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Haward MF, Lorenz JM, Fischhoff B. Antenatal Consultation Research and Practices Through the Lens of Decision Science. J Pediatr 2024; 274:114173. [PMID: 38942356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Marlyse F Haward
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.
| | - John M Lorenz
- Department of Pediatrics, Morgan Stanley Children Hospital of New York, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Baruch Fischhoff
- Department of Engineering and Public Policy and Institute for Politics and Strategy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
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2
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Du Y, Huang X, Xie R, Gu Y, Zhu D, Wang H. Parents' Experiences of Communicating With Children About Their Diagnosis of Nonterminal Cancer and Its Related Issues: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies. Cancer Nurs 2024:00002820-990000000-00263. [PMID: 38865604 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children experience serious symptoms when they are diagnosed with and treated for cancer. Through appropriate parent-child communication, parents were able to identify children's physical and psychological problems, adjust their behavior, and help them cope with the disease. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to systematically search for and integrate evidence from qualitative studies on communication between parents and children with nonterminal cancer from parents' perspectives. METHODS A thorough systematic review and metasynthesis of qualitative studies were conducted. Articles were searched from PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PsycArticles from the database inception to November 6, 2022. After screening and quality appraisal, 14 articles were finally included in the metasynthesis. RESULTS Three themes and 11 subthemes were identified: (1) communication content, including diagnosis, treatment, health management, health risk, and emotion; (2) factors influencing communication, including ages of children, parents' experience of communication, parents' awareness of protection, and culture; and (3) children's responses, including acceptance and resistance. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review found that parents were influenced by various factors during the decision-making process of parent-child communication about childhood cancer and its related issues. Parents tended to adjust their communication content and style to protect their children. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Future research should be conducted to explore children's experiences of communicating with their parents and analyze the similarities and differences between the communication needs of parents and children. Healthcare professionals should provide professional communication guidance to facilitate the parent-child relationship and improve the mental health of both children and their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Du
- Author Affiliations: School of Nursing, Fudan University (Mss Du and Xie and Dr Huang); and Children's Hospital of Fudan University (Drs Gu, Zhu, and Wang), Shanghai, China
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3
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Chiou YG, Chen SY, Wu LM, Lotus Shyu YI, Chiang YC, Hsiao CC, Wu HC, Tang WR. Experiences and preferences of truth-telling in families of children with cancer: A phenomenological study. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2024; 11:100500. [PMID: 38933686 PMCID: PMC11203385 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2024.100500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The delivery of bad news is an unpleasant but necessary medical procedure. However, few studies have addressed the experiences and preferences of the families of school-aged children with cancer when they are informed of the children's condition. This study aimed to explore families of school-age children with cancer for their preferences and experiences of truth-telling. Methods This descriptive phenomenological qualitative research was conducted using focus group interviews and semistructured interview guidelines were adopted for in-depth interviews. Fifteen families participated in the study. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi's analysis. Data were collected from August 2019 to May 2020. Results The study identified two major themes: "caught in a dilemma" and "kind and comprehensive team support." The first major theme focused on families' experiences with cancer truth-telling. Three sub-themes emerged: (1) cultural aspects of cancer disclosure, (2) decision-making regarding informing pediatric patients about their illness, and (3) content of disclosure after weighing the pros and cons. The second major theme, which revealed families' preferences for delivering bad news, was classified into three sub-themes: (1) have integrity, (2) be realistic, and (3) be supportive. Conclusions This study underscores the dilemma encountered by the families of children with cancer after disclosure and their inclination toward receiving comprehensive information and continuous support. Health care personnel must improve their truth-telling ability in order to better address the needs of such families and to provide continuous support throughout the truth-telling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Gan Chiou
- Department of Nursing, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ying Chen
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Min Wu
- School of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yea-Ing Lotus Shyu
- Department of Nursing, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Dementia Center, Department of Neurology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chien Chiang
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Hsiao
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chuan Wu
- Department of Post Baccalaureate Nursing, College of Medicine, I-SHOU University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Woung-Ru Tang
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Robertson EG, Komesaroff R, Eisenstat DD, Robertson A, Ludlow LE. A Pilot Evaluation of an Educational Video to Support Consent to a Pediatric Malignancy Biobank. Biopreserv Biobank 2024. [PMID: 38800954 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2024.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The collection of biological specimens is necessary to support basic and translational research. However, the complexity of biobanking introduces numerous ethical issues, particularly regarding informed consent. Objective: To evaluate the acceptability and perceived benefits of an educational video facilitating the consent process for the Children's Cancer Centre Biobank. Methods: We invited individuals who had previously consented to be (or their child to be) part of the Biobank, and health professionals who were involved in obtaining consent. Participants watched the video and completed a purpose-designed online survey. Results: A total of 16 health professionals (invited = 30) and 15 patients/caregivers (invited = 127) participated. Most patients/caregivers felt informed about the Biobank at consent, however, noted how overwhelmed they were at the time and that they did not engage with the written information. Overall, both patients/caregivers and health professionals rated the video favorably regarding the information provided and format. Participants valued that it was simple and clear, with several health professionals noting the need for linguistic translations to better support the families they work with. Most patients/caregivers agreed that the video provided enough information to begin considering participation. This aligned with the health professionals' feedback that the video was most effective when used as a conversation starter to help formalize the written consent. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that our video is an acceptable and beneficial tool to assist in the Biobank consenting process, from both the perspective of decision-makers and health professionals obtaining consent. It appears particularly valuable as a precursor to an interactive, formal consent discussion. Further work is required to determine whether our video has a significant impact on outcomes such as decision-making satisfaction and knowledge, and to determine the value to adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden G Robertson
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Komesaroff
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) Alliance, Melbourne, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David D Eisenstat
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alexandra Robertson
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Louise E Ludlow
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Han J, Zhang L, Yang F, Wang L. Illness cognition and associated socio-demographic and clinical factors in parents of children with leukemia. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:289. [PMID: 38783376 PMCID: PMC11119300 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01798-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Illness cognition is an important mediator between psychological and behavioral adjustment and the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. Evidence related to illness cognition among parents of children with leukemia is limited. The purpose of this study is to explore the illness cognition status and associated factors in parents of children with leukemia. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted with the parents of 335 children with leukemia from three general children's hospitals in China from January to December 2022. A parents' version of the illness cognition questionnaire was used to collect data. This included three subscales: helplessness, acceptance, and perceived benefits. RESULTS The mean scores of helplessness, acceptance and perceived benefits of parents regarding their children's disease were 15.56 (4.60), 16.25 (4.41), and 19.96 (3.69) respectively. The multiple regression model indicated seven factors associated with the parents' illness cognition (adjusted R [2] ranged from 0.182 to 0.134): four socio-demographic factors (parent's age, role, education level, and family income) and three clinical factors (length of time spent each day caring for the child, the child's age at diagnosis, and the duration of the disease). CONCLUSION This study reports on different levels of illness cognition and associated factors among parents of children with leukemia. The results may help pediatric oncology medical staff identify risk factors for poor psychological adjustment to children's diseases. Parents may benefit from psychological support aimed at improving positive illness cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Han
- School of Nursing, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Nursing, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- School of Nursing, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
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Wen FH, Hsieh CH, Su PJ, Shen WC, Hou MM, Chou WC, Chen JS, Chang WC, Tang ST. Factors Associated With Family Surrogate Decisional-Regret Trajectories. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024; 67:223-232.e2. [PMID: 38036113 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT/OBJECTIVES The scarce research on factors associated with surrogate decisional regret overlooks longitudinal, heterogenous decisional-regret experiences and fractionally examines factors from the three decision-process framework stages: decision antecedents, decision-making process, and decision outcomes. This study aimed to fill these knowledge gaps by focusing on factors modifiable by high-quality end-of-life (EOL) care. METHODS This observational study used a prior cohort of 377 family surrogates of terminal-cancer patients to examine factors associated with their membership in the four preidentified distinct decisional-regret trajectories: resilient, delayed-recovery, late-emerging, and increasing-prolonged trajectories from EOL-care decision making through the first two bereavement years by multinomial logistic regression modeling using the resilient trajectory as reference. RESULTS Decision antecedent factors: Financial sufficiency and heavier caregiving burden increased odds for the delayed-recovery trajectory. Spousal loss, higher perceived social support during an EOL-care decision, and more postloss depressive symptoms increased odds for the late-emerging trajectory. More pre- and postloss depressive symptoms increased odds for the increasing-prolonged trajectory. Decision-making process factors: Making an anticancer treatment decision and higher decision conflict increased odds for the delayed-recovery and increasing-prolonged trajectories. Making a life-sustaining-treatment decision increased membership in the three more profound trajectories. Decision outcome factors: Greater surrogate appraisal of quality of dying and death lowered odds for the three more profound trajectories. Patient receipt of anticancer or life-sustaining treatments increased odds for the late-emerging trajectory. CONCLUSION Surrogate membership in decisional-regret trajectories was associated with decision antecedent, decision-making process, and decision outcome factors. Effective interventions should target identified modifiable factors to address surrogate decisional regret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fur-Hsing Wen
- Department of International Business (F.H.W.), Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsun Hsieh
- College of Medicine (C.H.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; Division of Hematology-Oncology (C.H.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jung Su
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Shen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Mo Hou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Chou
- College of Medicine (C.H.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Shi Chen
- College of Medicine (C.H.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Cheng Chang
- College of Medicine (C.H.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Siew Tzuh Tang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (P.J.S., W.C.S., M.M.H., W.C.C., J.S.C., W.C.C., S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; School of Nursing, Medical College (S.T.T.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan; Department of Nursing (S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Nursing (S.T.T.), Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.
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Michinobu R, Yamamoto M, Sakai Y, Mikami T, Igarashi K, Iesato K, Takebayashi A, Hori T, Tsutsumi H, Tsugawa T. Parental Decision-Making in Cancer Therapy: A Long-Term Observational Study. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:1059-1066. [PMID: 36680345 DOI: 10.1177/00099228221150606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Parental participation in shared decision-making in children's cancer therapy is essential because parents advocate for and support their children's wishes. However, little research has focused on this issue. We conducted a longitudinal observational study of 7 parents whose child had received their first cancer treatment. We recorded parents' behaviors, interactions, and narratives in 1 pediatric ward and 2 outpatient clinics. The recordings were systematically conducted and thematically analyzed using variable-oriented and process-oriented modes to assess the causal relationships among phenomena. We found 4 themes describing the processes by which parents developed and participated in shared decision-making. The first 2 themes reflected the development of reciprocal parental relationships and parent-other child relationships. These 2 types of relationship generated mutual trust and a sense of solidarity among parents (the third theme). This, in turn, became the foundation for parents to share decision-making with health care professionals (the fourth theme).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoko Michinobu
- Faculty of Nursing & Social Welfare Sciences, Fukui Prefectural University, Fukui, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masaki Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Sakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
| | - Takahiro Mikami
- Division of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Keita Igarashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Hokkaido Medical Center for Child Health and Rehabilitation, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kotoe Iesato
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akira Takebayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Hori
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tsutsumi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Midorinosato, Saiseikai Otaru Hospital, Otaru, Japan
| | - Takeshi Tsugawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Sisk BA, Bereitschaft C, Enloe M, Schulz G, Mack J, DuBois J. Oncology Clinicians' Perspectives on Online Patient Portal Use in Pediatric and Adolescent Cancer. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2023; 7:e2300124. [PMID: 37972324 DOI: 10.1200/cci.23.00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Online patient portals represent widely available communication tools in pediatric oncology. Previous studies have not evaluated clinicians' perspectives on portal use, including issues related to access to adolescents' portals. METHODS We performed semistructured interviews with physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) who care for children or adolescents with cancer. We performed thematic analysis of benefits, problems, and accommodations related to portal use in oncology. RESULTS We interviewed 29 physicians and 24 APPs representing 26 institutions. Participants described five themes of benefits provided by portals: (1) empowering adolescents, (2) improving efficiency and accuracy of communication, (3) promoting open and adaptive communication, (4) supporting parents in managing care, and (5) bolstering clinical relationships. Participants described eight themes of problems caused by portal access: (1) creating emotional distress and confusion, (2) increasing workload and changing workflows, (3) threatening adolescent confidentiality, (4) adolescents lacking interest to engage, (5) diminishing clinical relationship, (6) misusing portal messages, (7) diminishing quality of sensitive documentation, and (8) parents losing access to adolescents' records. Participants described three themes related to accommodations they made as a result of portal access: (1) modifying note writing, (2) providing anticipatory guidance about viewing results, and (3) adapting workflows. Some portal functions created either benefits or problems depending on the clinical context. CONCLUSION Oncologists identified benefits and problems created by portal use, which were sometimes in tension, depending on the clinical context. To make portals useful, we must take steps to mitigate risks while preserving functionality for parents and adolescent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | | | - Madi Enloe
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Ginny Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Jennifer Mack
- Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - James DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
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Wilkin T, Stott A, Lin JL, Pate J, McEwen A, Verhagen A, Turbitt E. Free Online Decision Tools to Support Parents Making Decisions About Their Children's Chronic Health Condition: An Environmental Scan. Acad Pediatr 2023; 23:874-883. [PMID: 36775123 PMCID: PMC11047007 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2023.02.002] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical decisions parents make on their children's behalf can be challenging. Free online decision support tools are created to help parents faced with these decisions. OBJECTIVE We used an environmental scan to identify free, online tools that support parents in making decisions about their children's chronic health condition. We described the tools and assessed their potential to harm, content, development process, readability, and whether their use changed decision makers' knowledge and alignment of their preferences with their final decision. DATA SOURCES AND ELIGIBILITY Decision aid repositories, Google searches, and key informants identified decision support tools. Eligible tools were freely available online and for parents of children with chronic health conditions. APPRAISAL METHODS Two reviewers independently assessed the tools' quality based on the International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS). Tool readability was assessed using the Flesch Reading Ease test. RESULTS From 21 free, online decision support tools, 14 (67%) provided sufficient detail for making a specific decision (IPDAS qualifying criteria). None sufficiently met IPDAS certification criteria necessary to reduce the possibility of patient harms when using the tool. Three (14%) were fairly easy or easy to read. Of those evaluated by developers (n = 6), 2 improved knowledge and 4 improved alignment of preferences with the available options. LIMITATIONS Google searches and key informant sources are not replicable. CONCLUSIONS Free, online decision support tools for parents of children with chronic health conditions are of variable quality, most are difficult to read, and there is limited evidence their use achieves intended outcomes. REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered with Open Science Framework 20 July 2021(AEST) osf.io/b94yj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Wilkin
- Discipline of Genetic Counselling, University of Technology Sydney (T Wilkin, A Stott, A McEwen, and E Turbitt), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Ami Stott
- Discipline of Genetic Counselling, University of Technology Sydney (T Wilkin, A Stott, A McEwen, and E Turbitt), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Jody L Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah Health (JL Lin), Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joshua Pate
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, University of Technology Sydney (J Pate and A Verhagen), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison McEwen
- Discipline of Genetic Counselling, University of Technology Sydney (T Wilkin, A Stott, A McEwen, and E Turbitt), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Arianne Verhagen
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, University of Technology Sydney (J Pate and A Verhagen), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Erin Turbitt
- Discipline of Genetic Counselling, University of Technology Sydney (T Wilkin, A Stott, A McEwen, and E Turbitt), Ultimo, NSW, Australia.
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Wen FH, Hsieh CH, Hou MM, Su PJ, Shen WC, Chou WC, Chen JS, Chang WC, Tang ST. Decisional-Regret Trajectories From End-of-Life Decision Making Through Bereavement. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:44-53.e1. [PMID: 36889452 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.02.321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Regret plays a central role in surrogate decision making. Research on decisional regret in family surrogates is scarce and lacks longitudinal studies to illustrate the heterogenous, dynamic evolution of decisional regret. OBJECTIVES To identify distinct decisional-regret trajectories from end-of-life (EOL) decision making through the first two bereavement years among surrogates of cancer patients. METHODS A prospective, longitudinal, observational study was conducted on a convenience sample of 377 surrogates of terminally ill cancer patients. Decisional regret was measured by the five-item Decision Regret Scale monthly during the patient's last six months and 1, 3, 6, 13, 18, and 24 months post loss. Decisional-regret trajectories were identified using latent-class growth analysis. RESULTS Surrogates reported substantially high decisional regret (pre- and postloss mean [SD] as 32.20 [11.47] and 29.90 [12.47], respectively). Four decisional-regret trajectories were identified. The resilient trajectory (prevalence: 25.6%) showed a general low decisional-regret level with mild and transient perturbations around the time of patient death only. Decisional regret for the delayed-recovery trajectory (56.3%) accelerated before the patient's death and decreased slowly throughout bereavement. Surrogates in the late-emerging (10.2%) trajectory reported a low decisional-regret level before loss but their decisional regret increased gradually thereafter. The increasing-prolonged trajectory (6.9%) rapidly increased in decisional-regret levels during EOL decision making, peaked one-month post loss, then declined steadily but without a complete resolution. CONCLUSION Surrogates heterogeneously suffered decisional regret from EOL decision making through bereavement as evident by four identified distinct decisional-regret trajectories. Early identification and prevention of increasing/prolonged decisional-regret trajectories is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fur-Hsing Wen
- Department of International Business (F-H.W.), Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chia-Hsun Hsieh
- College of Medicine (C-H.H., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Division of Hematology-Oncology (C-H.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Ming-Mo Hou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Po-Jung Su
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Chi Shen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Chi Chou
- College of Medicine (C-H.H., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jen-Shi Chen
- College of Medicine (C-H.H., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Cheng Chang
- College of Medicine (C-H.H., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C.), Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Siew Tzuh Tang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology (M-M.H., P-J.S., W-C.S., W-C.C., J-S.C., W-C.C., S-T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC; School of Nursing (S.T.T.), Medical College, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Department of Nursing (S.T.T.), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Department of Nursing (S.T.T.), Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C..
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Fisher RS, Datillo TM, Baskin LS, Buchanan CL, Cheng EY, Kolon T, Nokoff NJ, Poppas DP, Reyes KJ, Mullins LL, Wisniewski AB. Decisional Regret Among Caregivers of Infants with Differences of Sex Development Reared as Male. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2023; 44:e225-e230. [PMID: 36729523 PMCID: PMC10065892 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Differences of sex development (DSD) are congenital conditions in which individuals are discordant in their chromosomal, phenotypic, and/or gonadal sex. Treatment of DSD can involve surgical intervention to external genitalia to make anatomy seem male-typical (i.e., male genitoplasty). Caregiver-perceived decisional regret regarding young boys with DSD was explored quantitatively and qualitatively. METHOD Participants (N = 39) were caregivers of infants (N = 23) diagnosed with DSD (mean age = 8.9 months, standard deviation = 5.9 months) reared male participating in a longitudinal investigation of psychosocial outcomes. Qualitative data were collected at 6 to 12 months after baseline enrollment to evaluate caregiver decision-making corresponding to levels of regret concerning their child's treatment. All but one infant received genital surgery before caregiver reporting on their decisional regret. Quantitative exploratory analyses evaluated longitudinal predictors of decisional regret at 6 to 12 months. RESULTS When completing a write-in item inquiring about decision-making and potential regret, most caregivers (n = 16, 76%) reported that their child's genital surgery was their first medical decision. Two caregivers referenced gender assignment as a decision point. One-third of caregivers reported some level of decisional regret (33%), with 67% reporting no regret. No hypothesized predictors of decisional regret were statistically significant. CONCLUSION Many caregivers of infants with DSD reared male view genital surgery as a first health care decision. Approximately one-third of caregivers reported some level of decisional regret. Further research is warranted to explore long-term decisional regret; it will be particularly important to investigate the decisional regret of patients with DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Fisher
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Taylor M. Datillo
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Laurence S. Baskin
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center, Department of Urology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Cindy L. Buchanan
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Psychiatry, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Earl Y. Cheng
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Department of Urology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas Kolon
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Urology, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalie J. Nokoff
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Dix P. Poppas
- New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medicine, Department of Urology, Komansky Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristy J. Reyes
- Cook Children’s Medical Center, Department of Pediatric Urology, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Larry L. Mullins
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Amy B. Wisniewski
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
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12
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Guilmatre A, Davous D, Sigy ADHD, Asselain B, Chevret S, Petit A. Quelles sont les pratiques en génétique des pédiatres onco-hématologues de la SFCE ? Une enquête du groupe socle éthique CONECT-AML. Bull Cancer 2022; 109:1162-1176. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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13
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Parental Views of Social Worker and Chaplain Involvement in Care and Decision Making for Critically Ill Children with Cancer. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9091287. [PMID: 36138595 PMCID: PMC9497868 DOI: 10.3390/children9091287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Social workers (SWs) and chaplains are trained to support families facing challenges associated with critical illness and potential end-of-life issues. Little is known about how parents view SW/chaplain involvement in care for critically ill children with cancer. Methods: We studied parent perceptions of SW/chaplain involvement in care for pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients with cancer or who had a hematopoietic cell transplant. English- and Spanish-speaking parents completed surveys within 7 days of PICU admission and at discharge. Some parents participated in an optional interview. Results: Twenty-four parents of 18 patients completed both surveys, and six parents were interviewed. Of the survey respondents, 66.7% and 75% interacted with SWs or chaplains, respectively. Most parents described SW/chaplain interactions as helpful (81.3% and 72.2%, respectively), but few reported their help with decision making (18.8% and 12.4%, respectively). Parents described SW/chaplain roles related to emotional, spiritual, instrumental, and holistic support. Few parents expressed awareness about SW/chaplain interactions with other healthcare team members. Conclusions: Future work is needed to determine SWs’/chaplains’ contributions to and impact on parental decision making, improve parent awareness about SW/chaplain roles and engagement with the healthcare team, and understand why some PICU parents do not interact with SWs/chaplains.
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14
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Graetz DE, Rivas S, Wang H, Vedaraju Y, Ferrara G, Fuentes L, Cáceres-Serrano A, Antillon-Klussmann F, Devidas M, Metzger M, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Mack JW. Cancer treatment decision-making among parents of paediatric oncology patients in Guatemala: a mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057350. [PMID: 35953257 PMCID: PMC9379539 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine treatment decision-making priorities and experiences among parents of children with cancer in Guatemala. SETTING This study was conducted at Guatemala's National Pediatric Cancer Center in Guatemala City. PARTICIPANTS Spanish-speaking parents of paediatric patients (≤18 years of age) diagnosed with any form of cancer within the 8 weeks prior to study enrolment. The quantitative portion of this study included 100 parent participants; the qualitative component included 20 parents. Most participants were Catholic or Evangelical Spanish-speaking mothers. OUTCOMES Priorities and experiences of cancer treatment decision-making including decision-making role and experienced regret. RESULTS A range of paediatric ages and cancer diagnoses were included. Most Guatemalan parents surveyed (70%) made decisions about their child's cancer together and almost all (94%) without input from their community. Surveyed parents predominately preferred shared decision-making with their child's oncologist (76%), however 69% agreed it was best not to be provided with many options. Two-thirds of surveyed parents (65%) held their preferred role in decision-making, with fathers more likely to hold their preferred role than mothers (p=0.02). A small number of parents (11%) experienced heightened decisional regret, which did not correlate with socio-demographic characteristics or preferred decision-making role. Qualitative results supported quantitative findings, demonstrating a decision-making process that emphasised trust and honesty. CONCLUSIONS Guatemalan parents preferred to make decisions with their medical team and appreciated providers who were honest and inclusive, but directive about decisions. This study reinforces the importance of the provider-parent relationship and encourages clinicians in all settings to ask about and honour each parent's desired role in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan E Graetz
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Silvia Rivas
- Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Huiqi Wang
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Yuvanesh Vedaraju
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gia Ferrara
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lucia Fuentes
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Ana Cáceres-Serrano
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Federico Antillon-Klussmann
- Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Universidad Francisco Marroquin Facultad de Medicina, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Meenakshi Devidas
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Monika Metzger
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Jennifer W Mack
- Department of Population Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Sisk BA, Keenan M, Goodman MS, Servin AE, Yaeger LH, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Racial and ethnic disparities in communication study enrollment for young people with cancer: A descriptive analysis of the literature. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:2067-2073. [PMID: 34991915 PMCID: PMC9203904 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the racial and ethnic diversity of study participants in recent pediatric cancer communication literature. METHODS We systematically searched for communication studies in pediatric oncology published between January 2018 and September 2020, limiting analysis to US studies. We considered race and ethnicity as separate categories in our analysis. Two authors screened studies and abstracted characteristics of race and ethnicity reporting and enrollment. RESULTS Of 98 articles included in this analysis, many studies failed to report participants' race (21/98) and ethnicity (40/98). Most studies ascertained race and ethnicity by self-report (51/98); 25 studies did not describe how they ascertained race and ethnicity. White participants were overrepresented in studies relative to the US population (median 80% in studies vs 72% in 2020 US census). Racial and ethnic minorities were underrepresented (Black: 7% vs 14%; Asian: 4% vs 7%; Pacific Islander: 0% vs 0.5%; Native American: 0.5% vs 3%; Hispanic 8% vs 19%). CONCLUSION Communication literature in pediatric oncology underrepresents all racial and ethnic minority populations and is inconsistent in the reporting of race and ethnicity. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future work should follow best practices to ensure this literature adequately represents the experiences of all families in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Megan Keenan
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melody S Goodman
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Argentina E Servin
- Department of Medicine, University of California - San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lauren H Yaeger
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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16
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Fisher RS, Espeleta HC, Baskin LS, Buchanan CL, Chan YM, Cheng EY, Coplen DE, Diamond DA, Nokoff NJ, Palmer BW, Poppas DP, Scott Reyes KJ, Tishelman A, Wolfe-Christensen C, Mullins LL, Wisniewski AB. Decisional regret about surgical and non-surgical issues after genitoplasty among caregivers of female infants with CAH. J Pediatr Urol 2022; 18:27-33. [PMID: 34742644 PMCID: PMC8983419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Caregivers of female infants with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) often confront complex medical decision-making (e.g., early feminizing genitoplasty). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the relevant medical decisions and subsequent decisional regret of caregivers following their child's genitoplasty. STUDY DESIGN Caregivers (N = 55) were recruited from multidisciplinary treatment programs for participation in a longitudinal study. Qualitative data was collected at 6-12 months following feminizing genitoplasty to evaluate caregiver-reported decision points across their child's treatment. Quantitative exploratory analysis evaluated pre-operative predictors of subsequent decisional regret. DISCUSSION When prompted about their decision-making and potential regret, most caregivers (n = 32, 80%) reported that their daughter's genital surgery was their primary medical decision. Specific themes regarding genital surgery included the timing and type of surgery. Most caregivers reported no decisional regret (62%), with 38% reporting some level of regret. Greater pre-operative illness uncertainty predicted heightened decisional regret at follow-up, p = .001. CONCLUSION Two-thirds of caregivers of female infants with CAH reported not regretting their decision-making. Nevertheless, over one-third of caregivers reported some level of regret, suggesting the need for improvements in shared decision-making processes. Many, but not all, families reported that this regret was related to surgical decision-making. Reducing caregiver illness uncertainty (e.g., providing clear information to families) may increase their satisfaction with decision-making. Further research is needed to determine how the evolving care practices surrounding early genitoplasty will impact families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Fisher
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Hannah C Espeleta
- Medical University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Laurence S Baskin
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center, Department of Urology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Cindy L Buchanan
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Psychiatry, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Boston Children's Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Department of Pediatrics, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Earl Y Cheng
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Department of Urology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Douglas E Coplen
- St. Louis Children's Hospital, Division of Urologic Surgery, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Natalie J Nokoff
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Blake W Palmer
- Cook Children's Medical Center, Department of Pediatric Urology, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Dix P Poppas
- New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medicine, Department of Urology, Komansky Children's Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristy J Scott Reyes
- Cook Children's Medical Center, Department of Pediatric Urology, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Larry L Mullins
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Amy B Wisniewski
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Psychology, Center for Pediatric Psychology, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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17
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Sisk BA, Schulz G, Kaye EC, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Conflicting goals and obligations: Tensions affecting communication in pediatric oncology. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:56-61. [PMID: 33992486 PMCID: PMC8978564 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the tensions experienced by clinicians and psychosocial professionals that affect communication in pediatric oncology. METHODS Ten focus groups with nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals at 2 US institutions. We analyzed transcripts using thematic analysis, assessing tensions experienced when communicating with parents. RESULTS We identified 5 themes of tensions, defined as challenges experienced when clinicians and psychosocial professionals are trying to achieve multiple conflicting goals or obligations while communicating: (1) Supporting parental hopes while providing honest opinions and information; (2) disclosing all possible outcomes while avoiding the creation of new worries or uncertainties; (3) building relationships while maintaining personal boundaries; (4) disclosing sensitive information while adhering to professional role and perceived authority; (5) validating parental beliefs or decisions while fulfilling obligation for honesty. Some tensions represented conflicts between different communication goals. Others represented conflicts between a communication goal and another obligation. CONCLUSION Clinicians and psychosocial professionals experience tensions that affect communication with parents in pediatric oncology. Some tensions might be addressed with interventions or education. Others will require further analysis to provide sufficient guidance to clinicians. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Unaddressed tensions might lead to poor communication and clinician burnout. Future work should explore solutions to these tensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ginny Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Erica C Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA; Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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18
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Sisk BA, Harvey K, Friedrich AB, Antes AL, Yaeger LH, Mack JW, DuBois J. Multilevel barriers and facilitators of communication in pediatric oncology: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29405. [PMID: 34662485 PMCID: PMC8875310 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Multiple factors can facilitate or impede the fulfillment of communication functions in pediatric cancer. In this systematic review, we evaluated 109 studies from the preceding 20 years that presented qualitative or quantitative evidence of barriers or facilitators to communication in pediatric cancer. Using a multilevel framework developed in our prior study, we then analyzed and categorized the levels of barriers and facilitators identified in included studies. The vast majority of studies focused on individual-level barriers, rather than team, organization/system, collaborating hospital, community, or policy-level barriers. Future studies should explore the full range of factors that affect communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.,Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kieandra Harvey
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Annie B. Friedrich
- Albert Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Alison L. Antes
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lauren H Yaeger
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; and Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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19
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Wen FH, Chou WC, Hou MM, Su PJ, Shen WC, Chen JS, Chang WC, Hsu MH, Tang ST. Associations of death-preparedness states with bereavement outcomes for family caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients. Psychooncology 2021; 31:450-459. [PMID: 34549848 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Death preparedness involves cognitive prognostic awareness and emotional acceptance of a relative's death. Effects of retrospectively assessed cognitive prognostic awareness and emotional preparedness for patient death have been individually investigated among bereaved family caregivers. We aimed to prospectively examine associations of caregivers' death-preparedness states, determined by conjoint cognitive prognostic awareness and emotional preparedness for death, with bereavement outcomes. METHODS Associations of caregivers' death-preparedness states (no-death-preparedness, cognitive-death-preparedness-only, emotional-death-preparedness-only, and sufficient-death-preparedness states) at last preloss assessment with bereavement outcomes over the first two bereavement years were evaluated among 332 caregivers of advanced cancer patients using hierarchical linear models with the logit-transformed posterior probability for each death-preparedness state. RESULTS Caregivers with a higher logit-transformed posterior probability for sufficient death-preparedness state reported less prolonged-grief symptoms, lower likelihoods of severe depressive symptoms and heightened decisional regret, and better mental health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Caregivers with a higher logit-transformed posterior probability for no-death-preparedness state reported less prolonged-grief symptoms, a lower likelihood of severe depressive symptoms, and better mental HRQOL. A higher logit-transformed posterior probability for cognitive-death-preparedness-only state was associated with bereaved caregivers' higher likelihood of heightened decisional regret, whereas that for emotional-death-preparedness-only state was not associated with caregivers' bereavement outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers' bereavement outcomes were associated with their preloss death-preparedness states, except for physical health-related QOL. Interventions focused on not only cultivating caregivers' accurate prognostic awareness but also adequately preparing them emotionally for their relative's forthcoming death are actionable opportunities for high-quality end-of-life care and are urgently warranted to facilitate caregivers' bereavement adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fur-Hsing Wen
- Department of International Business, Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Chi Chou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ming-Mo Hou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Po-Jung Su
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Chi Shen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jen-Shi Chen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Cheng Chang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Mei Huang Hsu
- School of Nursing, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Siew Tzuh Tang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Nursing, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
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20
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Sisk BA, Keenan MA, Blazin LJ, Kaye E, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. "Don't be afraid to speak up": Communication advice from parents and clinicians of children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29052. [PMID: 33861026 PMCID: PMC8286806 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents and clinicians of children with cancer can provide advice to improve communication that reflects lessons learned through experience. We aimed to identify categories of communication advice offered to parents of children with cancer from clinicians and other parents. PROCEDURE (1) Semi-structured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer at three sites; (2) single-item, open-ended survey administered following 10 focus groups with 58 pediatric oncology clinicians at two sites. We asked participants for communication advice to parents, and analyzed responses using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Parents provided five categories of communication advice to other parents. Advocacy involved asking questions, communicating concerns, and speaking up for the child. Support involved pursuing self-care, seeking and accepting help, and identifying supportive communities. Managing information involved taking and organizing notes, remaining open to difficult truths, and avoiding inaccurate information. Partnership involved establishing open lines of communication with clinicians, making the family's values and priorities known, and trusting the clinical team. Engaging and supporting the child involved, understanding and incorporating the child's preferences and values, and creating a loving environment. Clinicians' advice addressed similar categories, although only one clinician described engaging and supporting the child. Furthermore, parental advice expanded beyond interactions with the clinical team, whereas clinician advice focused more on the role of clinicians. CONCLUSIONS Parents and clinicians of children with cancer provided five categories of communication advice. With these data, clinicians, health care organizations, support groups, and patient advocates could offer experience-informed advice to parents who are seeking information and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Megan A Keenan
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erica Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Sisk BA, Zavadil JA, Blazin LJ, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Assume It Will Break: Parental Perspectives on Negative Communication Experiences in Pediatric Oncology. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e859-e871. [PMID: 33848191 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology can have negative consequences for patients and families. A detailed analysis of these negative encounters will support clinicians in anticipating and responding to communication breakdowns. METHODS Semistructured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer across three academic medical centers during treatment, survivorship, or bereavement. We analyzed transcripts using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Nearly all parents identified negative communication experiences (n = 76). We identified four categories of contributors to negative experiences: individual (n = 68), team (n = 26), organization (n = 46), and greater health care system (n = 8). These experiences involved a variety of health care professionals across multiple specialties. Parents reported 12 personal consequences of communication breakdowns: emotional distress (n = 65), insufficient understanding (n = 48), decreased trust or confidence (n = 37), inconvenience (n = 36), medical harm (n = 23), decreased self-confidence (n = 17), decreased emotional support (n = 13), decreased engagement (n = 9), false hope (n = 9), decreased hope (n = 7), financial insult (n = 7), and decreased access to resources (n = 3). We identified five categories of supportive responses from clinicians: exploring (n = 8), acknowledging (n = 17), informing (n = 27), adapting (n = 27), and advocating (n = 18). Parents often increased their own advocacy on behalf of their child (n = 47). Parents also identified the need for parental engagement in finding solutions (n = 12). Finally, one parent suggested that clinicians should assume that communication will fail and develop contingency plans in advance. CONCLUSION Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology negatively affect parents and children. Clinicians should plan for communication breakdowns and respond by exploring, acknowledging, informing, adapting, advocating, and engaging parents in finding solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Jessica A Zavadil
- Department of Pediatrics, St Louis Children's Hospital, St Louis, MO
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
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22
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Sisk BA, Friedrich AB, Kaye EC, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Multilevel barriers to communication in pediatric oncology: Clinicians' perspectives. Cancer 2021; 127:2130-2138. [PMID: 33598930 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication serves several functions in pediatric oncology, but communication deficiencies persist. Little is known about the broad spectrum of barriers contributing to these deficiencies. Identifying these barriers will support new strategies to improve communication. METHODS The authors performed 10 focus groups on perceived communication barriers with nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals across 2 academic institutions. They analyzed transcripts by adapting a multilevel framework from organizational psychology. RESULTS The authors identified 6 levels of barriers to communication from the clinicians' perspectives: individual, team, organization, collaborating hospital, community, and policy. Individual barriers were subdivided into clinician characteristics, family characteristics, or characteristics of the clinician-family interaction. Within each level and sublevel, several manifestations of barriers were identified. Some barriers, such as a lack of comfort with difficult topics (individual), cultural differences (individual), a lack of a shared team mental model (team), and time pressure (organization), manifested similarly across professions and institutions. Other barriers, such as a need for boundaries (individual), intimidation or embarrassment of family (individual), unclear roles and authority (team), and excessive logistical requirements (policy), manifested differently across professions. With the exception of collaborating hospitals, participants from all professions identified barriers from each level. Physicians did not discuss collaborating hospital barriers. CONCLUSIONS Nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals experience communication barriers at multiple levels, which range from individual- to policy-level barriers. Yet their unique clinical roles and duties can lead to different manifestations of some barriers. This multilevel framework might help clinicians and researchers to identify targets for interventions to improve communication experiences for families in pediatric oncology. LAY SUMMARY Clinicians and families experience many barriers to communication in pediatric oncology. The authors performed 10 focus groups with 59 clinicians who cared for children with cancer. In these focus groups, barriers to effective communication were discussed. In this article, the authors report on an analysis of the responses. Six levels of barriers to communication were found: individual, team, organization, collaborating hospital, community, and policy. With an understanding of these barriers, interventions can be developed to target these barriers in hopes of improving communication for parents and patients in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Annie B Friedrich
- Albert Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Erica C Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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23
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Sisk BA. Improving communication in pediatric oncology: An interdisciplinary path forward. Cancer 2020; 127:1005-1007. [PMID: 33320329 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
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