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Pereira M, Tocino MLS, Mas-Fontao S, Manso P, Burgos M, Carneiro D, Ortiz A, Arenas MD, González-Parra E. Dependency and frailty in the older haemodialysis patient. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:416. [PMID: 38730386 PMCID: PMC11088105 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04973-8] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frailty among older adults undergoing hemodialysis is increasingly prevalent, significantly impacting cognitive function, mobility, and social engagement. This study focuses on the clinical profiles of very older adults in hemodialysis, particularly examining the interplay of dependency and frailty, and their influence on dialysis regimens. METHODS In this observational, descriptive study, 107 patients aged over 75 from four outpatient centers and one hospital unit were examined over a year. Patient data encompassed sociodemographic factors, dialysis specifics, analytical outcomes, lifestyle elements, and self-reported post-treatment fatigue. Malnutrition-inflammation scale was used to measure the Nutritional status; MIS scale for malnutrition-inflammation, Barthel index for dependency, Charlson comorbidity index; FRIED scale for frailty and the SF12 quality of life measure. RESULTS The study unveiled that a substantial number of older adults on hemodialysis faced malnutrition (55%), dependency (21%), frailty (46%), and diminished quality of life (57%). Patients with dependency were distinctively marked by higher comorbidity, severe malnutrition, enhanced frailty, nursing home residency, dependency on ambulance transportation, and significantly limited mobility, with 77% unable to walk. Notably, 56% of participants experienced considerable post-dialysis fatigue, correlating with higher comorbidity, increased dependency, and poorer quality of life. Despite varying clinical conditions, dialysis patterns were consistent across the patient cohort. CONCLUSIONS The older adult cohort, averaging over four years on hemodialysis, exhibited high rates of comorbidity, frailty, and dependency, necessitating substantial support in transport and living arrangements. A third of these patients lacked residual urine output, yet their dialysis regimen mirrored those with preserved output. The study underscores the imperative for tailored therapeutic strategies to mitigate dependency, preserve residual renal function, and alleviate post-dialysis fatigue, ultimately enhancing the physical quality of life for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pereira
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
| | - M L Sanchez Tocino
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
- Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Sebastian Mas-Fontao
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jimenez Díaz, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
- Facultad de Medicina y Biomedicina, Universidad Alfonso X, Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain.
| | - P Manso
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
| | - M Burgos
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
| | - D Carneiro
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
| | - A Ortiz
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jimenez Díaz, Madrid, 28040, Spain
- Servicio de Nefrología, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - M D Arenas
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain
| | - E González-Parra
- Fundación Renal Íñigo Álvarez de Toledo, Madrid, 28003, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jimenez Díaz, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
- Servicio de Nefrología, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain.
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2
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Saeed F, Dahl S, Horowitz RK, Duberstein PR, Epstein RM, Fiscella KA, Allen RJ. Development and Acceptability of a Kidney Therapy Decision Aid for Patients Aged 75 Years and Older: A Design-Based Research Involving Patients, Caregivers, and a Multidisciplinary Team. Kidney Med 2023; 5:100671. [PMID: 37492114 PMCID: PMC10363565 DOI: 10.1016/j.xkme.2023.100671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale & Objective Many older adults prefer quality of life over longevity, and some prefer conservative kidney management (CKM) over dialysis. There is a lack of patient-decision aids for adults aged 75 years or older facing kidney therapy decisions, which not only include information on dialysis and CKM but also encourage end-of-life planning. We iteratively developed a paper-based patient-decision aid for older people with low literacy and conducted surveys to assess its acceptability. Study Design Design-based research. Setting and Participants Informed by design-based research principles and theory of behavioral activation, a multidisciplinary team of experts created a first version of the patient-decision aid containing 2 components: (1) educational material about kidney therapy options such as CKM, and (2) a question prompt list relevant to kidney therapy and end-of-life decision making. On the basis of the acceptability input of patients and caregivers, separate qualitative interviews of 35 people receiving maintenance dialysis, and with the independent feedback of educated layperson, we further modified the patient-decision aid to create a second version. Analytical Approach We used descriptive statistics to present the results of acceptability surveys and thematic content analyses for patients' qualitative interviews. Results The mean age of patients (n=21) who tested the patient-decision aid was 80 years and the mean age of caregivers (n=9) was 70 years. All respondents held positive views about the educational component and would recommend the educational component to others (100% patients and caregivers). Most of the patients reported that the question prompt list helped them put concerns into words (80% patients and 88% caregivers) and would recommend the question prompt list to others (95% patients and 100% caregivers). Limitations Single-center study. Conclusions Both components of the patient-decision aid received high acceptability ratings. We plan to launch a larger effectiveness study to test the outcomes of a decision-supporting intervention combining the patient-decision aid with palliative care-based decision coaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Care, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Spencer Dahl
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Robert K. Horowitz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Care, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Paul R. Duberstein
- Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Ronald M. Epstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Care, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Family Medicine and Center for Center for Communication and Disparities Research, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Kevin A. Fiscella
- Department of Family Medicine and Center for Center for Communication and Disparities Research, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Rebecca J. Allen
- Mount St. Joseph University, School of Behavioral and Natural Sciences, Cincinnati, OH
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3
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Thorsteinsdottir B, Espinoza Suarez NR, Curtis S, Beck AT, Hargraves I, Shaw K, Wong SPY, Hickson LJ, Boehmer KR, Amberg B, Dahlen E, Wirtz C, Albright RC, Kumbamu A, Tilburt JC, Sutton EJ. Older Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease and Their Perspectives on Prognostic Information: a Qualitative Study. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:1031-1037. [PMID: 35083651 PMCID: PMC8971255 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07176-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prognostic information is key to shared decision-making, particularly in life-limiting illness like advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). OBJECTIVE To understand the prognostic information preferences expressed by older patients with CKD. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Qualitative study of 28 consecutively enrolled patients over 65 years of age with non-dialysis dependent CKD stages 3b-5, receiving care in a multi-disciplinary CKD clinic. APPROACH Semi-structured telephone or in-person interviews to explore patients' preference for and perceived value of individualized prognostic information. Interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis. KEY RESULTS We completed interviews with 28 patients (77.7 ± SD 6.8 years, 69% men). Patients varied in their preference for prognostic information and more were interested in their risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) than in life expectancy. Many conflated ESKD risk with risk of death, perceiving a binary choice between dialysis and quick decline and death. Patients expressed that prognostic information would allow them to plan, take care of important business, and think about their treatment options. Patients were accepting of prognostic uncertainty and imagined leveraging it to nurture hope or motivate them to better manage risk factors. They endorsed the desire to receive prognosis of life expectancy even though it may be hard to accept or difficult to talk about but worried it could create helplessness for other patients in their situation. CONCLUSION Most, but not all, patients were interested in prognostic information and could see its value in motivating behavior change and allowing planning. Some patients expressed concern that information on life expectancy might cause depression and hopelessness. Therefore, prognostic information is most appropriate as part of a clinical conversation that fosters shared decision-making and helps patients consider treatment risks, benefits, and burdens in context of their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjorg Thorsteinsdottir
- Division of Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, USA. .,Biomedical Ethics Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. .,Knowledge Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. .,Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | | | - Susan Curtis
- Biomedical Ethics Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Annika T Beck
- Biomedical Ethics Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ian Hargraves
- Knowledge Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kevin Shaw
- Knowledge Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Susan P Y Wong
- University of Washington and VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - LaTonya J Hickson
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kasey R Boehmer
- Knowledge Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Brigid Amberg
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Erin Dahlen
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Cristina Wirtz
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robert C Albright
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ashok Kumbamu
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jon C Tilburt
- Biomedical Ethics Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Divisions of General Internal Medicine All at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Erica J Sutton
- Biomedical Ethics Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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4
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Chen JHC, Lim WH, Howson P. Changing landscape of dialysis withdrawal in patients with kidney failure: Implications for clinical practice. Nephrology (Carlton) 2022; 27:551-565. [PMID: 35201646 PMCID: PMC9315017 DOI: 10.1111/nep.14032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Dialysis withdrawal has become an accepted treatment option for patients with kidney failure and is one of the leading causes of death in patients receiving dialysis in high-income countries. Despite its increasing acceptance, dialysis withdrawal currently lacks a clear, consistent definition. The processes and outcomes of dialysis withdrawal have wide temporal and geographical variability, attributed to dialysis patient selection, influence from cultural, religious and spiritual beliefs, and availability of kidney replacement therapy and conservative kidney management. As a complex, evolving process, dialysis withdrawal poses an enormous challenge for clinicians and healthcare teams with various limitations precluding a peaceful and smooth transition between active dialysis and end-of-life care. In this review, we examine the current definitions of dialysis withdrawal, the temporal and geographical patterns of dialysis withdrawal, international barriers in the decision-making process (including dialysis withdrawal during the COVID-19 pandemic), and gaps in the current dialysis withdrawal recommendations for clinical consideration and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny H C Chen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.,Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Wai H Lim
- Department of Nephrology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Prue Howson
- Department of Nephrology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
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5
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Penninger LP, Collins SG. Saying Goodbye. PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT CLINICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpha.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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6
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Martin DE, Harris DCH, Jha V, Segantini L, Demme RA, Le TH, McCann L, Sands JM, Vong G, Wolpe PR, Fontana M, London GM, Vanderhaegen B, Vanholder R. Ethical challenges in nephrology: a call for action. Nat Rev Nephrol 2020; 16:603-613. [PMID: 32587403 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-020-0295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The American Society of Nephrology, the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association and the International Society of Nephrology Joint Working Group on Ethical Issues in Nephrology have identified ten broad areas of ethical concern as priority challenges that require collaborative action. Here, we describe these challenges - equity in access to kidney failure care, avoiding futile dialysis, reducing dialysis costs, shared decision-making in kidney failure care, living donor risk evaluation and decision-making, priority setting in kidney disease prevention and care, the ethical implications of genetic kidney diseases, responsible advocacy for kidney health and management of conflicts of interest - with the aim of highlighting the need for ethical analysis of specific issues, as well as for the development of tools and training to support clinicians who treat patients with kidney disease in practising ethically and contributing to ethical policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique E Martin
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
| | - David C H Harris
- University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Vivekanand Jha
- George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, New Delhi, India
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Luca Segantini
- International Society of Nephrology, Brussels, Belgium
- European Society for Organ Transplantation - ESOT c/o ESOT, Padova, Italy
| | - Richard A Demme
- Renal Division and Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thu H Le
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Laura McCann
- American Society of Nephrology, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jeff M Sands
- Renal Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gerard Vong
- Center for Ethics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Monica Fontana
- European Renal Association - European Dialysis and Transplant Association, Parma, Italy
| | - Gerard M London
- Manhes Hospital, Nephrology Department GEPIR, Fleury-Mérogis, France
| | | | - Raymond Vanholder
- Nephrology Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, B9000, Gent, Belgium
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7
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van Bruchem-Visser RL, van Dijk G, Mattace Raso F, de Beaufort I. Requests for futile treatments: what mechanisms play a role? Results of a qualitative study among Dutch physicians. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035675. [PMID: 32350017 PMCID: PMC7213846 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Overtreatment is increasingly seen as a challenge in clinical practice and can lead to unnecessary interventions, poor healthcare outcomes and increasing costs. However, little is known as to what exactly causes overtreatment. In 2015, the Royal Dutch Medical Association (RDMA) attempted to address this problem and distinguished several mechanisms that were thought to drive overtreatment. In 14 qualitative interviews among Dutch physicians, we investigated which mechanisms played a role in decision-making and whether all mechanisms were considered equally important. DESIGN We asked physicians to present a case from personal experience, in which the patient or family requested continuing treatment against the advice of the physician. PARTICIPANTS Fourteen physicians from five different medical areas agreed to participate. SETTING Interviews were held face-to-face at the workplace of the physician. RESULTS Three closely related mechanisms were mentioned most frequently as drivers of overtreatment, as perceived by the physician: 'death is not a common topic of conversation', ''never give up' is the default attitude in our society' and 'patients' culture and outlook on life influences their perception of death'. The mechanism 'medical view taking priority' was mentioned to be an inhibitor of overtreatment. CONCLUSIONS Of the 15 mechanisms described by the report of the Steering Committee of the RDMA, not all mechanisms were mentioned as driving overtreatment. Three mechanisms were mentioned most as being a driver of overtreatment ('death is not a common topic of conversation'; ''never give up' is the default attitude in our society'' and 'patients' culture and outlook on life influences their perception of death'), some played no role at all, and others were considered to be inhibitors of overtreatment, especially the mechanism 'medical view taking priority'.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gert van Dijk
- Medical Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Francesco Mattace Raso
- Section of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Inez de Beaufort
- Medical Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
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8
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Anderson RT, Cleek H, Pajouhi AS, Bellolio MF, Mayukha A, Hart A, Hickson LJ, Feely MA, Wilson ME, Giddings Connolly RM, Erwin PJ, Majzoub AM, Tangri N, Thorsteinsdottir B. Prediction of Risk of Death for Patients Starting Dialysis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2019; 14:1213-1227. [PMID: 31362990 PMCID: PMC6682819 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.00050119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Dialysis is a preference-sensitive decision where prognosis may play an important role. Although patients desire risk prediction, nephrologists are wary of sharing this information. We reviewed the performance of prognostic indices for patients starting dialysis to facilitate bedside translation. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS Systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines. We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus for eligible studies of patients starting dialysis published from inception to December 31, 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA Articles describing validated prognostic indices predicting mortality at the start of dialysis. We excluded studies limited to prevalent dialysis patients, AKI and studies excluding mortality in the first 1-3 months. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts, performed full text assessment of inclusion criteria and extracted: study design, setting, population demographics, index performance and risk of bias. Pre-planned random effects meta-analysis was performed stratified by index and predictive window to reduce heterogeneity. RESULTS Of 12,132 articles screened and 214 reviewed in full text, 36 studies were included describing 32 prognostic indices. Predictive windows ranged from 3 months to 10 years, cohort sizes from 46 to 52,796. Meta-analysis showed discrimination area under the curve (AUC) of 0.71 (95% confidence interval, 0.69 to 073) with high heterogeneity (I2=99.12). Meta-analysis by index showed highest AUC for The Obi, Ivory, and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI)=0.74, also CCI was the most commonly used (ten studies). Other commonly used indices were Kahn-Wright index (eight studies, AUC 0.68), Hemmelgarn modification of the CCI (six studies, AUC 0.66) and REIN index (five studies, AUC 0.69). Of the indices, ten have been validated externally, 16 internally and nine were pre-existing validated indices. Limitations include heterogeneity and exclusion of large cohort studies in prevalent patients. CONCLUSIONS Several well validated indices with good discrimination are available for predicting survival at dialysis start.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Allyson Hart
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - LaTonya J. Hickson
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for Science of Health Care Delivery
| | | | - Michael E. Wilson
- Biomedical Ethics Program
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and
| | | | | | | | - Navdeep Tangri
- Department of Medicine and
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Seven Oaks General Hospital, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Bjorg Thorsteinsdottir
- Biomedical Ethics Program
- Division of Community Internal Medicine
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for Science of Health Care Delivery
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9
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Frailty is highly prevalent in the dialysis population and is associated with mortality. Recent studies have suggested that other dialysis outcomes are compromised in frail individuals. While we do not yet have a consensus as to the best measure of frailty, identification of these poor outcomes and their magnitude of association with frailty will help improve prognostication, allow for earlier interventions, and improve provider-to-patient communication. RECENT FINDINGS The most widely used assessment of frailty is Fried's physical performance criteria. However, regardless of assessment method, frailty remains highly associated with mortality. More recently, frailty has been associated with falls, fractures, cognitive impairment, vascular access failure, and poor quality of life. Recent large cohort studies provide strong evidence that frailty assessment can provide important prognostic information for providers and patients both before and after initiation of dialysis. Trials aimed at improving frailty are limited and show the promise of augmenting quality of life, although more studies are needed to firmly establish mortality benefits. SUMMARY We underscore the importance of frailty as a prognostic indicator and identify other recently established consequences of frailty. Widespread adoption of frailty assessment remains limited and researchers continue to find ways of simplifying the data collection process. Timely and regular assessment of frailty may allow for interventions that can mitigate the onset of poor outcomes and identify actionable targets for dialysis providers.
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10
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Kelley AT, Turner J, Doolittle B. Barriers to Advance Care Planning in End-Stage Renal Disease: Who is to Blame, and What Can be Done? New Bioeth 2018. [PMID: 29513084 DOI: 10.1080/20502877.2018.1438772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with end-stage renal disease experience significant mortality and morbidity, including cognitive decline. Advance care planning has been emphasized as a responsibility and priority of physicians caring for patients with chronic kidney disease in order to align with patient values before decision-making capacity is lost and to avoid suffering. This emphasis has proven ineffective, as illustrated in the case of a patient treated in our hospital. Is this ineffectiveness a consequence of failure in the courtroom or the clinic? Through our own experience we affirm what has been written before: that legal precedent favors intensive treatment in virtually all cases without 'clear and convincing evidence' of a patient's previously declared wishes to the contrary. Equally clear is that more than 20 years of support in the clinical literature suggesting advance care planning early in the course of disease can address challenges in the legal system for those lacking capacity. However, many physicians fail to recognize the need for advance care planning in a timely manner and lack the necessary training to provide it. The need for more training and new tools to recognize opportunities for advance care planning in daily practice remains unmet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Taylor Kelley
- a Combined Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program, Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Jeffrey Turner
- b Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Benjamin Doolittle
- c Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
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11
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Piccoli GB, Sofronie AC, Coindre JP. The strange case of Mr. H. Starting dialysis at 90 years of age: clinical choices impact on ethical decisions. BMC Med Ethics 2017; 18:61. [PMID: 29121886 PMCID: PMC5680775 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-017-0219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Starting dialysis at an advanced age is a clinical challenge and an ethical dilemma. The advantages of starting dialysis at “extreme” ages are questionable as high dialysis-related morbidity induces a reflection on the cost- benefit ratio of this demanding and expensive treatment in a person that has a short life expectancy. Where clinical advantages are doubtful, ethical analysis can help us reach decisions and find adapted solutions. Case presentation Mr. H is a ninety-year-old patient with end-stage kidney disease that is no longer manageable with conservative care, in spite of optimal nutritional management, good blood pressure control and strict clinical and metabolic evaluations; dialysis is the next step, but its morbidity is challenging. The case is analysed according to principlism (beneficence, non-maleficence, justice and respect for autonomy). In the setting of care, dialysis is available without restriction; therefore the principle of justice only partially applied, in the absence of restraints on health-care expenditure. The final decision on whether or not to start dialysis rested with Mr. H (respect for autonomy). However, his choice depended on the balance between beneficence and non-maleficence. The advantages of dialysis in restoring metabolic equilibrium were clear, and the expected negative effects of dialysis were therefore decisive. Mr. H has a contraindication to peritoneal dialysis (severe arthritis impairing self-performance) and felt performing it with nursing help would be intrusive. Post dialysis fatigue, poor tolerance, hypotension and intrusiveness in daily life of haemodialysis patients are closely linked to the classic thrice-weekly, four-hour schedule. A personalized incremental dialysis approach, starting with one session per week, adapting the timing to the patient’s daily life, can limit side effects and “dialysis shock”. Conclusions An individualized approach to complex decisions such as dialysis start can alter the delicate benefit/side-effect balance, ultimately affecting the patient’s choice, and points to a narrative, tailor-made approach as an alternative to therapeutic nihilism, in very old and fragile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgina Barbara Piccoli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy. .,Nephrology, Centre Hospitalier Le Mans, Avenue Roubillard, 72000, Le Mans, France.
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12
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Rak A, Raina R, Suh TT, Krishnappa V, Darusz J, Sidoti CW, Gupta M. Palliative care for patients with end-stage renal disease: approach to treatment that aims to improve quality of life and relieve suffering for patients (and families) with chronic illnesses. Clin Kidney J 2016. [PMID: 28638606 PMCID: PMC5469574 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfw105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Providing end-of-life care to patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) and/or end-stage renal disease often presents ethical challenges to families and health care providers. However, as the conditions these patients present with are multifaceted in nature, so should be the approach when determining prognosis and treatment strategies for this patient population. Having an interdisciplinary palliative team in place to address any concerns that may arise during conversations related to end-of-life care encourages effective communication between the patient, the family and the medical team. Through the use of a case study, the authors demonstrate how an interdisciplinary palliative team can be used to make decisions that satisfy the patient's and the medical team's desires for end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Rak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Research, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Rupesh Raina
- Department of Internal Medicine and Research, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Theodore T Suh
- Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Ann Arbor VA Hospital, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vinod Krishnappa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Research, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Jessica Darusz
- Department of Internal Medicine and Research, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Akron General Medical Center-Cleveland Clinic, Akron, OH, USA
| | | | - Mona Gupta
- Section of Palliative Medicine, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Center for Geriatric Medicine, Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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13
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Biehl M, Takahashi PY, Cha SS, Chaudhry R, Gajic O, Thorsteinsdottir B. Prediction of critical illness in elderly outpatients using elder risk assessment: a population-based study. Clin Interv Aging 2016; 11:829-34. [PMID: 27382266 PMCID: PMC4920232 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s99419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale Identifying patients at high risk of critical illness is necessary for the development and testing of strategies to prevent critical illness. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between high elder risk assessment (ERA) score and critical illness requiring intensive care and to see if the ERA can be used as a prediction tool to identify elderly patients at the primary care visit who are at high risk of critical illness. Methods A population-based historical cohort study was conducted in elderly patients (age >65 years) identified at the time of primary care visit in Rochester, MN, USA. Predictors including age, previous hospital days, and comorbid health conditions were identified from routine administrative data available in the electronic medical record. The main outcome was critical illness, defined as sepsis, need for mechanical ventilation, or death within 2 years of initial visit. Patients with an ERA score of 16 were considered to be at high risk. The discrimination of the ERA score was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results Of the 13,457 eligible patients, 9,872 gave consent for medical record review and had full information on intensive care unit utilization. The mean age was 75.8 years (standard deviation ±7.6 years), and 58% were female, 94% were Caucasian, 62% were married, and 13% were living in nursing homes. In the overall group, 417 patients (4.2%) suffered from critical illness. In the 1,134 patients with ERA >16, 154 (14%) suffered from critical illness. An ERA score ≥16 predicted critical illness (odds ratio 6.35; 95% confidence interval 3.51–11.48). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.75, which indicated good discrimination. Conclusion A simple model based on easily obtainable administrative data predicted critical illness in the next 2 years in elderly outpatients with up to 14% of the highest risk population suffering from critical illness. This model can facilitate efficient enrollment of patients into clinical programs such as care transition programs and studies aimed at the prevention of critical illness. It also can serve as a reminder to initiate advance care planning for high-risk elderly patients. External validation of this tool in different populations may enhance its generalizability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Biehl
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Stephen S Cha
- Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Ognjen Gajic
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine
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Kahrass H, Strech D, Mertz M. The Full Spectrum of Clinical Ethical Issues in Kidney Failure. Findings of a Systematic Qualitative Review. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149357. [PMID: 26938863 PMCID: PMC4777282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When treating patients with kidney failure, unavoidable ethical issues often arise. Current clinical practice guidelines some of them, but lack comprehensive information about the full range of relevant ethical issues in kidney failure. A systematic literature review of such ethical issues supports medical professionalism in nephrology, and offers a solid evidential base for efforts that aim to improve ethical conduct in health care. AIM To identify the full spectrum of clinical ethical issues that can arise for patients with kidney failure in a systematic and transparent manner. METHOD A systematic review in Medline (publications in English or German between 2000 and 2014) and Google Books (with no restrictions) was conducted. Ethical issues were identified by qualitative text analysis and normative analysis. RESULTS The literature review retrieved 106 references that together mentioned 27 ethical issues in clinical care of kidney failure. This set of ethical issues was structured into a matrix consisting of seven major categories and further first and second-order categories. CONCLUSIONS The systematically-derived matrix helps raise awareness and understanding of the complexity of ethical issues in kidney failure. It can be used to identify ethical issues that should be addressed in specific training programs for clinicians, clinical practice guidelines, or other types of policies dealing with kidney failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Kahrass
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniel Strech
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marcel Mertz
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Center for Ethics, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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15
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Puts MTE, Toubasi S, Atkinson E, Ayala AP, Andrew M, Ashe MC, Bergman H, Ploeg J, McGilton KS. Interventions to prevent or reduce the level of frailty in community-dwelling older adults: a protocol for a scoping review of the literature and international policies. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e010959. [PMID: 26936911 PMCID: PMC4785293 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With ageing comes increased vulnerability such that older adults' ability to recover from acute illnesses, fall-related injuries and other stresses related to the physical ageing processes declines. This increased vulnerability, also known as frailty, is common in older adults and associated with increased healthcare service use and adverse health outcomes. Currently, there is no overview of available interventions to prevent or reduce the level of frailty (as defined by study's authors) which will help healthcare providers in community settings caring for older adults. We will address this gap by reviewing interventions and international policies that are designed to prevent or reduce the level of frailty in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a scoping review using the updated guidelines of Arksey and O'Malley to systematically search the peer-reviewed journal articles to identify interventions that aimed to prevent or reduce the level of frailty. We will search grey literature for international policies. The 6-stage scoping review model involves: (1) identifying the research question; (2) identifying relevant studies; (3) selecting studies; (4) charting the data; (5) collating, summarising and reporting the results and (6) consulting with key stakeholders. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Our scoping review will use robust methodology to search for available interventions focused on preventing or reducing the level of frailty in community-dwelling older adults. We will consult with stakeholders to find out whether they find the frailty interventions/policies useful and to identify the barriers and facilitators to their implementation in Canada. We will disseminate our findings to relevant stakeholders at local, national and international levels by presenting at relevant meetings and publishing the findings. Our review will identify gaps in research and provide healthcare providers and policymakers with an overview of interventions that can be implemented to prevent or postpone frailty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine T E Puts
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samar Toubasi
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Esther Atkinson
- Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ana Patricia Ayala
- Gerstein Information Science Centre, University of Toronto Libraries, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Andrew
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Maureen C Ashe
- Department of Family Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Howard Bergman
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jenny Ploeg
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine S McGilton
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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16
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Butler CR, Mehrotra R, Tonelli MR, Lam DY. The Evolving Ethics of Dialysis in the United States: A Principlist Bioethics Approach. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2016; 11:704-9. [PMID: 26912540 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.04780515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Throughout the history of dialysis, four bioethical principles - beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy and justice - have been weighted differently based upon changing forces of technologic innovation, resource limitation, and societal values. In the 1960s, a committee of lay people in Seattle attempted to fairly distribute a limited number of maintenance hemodialysis stations guided by considerations of justice. As technology advanced and dialysis was funded under an amendment to the Social Security Act in 1972, focus shifted to providing dialysis for all in need while balancing the burdens of treatment and quality of life, supported by the concepts of beneficence and nonmaleficence. At the end of the last century, the importance of patient preferences and personal values became paramount in medical decisions, reflecting a focus on the principle of autonomy. More recently, greater recognition that health care financial resources are limited makes fair allocation more pressing, again highlighting the importance of distributive justice. The varying application and prioritization of these four principles to both policy and clinical decisions in the United States over the last 50 years makes the history of hemodialysis an instructive platform for understanding principlist bioethics. As medical technology evolves in a landscape of changing personal and societal values, a comprehensive understanding of an ethical framework for evaluating appropriate use of medical interventions enables the clinician to systematically negotiate and optimize difficult ethical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajnish Mehrotra
- Kidney Research Institute and Harborview Medical Center, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; and
| | - Mark R Tonelli
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Daniel Y Lam
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Weber T, Strasser F. When is an invasive palliative intervention in an acute internal medical patient worth it? A structured palliative approach. Wien Med Wochenschr 2015; 165:467-71. [PMID: 26620468 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-015-0406-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A 67-year-old patient with coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery after a recent myocardial infarction despite a high perioperative risk of death. While waiting, acute renal failure developed, and the patient was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). After the patient and his wife were informed that CABG surgery was no longer possible, he declined further intensive care treatment and subsequently died peacefully.We show that a structured palliative approach which has been proposed for cancer patients may also be feasible in palliative situations concerning nononcologic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Weber
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine and Palliative Care Liaison Unit, SMZ Ost Danube Hospital, Langobardenstr. 122, 1220, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Florian Strasser
- Oncological Palliative Medicine, Cantonal Hospital Sankt Gallen, Sankt Gallen, Switzerland
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18
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Thorsteinsdottir B, Swetz KM, Albright RC. The Ethics of Chronic Dialysis for the Older Patient: Time to Reevaluate the Norms. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2015; 10:2094-9. [PMID: 25873266 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.09761014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent research highlights the potential burdens of hemodialysis for older patients with significant comorbidities, for whom there is clinical equipoise regarding the net benefits. With the advent of accountable care and bundled payment, previous incentives to offer hemodialysis to as many patients as possible are being replaced with a disincentive to dialyze high-risk patients. While this may offset the harm of overtreatment for some elderly patients, some voice concerns that the pendulum will swing too far back, with a return to ageist rationing of hemodialysis. Nephrologists should ensure that the patient's rights to be informed about the potential benefits and burdens of hemodialysis are respected, particularly because age, functional status, nutritional status, and comorbidities affect the net balance between benefits and burdens. Nephrologists are also called on to help patients make a decision, for which the patient's goals of care guide determination of potential benefit from hemodialysis. This article addresses concerns about present overtreatment and future risk of undertreatment of older adults with ESRD. It also discusses ways in which providers can ethically approach the question of initiation of hemodialysis in the elderly patient by including patient-specific estimates of prognosis, shared decision-making, and the use of specialist palliative care clinicians or ethics consultants for complex cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjorg Thorsteinsdottir
- Department of Medicine, Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Biomedical Ethics Program, and Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Keith M Swetz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Biomedical Ethics Program, and Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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Hickson LJ, Chaudhary S, Williams AW, Dillon JJ, Norby SM, Gregoire JR, Albright RC, McCarthy JT, Thorsteinsdottir B, Rule AD. Predictors of outpatient kidney function recovery among patients who initiate hemodialysis in the hospital. Am J Kidney Dis 2015; 65:592-602. [PMID: 25500361 PMCID: PMC4630340 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent policy clarifications by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have changed access to outpatient dialysis care at end-stage renal disease (ESRD) facilities for individuals with acute kidney injury in the United States. Tools to predict "ESRD" and "acute" status in terms of kidney function recovery among patients who previously initiated dialysis therapy in the hospital could help inform patient management decisions. STUDY DESIGN Historical cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS Incident hemodialysis patients in the Mayo Clinic Health System who initiated in-hospital renal replacement therapy (RRT) and continued outpatient dialysis following hospital dismissal (2006 through 2009). PREDICTOR Baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), acute tubular necrosis from sepsis or surgery, heart failure, intensive care unit, and dialysis access. OUTCOMES Kidney function recovery defined as sufficient kidney function for outpatient hemodialysis therapy discontinuation. RESULTS Cohort consisted of 281 patients with a mean age of 64 years, 63% men, 45% with heart failure, and baseline eGFR≥30mL/min/1.73m(2) in 46%. During a median of 8 months, 52 (19%) recovered, most (94%) within 6 months. Higher baseline eGFR (HR per 10-mL/min/1.73m(2) increase eGFR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.16-1.39; P<0.001), acute tubular necrosis from sepsis or surgery (HR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.83-6.24; P<0.001), and heart failure (HR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19-0.78, P=0.007) were independent predictors of recovery within 6 months, whereas first RRT in the intensive care unit and catheter dialysis access were not. There was a positive interaction between absence of heart failure and eGFR≥30mL/min/1.73m(2) for predicting kidney function recovery (P<0.001). LIMITATIONS Sample size. CONCLUSIONS Kidney function recovery in the outpatient hemodialysis unit following in-hospital RRT initiation is not rare. As expected, higher baseline eGFR is an important determinant of recovery. However, patients with heart failure are less likely to recover even with a higher baseline eGFR. Consideration of these factors at hospital discharge informs decisions on ESRD status designation and long-term hemodialysis care.
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Affiliation(s)
- LaTonya J. Hickson
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sanjay Chaudhary
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Amy W. Williams
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - John J. Dillon
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Suzanne M. Norby
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James R. Gregoire
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robert C. Albright
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James T. McCarthy
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Bjoerg Thorsteinsdottir
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Andrew D. Rule
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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O'Hare AM, Armistead N, Schrag WLF, Diamond L, Moss AH. Patient-centered care: an opportunity to accomplish the "Three Aims" of the National Quality Strategy in the Medicare ESRD program. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2014; 9:2189-94. [PMID: 25035275 PMCID: PMC4255394 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.01930214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In light of mounting federal government debt and levels of Medicare spending that are widely viewed as unsustainable, commentators have called for a transformation of the United States health care system to deliver better care at lower costs. This article presents the priorities of the Coalition for Supportive Care of Kidney Patients for how clinicians might achieve this transformation for patients with advanced CKD and their families. The authors suspect that much of the high-intensity, high-cost care currently delivered to patients with advanced kidney disease may be unwanted and that the "Three Aims" put forth by the National Quality Strategy of better care for the individual, better health for populations, and reduced health care costs may be within reach for patients with CKD and ESRD. This work describes the coalition's vision for a more patient-centered approach to the care of patients with kidney disease and argues for more concerted efforts to align their treatments with their goals, values, and preferences. Key priorities to achieve this vision include using improved prognostic models and decision science to help patients, their families, and their providers better understand what to expect in the future; engaging patients and their families in shared decision-making before the initiation of dialysis and during the course of dialysis treatment; and tailoring treatment strategies throughout the continuum of their care to address what matters most to individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M O'Hare
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington and Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington
| | | | | | - Louis Diamond
- Quality Health Care Advisory Group, Rockville, Maryland; and
| | - Alvin H Moss
- Section of Nephrology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
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21
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Ethical challenges with hemodialysis patients who lack decision-making capacity: behavioral issues, surrogate decision-makers, and end-of-life situations. Kidney Int 2014; 86:475-80. [PMID: 24988063 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2014.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Hemodialysis (HD) is routinely offered to patients with end-stage renal disease in the United States who are ineligible for other renal replacement modalities. The frequency of HD among the US population is greater than all other countries, except Taiwan and Japan. In US, patients are often dialyzed irrespective of age, comorbidities, prognosis, or decision-making capacity. Determination of when patients can no longer dialyze is variable and can be dialysis-center specific. Determinants may be related to progressive comorbidities and frailty, mobility or access issues, patient self-determination, or an inability to tolerate the treatment safely for any number of reasons (e.g., hypotension, behavioral issues). Behavioral issues may impact the safety of not only patients themselves, but also those around them. In this article the authors present the case of an elderly patient on HD with progressive cognitive impairment and combative behavior placing him and others at risk of physical harm. The authors discuss the medical, ethical, legal, and psychosocial challenges to care of such patients who lack decision-making capacity with a focus on variable approaches by regions and culture. This manuscript provides recommendations and highlights resources to assist nephrologists, dialysis personnel, ethics consultants, and palliative medicine teams in managing such patients to resolve conflict.
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22
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Lin YT, Wu PH, Kuo MC, Lin MY, Lee TC, Chiu YW, Hwang SJ, Chen HC. High cost and low survival rate in high comorbidity incident elderly hemodialysis patients. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75318. [PMID: 24040407 PMCID: PMC3767633 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The comorbidity index is a predictor of mortality in dialysis patients but there are few reports for predicting elderly dialysis mortality and national population-based cost studies on elderly dialysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term mortality of incident elderly dialysis patients using the Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and to assess the inpatient and outpatient visits along with non-dialysis costs. METHODS Data were obtained from catastrophic illness registration of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Incident elderly dialysis patients (age ≥75 years) receiving hemodialysis for more than 90 days between Jan 1, 1998, and Dec 31, 2007, were included. Baseline comorbidities were determined one year prior to the first dialysis day according to ICD-9 CM codes. Survival time, mortality rate, hospitalization time, outpatient visit frequency, and costs were calculated for different age and CCI groups. RESULTS In 10,759 incident elderly hemodialysis patients, hazard ratios for all-cause mortality were significantly increased in the different age groups (p < 0.001) and CCI patients (p < 0.001). Death rates increased with both increasing age and CCI score. High comorbidity incident hemodialysis and elderly patients were found to have increased length of hospital stay and total hospitalization costs. CONCLUSIONS This population-based cohort study indicated that both age and higher CCI values were predictors of survival in incident elderly hemodialysis. Increased costs and mortality rates were evident in the oldest patients and in those with high CCI scores. Conservative treatment might be considered in high comorbidity and low-survival rate end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Hsun Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chuan Kuo
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Renal Care, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Ming-Yen Lin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chi Lee
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Chiu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Renal Care, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Jyh Hwang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Renal Care, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chun Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Renal Care, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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