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Lojo-Cruz C, Mora-Delgado J, Rivas Jiménez V, Carmona Espinazo F, López-Sáez JB. Survival Outcomes in Palliative Sedation Based on Referring Versus On-Call Physician Prescription. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5187. [PMID: 37629229 PMCID: PMC10455353 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165187] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This study sought to determine the survival duration of patients who underwent palliative sedation, comparing those who received prescriptions from referring physicians versus on-call physicians. It included all patients over 18 years old who died in the Palliative Care, Internal Medicine, and Oncology units at the Hospital Universitario of Jerez de la Frontera between 1 January 2019, and 31 December 2019. Various factors were analyzed, including age, gender, oncological or non-oncological disease, type of primary tumor and refractory symptoms. Statistical analysis was employed to compare survival times between patients who received palliative sedation from referring physicians and those prescribed by on-call physicians, while accounting for other potential confounding variables. This study revealed that the median survival time after the initiation of palliative sedation was 25 h, with an interquartile range of 8 to 48 h. Notably, if the sedation was prescribed by referring physicians, the median survival time was 30 h, while it decreased to 17 h when prescribed by on-call physicians (RR 0.357; 95% CI 0.146-0.873; p = 0.024). Furthermore, dyspnea as a refractory symptom was associated with a shorter survival time (RR 0.307; 95% CI 0.095-0.985; p = 0.047). The findings suggest that the on-call physician often administered palliative sedation to rapidly deteriorating patients, particularly those experiencing dyspnea, which likely contributed to the shorter survival time following sedation initiation. This study underscores the importance of careful patient selection and prompt initiation of palliative sedation to alleviate suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Lojo-Cruz
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Juan Mora-Delgado
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Víctor Rivas Jiménez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Fernando Carmona Espinazo
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerta del Mar, Avenida Ana de Viya 21, 11009 Cádiz, Spain;
| | - Juan-Bosco López-Sáez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerto Real, Calle Romería 7, 11510 Puerto Real, Spain;
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Lee SH, Kwon JH, Won YW, Kang JH. Palliative Sedation in End-of-Life Patients in Eastern Asia: A Narrative Review. Cancer Res Treat 2022; 54:644-650. [PMID: 35436813 PMCID: PMC9296933 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2022.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although palliative sedation (PS) is a common practice in the palliative care of cancer patients in Western countries, there is little related research on the practice in Korea. PS can be classified into several categories according to sedation level and continuity. PS is clearly distinct from euthanasia. While euthanasia is illegal and regarded as unethical in Korea, there is little ethical and legal controversy about PS in terms of the doctrine of double effect. Most studies have asserted that PS does not shorten the survival of terminal cancer patients. Since preference for PS heavily depends on stakeholder value, it should be preceded by shared decision-making through full communication among the patient, family members, and medical team. This is a narrative review article analyzing previous studies, especially from the three Eastern Asian countries, Korea, Japan and Taiwan, which share similar cultures compared with Western countries. Practical issues concerning PS—for example, prevalence, type and dosage of medications, salvage medication, timing of its initiation, and assessment—are described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hun Lee
- Department of Family Medicine, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Jung Hye Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Sejong, Korea
| | - Young-Woong Won
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
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3
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Family experience of palliative sedation therapy: proportional vs. continuous deep sedation. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:3903-3915. [PMID: 35039967 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06745-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Some patients experience intense symptoms refractory to intensive palliative care, and palliative sedation is sometimes used. Palliative sedation may be classified into proportional and continuous deep sedation (CDS). The primary aim of this study was to compare family experience between families of patients who received proportional or CDS. METHODS A multicenter questionnaire survey was conducted involving bereaved families of cancer patients who received proportional or CDS based on a sedation protocol. Overall evaluation of sedation (satisfaction, family-perceived distress, appropriateness of timing, and patient distress) and 13-item family concerns, good death, satisfaction with care, depression, quality of care, unfinished business, and balance between symptom relief and maintaining communication were measured. RESULTS Among the 2120 patients who died, 222 patients received a continuous infusion of midazolam. A sedation protocol was used in 147 patients, and questionnaires were sent to 124 families. A total of 78 responses were finally returned (proportional, 58 vs. CDS, 20). There were no significant differences in the overall evaluation, family concerns, total score of good death, satisfaction, depression, or balance between symptom relief and maintaining communication. On the other hand, some quality of care items, i.e., relationship with medical staff (P < 0.01), physical care by nurses (P = 0.04), and coordination and consistency (P = 0.04), were significantly better in the CDS group than in the proportional sedation group. Family-reported unfinished business was also better in the CDS group, with marginal significance. CONCLUSIONS Family experience of CDS was not less favorable than proportional sedation, and actually rated more favorably for some elements of quality of care and unfinished business.
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Belar A, Arantzamendi M, Menten J, Payne S, Hasselaar J, Centeno C. The Decision-Making Process for Palliative Sedation for Patients with Advanced Cancer-Analysis from a Systematic Review of Prospective Studies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:301. [PMID: 35053464 PMCID: PMC8773810 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The involvement of patients in decision making about their healthcare plans is being emphasized. In the context of palliative sedation, it is unclear how these decisions are made and who are involved in. The aim of the study is to understand how this decision-making is taken. METHOD Information from a systematic review on clinical aspects of palliative sedation prospective studies were included. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, MEDLINE, and EMBASE were searched (January 2014-December 2019). Data extraction and analysis regarded: (a) When and by whom the decision-making process is initiated; (b) patient involvement; (c) family involvement and (d) healthcare involvement. RESULTS Data about decision making were reported in 8/10 included articles. Palliative sedation was reported in 1137 patients (only 16 of them were non-cancer). Palliative sedation was introduced by the palliative care team during the disease process, at admission, or when patients experienced refractory symptoms. Only two studies explicitly mentioned the involvement of patients in decision making. Co-decision between families and the regular health care professionals was usual, and the health care professionals involved had been working in palliative care services. CONCLUSION Patient participation in decision making appeared to be compromised by limited physical or cognitive capacity and family participation is described. The possibility of palliative sedation should be discussed earlier in the disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alazne Belar
- Institute for Culture and Society-Atlantes, Universidad de Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Spain; (A.B.); (C.C.)
- IdiSNA—Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Arantzamendi
- Institute for Culture and Society-Atlantes, Universidad de Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Spain; (A.B.); (C.C.)
- IdiSNA—Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Johan Menten
- Department of Oncology, Laboratory of Experimental Radiotherapy, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Sheila Payne
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK;
| | - Jeroen Hasselaar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Carlos Centeno
- Institute for Culture and Society-Atlantes, Universidad de Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Spain; (A.B.); (C.C.)
- IdiSNA—Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Departamento Medicina Paliativa, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31001 Pamplona, Spain
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5
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Nishioka M, Okuyama T, Uchida M, Aiki S, Ito Y, Osaga S, Imai F, Akechi T. What is the appropriate communication style for family members confronting difficult surrogate decision-making in palliative care?: A randomized video vignette study in medical staff with working experiences of clinical oncology. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2019; 49:48-56. [PMID: 30508206 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyy178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The family members of terminally ill patients are often requested to make difficult surrogate decisions during palliative care. This study sought to clarify the appropriate communication style for physicians as perceived by family members confronting difficult surrogate decision-making. Methods This experimental psychological study used scripted videos. In the videos, the physician described treatment options including continuous deep sedation to the family members of patients with cancer and terminal delirium using an autonomous or paternalistic style. Medical professionals with clinical experience in oncology were randomly assigned to either group viewing the videos. The primary outcomes were physician compassion, decisional conflict and emotion scores. We also evaluated the communication style preference. Results In total, 251 participants completed this study. Although participants in both groups reported high physician compassion, participants in the autonomous style group reported lower compassion scores (reflecting higher physician compassion) (mean 15.0 vs. 17.3, P = 0.050), lower decisional conflicts scores (51.1 vs. 56.8, P = 0.002) and comparable emotions compared with those in the paternalistic style group. Seventy-six percent of participants preferred the autonomous style. Conclusions Regarding difficult surrogate decision-making, the autonomous style might be more appropriate than the paternalistic style. However, various factors, such as family members' communication style preferences, family members' values, physician-family relationships and ethnic cultures, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Nishioka
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Toru Okuyama
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Megumi Uchida
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Sayo Aiki
- Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Department of Palliative Care, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14, Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Palliative Medicine, Higashi-Osaka Hospital, Chuo, Joto-ku, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ito
- Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Satoshi Osaga
- Clinical Research Management Center, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Fuminobu Imai
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Akechi
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.,Division of Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Nagoya City University Hospital, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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6
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Hamano J, Morita T, Mori M, Uchitomi Y. Talking About Palliative Sedation With the Family: Informed Consent vs. Assent and a Better Framework for Explaining Potential Risks. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:e5-e8. [PMID: 29772282 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Hamano
- Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Kita-ku, Hamamtsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Palliative Care Team, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Kita-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Yosuke Uchitomi
- Innovation Center for Supportive, Palliative and Psychosocial Care, Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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7
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Masman AD, van Dijk M, van Rosmalen J, Blussé van Oud-Alblas HJ, Ista E, Baar FPM, Tibboel D. Bispectral Index Monitoring in Terminally Ill Patients: A Validation Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 52:212-220.e3. [PMID: 27220943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2016.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT If regular therapies cannot relieve symptoms sufficiently in the last days of life, continuous palliative sedation may serve to reduce consciousness. Sedation level can be measured with EEG monitoring with the bispectral index (BIS) monitor. OBJECTIVES To determine the feasibility and validity of BIS monitoring in terminally ill patients. METHODS In this prospective study, BIS registrations were performed in unconscious end-of-life patients admitted to a palliative care center. Validated scores were used to measure level of sedation (Ramsay score), pain (Numeric Rating Scale or Rotterdam Elderly Pain Observations Scale), delirium (Delirium Observation Screening score), and overall comfort (Numeric Rating Scale). Validity and sensitivity to change of BIS values were considered, and the effects of medication and the time till death on BIS values were evaluated in a linear mixed model analysis. RESULTS Fifty-eight patients were included for analysis. BIS monitoring was acceptable to patients, relatives, and medical staff. BIS values were moderately correlated with Ramsay scores (0.46) but were highly variable for deeply sedated patients. BIS values changed significantly before and after a midazolam dose (P < 0.001). Midazolam treatment resulted on average in a statistically significant reduction of the BIS values (-4.5, 95% CI -7.0 to -2.0), whereas morphine and haloperidol did not. CONCLUSION This is one of the first validation studies in which BIS monitoring in end-of-life patients is described. BIS monitoring is feasible in unconscious terminally ill patients. However, based on our results, the wide range of BIS values in deeply sedated and comfortable patients seems to hamper its use in daily clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anniek D Masman
- Pain Expertise Centre, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Intensive Care, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Palliative Care Centre, Laurens Cadenza, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Monique van Dijk
- Pain Expertise Centre, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Intensive Care, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Erwin Ista
- Intensive Care, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frans P M Baar
- Pain Expertise Centre, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Palliative Care Centre, Laurens Cadenza, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Tibboel
- Pain Expertise Centre, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Intensive Care, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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8
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No Negative Impact of Palliative Sedation on Relatives' Experience of the Dying Phase and Their Wellbeing after the Patient's Death: An Observational Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149250. [PMID: 26871717 PMCID: PMC4752210 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative sedation is the widely-used intervention of administering sedating agents to induce a state of unconsciousness to take away a dying patient’s perception of otherwise irrelievable symptoms. However, it remains questionable whether this ethically complex intervention is beneficial for patients and whether the associated lack of communication in the last phase of life has a negative impact on relatives’ wellbeing. Methods An observational questionnaire study was conducted among relatives of a consecutive sample of patients who died a non-sudden death in the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute or in the hospice ‘Laurens Cadenza’ (both in Rotterdam) between 2010 and 2013. Results Relatives filled in questionnaires regarding 151 patients who had been sedated and 90 patients who had not been sedated. The median time since all patients had passed away was 21 (IQR 14–32) months. No significant differences were found in relatives´ assessments of the quality of end-of-life care, patients´ quality of life in the last week before death and their quality of dying, between patients who did and did not receive sedation, or in relatives’ satisfaction with their own life, their general health and their mental wellbeing after the patient’s death. Conclusions The use of sedation in these patients appears to have no negative effect on bereaved relatives’ evaluation of the patient’s dying phase, or on their own wellbeing after the patient’s death.
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9
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O’Hara C, Tamburro RF, Ceneviva GD. Dexmedetomidine for Sedation during Withdrawal of Support. Palliat Care 2015; 9:15-8. [PMID: 26339188 PMCID: PMC4551302 DOI: 10.4137/pcrt.s27954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Agents used to control end-of-life suffering are associated with troublesome side effects. The use of dexmedetomidine for sedation during withdrawal of support in pediatrics is not yet described. An adolescent female with progressive and irreversible pulmonary deterioration was admitted. Despite weeks of therapy, she did not tolerate weaning of supplemental oxygen or continuous bilevel positive airway pressure. Given her condition and the perception that she was suffering, the family requested withdrawal of support. Despite opioids and benzodiazepines, she appeared to be uncomfortable after support was withdrawn. Ketamine was initiated. Relief from ketamine was brief, and its use was associated with a "wide-eyed" look that was distressing to the family. Ketamine was discontinued and a dexmedetomidine infusion was initiated. The patient's level of comfort improved greatly. The child died peacefully 24 hours after initiating dexmedetomidine from her underlying disease rather than the effects of the sedative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris O’Hara
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Robert F Tamburro
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Gary D Ceneviva
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Hershey, PA, USA
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10
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Song HN, Lee US, Lee GW, Hwang IG, Kang JH, Eduardo B. Long-Term Intermittent Palliative Sedation for Refractory Symptoms at the End of Life in Two Cancer Patients. J Palliat Med 2015; 18:807-10. [PMID: 26244836 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2014.0357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation (PS) can be classified as either continuous or intermittent. Continuous PS is most commonly used in end-of-life care, while no specific indication for intermittent PS exists. CASE PRESENTATION Here we describe two cases of refractory severe cancer pain with psychological anguish that were controlled successfully by intermittent IPS for the long time. One patient complained of refractory severe cancer pain and insomnia. The other patient had uncontrollable pain and delirium, whose sufferings were relieved by intermittent PS. Case Management and Outcome: Intermittent PS was offered to the cases every night-time with family member/patient's consent. After providing intermittent PS, cancer pain decreased to mild intensity and psychological symptoms were significant improved simultaneously with patients awake during day time. CONCLUSIONS Palliative PS may stop vicious cycle of physical and psychological distress in terminal cancer patients. Furthermore, intermittent type of PS could keep patients consciousness alert during day time and may be performed repeatedly for the long time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haa-Na Song
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University , Jinju, Korea.,4 Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine , Seoul, South Korea
| | - Un Seok Lee
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University , Jinju, Korea
| | - Gyeong-Won Lee
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University , Jinju, Korea
| | - In Gyu Hwang
- 2 Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University , Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University , Jinju, Korea
| | - Bruera Eduardo
- 3 Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston, Texas
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11
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van Tol DG, Kouwenhoven P, van der Vegt B, Weyers H. Dutch physicians on the role of the family in continuous sedation. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2015; 41:240-244. [PMID: 24595486 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2013-101624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In order to relieve intractable suffering of a terminal patient, doctors may decide to continuously sedate a patient until the end of life. Little research is done on the role the family plays during the process of continuous sedation. This study aims to get a view of doctors' experiences with continuous sedation, and the role of the family throughout that process. We held in-depth interviews with 48 doctors (19 general practitioners, 16 nursing home doctors and 18 medical specialists). Participants were selected varying in experience and opinions concerning end-of-life decisions. Dutch physicians experience the role of family in continuous sedation as important and potentially difficult. Difficulties may rise especially during the final stages when the patient is no longer conscious and family members are waiting for death to come. Disagreement may arise between physician and family, concerning the dignity of the dying process or the question whether the sedated patient is suffering or not. Some physicians report they hastened the dying process, in order to relieve the families' suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G van Tol
- Department of General Practice, University Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bea van der Vegt
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Heleen Weyers
- Deparment of Legal Theory, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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12
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Swart SJ, van der Heide A, van Zuylen L, Perez RSGM, Zuurmond WWA, van der Maas PJ, van Delden JJM, Rietjens JAC. Continuous palliative sedation: not only a response to physical suffering. J Palliat Med 2014; 17:27-36. [PMID: 24410419 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2013.0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation is a medical intervention aimed at relieving symptoms that can no longer be controlled by conventional treatment. Ample knowledge is available regarding the nature of such symptoms, but there is no in-depth information regarding how health care workers decide about palliative sedation. OBJECTIVE The study objective was to investigate considerations concerning the indications for continuous palliative sedation (CPS) and issues that influence these considerations. DESIGN The study consisted of qualitative interviews regarding patients who had recently received CPS. SETTING/SUBJECTS The study involved physicians and nurses working in general practice, nursing homes, and hospitals. MEASUREMENT Analyses by a multidisciplinary research team used the constant comparative method. RESULTS Together with physical symptoms, psychological and existential suffering may combine to produce a refractory state for which other treatment options than CPS were not available or considered inappropriate. A limited life expectancy was by many considered crucial (e.g., to avoid hastening death) and by some less important (e.g., because the patient's suffering was considered to be key). Issues influencing the decision to use CPS related to patient preferences (e.g., dignity, not wanting to experience further suffering) or family issues (impact of suffering on family, family requesting CPS). CONCLUSIONS The indication for CPS typically originates from physical symptoms and nonphysical problems producing a refractory state in which a patient suffers unbearably. In such states, preferences of patients and families and the life expectancy criterion are weighed against the severity of refractory symptoms. Therefore the use of CPS is not only a response to the physical suffering of patients in the dying phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siebe J Swart
- 1 Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Centre , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Bush SH, Leonard MM, Agar M, Spiller JA, Hosie A, Wright DK, Meagher DJ, Currow DC, Bruera E, Lawlor PG. End-of-life delirium: issues regarding recognition, optimal management, and the role of sedation in the dying phase. J Pain Symptom Manage 2014; 48:215-30. [PMID: 24879997 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2014] [Revised: 05/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT In end-of-life care, delirium is often not recognized and poses unique management challenges, especially in the case of refractory delirium in the terminal phase. OBJECTIVES To review delirium in the terminal phase context, specifically in relation to recognition issues; the decision-making processes and management strategies regarding its reversibility; the potential refractoriness of delirium to symptomatic treatment; and the role of sedation in refractory delirium. METHODS We combined multidisciplinary input from delirium researchers and knowledge users at an international delirium study planning meeting and relevant electronic database literature searches (Ovid Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) to inform this narrative review. RESULTS The overall management strategy for delirium at the end of life is directed by the patient's prognosis in association with the patient's goals of care. As symptoms of delirium are often refractory in the terminal phase, especially in the case of agitated delirium, the judicious use of palliative sedation is frequently required. However, there remains a lack of high-level evidence for the management of delirium in the terminal phase, including the role of antipsychotics and optimal sedation strategies. For the family and health-care staff, clear communication, education, and emotional support are vital components to assist with decision making and direct the treatment care plan. CONCLUSION Further research on the effectiveness of delirium management strategies in the terminal phase for patients and their families is required. Further validation of assessment tools for diagnostic screening and severity measurement is needed in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley H Bush
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Maeve M Leonard
- Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Meera Agar
- Discipline, Palliative & Supportive Services, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; South West Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Palliative Care, Braeside Hospital, HammondCare, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Juliet A Spiller
- Palliative Medicine, Marie Curie Hospice, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Annmarie Hosie
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Notre Dame, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - David J Meagher
- Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - David C Currow
- Discipline, Palliative & Supportive Services, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Peter G Lawlor
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Palliative sedation (PS) is a treatment option in case of refractory symptoms at the end of life. The emotional impact on nurses and doctors has been widely studied. We explore the experience of family members during a PS procedure. Method: An anonymous questionnaire was sent to the closest family members (n = 17) of patients who died while receiving palliative sedation. Results: The response rate was 59% (10 of 17). Nine relatives were sufficiently informed about PS. In all, 70% evaluated the chosen moment for initiation of PS as adequate. All the relatives noticed a significant improvement in the refractory symptom with a mean reduction in the estimated suffering of 6.25 points on a visual analog scale. Conclusions: Palliative sedation should be performed in the best possible way for the patient and his family in order to efficiently reduce a refractory symptom.
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Bruinsma SM, Rietjens JAC, Seymour JE, Anquinet L, van der Heide A. The experiences of relatives with the practice of palliative sedation: a systematic review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2012; 44:431-45. [PMID: 22658470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2011] [Revised: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Guidelines about palliative sedation typically include recommendations to protect the well-being of relatives. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to systematically review evidence on the experiences of relatives with the practice of palliative sedation. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were searched for empirical studies on relatives' experiences with palliative sedation. We investigated relatives' involvement in the decision-making and sedation processes, whether they received adequate information and support, and relatives' emotions. RESULTS Of the 564 studies identified, 39 were included. The studies (30 quantitative, six qualitative, and three mixed methods) were conducted in 16 countries; three studies were based on relatives' reports, 26 on physicians' and nurses' proxy reports, seven on medical records, and three combined different sources. The 39 studies yielded a combined total of 8791 respondents or studied cases. Caregivers involved relatives in the decision making in 69%-100% of all cases (19 quantitative studies), and in 60%-100% of all cases, relatives were reported to have received adequate information (five quantitative studies). Only two quantitative studies reported on relatives' involvement in the provision of sedation. Despite the fact that the majority of relatives were reported to be comfortable with the use of palliative sedation (seven quantitative studies, four qualitative studies), several studies found that relatives were distressed by the use of sedation (five quantitative studies, five qualitative studies). No studies reported specifically about the support provided to the relatives. CONCLUSION Relatives' experiences with palliative sedation are mainly studied from the perspective of proxies, mostly professional caregivers. The majority of relatives seems to be comfortable with the use of palliative sedation; however, they may experience substantial distress by the use of sedation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie M Bruinsma
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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16
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Abstract
Proper critical care training and management rests on 3 pillars-evidence-based patient care, proficient procedural skills, and compassionate end-of-life (EOL) management. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide a practical guide to EOL management for all bedside practitioners. The manuscript outlines not all but some fundamentally important ethical concepts and provides helpful rules and steps on end-of-life management based on my own personal experience and practice. Moreover, nowhere in the rigorous training of critical care or hospitalist physicians do we teach the procedure for removal of life-sustaining measures. Like any other procedure in medicine, it requires preparation, implementation and conclusion, as well as supervision and repetition to become proficient. Therefore, at the conclusion of this paper, an attempt is made to correct this lack of training by providing such outline and a guide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene M Spinello
- Kern Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Bakersfield, CA, USA.
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Sedierung in der Palliativmedizin*: Leitlinie für den Einsatz sedierender Maßnahmen in der Palliativversorgung. Schmerz 2010; 24:342-54. [DOI: 10.1007/s00482-010-0948-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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A cross-cultural comparison of hospice development in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2010; 25:1-19. [PMID: 20054707 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-009-9108-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
By 2050, one out of four people in Eastern Asia will be aged 65 and above. Thus, preparing to care for an older population is imperative. Addressing quality care for elders includes consideration of palliative and end-of-life care. A comparative study of the development of hospice and palliative care services in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, is presented, based on an extensive literature review. Both commonalities and differences were found. This article provides information on the origins and administration of hospice services in these three cases, as well as the degree of government involvement. Cultural and religious aspects are also considered, and obstacles to the spread of hospice services are discussed. This review compares experiences with hospice services and identifies factors that influence people's perceptions and adoption of hospice. Stronger financial support for hospice and palliative care through the government and insurance programs would help increase the availability and use of services. Also, the need for continuing education of healthcare providers, patients, families, and the community is urgent. However, promotion of understanding of better pain management and the worth of hospice and palliative care must be conducted in ways that are sensitive to the cultural values and traditions in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Only when hospice and palliative care can be viewed as an admirable choice for one's loved ones, overcoming issues of truth telling, filial piety, worries about how one is judged, and religious considerations, will it become more widely accepted.
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Fondras JC, Rameix S. Questions éthiques associées à la pratique de la sédation en phase terminale. MEDECINE PALLIATIVE 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medpal.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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20
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Dussel V, Joffe S, Hilden JM, Watterson-Schaeffer J, Weeks JC, Wolfe J. Considerations about hastening death among parents of children who die of cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 164:231-7. [PMID: 20194255 DOI: 10.1001/archpediatrics.2009.295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the frequency of hastening death discussions, describe current parental endorsement of hastening death and intensive symptom management, and explore whether children's pain influences these views in a sample of parents whose child died of cancer. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Two tertiary-care US pediatric institutions. PARTICIPANTS A total of 141 parents of children who died of cancer (response rate, 64%). OUTCOME MEASURES Proportion of parents who (1) considered or (2) discussed hastening death during the child's end of life and who endorsed (3) hastening death or (4) intensive symptom management in vignettes portraying children with end-stage cancer. RESULTS A total of 19 of 141 (13%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8%-19%) parents considered requesting hastened death for their child and 9% (95% CI, 4%-14%) discussed hastening death; consideration of hastening death tended to increase with an increase in the child's suffering from pain. In retrospect, 34% (95% CI, 26%-42%) of parents reported that they would have considered hastening their child's death had the child been in uncontrollable pain, while 15% or less would consider hastening death for nonphysical suffering. In response to vignettes, 50% (95% CI, 42%-58%) of parents endorsed hastening death while 94% (95% CI, 90%-98%) endorsed intensive pain management. Parents were more likely to endorse hastening death if the vignette involved a child in pain compared with coma (odds ratio, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.8). CONCLUSIONS More than 10% of parents considered hastening their child's death; this was more likely if the child was in pain. Attention to pain and suffering and education about intensive symptom management may mitigate consideration of hastening death among parents of children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Dussel
- Center for Outcomes and Policy Research and Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney St., Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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21
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Blanchet V, Viallard ML, Aubry R. Sédation en médecine palliative : recommandations chez l’adulte et spécificités au domicile et en gériatrie. MEDECINE PALLIATIVE 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medpal.2010.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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22
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Cherny NI, Radbruch L. European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) recommended framework for the use of sedation in palliative care. Palliat Med 2009; 23:581-93. [PMID: 19858355 DOI: 10.1177/0269216309107024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 404] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) considers sedation to be an important and necessary therapy in the care of selected palliative care patients with otherwise refractory distress. Prudent application of this approach requires due caution and good clinical practice. Inattention to potential risks and problematic practices can lead to harmful and unethical practice which may undermine the credibility and reputation of responsible clinicians and institutions as well as the discipline of palliative medicine more generally. Procedural guidelines are helpful to educate medical providers, set standards for best practice, promote optimal care and convey the important message to staff, patients and families that palliative sedation is an accepted, ethical practice when used in appropriate situations. EAPC aims to facilitate the development of such guidelines by presenting a 10-point framework that is based on the pre-existing guidelines and literature and extensive peer review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan I Cherny
- Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Department of Oncology, Jerusalem, Israel.
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23
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van Dooren S, van Veluw HTM, van Zuylen L, Rietjens JAC, Passchier J, van der Rijt CCD. Exploration of concerns of relatives during continuous palliative sedation of their family members with cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage 2009; 38:452-9. [PMID: 19559563 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2008.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2008] [Revised: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 11/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Data on the experiences of relatives during continuous palliative sedation are scarce. Because these relatives may be the ones most closely involved with the patient, it is important to evaluate the possible burdens that they experience. We aimed to explore and evaluate concerns of relatives during continuous palliative sedation of their family members admitted to an acute palliative care unit. Through retrospective multidisciplinary record research, we obtained data on concerns of the relatives during the period that continuous palliative sedation took place. From October 2001 to October 2004, 45 patients died after starting continuous palliative sedation. In 51% of the cases, the relatives expressed concerns after starting the therapy. Concerns could be distinguished into three main themes: concerns about the aim of continuous palliative sedation (27%), concerns related to the well-being of the patient (29%), and concerns related to the well-being of relatives themselves (18%). Patient and sedation characteristics did not differ significantly between sedations in which relatives did and did not express concerns, except for the duration of the sedation. The median duration of the continuous palliative sedation when concerns were expressed was 46 hours, compared with 19.5 hours when this was not the case (P<0.05). Both the nature and extent of the concerns suggest that relatives are in need of continuous information and professional guidance during continuous palliative sedation of their family members. Availability of caregiver guidance and clear process documentation are crucial and indispensable in providing this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia van Dooren
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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24
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Cherny N. The use of sedation to relieve cancer patients' suffering at the end of life: addressing critical issues. Ann Oncol 2009; 20:1153-5. [PMID: 19542531 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdp302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Mercadante S, Intravaia G, Villari P, Ferrera P, David F, Casuccio A. Controlled sedation for refractory symptoms in dying patients. J Pain Symptom Manage 2009; 37:771-9. [PMID: 19041216 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2008.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2008] [Revised: 04/11/2008] [Accepted: 04/16/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Terminally ill cancer patients near the end of life may experience intolerable suffering refractory to palliative treatment. Although sedation is considered to be an effective treatment when aggressive efforts fail to provide relief in terminally ill patients, it remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the need and effectiveness of sedation in dying patients with intractable symptoms, and the thoughts of relatives regarding sedation. A prospective cohort study was performed on a consecutive sample of dying patients admitted to an acute pain relief and palliative care unit within a cancer center. Indications for sedation, opioid and midazolam doses, level of delirium and sedation, nutrition, hydration, rattle, inability to cough and swallow, pharyngeal aspiration, duration of sedation and survival, and use of anticholinergics or other drugs were recorded. Family members were interviewed. Forty-two of 77 dying patients were sedated, and had a longer survival than those who were not sedated (P=0.003). Prevalent indications for sedation were dyspnea and/or delirium. Twelve patients began with an intermediate sedation, and 38 patients started with definitive sedation. The median sedation duration was 22 hours. Opioid doses did not change during sedation. Agitated delirium significantly decreased with increasing doses of midazolam, whereas the capacity to communicate concomitantly decreased. Interviewed relatives were actively involved in the process of end-of-life care, and the decision to sedate, and the efficacy of sedation, were considered appropriate by almost all relatives. Controlled sedation is successful in dying patients with untreatable symptoms, did not hasten death, and yielded satisfactory results for relatives. This study also points to the importance of palliative care and the experience of professionals skilled in both symptom control and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano Mercadante
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit & Pain Relief and Palliative Care Unit, La Maddalena Cancer Center, Palermo, Italy.
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26
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Claessens P, Menten J, Schotsmans P, Broeckaert B. Palliative sedation: a review of the research literature. J Pain Symptom Manage 2008; 36:310-33. [PMID: 18657380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2007.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2007] [Revised: 10/23/2007] [Accepted: 10/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The overall aim of this paper is to systematically review the following important aspects of palliative sedation: prevalence, indications, survival, medication, food and fluid intake, decision making, attitudes of physicians, family experiences, and efficacy and safety. A thorough search of different databases was conducted for pertinent research articles published from 1966 to June 2007. The following keywords were used: end of life, sedation, terminal sedation, palliative sedation, refractory symptoms, and palliative care. Language of the articles was limited to English, French, German, and Dutch. Papers reporting solely on the sedatives used in palliative care, without explicitly reporting the prevalence or intensity of sedation, and papers not reporting on primary research (such as reviews or theoretical articles) were excluded. Methodological quality was assessed according to the criteria of Hawker et al. (2002). The search yielded 130 articles, 33.8% of which were peer-reviewed empirical research studies. Thirty-three research papers and one thesis were included in this systematic review. This review reveals that there still are many inconsistencies with regard to the prevalence, the effect of sedation, food and fluid intake, the possible life-shortening effect, and the decision-making process. Further research to clarify all of this should be based on multicenter, prospective, longitudinal, and international studies that use a uniform definition of palliative sedation, and valid and reliable instruments. Only through such research will it be possible to resolve some of the important ethical issues related to palliative sedation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Claessens
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Catholic University of Leuven, Drongen, Belgium.
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27
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Miyashita M, Morita T, Hirai K. Evaluation of End-of-Life Cancer Care From the Perspective of Bereaved Family Members: The Japanese Experience. J Clin Oncol 2008; 26:3845-52. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2007.15.8287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Surveying bereaved family members could enhance the quality of end-of-life cancer care in inpatient palliative care units (PCUs). We systematically reviewed nationwide postbereavement studies of PCUs in Japan and attempts to develop measures for evaluating end-of-life care from the perspective of bereaved family members. The Care Evaluation Scale (CES) for evaluating the structures and processes of care, and the Good Death Inventory (GDI) for evaluating the outcomes of care were considered suitable methods. We applied a shortened version of the CES to three nationwide surveys from 2002 to 2007. We developed the CES as an instrument to measure the structures and processes of care and the GDI as an outcomes measure for end-of-life cancer care from the perspective of bereaved family members. We conducted three nationwide surveys in 1997, 2001, and 2007 (n = 850, 853, and 5,301, respectively). Although six of the 10 areas of the CES showed significant improvements between the two time points investigated, we identified considerable potential for further progress. Feedback from surveys of bereaved family members might help to improve the quality of end-of-life cancer care in inpatient PCUs. However, the effectiveness of feedback procedures remains to be confirmed. Furthermore, there is a need to extend the ongoing evaluation process to home care hospices and general hospitals, including cancer centers, identify the limitations of end-of-life care in all settings, and develop strategies to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsunori Miyashita
- From the Department of Adult Nursing/Palliative Care Nursing, School of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo; Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Palliative Care Team and Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara Hospital, Shizuoka; and Graduate School of Human Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- From the Department of Adult Nursing/Palliative Care Nursing, School of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo; Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Palliative Care Team and Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara Hospital, Shizuoka; and Graduate School of Human Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kei Hirai
- From the Department of Adult Nursing/Palliative Care Nursing, School of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo; Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Palliative Care Team and Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara Hospital, Shizuoka; and Graduate School of Human Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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28
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Miyashita M, Morita T, Sato K, Hirai K, Shima Y, Uchitomi Y. Factors contributing to evaluation of a good death from the bereaved family member's perspective. Psychooncology 2008; 17:612-20. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.1283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Gries CJ, Curtis JR, Wall RJ, Engelberg RA. Family member satisfaction with end-of-life decision making in the ICU. Chest 2008; 133:704-12. [PMID: 18198256 DOI: 10.1378/chest.07-1773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Families of ICU patients may be at risk for increased psychological morbidity due to end-of-life decision making. The identification of chart-based quality indicators of palliative care that predict family satisfaction with decision making may help to guide interventions to improve decision making and family outcomes. OBJECTIVE To determine patient and family characteristics and chart the documentation of processes of care that are associated with increased family satisfaction with end-of-life decision making for ICU patients. METHODS We conducted a cohort study of ICU patients dying in 10 medical centers in the Seattle-Tacoma area. MEASUREMENT Outcomes from family surveys included summary scores for family satisfaction with decision making and a single-item score that indicated feeling supported during decision making. Predictor variables were obtained from surveys and chart abstraction. MAIN RESULTS The survey response rate was 41% (442 of 1,074 families responded). Analyses were conducted of 356 families with questionnaire and chart abstraction data. Family satisfaction with decision making was associated with the withdrawal of life support, and chart documentation of physician recommendations to withdraw life support, discussions of patients' wishes, and discussions of families' spiritual needs. Feeling supported during decision making was associated with the withdrawal of life support, spiritual care involvement, and chart documentation of physician recommendations to withdraw life support, expressions of families' wishes to withdraw life support, and discussions of families' spiritual needs. CONCLUSIONS Increased family satisfaction with decision making is associated with withdrawing life support and the documentation of palliative care indicators including the following: physician recommendations to withdraw life support; expressions of patients' wishes; and discussions of families' spiritual needs. These findings provide direction for future studies to investigate approaches to improving family satisfaction in end-of-life decision making. In addition, because there were few nonwhites in this study, these results may not be generalizable to more diverse populations. Future studies should target diverse populations in order to test whether similar factors are similarly important for end-of-life decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia J Gries
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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30
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although delirium is a common complication in terminally ill cancer patients and can cause considerable distress to family members, little is known about the actual experience of family members. The primary aims of this study were thus to explore: (1) what the family members of terminally ill cancer patients with delirium actually experienced, (2) how they felt, (3) how they perceived delirium and (4) what support they desired from medical staff. METHODS A single-center in-depth qualitative study on 20 bereaved family members of cancer patents who developed delirium during the last two weeks before death. Content analysis of transcribed text was performed. RESULTS Families experienced various events including other than psychiatric symptoms, such as ;patients talked about events that actually occurred in the past', ;patients were distressed as they noticed that they were talking strangely,' ;patients talked about uncompleted life tasks', and ;patients expressed physiologic desires such as excretion and thirst'. Family emotions were positive, neutral, or negative (eg, distress, guilt, anxiety and worry, difficulty coping with delirium, helplessness, exhaustion and feeling a burden on others). Families perceived the delirium to have different meanings, including positive meanings (eg, relief from real suffering), a part of the dying process, and misunderstanding of the causes of delirium (effects of drugs, mental weakness and pain). Families recommended several support measures specifically for delirium, in addition to information and general support: ;respect the patients' subjective world', ;treating patients as the same person as before', ;facilitating preparations for the patients' death', and ;relieving family's physical and psychological burden'. CONCLUSIONS From the results of this study, we generated a potentially useful care strategy for terminal delirium: respect the patients' subjective world, treat patients as the same persons as before, explore unmet physiological needs behind delirium symptoms, consider ambivalent emotions when using psychotropics, coordinate care to achieve meaningful communication according to changes in consciousness levels during the day, facilitate preparations for the patients' death, alleviate the feelings of being a burden on others, relieve family's physical and psychological burden and information support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Namba
- Palliative Care Team, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
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31
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de Graeff A, Dean M. Palliative Sedation Therapy in the Last Weeks of Life: A Literature Review and Recommendations for Standards. J Palliat Med 2007; 10:67-85. [PMID: 17298256 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2006.0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Palliative sedation therapy (PST) is a controversial issue. There is a need for internationally accepted definitions and standards. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was performed by an international panel of 29 palliative care experts. Draft papers were written on various topics concerning PST. This paper is a summary of the individual papers, written after two meetings and extensive e-mail discussions. RESULTS PST is defined as the use of specific sedative medications to relieve intolerable suffering from refractory symptoms by a reduction in patient consciousness, using appropriate drugs carefully titrated to the cessation of symptoms. The initial dose of sedatives should usually be small enough to maintain the patients' ability to communicate periodically. The team looking after the patient should have enough expertise and experience to judge the symptom as refractory. Advice from palliative care specialists is strongly recommended before initiating PST. In the case of continuous and deep PST, the disease should be irreversible and advanced, with death expected within hours to days. Midazolam should be considered first-line choice. The decision whether or not to withhold or withdraw hydration should be discussed separately. Hydration should be offered only if it is considered likely that the benefit will outweigh the harm. PST is distinct from euthanasia because (1) it has the intent to provide symptom relief, (2) it is a proportionate intervention, and (3) the death of the patient is not a criterion for success. PST and its outcome should be carefully monitored and documented. CONCLUSION When other treatments fail to relieve suffering in the imminently dying patient, PST is a valid palliative care option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander de Graeff
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, F.02.126 Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Hörfarter B, Weixler D. [Symptom control and ethics in final stages of COPD]. Wien Med Wochenschr 2006; 156:275-82. [PMID: 16830246 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-006-0289-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2006] [Accepted: 03/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
On the basis of a case study, the complex problems of the final stages of a COPD will be demonstrated and discussed. Dyspnea and anxiousness are the primary symptoms. If they can be adequately brought under control by opiates and benzodiazepines, a palliative sedation is then not necessary. The communicative and ethical demands on the team responsible are high. It is important to be aware of the specific needs of the patient and of his/her family members, and to competently accompany the patient throughout the decision-making process--such as the decision to end respiratory therapy, for example. Clarifying the situation with the patient and finding out his/her wishes, accompanied by the corresponding documentation, is advisable.
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Rousseau PC. Recent Literature. J Palliat Med 2005. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2005.8.462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paul C. Rousseau
- Department of Geriatrics and Extended Care, VA Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85012
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