of Health Services Research, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Katharina Allers
- Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Department of Health Services Research, Oldenburg, Germany
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