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Munshi R, Turner K, Berrettini A, Weiss EM. Now what: navigating care of maternal/fetal dyads with bilateral renal agenesis after RAFT. A physician and parent point of view. Pediatr Nephrol 2024:10.1007/s00467-024-06460-z. [PMID: 39043966 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-024-06460-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Raj Munshi
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Seattle Children's and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Kirsten Turner
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Seattle Children's and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alfredo Berrettini
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elliott Mark Weiss
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics and Palliative Care, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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2
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House TR, Rosenberg AR, Zimmerman CT, Barton KS, Wightman A. Caregiver perspectives of dialysis initiation for children with kidney disease: a qualitative study. Pediatr Nephrol 2022; 37:2457-2469. [PMID: 35181825 PMCID: PMC10433404 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05472-x] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To better support family-centered care surrounding dialysis initiation, greater understanding of caregiver experience is necessary. METHODS Using thematic analysis, we conducted a secondary analysis of semi-structured interview data from a qualitative study of caregivers of children receiving dialysis recruited from 3 pediatric centers. Prominent themes in caregiver experience of caring for a child initiating dialysis were identified. RESULTS Thirty-five caregivers participated. Three major themes emerged from qualitative analysis: (1) parenting disrupted - caregivers experienced an acute disruption in their parenting role due to the unexpected, emergent circumstances and vast information accompanying their child's diagnosis; (2) redefining parenting - caregivers sought to reestablish their innate parental role and foster their evolving medical provider role through reassurance that their child could survive, communication with the medical team, and engaging in care plan development; and (3) leveraging dual identities - to positively impact their child's experience and enable flourishing, caregivers leveraged their established caregiver role and newly realized medical provider role through voicing their perspectives, watching over their child's care, and preparing for future changes in their child's health. If caregivers' evolution was not nurtured and enabled, acute fluctuations in their child's care could contribute to future disruption and need to restore their parental role. However, if caregiver development was fostered, caregivers acquired increased ability to prepare for vacillations in their child's care. CONCLUSIONS Improving delivery of family-centered care and support of caregivers at dialysis initiation will require directed efforts by nephrology care teams to foster caregiver evolution and resilience and respond to the family's changing experience of kidney disease. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor R House
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, 4800 Sandpoint Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, 4800 Sandpoint Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Cortney T Zimmerman
- Department of Pediatric Psychology, Texas Children's Hospital, 6701 Fannin Street 16th Floor, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Krysta S Barton
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1920 Terry Ave, M/S CURE-4, PO Box 5371, Seattle, WA, 98145, USA
| | - Aaron Wightman
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, 4800 Sandpoint Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
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3
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Prüfe J. Decision Making in the Context of Paediatric Solid Organ Transplantation Medicine. Transpl Int 2022; 35:10625. [PMID: 35911781 PMCID: PMC9329518 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2022.10625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript aims to outline ethical, legal, and psychosocial key situations in the context of transplantation under special consideration of children. Besides being particularly vulnerable, children as minors by law are not meant to consent to whatever medical procedure is applied to them. Rather their next-of-kin and medical staff are to decide. In the context of transplantation thus it needs to be reflected under which circumstances a child can become an organ donor or receive an organ. This essay will not provide answers to current questions in transplantation medicine but provide an overview of present European practices and juxtapose divergent courses of action which are based on an assumed similar social-cultural background. Data are drawn from a systematic comparison of the various national organ transplantation laws and tissue acts. Ethical reflections are based on a thematically targeted literature search using PubMed Central and PhilPapers databases.
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4
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Pais P, Wightman A. Addressing the Ethical Challenges of Providing Kidney Failure Care for Children: A Global Stance. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:842783. [PMID: 35359883 PMCID: PMC8963107 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.842783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with kidney failure require kidney replacement therapy (KRT), namely maintenance dialysis and kidney transplant. Adequate kidney failure care consists of KRT or conservative treatment with palliative care. In the context of kidney failure, children depend on parents who are their surrogate decision-makers, and the pediatric nephrology team for taking decisions about KRT or conservative care. In this paper, we discuss the ethical challenges that arise relating to such decision-making, from a global perspective, using the framework of pediatric bioethics. While many ethical dilemmas in the care of children with KRT are universal, the most significant ethical dilemma is the inequitable access to KRT in low & middle income countries (LMICs) where rates of morbidity and mortality depend on the family's ability to pay. Children with kidney failure in LMICs have inadequate access to maintenance dialysis, timely kidney transplant and palliative care compared to their counterparts in high income countries. Using case vignettes, we highlight how these disparities place severe burdens on caregivers, resulting in difficult decision-making, and lead to moral distress among pediatric nephrologists. We conclude with key action points to change this status-quo, the most important being advocacy by the global pediatric nephrology community for better access to affordable kidney failure care for children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Pais
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, St. John's Medical College, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Aaron Wightman
- Division of Bioethics and Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
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5
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Palliative care for children and young people with stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Pediatr Nephrol 2022; 37:105-112. [PMID: 33988731 PMCID: PMC8674156 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-021-05056-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Death from stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD 5) in childhood or adolescence is rare, but something that all paediatric renal physicians and most paediatricians will encounter. In this paper, we present the literature on three key areas of palliative care practice essential to good clinical management: shared decision-making, advance care planning, and symptom management, with particular reference to CKD 5 where kidney transplant is not an option and where a decision has been made to withdraw or withhold dialysis. Some areas of care, particularly with regard to symptom management, have not been well-studied in children and young people (CYP) with CKD 5 and recommendations with regard to drug choice and dose modification are based on adult literature, known pharmacokinetics, and clinical experience.
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6
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Boyer O, Schaefer F, Haffner D, Bockenhauer D, Hölttä T, Bérody S, Webb H, Heselden M, Lipska-Zie˛tkiewicz BS, Ozaltin F, Levtchenko E, Vivarelli M. Management of congenital nephrotic syndrome: consensus recommendations of the ERKNet-ESPN Working Group. Nat Rev Nephrol 2021; 17:277-289. [PMID: 33514942 PMCID: PMC8128706 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-020-00384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by nephrotic-range proteinuria, hypoalbuminaemia and oedema, which manifest in utero or during the first 3 months of life. The main cause of CNS is genetic defects in podocytes; however, it can also be caused, in rare cases, by congenital infections or maternal allo-immune disease. Management of CNS is very challenging because patients are prone to severe complications, such as haemodynamic compromise, infections, thromboses, impaired growth and kidney failure. In this consensus statement, experts from the European Reference Network for Kidney Diseases (ERKNet) and the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology (ESPN) summarize the current evidence and present recommendations for the management of CNS, including the use of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, diuretics, anticoagulation and infection prophylaxis. Therapeutic management should be adapted to the clinical severity of the condition with the aim of maintaining intravascular euvolaemia and adequate nutrition, while preventing complications and preserving central and peripheral vessels. We do not recommend performing routine early nephrectomies but suggest that they are considered in patients with severe complications despite optimal conservative treatment, and before transplantation in patients with persisting nephrotic syndrome and/or a WT1-dominant pathogenic variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Boyer
- grid.412134.10000 0004 0593 9113Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Reference center for Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children and Adults, Imagine Institute, Paris University, Necker Hospital, APHP, Paris, France ,grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602Laboratory of Hereditary Kidney Diseases, Imagine Institute, INSERM U1163, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Franz Schaefer
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dieter Haffner
- grid.10423.340000 0000 9529 9877Department of Pediatric Kidney, Liver and Metabolic Diseases, Children’s Hospital, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany ,grid.10423.340000 0000 9529 9877Center for Congenital Kidney Diseases, Center for Rare Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Detlef Bockenhauer
- grid.424537.30000 0004 5902 9895UCL Department of Renal Medicine and Renal Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tuula Hölttä
- grid.15485.3d0000 0000 9950 5666Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, The New Children’s Hospital, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sandra Bérody
- grid.412134.10000 0004 0593 9113Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Reference center for Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children and Adults, Imagine Institute, Paris University, Necker Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Hazel Webb
- grid.424537.30000 0004 5902 9895UCL Department of Renal Medicine and Renal Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Beata S. Lipska-Zie˛tkiewicz
- grid.11451.300000 0001 0531 3426Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland ,grid.11451.300000 0001 0531 3426Centre for Rare Diseases, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Fatih Ozaltin
- grid.14442.370000 0001 2342 7339Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Nephrogenetics Laboratory, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elena Levtchenko
- grid.5596.f0000 0001 0668 7884Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven; Department of Development & Regeneration, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marina Vivarelli
- grid.414125.70000 0001 0727 6809Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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7
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Cappi V, Riboni S, Grana M, Pierotti E, Ravelli A, Sutti S, Testa S, Spacci A, Artioli G, Sarli L, Pellegatta F. Health professionals' perception of appropriateness of care: a qualitative study in Italian pediatric hospices. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2020; 91:e2020013. [PMID: 33263346 PMCID: PMC8023111 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i12-s.10859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Appropriateness is particularly relevant in palliative care, an area in which it is essential to question the real need for treatments. Few studies explored the perception of appropriateness by professionals in pediatric palliative care, revealing the conflict sometimes faced when confronted with the uncertainty of prognosis and end-of-life decisions. Aims: The objective of this study is firstly to investigate the perception that doctors, nurses and psychologists, operating in Italian pediatric hospices, have of the appropriateness of the care they provide. Secondly, to understand what repercussions the perception of non-appropriateness has at individual and team level. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted between 2019 and 2020 through semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of 17 professionals working it Italian pediatric hospices. Results: The interviewees do not refer to a common concept of appropriateness, but compare the latter to: the quality of life, the global care of the assisted person, the proportionality of care, the early recognition of the need for palliative care. The discussion within the team emerges as a privileged place to manage the discomfort of individual professionals in the face of treatment choices in conflict with their own values. Conclusion: the non-referring to a univocal conception of appropriateness deprives professionals of an objective criterion to resolve the most difficult decisions. However, it allows them to establish what from time to time seems to be the most appropriate care pathway for a given patient, at a given time and context, preserving the goal of personalized care. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Serena Riboni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Marianna Grana
- Post-Graduate Specialization in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy for Health Professions, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Emanuela Pierotti
- Post-Graduate Specialization in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy for Health Professions, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Andrea Ravelli
- Post-Graduate Specialization in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy for Health Professions, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Stefania Sutti
- Post-Graduate Specialization in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy for Health Professions, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Sara Testa
- Post-Graduate Specialization in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy for Health Professions, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Alessio Spacci
- Casa Sollievo Bimbi, Pediatric Hospice, VIDAS Association, Milan.
| | | | - Leopoldo Sarli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
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8
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Wightman A. Caregiver burden in pediatric dialysis. Pediatr Nephrol 2020; 35:1575-1583. [PMID: 31435726 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-019-04332-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In spite of improvements in expected survival, neurodevelopmental outcome, and quality of life, decision-making in neonatal dialysis remains controversial in high-resource countries. In part, this may be based upon the significant burdens experienced by the child, and also those experienced by the parents as caregivers. Emerging research offers a clearer description of the burdens experienced by dialysis caregivers worldwide. Caregiver burden represents an important area for nephrologists to advocate for patients and their families; however, nephrologists must also recognize the realities caregivers currently experience. Incorporation of caregiver burden into medical decision-making for children with end-stage kidney disease is necessary, but raises several ethical concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Wightman
- Divisions of Nephrology, Bioethics and Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Division of Nephrology, Seattle Children's Hospital, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98115, USA. .,Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.
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9
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Sarfo-Walters C, Boateng EA. Perceptions of patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and their informal caregivers on palliative care as a treatment option: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:133. [PMID: 32819349 PMCID: PMC7441556 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00640-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative care is increasingly becoming an accepted treatment choice for many individuals diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Yet, its utilisation is non-existent in many lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study explored the perceptions of individuals with ESKD and their informal caregivers on palliative care as a treatment option for the disease in Ghana. Methods This was a phenomenological study, with an in-depth analysis of data collected from nine individuals with ESKD and six informal caregivers through individual, face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The study was conducted in two renal centres within the Kumasi metropolis, Ghana among individuals with ESKD seeking care from both renal centres and their informal caregivers. Results Three main themes were derived from this study – motivation for initiating haemodialysis, facing realities of haemodialysis, and considering palliative care. Participants felt that haemodialysis (HD) was not meeting their health expectations and demonstrated a general willingness to utilise palliative care if it would reduce suffering. Conclusions This study has shown that individuals with ESKD or their informal caregivers would consider palliative care services, if available. It paves the way for discussions about palliative care for ESKD to begin across renal centres within Ghana and other similar settings. Exploring perspectives of clinicians in such settings could inform strategies on how to implement palliative care for ESKD management in such settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edward Appiah Boateng
- Department of Nursing, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
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10
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Renal Replacement Therapy in children with severe developmental disability: guiding questions for decision-making. Eur J Pediatr 2018; 177:1735-1743. [PMID: 30194525 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-018-3238-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Whether to initiate or to withhold Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) in children with severe developmental disability (DD) remains a topic of intense debate. The present study investigated the opinion of professionals on this difficult issue and proposed a checklist with guiding questions for decision-making. Clinicians affiliated to different organizations involved in pediatric nephrology worldwide were invited to respond to a web-based survey. This survey focused on the collection of demographic data of the respondents together with their opinion concerning the decision-making regarding RRT in a particular case and for children with severe DD in general. A total of 286 professionals responded to the survey. Sixty-six percent supported initiating RRT in the child of the case report, with pre-emptive transplantation being the preferred modality. Important arguments pro RRT initiation in children with severe DD in general were parental preference, decrease of suffering, and improvement of survival and quality of life. Important contraindications included low IQ, severe comorbidities, and inability of the patient to take medication or for the family to provide sufficient care.Conclusion: The present study presents an inventory on the opinions of health care professionals involved in RRT in children regarding the treatment of children with DD and assists in the decision-making process by identifying important medical and psychosocial arguments for initiating or withholding RRT in severe DD patients. What is Known: •Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) in children with severe developmental disability (DD) is a topic of intense debate. •Previous studies on the opinion of professionals mainly focused on the use of IQ as an argument in the decision-making whether or not starting RRT. What is New: •The present study investigated the opinion of professionals with regard to considering initiation or withholding RRT in children with severe DD and identified medical and psychosocial arguments playing a role in the decision-making process. •Based on these arguments, a checklist with guiding questions for decision-making is proposed.
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11
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Mehler K, Gottschalk I, Burgmaier K, Volland R, Büscher AK, Feldkötter M, Keller T, Weber LT, Kribs A, Habbig S. Prenatal parental decision-making and postnatal outcome in renal oligohydramnios. Pediatr Nephrol 2018; 33:651-659. [PMID: 29075889 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-017-3812-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies on renal oligohydramnios (ROH) report highly variable outcome and identify early onset of ROH and presence of extrarenal manifestations as predictors of adverse outcome in most cases. Data on termination of pregnancy (TOP) and associated parental decision-making processes are mostly missing, but context-sensitive for the interpretation of these findings. We provide here a comprehensive analysis on the diagnosis, prenatal decision-making and postnatal clinical course in all pregnancies with ROH at our medical centre over an 8-year period. METHODS We report retrospective chart review data on 103 consecutive pregnancies from 2008 to 2015 with a median follow-up of 554 days. RESULTS After ROH diagnosis, 38 families opted for TOP. This decision was associated with onset of ROH (p < 0.001), underlying renal disease (p = 0.001) and presence of extrarenal manifestations (p = 0.02). Eight infants died in utero and 8 cases were lost to follow-up. Of the 49 liveborn children, 11 received palliative and 38 underwent active care. Overall survival of the latter group was 84.2% (n = 32) corresponding to 31% of all pregnancies (32 out of 103) analysed. One third of the surviving infants needed renal replacement therapy during the first 6 weeks of life. CONCLUSIONS Over one third of pregnancies with ROH were terminated and the parental decision was based on risk factors associated with adverse outcome. Neonatal death was rare in the actively treated infants and the overall outcome promising. Our study illustrates that only careful analysis of the whole process, from prenatal diagnosis via parental decision-making to postnatal outcome, allows sensible interpretation of outcome data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Mehler
- Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ingo Gottschalk
- Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kathrin Burgmaier
- Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ruth Volland
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Anja K Büscher
- Clinic for Pediatrics II, Pediatric Nephrology, University of Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Titus Keller
- Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lutz T Weber
- Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Angela Kribs
- Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sandra Habbig
- Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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12
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Causes of renal oligohydramnios: impact on prenatal counseling and postnatal outcome. Pediatr Nephrol 2018; 33:541-545. [PMID: 29128922 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-017-3833-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The presence of renal oligohydramnios (ROH) in a fetus has been associated in the past with a poor prognosis for survival, although recent studies have shown that survival has improved considerably due to the advances in neonatology and pediatric nephrology. In an article recently published in Pediatric Nephrology, evaluation of a large series by Mehler and colleagues confirms the improved prognosis, showing a survival rate of 32 of 38 (84%). In addition, only 12 of 35 (34%) neonates required renal replacement therapy. In five of these 12 children the dialysis could be terminated after the neonatal period. This study has important implications on the decision-making process and counseling of families. While 37% of families of the study opted for termination of pregnancies, palliative care was chosen by 8% of the families, representing an important option when a decision cannot be made rapidly by affected families. A multidisciplinary approach is not only necessary in the active treatment of neonates with a history of ROH but also in antenatal counseling. In this regard future efforts should establish consensus on an ethical framework for the decision-making process in ROH.
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13
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Thumfart J, Reindl T, Rheinlaender C, Müller D. Supportive palliative care should be integrated into routine care for paediatric patients with life-limiting kidney disease. Acta Paediatr 2018; 107:403-407. [PMID: 29220099 DOI: 10.1111/apa.14182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Paediatric palliative care is no longer restricted to patients with cancer and has been extended to patients with other chronic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or neuromuscular disorders. This review focused on the current state of palliative care for children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We assessed the literature on CKD published up to August 2017. All the papers, except one from 1996, were published this century. This review discusses the role that palliative care plays in the process of decision-making and explores the possibilities of implementing palliative care into the routine therapy of affected patients and providing support for their families. Offering early palliative care as an integral part of the kidney, supportive care provided by the nephrology care team is both necessary and feasible for patients with CKD. As a minimum, a specialised palliative care team should be involved in patients with multiple comorbidities, in conservative treatment scenarios and in acute life-threatening complications. Further studies and guidelines are required to improve the care of patients with CKD and their families. CONCLUSION Supportive palliative care should be implemented into the routine care of patients with life-limiting kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Thumfart
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - Tobias Reindl
- Department of Oncology and Hematology; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
- Palliative Care Team; Björn-Schulz-Stiftung; Berlin Germany
| | | | - Dominik Müller
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
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14
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Keefer P, Lehmann K, Shanley M, Woloszyk T, Khang E, Luckritz K, Saul D. Single-Center Experience Providing Palliative Care to Pediatric Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease. J Palliat Med 2017; 20:845-849. [PMID: 28481160 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2016.0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND End-stage renal disease (ESRD) affects nearly 1400 new children each year in the United States. Morbidity and mortality rates remain high for pediatric patients with ESRD, including those that have received a renal transplant. OBJECTIVE To better understand ESRD patients referred to palliative care, including their physical symptoms, topics discussed, and themes emerging during initial palliative care consultation. DESIGN/SUBJECTS This study is a retrospective chart review of pediatric ESRD patients who received a palliative care consult. Physical symptoms, core topics, and themes were identified by the interprofessional study team. RESULTS The study team found 35 patients met inclusion criteria during the study period. The most common standard palliative care metric noted was "complex or time-intensive communication and interdisciplinary social support." Pain was the most common physical symptom addressed with goals of care and communication the most common topics discussed. Themes emerging described the emotional distress of patients and parents as well as prognostic discussions. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates one institution's experience with pediatric ESRD patients undergoing consultation with the pediatric palliative care service. More research is necessary in this population to better describe the best focus for palliative care teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Keefer
- 1 Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan.,4 Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Katie Lehmann
- 2 Department of Social Work, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Tara Woloszyk
- 3 C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Erin Khang
- 2 Department of Social Work, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kera Luckritz
- 1 Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - D'Anna Saul
- 1 Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan.,4 Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
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15
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Wightman A. Management dilemmas in pediatric nephrology: time-limited trials of dialysis therapy. Pediatr Nephrol 2017; 32:615-620. [PMID: 27942955 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-016-3545-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Time-limited trials of dialysis have been proposed as a third option in addition to initiation of treatment and comfort-care only in the setting of high uncertainty or discordance between the treating team and child/family or among the treating team. CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT The index case was noted antenatally to have severe kidney disease and pulmonary hypoplasia. In light of the guarded, but uncertain prognosis and a lack of consensus among the treating team, as well as between the treating team and the family, a time-limited trial of dialysis was initiated. Six days later the child developed bacteremia due to infection of the dialysis catheter. The treating team felt this was a failure of the trial and that future dialysis should be withheld, the family disagreed. CONCLUSION A time-limited trial is a problematic option. Providers may be better suited by returning to the dichotomous choice of withholding or initiating treatment. KEY MANAGEMENT POINTS • Time-limited trials offer potential benefits in terms of alleviating the burden of decision-making in the setting of uncertainty, offering an opportunity to forecast a poor prognosis, help avoid interprofessional conflict, and providing support for patients, their families, and staff. • Time-limited trials have important limitations, including the use of time limits, difficulty in determining clear, meaningful endpoints, and different interpretations of a trial of therapy between parents and providers. • Decisions regarding the initiation, withholding, and withdrawal of dialysis should be made based on regular assessments of the benefits and burdens of the intervention for the child. • Pediatric nephrologists are better served to abandon the concept of time-limited trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Wightman
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
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16
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Wightman AG, Freeman MA. Update on Ethical Issues in Pediatric Dialysis: Has Pediatric Dialysis Become Morally Obligatory? Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2016; 11:1456-1462. [PMID: 27037272 PMCID: PMC4974893 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.12741215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Improvements in pediatric dialysis over the past 50 years have made the decision to proceed with dialysis straightforward for the majority of pediatric patients. For certain groups, however, such as children with multiple comorbid conditions, children and families with few social and economic resources, and neonates and infants, the decision of whether to proceed with dialysis remains much more controversial. In this review, we will examine the best available data regarding the outcomes of dialysis in these populations and analyze the important ethical considerations that should guide decisions regarding dialysis for these patients. We conclude that providers must continue to follow a nuanced and individualized approach in decision making for each child and to recognize that, regardless of the decision reached about dialysis, there is a continued duty to care for patients and families to maximize the remaining quality of their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron G Wightman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington; and
| | - Michael A Freeman
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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17
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Danford DA, Karels Q, Kutty S. Variabilities in the mortality-related resource utilisation for congenital heart disease. Open Heart 2016; 3:e000415. [PMID: 27175289 PMCID: PMC4860856 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2016-000415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Our objective was to characterise the divergence of effort from outcome in congenital heart disease (CHD) care by measuring mortality-related resource utilisation fraction (MRRUF) for various CHD lesions across institutions of differing volumes. Methods Study design was observational analysis of an administrative database, the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS). The setting was inpatient; 2004–2013. Patients were ≤21 years old with atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) or other single ventricle (SV). There were no interventions but diagnosis, institution (and volume), age, length of hospitalisation, billed charges and deaths were recorded. The main outcome measure was MRRUF, the ratio of investments during hospitalisations ending in fatality to investments during all hospitalisations. Results There were 50 939 admissions, 1711 deaths, 703 383 inpatient days, and $10 182 000 000 billed charges. MRRUF varied widely by diagnosis: highest in HLHS (21%), but present in ASD (2%) and VSD (4%). Highest among the very young, MRRUF also increased in HLHS and SV during adolescence. MRRUF increased with hospitalisation duration. MRRUF had no relation to institutional volume, and was static over the decade studied. Conclusions Even in the modern era we invest heavily in inpatient CHD care that does not produce the desired outcome. Although its magnitude varies by lesion and age, MRRUF is not limited to complex disease in the very young. MRRUF is not decreasing, and is not isolated to high or low volume institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Danford
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Children's Hospital and Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska , USA
| | - Quentin Karels
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Children's Hospital and Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska , USA
| | - Shelby Kutty
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Children's Hospital and Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska , USA
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18
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Forbat L, Sayer C, McNamee P, Menson E, Barclay S. Conflict in a paediatric hospital: a prospective mixed-method study. Arch Dis Child 2015; 101:23-7. [PMID: 26553912 PMCID: PMC4770249 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2015-308814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflict in healthcare is a well-recognised but under-examined phenomenon. Little is known about the prevalence and causes of conflict across paediatric specialties. OBJECTIVE To report the frequency and characteristics of conflict in a paediatric hospital. DESIGN AND SETTING An explanatory sequential mixed-method approach was adopted. A bespoke questionnaire recorded frequency, severity, cause and staff involved in conflict prospectively. Data were recorded for the same two 12-week periods in 2013 and 2014, in one UK children's teaching hospital. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlation, the findings of which informed the construction of a semistructured interview schedule. Qualitative interviews were conducted with six key informant healthcare professionals to aid data interpretation; interviews were analysed thematically. RESULTS 136 individual episodes of conflict were reported. The three most common causes were 'communication breakdown', 'disagreements about treatment' and 'unrealistic expectations'. Over 448 h of healthcare professional time was taken up by these conflicts; most often staff nurses, consultants, doctors in training and matrons. The mean severity rating was 4.9 out of 10. Qualitative interviews revealed consensus regarding whether conflicts were ranked as low, medium or high severity, and explanations regarding why neurology recorded the highest number of conflicts in the observed period. CONCLUSIONS Conflict is prevalent across paediatric specialties, and particularly in neurology, general paediatrics and neonatology. Considerable staff time is taken in managing conflict, indicating a need to focus resources on supporting staff to resolve conflict, notably managing communication breakdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Forbat
- School of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University and Calvary Health Care, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | | | - Phillip McNamee
- School of Health Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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