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Thompson GN, Hack TF, Chochinov HM, Roger K, St John PD, McClement SE. Developing a question prompt list for family caregivers concerning the progression and palliative care needs of nursing home residents living with dementia. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 2:100160. [PMID: 37384156 PMCID: PMC10294106 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Objective Communication around a palliative approach to dementia care often is problematic or occurs infrequently in nursing homes (NH). Question prompt lists (QPLs), are evidence-based lists designed to improve communication by facilitating discussions within a specific population. This study aimed to develop a QPL concerning the progression and palliative care needs of residents living with dementia. Methods A mixed-methods design in 2 phases. In phase 1, potential questions for inclusion in the QPL were identified using interviews with NH care providers, palliative care clinicians and family caregivers. An international group of experts reviewed the QPL. In phase 2, NH care providers and family caregivers reviewed the QPL assessing the clarity, sensitivity, importance, and relevance of each item. Results From 127 initial questions, 30 questions were included in the first draft of the QPL. After review by experts, including family caregivers, the QPL was finalized with 38 questions covering eight content areas. Conclusion Our study has developed a QPL for persons living with dementia in NHs and their caregivers to initiate conversations to clarify questions they may have regarding the progression of dementia, end of life care, and the NH environment. Further work is needed to evaluate its effectiveness and determine optimal use in clinical practice. Innovation This unique QPL is anticipated to facilitate discussions around dementia care, including self-care for family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve N. Thompson
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Thomas F. Hack
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Harvey Max Chochinov
- Department of Psychiatry, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, PZ433-771 Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3N4, Canada
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, 4005-675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0V9, Canada
| | - Kerstin Roger
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 35-220 Chancellor Circle, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Philip D. St John
- Section of Geriatric Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, GE 547 Health Sciences Centre, 820 Sherbrook St, Winnipeg, MB R2A 1R9, Canada
- Research Affiliate, Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba, 338 Isbister Building, 183 Dafoe Rd, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Susan E. McClement
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
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Tietbohl CK, Dafoe A, Jordan SR, Huebschmann AG, Lum HD, Bowles KH, Jones CD. Palliative Care across Settings: Perspectives from Inpatient, Primary Care, and Home Health Care Providers and Staff. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:1371-1378. [PMID: 36908002 PMCID: PMC10495535 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231163156] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early introduction of palliative care can improve patient-centered outcomes for older adults with complex medical conditions. However, identifying the need for and introducing palliative care with patients and caregivers is often difficult. We aim to identify how and why a multi-setting approach to palliative care discussions may improve the identification of palliative care needs and how to facilitate these conversations. METHODS Descriptive qualitative study to inform the development and future pilot testing of a model to improve recognition of, and support for, unmet palliative care needs in home health care (HHC). Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with providers across inpatient (n = 11), primary care (n = 17), and HHC settings (n = 10). RESULTS Four key themes emerged: 1) providers across settings can identify palliative care needs using their unique perspectives of the patient's care, 2) identifying palliative care needs is challenging due to infrequent communication and lack of shared information between providers, 3) importance of identifying a clinical lead of patient care who will direct palliative care discussions (primary care provider), and 4) importance of identifying a care coordination lead (HHC) to bridge communication among multi-setting providers. These themes highlight a multi-setting approach that would improve the frequency and quality of palliative care discussions. CONCLUSIONS A lack of structured communication across settings is a major barrier to introducing and providing palliative care. A novel model that improves communication and coordination of palliative care across HHC, inpatient and primary care providers may facilitate identifying and addressing palliative care needs in medically complex older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline K. Tietbohl
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ashley Dafoe
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sarah R. Jordan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amy G. Huebschmann
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hillary D. Lum
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathryn H. Bowles
- New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine D. Jones
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Veterans Health Administration, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value Driven Care, Aurora, CO, USA
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Kaasalainen S, Wickson-Griffiths A, Hunter P, Thompson G, Kruizinga J, McCleary L, Sussman T, Venturato L, Shaw S, Boamah SA, Bourgeois-Guérin V, Hadjistavropoulos T, Macdonald M, Martin-Misener R, McClement S, Parker D, Penner J, Ploeg J, Sinclair S, Fisher K. Evaluation of the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long Term Care (SPA-LTC) programme: a protocol of a cluster randomised control trial. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e073585. [PMID: 37880170 PMCID: PMC10603462 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073585] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the high mortality rates in long-term care (LTC) homes, most do not have a formalised palliative programme. Hence, our research team has developed the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long Term Care (SPA-LTC) programme. The goal of the proposed study is to examine the implementation and effectiveness of the SPA-LTC programme. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A cross-jurisdictional, effectiveness-implementation type II hybrid cluster randomised control trial design will be used to assess the SPA-LTC programme for 18 LTC homes (six homes within each of three provinces). Randomisation will occur at the level of the LTC home within each province, using a 1:1 ratio (three homes in the intervention and control groups). Baseline staff surveys will take place over a 3-month period at the beginning for both the intervention and control groups. The intervention group will then receive facilitated training and education for staff, and residents and their family members will participate in the SPA-LTC programme. Postintervention data collection will be conducted in a similar manner as in the baseline period for both groups. The overall target sample size will be 594 (297 per arm, 33 resident/family member participants per home, 18 homes). Data collection and analysis will involve organisational, staff, resident and family measures. The primary outcome will be a binary measure capturing any emergency department use in the last 6 months of life (resident); with secondary outcomes including location of death (resident), satisfaction and decisional conflict (family), knowledge and confidence implementing a palliative approach (staff), along with implementation outcomes (ie, feasibility, reach, fidelity and perceived sustainability of the SPA-LTC programme). The primary outcome will be analysed via multivariable logistic regression using generalised estimating equations. Intention-to-treat principles will be used in the analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has received ethical approval. Results will be disseminated at various presentations and feedback sessions; at provincial, national and international conferences, and in a series of manuscripts that will be submitted to peer-reviewed, open access journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT039359.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Kaasalainen
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Gladys Sharpe Chair in Nursing, School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Julia Kruizinga
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lynn McCleary
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Sally Shaw
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheila A Boamah
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Susan McClement
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Deborah Parker
- Aged Care, University of Technology Sydney Faculty of Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jamie Penner
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jenny Ploeg
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shane Sinclair
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kathryn Fisher
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Jang S, Lee YK, Ha YC, Jang S. The Potential Economic Benefits of an Alarm Service in Order Communication Systems in Korea: a Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Less-Intensive Fracture Liaison Services Based on a Prospective Cohort Study. Calcif Tissue Int 2022; 111:380-390. [PMID: 35790553 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-022-01000-z] [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: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
An alarm service in an order communication system (OCS) was found to be effective at increasing the rate of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) testing and treatment in South Korea, but its cost-effectiveness remains unknown. We used a Markov model to determine the cost-effectiveness of the alarm service in the OCS compared to no alarm service for the post-fracture management of subjects aged 50 years and older with fragility fractures. DXA testing and treatment data were collected from a prospective cohort study. The prevalence of osteoporotic fractures, the subsequent risk of hip fracture, and healthcare costs were obtained using Korea National Health Insurance claims data. The lifetime cost and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained were estimated from a healthcare perspective. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to examine the uncertainty of the results. The alarm service increased treatment by 125 per 1000 patients and prevented 3 hip fractures per 1000 patients. The alarm service cost an additional 249,393 KRW and resulted in an increase of 0.008 QALYs per patient compared to no alarm service. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was 31,174,125 KRW (26,843 USD) per QALY gained. The alarm service was cost-effective than no alarm service if the willingness to pay setting as 1GDP per capita (29,288 USD) per QALY gained. This study shows that less-intensive fracture liaison services, such as an alarm service, are cost-effective for patients aged 50 years and older with osteoporotic fractures in Korea. An intensive model, including enhanced identification and education, could further prevent the risk of refracture and improve cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhyun Jang
- College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoe-Ro, Yeonsu-Gu, Incheon, 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kyun Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Chan Ha
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, BUMIN Hospital, 389 Gonghang-daero, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, 07590, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunmee Jang
- College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoe-Ro, Yeonsu-Gu, Incheon, 21936, Republic of Korea.
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Vellani S, Green E, Kulasegaram P, Sussman T, Wickson-Griffiths A, Kaasalainen S. Interdisciplinary staff perceptions of advance care planning in long-term care homes: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:127. [PMID: 35836164 PMCID: PMC9284816 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01014-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Residents living in long-term care homes (LTCH) have complex care needs, multiple chronic conditions, increasing frailty and cognitive impairment. A palliative approach that incorporates advance care planning (ACP) should be integrated with chronic disease management, yet it is not a norm in most LTCHs. Despite its growing need, there remains a lack of staff engagement in the ACP process. Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of interdisciplinary staff related to the practice of ACP in LTCHs. Methods This study is part of a larger Canadian project, iCAN ACP, that aims to increase uptake, and access to ACP for older Canadians living with frailty. An exploratory qualitative design using an interpretive descriptive approach was employed utilizing focus groups and semi-structured interviews with staff from four LTCHs in Ontario, Canada. Findings There were 98 participants, including nurses (n = 36), physicians (n = 4), personal support workers (n = 34), support staff (n = 23), and a public guardian (n = 1). Three common themes and nine subthemes were derived: a) ongoing nature of ACP; b) complexities around ACP conversations; and c) aspirations for ACP becoming a standard of care in LTCHs. Discussion The findings of this study provide important contributions to our understanding of the complexities surrounding ACP implementation as a standard of practice in LTCHs. One of the critical findings relates to a lack of ACP conversations prior to admission in the LTCHs, by which time many residents may have already lost cognitive abilities to engage in these discussions. The hierarchical nature of LTCH staffing also serves as a barrier to the interdisciplinary collaboration required for a successful implementation of ACP initiatives. Participants within our study expressed support for ACP communication and the need for open lines of formal and informal interdisciplinary communication. There is a need for revitalizing care in LTCHs through interdisciplinary care practices, clarification of role descriptions, optimized staffing, capacity building of each category of staff and commitment from the LTCH leadership for such care. Conclusion The findings build on a growing body of research illustrating the need to improve staff engagement in ACP communication in LTCHs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01014-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Vellani
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Green
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Pereya Kulasegaram
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- Faculty of Arts, School of Social Work, McGill University, 3506 University St, Montreal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada
| | - Abby Wickson-Griffiths
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S0A2, Canada
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada.
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Slam Bam, Thank you, Ma’am: The Challenges of Advance Care Planning Engagement in Long-Term Care. Can J Aging 2022; 41:443-450. [DOI: 10.1017/s0714980821000738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This interpretative, qualitative study explored residents’ and families’ perspectives on advance care planning (ACP) in long-term care (LTC). Perspectives on when, how, and with whom ACP discussions should be introduced and barriers and solutions to improving ACP engagement were examined. Fifty-one residents and families participated in seven focus groups. The findings revealed that residents and families prioritized caring connections over professional rank when reflecting on staff involvement in ACP. The findings further revealed that the caring and compassionate environment considered to be a critical pre-condition for ACP engagement was more typically enacted at end of life when ACP was no longer an option. Our findings suggest that work practices and organizational structures within LTC play an important role in inhibiting ACP engagement.
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Which has more influence on a family's assessment of the quality of dying of their long-term care resident with dementia: Frequency of symptoms or quality of communication with healthcare team? Palliat Support Care 2022; 21:438-444. [PMID: 35346414 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522000323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Symptoms present at the end of life and the quality of communication with the healthcare team have both been shown to impact family assessments of the quality of dying of their loved one with dementia. However, the relative contributions of these two factors to family assessments have not yet been investigated. To address this knowledge gap, we explored which of these two factors has more influence on family assessments of the quality of dying of long-term care (LTC) residents with dementia. METHOD This is a secondary analysis of a mortality follow-back study. Ninety-four family members of LTC residents who had died with dementia assessed the quality of dying (very good or not very good), the frequency of symptoms, and the quality of communication with the healthcare team using a self-administered questionnaire mailed 1 month after the resident's death. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the relative contributions of the two independent variables of primary interest (frequency of symptoms and quality of communication) to the families' assessments of the quality of dying. RESULTS Multivariate analyses revealed that the quality of communication with the healthcare team was closely linked to the quality of dying (p = 0.009, OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.09-1.65), whereas the frequency of symptoms was not (p = 0.142, OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.98-1.11) after controlling for potential confounders. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our findings show that healthcare providers' ability to engage in the end-of-life conversations with families outweighs the frequency of symptoms in family assessments of the quality of dying of their relative with dementia. Enhancing healthcare providers' ability to communicate with families about the end-of-life care could improve families' perceptions of the quality of dying of their relative with dementia and, consequently, ease their grieving process.
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Gonella S, Mitchell G, Bavelaar L, Conti A, Vanalli M, Basso I, Cornally N. Interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing homes: A mixed-methods systematic review. Palliat Med 2022; 36:268-291. [PMID: 34965759 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211066733] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most people with dementia transition into nursing homes as their disease progresses. Their family caregivers often continue to be involved in their relative's care and experience high level of strain at the end of life. AIM To gather and synthesize information on interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing homes and provide a set of recommendations for practice. DESIGN Mixed-Methods Systematic Review (PROSPERO no. CRD42020217854) with convergent integrated approach. DATA SOURCES Five electronic databases were searched from inception in November 2020. Published qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method studies of interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing home were included. No language or temporal limits were applied. RESULTS In all, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data synthesis resulted in three integrated findings: (i) healthcare professionals should engage family caregivers in ongoing dialog and provide adequate time and space for sensitive discussions; (ii) end-of-life discussions should be face-to-face and supported by written information whose timing of supply may vary according to family caregivers' preferences and the organizational policies and cultural context; and (iii) family caregivers should be provided structured psychoeducational programs tailored to their specific needs and/or regular family meetings about dementia care at the end of life. CONCLUSION The findings provide useful information on which interventions may benefit family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life and where, when, and how they should be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gonella
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Gary Mitchell
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Laura Bavelaar
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alessio Conti
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Mariangela Vanalli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Ines Basso
- School of Nursing, Azienda Ospedaliera "SS Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo," Alessandria, Italy
| | - Nicola Cornally
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Supportive and palliative care for people with chronic respiratory disease and frailty. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2021; 14:206-212. [PMID: 32740274 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Frailty is a multidimensional syndrome associated with increased risk of poor outcomes. It is estimated that at least one in five people with chronic respiratory disease is also living with frailty. In this review, we consider recent advances in how frailty can be recognized, and its associated impact on people with chronic respiratory disease. We then discuss advances in supportive and palliative care for those with both chronic respiratory disease and frailty. RECENT FINDINGS The interconnectedness of chronic respiratory disease and frailty is being better understood. An increasing number of factors associated with frailty in respiratory disease have been identified, from increased symptom burden (e.g. breathlessness, fatigue) to increased exacerbations and higher mortality. These contribute to accumulating multidimensional losses in reserve, and unpredictable health. Recent advances in respiratory research, while not always with people with frailty, may inform supportive and palliative care to address frailty in chronic respiratory disease. These include rehabilitation interventions to strengthen reserves, advance care planning interventions to help manage unpredictable trajectories, and integrated models of care (e.g. incorporating respiratory, geriatric, and palliative care) to address multidimensional needs. SUMMARY Recent evidence supporting the role of rehabilitation, advance care planning, and early palliative care, may be of benefit to people living with chronic respiratory disease and frailty. Models showing integration across multiple specialities and professionals may have the most potential to meet the multidimensional needs of this group. Future research should develop and test models of care that address frailty and/or explore the role of frailty in triggering integrated multidisciplinary input.
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Sussman T, Kaasalainen S, Bimman R, Punia H, Edsell N, Sussman J. Exploration of the acceptability and usability of advance care planning tools in long term care homes. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:179. [PMID: 33243203 PMCID: PMC7756921 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00689-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Despite known benefits, advance care planning (ACP) is rarely a component of usual practice in long-term care (LTC). A series of tools and workbooks have been developed to support ACP uptake amongst the generable population. Yet, their potential for improving ACP uptake in LTC has yet to be examined. This study explored if available ACP tools are acceptable for use in LTC by (a) eliciting staff views on the content and format that would support ACP tool usability in LTC (b) examining if publicly available ACP tools include content identified as relevant by LTC home staff. Ultimately this study aimed to identify the potential for existing ACP tools to improve ACP engagement in LTC. Methods A combination of focus group deliberations with LTC home staff (N = 32) and content analysis of publicly available ACP tools (N = 32) were used to meet the study aims. Results Focus group deliberations suggested that publicly available ACP tools may be acceptable for use in LTC if the tools include psychosocial elements and paper-based versions exist. Content analysis of available paper-based tools revealed that only a handful of ACP tools (32/611, 5%) include psychosocial content, with most encouraging psychosocially-oriented reflections (30/32, 84%), and far fewer providing direction around other elements of ACP such as communicating psychosocial preferences (14/32, 44%) or transforming preferences into a documented plan (7/32, 22%). Conclusions ACP tools that include psychosocial content may improve ACP uptake in LTC because they elicit future care issues considered pertinent and can be supported by a range of clinical and non-clinical staff. To increase usability and engagement ACP tools may require infusion of scenarios pertinent to frail older persons, and a better balance between psychosocial content that elicits reflections and psychosocial content that supports communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Sussman
- McGill University School of Social Work, 3506 Rue University #300, Montréal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada.
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Health Sciences Centre, McMaster University School of Nursing, 2J20, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Rennie Bimman
- McGill University School of Social Work, 3506 Rue University #300, Montréal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada
| | - Harveer Punia
- Health Sciences Centre, McMaster University School of Nursing, 2J20, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Nathaniel Edsell
- McGill University School of Social Work, 3506 Rue University #300, Montréal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada
| | - Jess Sussman
- University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
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11
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Kaasalainen S, Sussman T, Thompson G, McCleary L, Hunter PV, Venturato L, Wickson-Griffiths A, Ploeg J, Parker D, Sinclair S, Dal Bello-Haas V, Earl M, You JJ. A pilot evaluation of the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long-Term Care (SPA-LTC) program. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:107. [PMID: 32660621 PMCID: PMC7358198 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00599-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite increased annual mortality in long-term care (LTC) homes, research has shown that care of dying residents and their families is currently suboptimal in these settings. The purpose of this study was to evaluate resident and family outcomes associated with the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in LTC (SPA-LTC) program, developed to help encourage meaningful end of life discussions and planning. Methods The study employs a mixed method design in four LTC homes across Southern Ontario. Data were collected from residents and families of the LTC homes through chart reviews, interviews, and focus groups. Interviews with family who attended a Palliative Care Conference included both closed-ended and open-ended questions. Results In total, 39 residents/families agreed to participate in the study. Positive intervention outcomes included a reduction in the proportion of emergency department use at end of life and hospital deaths for those participating in SPA-LTC, improved support for families, and increased family involvement in the care of residents. For families who attended a Palliative Care Conference, both quantitative and qualitative findings revealed that families benefited from attending them. Residents stated that they appreciated learning about a palliative approach to care and being informed about their current status. Conclusions The benefits of SPA-LTC for residents and families justify its continued use within LTC. Study results also suggest that certain enhancements of the program could further promote future integration of best practices within a palliative approach to care within the LTC context. However, the generalizability of these results across LTC homes in different regions and countries is limited given the small sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Kaasalainen
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N25F, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Tamara Sussman
- School of Social Work, McGill University, 3506 University St., Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Genevieve Thompson
- College of Nursing, Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Lynn McCleary
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON, L2N 3A1, Canada
| | - Paulette V Hunter
- St. Thomas More College, University of Saskatchewan, 1437 College Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lorraine Venturato
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Jenny Ploeg
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N25F, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Deborah Parker
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, 235 Jones St, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Shane Sinclair
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Vanina Dal Bello-Haas
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, 1400 Main Street West, IAHS 403E, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marie Earl
- School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University, 5869 University Avenue, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - John J You
- Division of General Internal and Hospitalist Medicine, Credit Valley Hospital, Trillium Health Partners, 2200 Eglinton Ave W, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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12
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Zimmerman S, Hanson LC. Unpacking Communication About End-of-Life Care: Resulting Recommendations. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2019; 20:225-226. [PMID: 30824214 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.01.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl Zimmerman
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; Schools of Social Work and Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC.
| | - Laura C Hanson
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
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