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Campbell K, Harris F, Stoddart K. The Hematology Cancer Patient Experience of "Facing Death" in the Last Year of Life: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study. Cancer Nurs 2024; 47:132-140. [PMID: 36480369 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For hematology cancer patients, the process of dying is described as "troublesome." Qualitative studies have focused on views of healthcare professionals and caregiver stakeholders. To date, there have been no studies from the patient's perspective on facing death while in the last year of life. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop an understanding of the hematology cancer patient's experience of the process of dying in the last year of life. METHODS The study method was constructivist grounded theory using semistructured interviews, a constant comparison technique, and memoing to collection and analysis of data. The 21 participants were attending a UK cancer center, a cancer unit, or a hospice. RESULTS This article describes 1 core category within the incurable hematology cancer illness trajectory through 4 subcategories: transitional phase, chronic phase, dying phase, and liminal phase. CONCLUSION This unique study illustrates that, although life can be prolonged, "facing death" still occurs upon hospitalization and relapse regularly over the illness trajectory. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE It is important that clinical practice acknowledges those participants in an incurable illness trajectory while living are focused on avoiding death rather than the ability to cure the disease. Services need to be responsive to the ambiguity of both living and dying by providing holistic management simultaneously, especially after critical episodes of care, to enhance the process of care in the last year of life, and assessment should incorporate the discussion of experiencing life-threatening events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Campbell
- Author Affiliations: Edinburgh Napier University (Dr Campbell); Professor, University of West of Scotland (Dr Harris); and University of Stirling (Dr Stoddart), Scotland
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Hansen DK, Bixby T, Fixler K, Shea L, Brittle C, Brunisholz K, Liu YH, Huo JS. Experience of Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in Multiple Myeloma: The Patient and Caregiver Perspective. J Patient Exp 2023; 10:23743735231202733. [PMID: 37766811 PMCID: PMC10521273 DOI: 10.1177/23743735231202733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A qualitative study of the experiences of patients who received autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) was conducted to better understand their MM disease journey, including first symptoms, diagnosis, ASCT, and recovery. Sixteen participants, including 12 patients with MM and 4 caregivers of patients with MM, were interviewed in focus group meetings. Pain, weakness, and bone pain were common first symptoms among patients. The MM diagnosis was often made by a hematologist or oncologist. Patients were referred to a specialized oncologist after diagnosis, who was the primary driver in making ASCT treatment decisions. Eight patients received their ASCT in the inpatient setting, with some having lengthy hospital stays; 4 received their ASCT in an outpatient setting with 3 eventually being hospitalized. The focus groups identified that patients and caregivers perceived various unmet needs and impacts on quality of life throughout their transplant journey. Educational resources and innovative therapies are needed to reduce the disease burden of MM and enhance the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Todd Bixby
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Horsham, PA, USA
| | | | - Lisa Shea
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Horsham, PA, USA
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Rubins Z, Gibson BJ, Chantry A. What Can Patient Narratives Reveal to Us About the Experience of a Diagnosis of Myeloma? A Qualitative Scoping Review. J Patient Exp 2022; 9:23743735221079133. [PMID: 35187224 PMCID: PMC8855462 DOI: 10.1177/23743735221079133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there have been major advances in treatment options for myeloma
and an improved prognosis as a result. There is a wealth of literature that
explores the experience of specific treatments from a clinical perspective but
there is comparatively little known about the reality of living with myeloma.
This research aims to explore the experience of a myeloma diagnosis, to map out
key patient experience literature, and examine common themes to support both
medical practice and the planning of further research. Following a scoping
review methodology, PubMed, StarPlus (the University of Sheffield online
database), and Scopus were searched and 15 studies identified for analysis and
qualitative synthesis. The literature indicated that myeloma was increasingly
being experienced as a chronic condition rather than an acute diagnosis and that
there are challenges meeting the needs of patients, understanding the overall
symptom burden and the role of the family. The paper identifies emotional and
psychological adjustment and coping as a potential area requiring further
exploration in the context of a whole team approach to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë Rubins
- University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Barry J Gibson
- Academic Unit of Oral Health, Dentistry and Society, School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Andrew Chantry
- University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Sheffield Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
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LeBlanc MR, LeBlanc TW, Leak Bryant A, Pollak KI, Bailey DE, Smith SK. A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Living With Multiple Myeloma. Oncol Nurs Forum 2021; 48:151-160. [PMID: 33600390 DOI: 10.1188/21.onf.151-160] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the ways in which multiple myeloma affects an individual's life in the modern treatment era. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING 15 individuals with multiple myeloma and 10 clinicians were recruited from two academic medical centers in the southeastern United States. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH Semistructured interviews were conducted with individuals with multiple myeloma and clinicians to explore the effect of a multiple myeloma diagnosis and treatment on individuals' lives. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using conventional content analysis. FINDINGS The following four themes emerged from the analysis. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING The treatment journey for those with multiple myeloma can be lifelong and may require frequent visits to an oncologist and, potentially, many successive lines of therapy. Life effects are far-reaching and long-term. Nurses should be aware of the interprofessional resources to help meet these individuals' needs. With thorough assessment, care planning, and education, nurses can play a key role in mitigating the negative effects of multiple myeloma and its treatment.
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Dowling M, Fahy P, Houghton C, Smalle M. A qualitative evidence synthesis of healthcare professionals' experiences and views of palliative care for patients with a haematological malignancy. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 29:10.1111/ecc.13316. [PMID: 32902114 PMCID: PMC7757223 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with haematological malignancies may not be receiving appropriate referrals to palliative care and continuing to have treatments in the end stages of their disease. This systematic review of qualitative research aimed to synthesise healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views and experiences of palliative care for adult patients with a haematologic malignancy. METHODS A systematic search strategy was undertaken across eight databases. Thomas and Harden's approach to thematic analysis guided synthesis on the seventeen included studies. GRADE-GRADEQual guided assessment of confidence in the synthesised findings. RESULTS Three analytic themes were identified: (a) "Maybe we can pull another 'rabbit out of the hat'," represents doctors' therapeutic optimism, (b) "To tell or not to tell?" explores doctors' decision-making around introducing palliative care, and (c) "Hospice, home or hospital?" describes HCPs concerns about challenges faced by haematology patients at end of life in terms of transfusion support and risk of catastrophic bleeds. CONCLUSION Haematologists value the importance of integrated palliative care but prefer the term "supportive care." Early integration of supportive care alongside active curative treatment should be the model of choice in haematology settings in order to achieve the best outcomes and improved quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
| | - Paul Fahy
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
| | - Catherine Houghton
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
| | - Mike Smalle
- James Hardiman LibraryNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple myeloma is a B-cell haematological malignancy characterised by uncontrolled plasma cell proliferation. Patients with the disease often undergo periods of remission followed by multiple relapses. Understanding patients' experience of living with this chronic condition is key to providing effective patient-centred care. AIMS This qualitative descriptive study explored the experiences of patients living with multiple myeloma. METHODS A purposive sample of 6 patients was used. Data were collected using in-depth unstructured interviews and analysed using Colaizzi's (1978) thematic framework. FINDINGS The emergent themes included: information and communication; treatment and symptom burden; the importance of support from family/friends and professional help; psychosocial elements of survivorship. CONCLUSION The complex symptoms of multiple myeloma need to be treated holistically to manage the unpredictable nature of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Horgan Cuffe
- Clinical Nurse Specialist, Haematology Day Unit, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin
| | - Mary B Quirke
- Research Felllow, Trinity Centre for Practice and Healthcare Innovation, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin
| | - Catherine McCabe
- Associate Professor, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin
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Kang HY, Choi EY. Factors influencing quality of life in patients with multiple myeloma. Contemp Nurse 2019; 55:109-121. [DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2019.1623699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Young Kang
- Department of Nursing, Chosun University, 309, Pilmundaero, Dong-gu, Gwangju 61452, South Korea
| | - Eun-Young Choi
- Department of Nursing, Chosun Nursing College, 309-2, Pilmundaero, Dong-gu, Gwangju 61453, South Korea
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Moreira MMC, Rodrigues AB, Oliveira PPD, Aguiar MIFD, Cunha GHD, Pinto RMC, Fonseca DF, Mata LRFD. Neuropatia periférica em pessoas com mieloma múltiplo. ACTA PAUL ENFERM 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0194201800061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Objetivo Investigar a prevalência e incidência de neuropatia periférica relacionada ao tratamento com antineoplásicos de pessoas com mieloma múltiplo bem como a associação entre os esquemas quimioterápicos e a neuropatia periférica após o tratamento. Método Estudo documental, correlacional, realizado em dois locais de referência para tratamento oncológico, localizados nos estados do Ceará e Minas Gerais, com análise de pacientes atendidos entre janeiro/2013 e janeiro/2016. Os dados foram analisados utilizando-se análise descritiva e inferencial a partir dos testes qui-quadrado e exato de fisher. Resultados Foram avaliados 100 prontuários de pessoas com mieloma múltiplo com média de idade de 62,7 anos, maioria de homens (64%). O esquema quimioterápico mais utilizado (60%) foi o bortezomibe, dexametasona e ciclofosfamida; 20% dos pacientes apresentavam neuropatia periférica antes do tratamento, 68% desenvolveram durante o tratamento e 56% ao finalizar o tratamento. Não houve associação entre os esquemas quimioterápicos e a neuropatia periférica após o tratamento. Conclusão O presente estudo mostrou um aumento da incidência de NP em indivíduos em tratamento para o MM, 80% apresentaram sintomas de neuropatia antes e/ou durante e/ou após o tratamento com esquemas quimioterápicos. A predominância foi de homens idosos aposentados. O esquema quimioterápico mais utilizado foi o VDC e não foi identificada associação entre os esquemas utilizados e a NP após término o tratamento. As implicações dessas observações recaem sobre a necessidade de avaliação contínua da NP em pessoas com MM, além da monitorização rigorosa desse evento no decorrer do tratamento e após o mesmo, bem como o manejo dos eventos adversos e alterações relacionadas a doença. Não houve associação entre os esquemas quimioterápicos e a neuropatia periférica após o tratamento. Espera-se que os resultados obtidos auxiliem na organização de um registro de dados sobre NP em pacientes com câncer, com o objetivo principal de determinar alvos de intervenção, tornando o cuidado mais eficiente e integral.
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Cormican O, Dowling M. Living with relapsed myeloma: Symptoms and self-care strategies. J Clin Nurs 2018; 27:1713-1721. [PMID: 29266501 PMCID: PMC5947652 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Aims and Objectives To explore which symptoms relapsed myeloma patients experience and what self‐care strategies are used. Methods This was a qualitative study utilising focus group interviews (n = 4) with relapsed myeloma patients (n = 15) and carers (n = 9). The focus groups were analysed and guided by thematic analysis. Results Three major themes with subthemes were identified following analysis of the interview data: “difficult symptoms; “self‐care” and “feeling vulnerable.” These findings indicate the challenges relapsed myeloma patients experience with ongoing symptoms and highlight the importance of continuity of care. Conclusions Symptom management for myeloma patients remains complex due to the array of treatments given. These patients require holistic care and thorough regular assessments to help them cope with the adverse effects on their physical and psychological health. For patients with a long‐term diagnosis of myeloma, self‐management workshops and regular education sessions may be of benefit. Relevance to clinical practice This study highlights the key role of healthcare professionals in going beyond assessment of symptoms to offering advice and support to assist relapsed myeloma patients in managing their symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlaith Cormican
- The Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Clinical Research Facility, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Catamero D, Noonan K, Richards T, Faiman B, Manchulenko C, Devine H, Bertolotti P, Gleason C, Board A. Distress, Fatigue, and Sexuality: Understanding and Treating Concerns and Symptoms in Patients With Multiple Myeloma. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2017; 21:7-18. [DOI: 10.1188/17.cjon.s5.7-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Monterosso L, Taylor K, Platt V, Lobb E, Musiello T, Bulsara C, Stratton K, Joske D, Krishnasamy M. Living With Multiple Myeloma: A Focus Group Study of Unmet Needs and Preferences for Survivorship Care. J Patient Exp 2017; 5:6-15. [PMID: 29582005 PMCID: PMC5862374 DOI: 10.1177/2374373517715011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To describe the unmet informational, psychological, emotional, social, practical, and physical needs and preferences for posttreatment survivorship care of individuals living with multiple myeloma to inform the development of relevant, person-centered, survivorship services. Methods: An exploratory, descriptive study using 2 focus groups with 14 participants, 6 to 49 months postdiagnosis. Results: Thematic analysis revealed 7 key themes: information needs, experience with health-care professionals, coping with side effects, communicating with family and friends, dealing with emotions, support needs, and living with the chronicity of myeloma. Participants described key characteristics of survivorship care relevant to their needs and indicated they would like a more whole of person approach to follow-up when the main treatment phases had completed. Conclusion: Participants in this study described unmet needs across a breadth of domains that varied over time. The development of flexible, person-centered approaches to comprehensive survivorship care is needed to address the considerable quality-of-life issues experienced by people living with multiple myeloma. Nurse-led care may offer 1 viable model to deliver enhanced patient experience—providing the vital “link” that people described as missing from their survivorship care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Monterosso
- Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.,St John of God Murdoch Hospital, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Nursing, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Karen Taylor
- Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.,Western Australia Cancer and Palliative Care Network, Perth, Australia
| | - Violet Platt
- Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.,Western Australia Cancer and Palliative Care Network, Perth, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Lobb
- Calvary Health Care Kogarah, New South Wales and Cunningham Centre for Palliative Care, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Toni Musiello
- School of Surgery, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Caroline Bulsara
- Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kendall Stratton
- Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.,WA Youth Cancer Service, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Joske
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Meinir Krishnasamy
- Department of Cancer Experiences Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Dowling M, Kelly M, Meenaghan T. Multiple myeloma: managing a complex blood cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 25:S18-28. [DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2016.25.s18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mary Kelly
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner (Haematology), Midlands Regional Hospitals, County Offaly, Ireland
| | - Teresa Meenaghan
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner (Haematology) Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
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