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Robinson-Barella A, Richardson CL, Bayley Z, Husband A, Bojke A, Bojke R, Exley C, Hanratty B, Elverson J, Jansen J, Todd A. "Starting to think that way from the start": approaching deprescribing decision-making for people accessing palliative care - a qualitative exploration of healthcare professionals views. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:221. [PMID: 39242514 PMCID: PMC11378434 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01523-2] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deprescribing has been defined as the planned process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be beneficial or are causing harm, with the goal of reducing medication burden while improving patient quality of life. At present, little is known about the specific challenges of decision-making to support deprescribing for patients who are accessing palliative care. By exploring the perspectives of healthcare professionals, this qualitative study aimed to address this gap, and explore the challenges of, and potential solutions to, making decisions about deprescribing in a palliative care context. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals in-person or via video call, between August 2022 - January 2023. Perspectives on approaches to deprescribing in palliative care; when and how they might deprescribe; and the role of carers and family members within this process were discussed. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Reflexive thematic analysis enabled the development of themes. QSR NVivo (Version 12) facilitated data management. Ethical approval was obtained from the NHS Health Research Authority (ref 305394). RESULTS Twenty healthcare professionals were interviewed, including: medical consultants, nurses, specialist pharmacists, and general practitioners (GPs). Participants described the importance of deprescribing decision-making, and that it should be a considered, proactive, and planned process. Three themes were developed from the data, which centred on: (1) professional attitudes, competency and responsibility towards deprescribing; (2) changing the culture of deprescribing; and (3) involving the patient and family/caregivers in deprescribing decision-making. CONCLUSIONS This study sought to explore the perspectives of healthcare professionals with responsibility for making deprescribing decisions with people accessing palliative care services. A range of healthcare professionals identified the importance of supporting decision-making in deprescribing, so it becomes a proactive process within a patient's care journey, rather than a reactive consequence. Future work should explore how healthcare professionals, patients and their family can be supported in the shared decision-making processes of deprescribing. TRIAL REGISTRATION Ethical approval was obtained from the NHS Health Research Authority (ref 305394).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Robinson-Barella
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Charlotte Lucy Richardson
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Zana Bayley
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Andy Husband
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Andy Bojke
- Patient and Public Involvement, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Rona Bojke
- Patient and Public Involvement, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Catherine Exley
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Barbara Hanratty
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Joanna Elverson
- St. Oswald's Hospice, Regent Avenue, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 1EE, UK
| | - Jesse Jansen
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Adam Todd
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BN, UK.
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van der Waal MS, Teunissen SC, Uyttewaal AG, Verboeket-Crul C, Smits-Pelser H, Geijteman EC, Grant MP. Factors influencing deprescribing in primary care for those towards the end of life: A qualitative interview study with patients and healthcare practitioners. Palliat Med 2024; 38:884-892. [PMID: 38916262 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241261202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For people with limited lifetime expectancy, the benefit of many medications may be outweighed by their potential harms. Despite the relevance of reducing unnecessary medication use, deprescribing is poorly enacted in primary care practice. AIM This study aims to describe factors, as identified by primary care professionals and patients, that influence deprescribing in the last phase of life. DESIGN Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using a thematic approach. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS This study was performed in primary care settings, including general practices, hospices and community care teams in The Netherlands. Purposefully identified primary care professionals (general practitioners, pharmacists, nurses) and patients with limited lifetime expectancy due to advanced chronic illness or cancer and their caretakers were interviewed. RESULTS Three themes emerged detailing factors influencing deprescribing in the last phase of life in primary care: (1) non-maleficence, the wish to avoid additional psychological or physical distress; (2) reactive care, the lack of priority and awareness of eligible patients; and (3) discontinuity of care within primary care and between primary care and specialty care. CONCLUSIONS Deprescribing is an incremental process, complicated by the unpredictability of life expectancy and attitudes of patients and health care professionals that associate continued medication use with clinical stability. Opportunities to facilitate the deprescribing process and its acceptance include the routinely systematic identification of patients with limited life expectancy and potentially inappropriate medications, and normalisation of deprescribing as component of regular primary care, occurring for all patients and continuing into end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike S van der Waal
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Ccm Teunissen
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Eric Ct Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthew P Grant
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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M Chess-Williams L, M Broadbent A, Hattingh L. Cross-sectional study to evaluate patients' medication management with a new model of care: incorporating a pharmacist into a community specialist palliative care telehealth service. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:172. [PMID: 39010021 PMCID: PMC11251105 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01508-1] [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: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients receiving palliative care are often on complex medication regimes to manage their symptoms and comorbidities and at high risk of medication-related problems. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the involvement of a pharmacist to an existing community specialist palliative care telehealth service on patients' medication management. METHOD The specialist palliative care pharmacist attended two palliative care telehealth sessions per week over a six-month period (October 2020 to March 2021). Attendance was allocated based on funding received. Data collected from the medication management reviews included prevalence of polypharmacy, number of inappropriate medication according to the Screening Tool of Older Persons Prescriptions in Frail adults with limited life expectancy criteria (STOPP/FRAIL) and recommendations on deprescribing, symptom control and medication management. RESULTS In total 95 patients participated in the pharmaceutical telehealth service with a mean age of 75.2 years (SD 10.67). Whilst 81 (85.3%) patients had a cancer diagnosis, 14 (14.7%) had a non-cancer diagnosis. At referral, 84 (88.4%, SD 4.57) patients were taking ≥ 5 medications with 51 (53.7%, SD 5.03) taking ≥ 10 medications. According to STOPP/FRAIL criteria, 142 potentially inappropriate medications were taken by 54 (56.8%) patients, with a mean of 2.6 (SD 1.16) inappropriate medications per person. Overall, 142 recommendations were accepted from the pharmaceutical medication management review including 49 (34.5%) related to deprescribing, 20 (14.0%) to medication-related problems, 35 (24.7%) to symptom management and 38 (26.8%) to medication administration. CONCLUSION This study provided evidence regarding the value of including a pharmacist in palliative care telehealth services. Input from the pharmacist resulted in improved symptom management of community palliative care patients and their overall medication management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna M Chess-Williams
- Gold Coast Supportive and Specialist Palliative Care Service, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Andrew M Broadbent
- Gold Coast Supportive and Specialist Palliative Care Service, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Laetitia Hattingh
- Allied Health Research, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia.
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia.
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
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Thomas C, Alici Y, Breitbart W, Bruera E, Blackler L, Sulmasy DP. Drugs, delirium, and ethics at the end of life. J Am Geriatr Soc 2024; 72:1964-1972. [PMID: 38240387 PMCID: PMC11226357 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18766] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
For older persons with delirium at the end of life, treatment involves complex trade-offs and highly value-sensitive decisions. The principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, respect for autonomy, and justice establish important parameters but lack the structure necessary to guide clinicians in the optimal management of these patients. We propose a set of ethical rules to guide therapeutics-the canons of therapy-as a toolset to help clinicians deliberate about the competing concerns involved in the management of older patients with delirium at the end of life. These canons are standards of judgment that reflect how many experienced clinicians already intuitively practice, but which are helpful to articulate and apply as basic building blocks for a relatively neglected but emerging ethics of therapy. The canons of therapy most pertinent to the care of patients with delirium at the end of life are as follows: (1) restoration, which counsels that the goal of all treatment is to restore the patient, as much as possible, to homeostatic equilibrium; (2) means-end proportionality, which holds that every treatment should be well-fitted to the intended goal or end; (3) discretion, which counsels that an awareness of the limits of medical knowledge and practice should guide all treatment decisions; and (4) parsimony, which maintains that only as much therapeutic force as is necessary should be used to achieve the therapeutic goal. Carefully weighed and applied, these canons of therapy may provide the ethical structure needed to help clinicians optimally navigate complex cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Columba Thomas
- Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Yesne Alici
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - William Breitbart
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Liz Blackler
- Ethics Committee, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel P. Sulmasy
- Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Philosophy and the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Kaye AD, Dufrene K, Cooley J, Walker M, Shah S, Hollander A, Shekoohi S, Robinson CL. Neuropsychiatric Effects Associated with Opioid-Based Management for Palliative Care Patients. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2024; 28:587-594. [PMID: 38564124 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-024-01248-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The abundance of opioids administered in the palliative care setting that was once considered a standard of care is at present necessitating that providers evaluate patients for unintentional and deleterious symptomology related to aberrant opioid use and addiction. Polypharmacy with opioids is dynamic in affecting patients neurologically, and increased amounts of prescriptions have had inimical effects, not only for the individual, but also for their families and healthcare providers. The purpose of this review is to widen the perspective of opioid consequences and bring awareness to the numerous neuropsychiatric effects associated with the most commonly prescribed opioids for patients receiving palliative care. RECENT FINDINGS Numerous clinical and research studies have found evidence in support for increased incidence of opioid usage and abuse as well as undesirable neurological outcomes. The most common and concerning effects of opioid usage in this setting are delirium and problematic drug-related behavioral changes such as deceitful behavior towards family and physicians, anger outbursts, overtaking of medications, and early prescription refill requests. Other neuropsychiatric effects detailed by recent studies include drug-seeking behavior, tolerance, dependence, addictive disorder, anxiety, substance use disorder, emotional distress, continuation of opioids to avoid opioid withdrawal syndrome, depression, and suicidal ideation. Opioid usage has detrimental and confounding effects that have been overlooked for many years by palliative care providers and patients receiving palliative care. It is necessary, even lifesaving, to be cognizant of potential neuropsychiatric effects that opioids can have on an individual, especially for those under palliative care. By having an increased understanding and awareness of potential opioid neuropsychiatric effects, patient quality of life can be improved, healthcare system costs can be decreased, and patient outcomes can be met and exceeded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, Toxicology, and Neurosciences, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Kylie Dufrene
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Jada Cooley
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Madeline Walker
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Shivam Shah
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Alex Hollander
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Sahar Shekoohi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA.
| | - Christopher L Robinson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Jennerich AL. An Approach to Caring for Patients and Family of Patients Dying in the ICU. Chest 2024; 166:127-135. [PMID: 38354905 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
TOPIC IMPORTANCE Death is common in the ICU and often occurs after a decision to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining therapies. Care of the dying is a core skill for ICU clinicians, requiring expert communication, primarily with family of critically ill patients. REVIEW FINDINGS Limited high-quality evidence supports specific practices related to the care of dying patients in the ICU; thus, many of the recommendations that exist are based on expert opinion. Value exists in sharing a practical approach to caring for patients during the dying process, including topics to be addressed with family members, rationales for recommended care, and strategies for implementing comfort measures only. Through dedicated preparation and planning, clinicians can help family members navigate this intense experience. SUMMARY After a decision had been made to discontinue life-sustaining therapies, family members need to be given a clear description of comfort measures only and provided with additional detail about what it entails, including therapies or interventions to be discontinued, monitoring during the dying process, and common features of the dying process. Order sets can be a valuable resource for ensuring that adequate analgesia and sedation are available and the care plan is enacted properly. To achieve a good death for patients, a collaborative effort among members of the care team is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann L Jennerich
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Harborview Medical Center, and the Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
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Krychtiuk KA, Gersh BJ, Washam JB, Granger CB. When cardiovascular medicines should be discontinued. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:2039-2051. [PMID: 38838241 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae302] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
An integral component of the practice of medicine is focused on the initiation of medications, based on clinical practice guidelines and underlying trial evidence, which usually test the addition of novel medications intended for life-long use in short-term clinical trials. Much less attention is given to the question of medication discontinuation, especially after a lengthy period of treatment, during which patients age gets older and diseases may either progress or new diseases may emerge. Given the paucity of data, clinical practice guidelines offer little to no guidance on when and how to deprescribe cardiovascular medications. Such decisions are often left to the discretion of clinicians, who, together with their patients, express concern of potential adverse effects of medication discontinuation. Even in the absence of adverse effects, the continuation of medications without any proven effect may cause harm due to drug-drug interactions, the emergence of polypharmacy, and additional preventable spending to already strained health systems. Herein, several cardiovascular medications or medication classes are discussed that in the opinion of this author group should generally be discontinued, either for the prevention of potential harm, for a lack of benefit, or for the availability of better alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Krychtiuk
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, 300 W Morgan Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernard J Gersh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jeffrey B Washam
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Faulkner W, DiScala SL, Quellhorst JA, Dakroub B. Implementation of a Pilot PharmD Medication Optimization Telehealth Clinic Within a Veterans Affairs System. Sr Care Pharm 2024; 39:193-201. [PMID: 38685620 DOI: 10.4140/tcp.n.2024.193] [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: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Patients older than 65 years of age with an anticipated life-expectancy of 12 months or less may have complex medication regimens and an increased risk of adverse drug reactions, and drug-drug interactions. Within the Department of Veterans Affairs, a commonly used medication optimization model is known as the VIONE methodology. Objective This project aimed to pilot implementation of board-certified clinical pharmacist practitioners utilizing the VIONE model within a patient-aligned care team targeting patients 65 years of age and older. Methods The population was identified through the VIONE dashboards. Veteran inclusion criteria included five or more medications, a VIONE risk score of 5 or greater, and CAN scores of greater than 90. The project team reached out via telephone to the patients for a medication regimen review and a 14-day follow-up call. Primary outcomes were quantity of medications discontinued per patient, classes of medications that were discontinued, number and encounter time spent, and cost avoidance over 1 year. Secondary outcomes were VIONE classification of medications, VIONE discontinuation reason, number of recommendations given and accepted by primary provider, and safety analysis. Results There were 53 patients who were successfully contacted via telephone. The top four most discontinued medication classes included 1) vitamins/supplements, 2) ophthalmology medications, 3) gastrointestinal medications, and 4) non-controlled analgesic medications. During the project period the potential cost avoidance over 1 year was $17,716. CONCLUSION: This project demonstrated that usage of VIONE methodology ensures medication optimization with minimal harm and provides significant cost savings in the ambulatory care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Faulkner
- West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, West Palm Beach, Florida
| | - Sandra L DiScala
- West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, West Palm Beach, Florida
| | | | - Belal Dakroub
- West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, West Palm Beach, Florida
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Sergeant M, Ly O, Kandasamy S, Anand SS, de Souza RJ. Managing greenhouse gas emissions in the terminal year of life in an overwhelmed health system: a paradigm shift for people and our planet. Lancet Planet Health 2024; 8:e327-e333. [PMID: 38729672 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(24)00048-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Health care contributes 4·4% of global net carbon emissions. Hospitals are resource-intensive settings, using a large amount of supplies in patient care and have high energy, ventilation, and heating needs. This Viewpoint investigates emissions related to health care in a patient's last year of life. End of life (EOL) is a period when health-care use and associated emissions production increases exponentially due primarily to hospital admissions, which are often at odds with patients' values and preferences. Potential solutions detailed within this Viewpoint are facilitating advanced care plans with patients to ensure their EOL wishes are clear, beginning palliative care interventions earlier when treating a life-limiting illness, deprescribing unnecessary medications because medications and their supply chains make up a significant portion of health-care emissions, and, enhancing access to low-intensity community care settings (eg, hospices) within the last year of life if home care is not available. Our analysis was done using Canadian data, but the findings can be applied to other high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Sergeant
- Department of Family Medicine, Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Olivia Ly
- Department of Family Medicine, Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sujane Kandasamy
- Department of Child and Youth Studies, Brock University, St Catherine's, ON, Canada
| | - Sonia S Anand
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
| | - Russell J de Souza
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Veronese N, Gallo U, Boccardi V, Demurtas J, Michielon A, Taci X, Zanchetta G, Campbell Davis SE, Chiumente M, Venturini F, Pilotto A. Efficacy of deprescribing on health outcomes: An umbrella review of systematic reviews with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102237. [PMID: 38367812 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deprescribing is an important intervention across different settings in medicine, but the literature supporting such a practice is still conflicting. Therefore, we aimed to capture the breadth of outcomes reported and assess the strength of evidence of the use of deprescribing for health outcomes. METHODS Umbrella review of systematic reviews of the use of deprescribing searching in Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science until 01 November 2023. The grading of evidence was carried out using the GRADE for intervention studies, whilst data regarding systematic reviews were reported as narrative findings. RESULTS Among 456 papers, 12 systematic reviews (six with meta-analysis) for a total of 231 RCTs and 44,193 patients were included. In any setting, deprescribing was able to significantly reduce the number of total and of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older patients (low certainty of evidence) and to reduce the proportion of participants potentially having several or PIMs (moderate certainty of evidence). In community, supported by a high certainty of evidence, deprescribing was not more effective than standard care in decreasing injurious falls, any falls or number of fallers. In nursing home, deprescribing was associated with a significantly lower PIMs than standard care (very low certainty of evidence). In end-of-life situations, deprescribing significantly reduced mortality rate of approximately 41% (high certainty of evidence). CONCLUSIONS Deprescribing is a promising intervention across different settings and situations, but a notable gap in the literature concerning its effects on substantial outcomes still exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Veronese
- Geriatrics Section, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Umberto Gallo
- Pharmaceutical Department, Local Health Unit n. 6 Euganea, Padua, Italy
| | - Virginia Boccardi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Gerontology and Geriatrics, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Jacopo Demurtas
- Family Medicine Department, USL Sud Est Toscana, Grosseto, Italy
| | - Alberto Michielon
- School of Specialization in Hospital Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Xhoajda Taci
- School of Specialization in Hospital Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Zanchetta
- School of Specialization in Hospital Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Marco Chiumente
- Scientific Direction, SIFaCT - Società Italiana di Farmacia Clinica e Terapia, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Pilotto
- Geriatrics Unit, Department Geriatric Care, Orthogeriatrics and Rehabilitation, E.O. Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy; Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
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11
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van Hylckama Vlieg MAM, Pot IE, Visser HPJ, Jong MAC, van der Vorst MJDL, van Mastrigt BJ, Kiers JNA, van den Homberg PPPH, Thijs-Visser MF, Oomen-de Hoop E, van der Heide A, van der Kuy PHM, van der Rijt CCD, Geijteman ECT. Appropriate medication use in Dutch terminal care: study protocol of a multicentre stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial (the AMUSE study). BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:6. [PMID: 38172930 PMCID: PMC10762916 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01334-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polypharmacy is common among patients with a limited life expectancy, even shortly before death. This is partly inevitable, because these patients often have multiple symptoms which need to be alleviated. However, the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in these patients is also common. Although patients and relatives are often willing to deprescribe medication, physicians are sometimes reluctant due to the lack of evidence on appropriate medication management for patients in the last phase of life. The aim of the AMUSE study is to investigate whether the use of CDSS-OPTIMED, a software program that gives weekly personalized medication recommendations to attending physicians of patients with a limited life expectancy, improves patients' quality of life. METHODS A multicentre stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted among patients with a life expectancy of three months or less. The stepped-wedge cluster design, where the clusters are the different study sites, involves sequential crossover of clusters from control to intervention until all clusters are exposed. In total, seven sites (4 hospitals, 2 general practices and 1 hospice from the Netherlands) will participate in this study. During the control period, patients will receive 'care as usual'. During the intervention period, CDSS-OPTIMED will be activated. CDSS-OPTIMED is a validated software program that analyses the use of medication based on a specific set of clinical rules for patients with a limited life expectancy. The software program will provide the attending physicians with weekly personalized medication recommendations. The primary outcome of this study is patients' quality of life two weeks after baseline assessment as measured by the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaire, quality of life question. DISCUSSION This will be the first study investigating the effect of weekly personalized medication recommendations to attending physicians on the quality of life of patients with a limited life expectancy. We hypothesize that the CDSS-OPTIMED intervention could lead to improved quality of life in patients with a life expectancy of three months or less. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05351281, Registration Date: April 11, 2022).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I E Pot
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H P J Visser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Noordwest Ziekenhuis, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - M A C Jong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Noordwest Ziekenhuis, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - M J D L van der Vorst
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Supportive and Palliative Care, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | | | - J N A Kiers
- Family Medicine Network, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - M F Thijs-Visser
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Oomen-de Hoop
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - P H M van der Kuy
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C C D van der Rijt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Krumm L, Bausewein C, Rémi C. Drug Therapy Safety in Palliative Care-Pharmaceutical Analysis of Medication Processes in Palliative Care. PHARMACY 2023; 11:160. [PMID: 37888505 PMCID: PMC10610412 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11050160] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy plays a crucial role in symptom management in palliative care and is associated with risks potentially leading to drug-related problems (DRP). Pharmacists can identify DRPs and advise prescribers on optimizing drug therapy. The aim of this study was to identify DRP in a palliative care unit (PCU) and evaluate corresponding pharmaceutical interventions. A non-randomized before-and-after study in a PCU starts with a control phase, an interphase, and an intervention phase. Primary endpoint: DRP, including pharmaceutical interventions and their acceptance. The medication of all inpatients was recorded at set time points, assessed for potential and manifest DRP, and categorized. In the control phase, the ward pharmacist did not interfere with the clinical team. In the intervention phase, the pharmacist could intervene when a DRP was identified and give recommendations. During the 12-month period, 284 patients were included (control phase n = 138; intervention phase n = 146) and 1079 DRPs were identified (control phase n = 634; intervention phase n = 445). The number of DRPs/patient was significantly reduced by the pharmacist's interventions between the control and intervention phases (4 vs. 3 DRPs, p = 0.001). Overall acceptance of pharmaceutical interventions by prescribers was very high (227/256; 88%). DRPs are hardly preventable. With a clinical pharmacist as a member of the palliative care team, it is possible to reduce the number of DRPs and identify potential problems earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Krumm
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Hospital, 65199 Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Constanze Rémi
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 81377 Munich, Germany
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13
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Huisman BAA, Geijteman ECT, Dees MK, van Zuylen L, van der Heide A, Perez RSGM. Better drug use in advanced disease: an international Delphi study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:e115-e121. [PMID: 30446489 PMCID: PMC10646859 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-001623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a limited life expectancy use many medications, some of which may be questionable. OBJECTIVES : To identify possible solutions for difficulties concerning medication management and formulate recommendations to improve medication management at the end of life. METHODS : A two-round Delphi study with experts in the field of medication management and end-of-life care (based on ranking in the citation index in Web of Science and relevant publications). We developed a questionnaire with 58 possible solutions for problems regarding medication management at the end of life that were identified in previously performed studies. RESULTS : A total of 42 experts from 13 countries participated. Response rate in the first round was 93%, mean agreement between experts for all solutions was 87 % (range 62%-100%); additional suggestions were given by 51%. The response rate in the second round was 74%. Awareness, education and timely communication about medication management came forward as top priorities for guidelines. In addition, solutions considered crucial by many of the experts were development of a list of inappropriate medications at the end of life and incorporation of recommendations for end-of-life medication management in disease-specific guidelines. CONCLUSIONS : In this international Delphi study, experts reached a high level of consensus on recommendations to improve medication management in end-of-life care. These findings may contribute to the development of clinical practice guidelines for medication management in end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregje A A Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Dees
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto S G M Perez
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Chen Q, Baek J, Goldberg R, Tjia J, Lapane K, Alcusky M. Discontinuation of oral anticoagulant use among nursing home residents with atrial fibrillation before hospice enrollment. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:3071-3085. [PMID: 37466267 PMCID: PMC10592350 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18512] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral anticoagulants (OACs) are effective in reducing the risk of cardioembolic stroke due to atrial fibrillation. While most nursing home residents with atrial fibrillation qualify for anticoagulation based on clinical guidelines, the net clinical benefits of OACs may diminish as residents approach the end of life. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 30,503 US nursing home residents with atrial fibrillation (based on Minimum Data Set 3.0 and Medicare Part A records) who used OACs in the year before enrolling in hospice care during 2012-2016. Whether residents discontinued OACs before hospice enrollment was determined using Part D claims and date of hospice enrollment. Modified Poisson models estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR). RESULTS Almost half (45.7%) of residents who had recent OAC use discontinued prior to hospice enrollment. Residents who were underweight (aPR: 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.03), those with high bleeding risk (aPR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.03-1.05), and those with moderate or severe cognitive impairment (aPR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.02-1.03) had a higher prevalence of OAC discontinuation before entering hospice. Residents with venous thromboembolism (aPR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.93-0.96), statin users (aPR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.87-0.89), and those on polypharmacy (≥10 medications, aPR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.71-0.73) were less likely to discontinue OACs before enrollment in hospice. CONCLUSION Anticoagulants are often discontinued among older nursing home residents with atrial fibrillation before hospice enrollment; it is not clear that these decisions are driven solely by net clinical benefit considerations. Further research is needed on comparative outcomes to inform resident-centered decisions regarding OAC use in older adults entering hospice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoxi Chen
- Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonggyu Baek
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Services, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert Goldberg
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Services, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer Tjia
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Services, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kate Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Services, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Alcusky
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Services, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Wang X(J, Teno JM, Rosendaal N, Smith L, Thomas KS, Dosa D, Gozalo PL, Carder P, Belanger E. State Regulations and Assisted Living Residents' Potentially Burdensome Transitions at the End of Life. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:757-767. [PMID: 36580545 PMCID: PMC10278021 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0360] [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] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Potentially burdensome transitions at the end of life (e.g., repeated hospitalizations toward the end of life and/or health care transitions in the last three days of life) are common among residential care/assisted living (RC/AL) residents, and are associated with lower quality of end-of-life care reported by bereaved family members. We examined the association between state RC/AL regulations relevant to end-of-life care delivery and the likelihood of residents experiencing potentially burdensome transitions. Methods: Retrospective cohort study combining RC/AL registries of states' regulations with Medicare claims data for residents in large RC/ALs (i.e., 25+ beds) in the United States on the 120th day before death (N = 129,153), 2017-2019. Independent variables were state RC/AL regulations relevant to end-of-life care, including third-party services, staffing, and medication management. Analyses included: (1) separate logistic regression models for each RC/AL regulation, adjusting for sociodemographic covariates; (2) separate logistic regression models with a Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) subgroup to control for comorbidities, and (3) multivariable regression analysis, including all regulations in both the overall sample and the Medicare FFS subgroup. Results: We found a lack of associations between potentially burdensome transitions and regulations regarding third-party services and staffing. There were small associations found between regulations related to medication management (i.e., requiring regular medication reviews, permitting direct care workers for injections, requiring/not requiring licensed nursing staff for injections) and potentially burdensome transitions. Conclusions: In this cross-sectional study, the associations of RC/AL regulations with potentially burdensome transitions were either small or not statistically significant, calling for more studies to explain the wide variation observed in end-of-life outcomes among RC/AL residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao (Joyce) Wang
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Joan M. Teno
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Nicole Rosendaal
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Lindsey Smith
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kali S. Thomas
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - David Dosa
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Pedro L. Gozalo
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Paula Carder
- Institute on Aging, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University - Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Emmanuelle Belanger
- Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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16
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Niznik JD, Ernecoff NC, Thorpe CT, Mitchell SL, Hanson LC. Operationalizing deprescribing as a component of goal-concordant dementia care. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:1340-1344. [PMID: 36550635 PMCID: PMC10089936 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Niznik
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- UNC Center for Aging and Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Veterans Affairs (VA) Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Natalie C Ernecoff
- RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carolyn T Thorpe
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Veterans Affairs (VA) Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan L Mitchell
- Hebrew SeniorLife, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura C Hanson
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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17
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Farrell B, Raman-Wilms L, Sadowski CA, Mallery L, Turner J, Gagnon C, Cole M, Grill A, Isenor JE, Mangin D, McCarthy LM, Schuster B, Sirois C, Sun W, Upshur R. A Proposed Curricular Framework for an Interprofessional Approach to Deprescribing. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2023; 33:551-567. [PMID: 37261023 PMCID: PMC10226933 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-022-01704-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Deprescribing involves reducing or stopping medications that are causing more harm than good or are no longer needed. It is an important approach to managing polypharmacy, yet healthcare professionals identify many barriers. We present a proposed pre-licensure competency framework that describes essential knowledge, teaching strategies, and assessment protocols to promote interprofessional deprescribing skills. The framework considers how to involve patients and care partners in deprescribing decisions. An action plan and example curriculum mapping exercise are included to help educators assess their curricula, and select and implement these concepts and strategies within their programs to ensure learners graduate with competencies to manage increasingly complex medication regimens as people age. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-022-01704-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Farrell
- Bruyère Research Institute, 43 Bruyère St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5C8 Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Lalitha Raman-Wilms
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB Canada
- Centre On Aging, Winnipeg, MB Canada
| | - Cheryl A. Sadowski
- Faculty of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Laurie Mallery
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS Canada
| | - Justin Turner
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, QC Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Camille Gagnon
- Canadian Deprescribing Network, Centre de Recherche, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, QC Canada
| | - Mollie Cole
- Canadian Gerontological Nursing Association, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Allan Grill
- Dept. of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Markham Family Health Team, Markham, ON Canada
- Ontario Renal Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer E. Isenor
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS Canada
| | - Dee Mangin
- David Braley & Nancy Gordon Chair in Family Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
- Department of General Practice, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Lisa M. McCarthy
- Bruyère Research Institute, 43 Bruyère St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5C8 Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
- Institute for Better Health and Pharmacy Department, Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, ON Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy & Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Brenda Schuster
- College of Medicine (Regina Campus), University of Saskatchewan, Regina, Saskachewan Canada
| | - Caroline Sirois
- Centre d’excellence Sur Le Vieillissement de Québec & VITAM - Research Centre On Sustainable Health, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Winnie Sun
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON Canada
- Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Whitby, ON Canada
| | - Ross Upshur
- Division of Clinical Public Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation, Toronto, ON Canada
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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18
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Schlauch AM, Michelson JD, Holleran A, Ames E. The high-risk hip fracture patient and the palliative care consult : A retrospective study to investigate risks of complications and the utility of a palliative care consult in hip fracture patients undergoing surgical fixation. Osteoporos Int 2023; 34:507-513. [PMID: 36515729 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-022-06634-1] [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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We evaluated the utility of a palliative care consult (PCC) in high-risk hip fracture patients. The main result was that a PCC reflects certain risk factors for post-surgical complications and is associated with a delay to surgery in the high-risk patient population that it served. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to identify risks of complications in surgically managed hip fractures and determine the utility of a PCC in this population, particularly regarding time to the operating room (OR). METHODS Retrospective cohort at a Level I academic trauma center. RESULTS Four hundred sixty-two patients were treated surgically for hip fracture. Decreased pre-injury ambulatory status (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.13-4.20, p = .02), time to OR > 48 h (OR 4.76, 95% CI 1.43-15.87, p = .011), and obtaining a pre-operative PCC (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.34-6.85, p = .008) were independent risk factors for post-surgical complications. Multivariate risk factors for obtaining a PCC included older age (OR 1.1, CI 1.0-1.1, p = .007), pre-injury ambulatory status (OR 2.2, CI 1.3-3.9, p = .005), renal failure (OR 3.1, CI 1.1-9.0, p = 0.032), and higher ASA category (OR 2.6, CI 1.2-5.5, p = .014). A delay of more than 48 h was associated with being male ( OR 4.6, CI 1.4-15.0, p = .013) or having obtained a PCC (OR 5.5, CI 1.4-22.7, p = .017). CONCLUSIONS Obtaining a PCC can reflect risks of complications and mortality. It is a valuable resource for use in high-risk patients who are inherently at risk for delays to surgery and should be used judiciously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Schlauch
- San Francisco Orthopaedic Residency Program, 450 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA, 94610, USA.
| | | | - Amanda Holleran
- Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ames
- University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
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19
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Cheng C, Yu H, Wang Q. Nurses' Experiences Concerning Older Adults with Polypharmacy: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Findings. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11030334. [PMID: 36766909 PMCID: PMC9914425 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacy is an increasing health concern among older adults and results in many health risks. Nurses have an important role to play in supporting medication management and promoting medication safety across different settings. This study aims to provide a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies investigating the perceptions and experiences of nurses in caring for older adults with polypharmacy. Electronic databases including PsycArticles, CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, and ERIC were searched between September 2001 and July 2022. Potential studies were checked against inclusion and exclusion criteria. We included peer-reviewed studies reporting data on the experiences of nursing staff across different settings. Studies unitizing any qualitative approach were included, and the included studies were reviewed and analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach. Study quality was examined using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for qualitative research. A total of nine studies with 91 nurses were included. Four major themes emerged: older adults suffering from polypharmacy, the importance of multidisciplinary teams, nursing roles in caring for older adults, and the complexity and barriers of implementing polypharmacy management. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to the impacts of polypharmacy in older adults' lives and should acknowledge the importance of team-based polypharmacy care in supporting older adults. Nurses play a key role in caring for older adults with polypharmacy, therefore, they should be empowered and be involved in medication management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Cheng
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-21-64431003
| | - Huan Yu
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qingling Wang
- School of Nursing and Health Management, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai 201318, China
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20
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Kim HA, Cho M, Son DS. Temporal Change in the Use of Laboratory and Imaging Tests in One Week Before Death, 2006–2015. J Korean Med Sci 2023; 38:e98. [PMID: 36974403 PMCID: PMC10042726 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2023.38.e98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To analyze the trends in laboratory and imaging test use 1 week before death among decedents who died in Korean hospitals, tests used per decedents from 2006 to 2015 were examined by using the National Health Insurance Service-Elderly Sample Cohort (NHIS-ESC) dataset. METHODS The study population consisted of decedents aged ≥ 60 years old with a history of admission and death at a hospital, and tests recorded in the payment claims for laboratory and imaging tests according to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes were examined. Twenty-eight laboratory and 6 imaging tests were selected. For each year, crude rates of test use per decedents in each age and sex stratum were calculated. Regression analysis was used to examine the temporal changes in the test use. RESULTS During the follow-up period, 6,638 subjects included in the sample cohort died. The number of total laboratory and imaging tests performed on the deceased increased steadily throughout the study year from 10.3 tests/deceased in 2006 to 16.6 tests/deceased in 2015. The use of tests increased significantly in general hospitals, however, not in nursing hospitals. Laboratory tests showed yearly increase, from 9.46/deceased in 2006 to 15.57/deceased in 2015, an annual increase of 7.39%. On the other hand, the use of imaging increased from 0.86/deceased in 2006 to 1.01/deceased in 2015, which was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION The use of tests, especially laboratory tests, increased steadily over the years even among those elderly patients at imminent death. Reducing acute healthcare at the end of life would be one target not only to support the sustainability of the health care budget but also to improve the quality of dying and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Korea
- Institute for Skeletal Aging, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Minseob Cho
- Division of Data Science, Data Science Convergence Research Center, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Dae-Soon Son
- Division of Data Science, Data Science Convergence Research Center, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
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21
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Cook H, Walker KA, Felton Lowry M. Deprescribing Interventions by Palliative Care Clinical Pharmacists Surrounding Goals of Care Discussions. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:1818-1823. [PMID: 35704875 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative care (PC) pharmacists can play an important role in optimizing medications for patients with serious illnesses by aligning patients' goals with their treatment regimens. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to (1) quantify successful pharmacist deprescribing interventions incorporated in the hospital discharge plan and (2) describe deprescribing interventions by medication class, reason for discontinuation, and perception of patient/caregiver understanding and acceptance. Methods: This pilot study included 45 inpatient PC consultations and collected data on deprescribing interventions performed by PC clinical pharmacists in Maryland and Washington, D.C., U.S. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze outcomes. Results: Eighty-two percent of recommendations were successfully implemented during hospitalization and included in the discharge plan. Medication classes recommended for discontinuation included vitamins/supplements (20%), antidiabetics (13%), antiplatelets (10%), anticoagulants (10%), statins (10%), antihypertensives (7%), proton pump inhibitors/H2 blockers (7%), antibiotics (5%), dementia medications (1%), and antidepressants (1%). Top reasons for discontinuation included pill burden, unacceptable treatment burden, and potential harm outweighs potential benefit. Conclusions: Results of this study demonstrate PC pharmacists' deprescribing recommendations have a high rate of successful implementation by the primary inpatient care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Cook
- Department of Palliative Care, MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathryn A Walker
- MedStar Health, Columbia, Maryland, USA.,University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maria Felton Lowry
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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22
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Björkhem-Bergman L. Overtreatment in end-of-life care: how can we do better? Acta Oncol 2022; 61:1435-1436. [PMID: 36622891 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2164919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Björkhem-Bergman
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.,Palliative Medicine, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
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23
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Wernli U, Hischier D, Meier CR, Jean-Petit-Matile S, Panchaud A, Kobleder A, Meyer-Massetti C. Prescription Trends in Hospice Care: A Longitudinal Retrospective and Descriptive Medication Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022:10499091221130758. [PMID: 36168963 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221130758] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In hospice and palliative care, drug therapy is essential for symptom control. However, drug regimens are complex and prone to drug-related problems. Drug regimens must be simplified to improve quality of life and reduce risks associated with drug-related problems, particularly at end-of-life. To support clinical guidance towards a safe and effective drug therapy in hospice care, it is important to understand prescription trends. OBJECTIVES To explore prescription trends and describe changes to drug regimens in inpatient hospice care. DESIGN We performed a retrospective longitudinal and descriptive analysis of prescriptions for regular and as-needed (PRN) medication at three timepoints in deceased patients of one Swiss hospice. SETTING/SUBJECTS Prescription records of all patients (≥ 18 years) with an inpatient stay of three days and longer (admission and time of death in 2020) were considered eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Prescription records of 58 inpatients (average age 71.7 ± 12.8 [37-95] years) were analyzed. The medication analysis showed that polypharmacy prevalence decreased from 74.1% at admission to 13.8% on the day of death. For regular medication, overall numbers of prescriptions decreased over the patient stay while PRN medication decreased after the first consultation by the attending physician and increased slightly towards death. CONCLUSIONS Prescription records at admission revealed high initial rates of polypharmacy that were reduced steadily until time of death. These findings emphasize the importance of deprescribing at end-of-life and suggest pursuing further research on the contribution of clinical guidance towards optimizing drug therapy and deprescribing in inpatient hospice care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursina Wernli
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27252Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Health Sciences, 27210University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Désirée Hischier
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph R Meier
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Alice Panchaud
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), 27210University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Kobleder
- Institute of Applied Nursing Science, 112888Eastern Switzerland University of Applied SciencesOST, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Carla Meyer-Massetti
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27252Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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24
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Martínez-Sellés M, Grodzicki T. Modification of Cardiovascular Drugs in Advanced Heart Failure: A Narrative Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:883669. [PMID: 35677686 PMCID: PMC9167993 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.883669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced heart failure (HF) is a complex entity with a clinical course difficult to predict. However, most patients have a poor prognosis. This document addresses the modification of cardiovascular drugs in patients with advanced HF that are not candidates to heart transplantation or ventricular assist device and are in need of palliative care. The adjustment of cardiovascular drugs is frequently needed in these patients. The shift in emphasis from life-prolonging to symptomatic treatments should be a progressive one. We establish a series of recommendations with the aim of adjusting drugs in these patients, in order to adapt treatment to the needs and wishes of each patient. This is frequently a difficult process for patients and professionals, as drug discontinuing needs to balance treatment benefit with the psychological adaption to having a terminal illness. We encourage the use of validated assessment tools to assess prognosis and to use this information to take clinical decisions regarding drug withdrawal and therapeutic changes. The golden rule is to stop drugs that are harmful or non-essential and to continue the ones that provide symptomatic improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Manuel Martínez-Sellés
| | - Tomasz Grodzicki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gerontology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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25
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Peralta T, Castel-Branco MM, Reis-Pina P, Figueiredo IV, Dourado M. Prescription trends at the end of life in a palliative care unit: observational study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:65. [PMID: 35505394 PMCID: PMC9066954 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00954-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Symptomatic control is essential in palliative care, particularly in end-of-life, in which the pathophysiological changes that characterize this last phase of life strengthen the need to carry out an early therapeutic review. Hence, we aim to evaluate the prescribing pattern at a palliative care unit at two different time points: on admission and the day of the patient’s death. Methods Quantitative, analytic, longitudinal, retrospective and observational study. Participants were adult patients who were admitted and died in a palliative care unit, in Portugal. Sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacological data were collected, including frequencies and routes of administration of schedule prescribed drugs and rescue drugs, from the day of admission until the day of death. Results 115 patients were included with an average age of 70.0 ± 12.9 years old, 53.9 were male, mostly referred by the Hospital Palliative Care Support Teams. The most common pathology was cancer, mainly in advanced stage. On admission, the median scheduled prescription was seven and “as needed” was three drugs. On the day of death, a decrease of prescriptions was observed. Opioids were always the most prescribed drugs. Near death, there was a higher tendency to prescribe butylscopolamine, midazolam, diazepam and levomepromazine. The most frequent route of drug administration was oral on admission and subcutaneous on the day of death. Conclusions Polypharmacy is a reality in palliative care despite specialist palliative care teams. A reduction of prescribed drugs was verified, essentially due less comorbidity-oriented drugs. Further studies are required to analyse the importance of Hospital Palliative Care Support Teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Peralta
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria Margarida Castel-Branco
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo Reis-Pina
- Palliative Care Unit "Bento Menni", Casa de Saúde da Idanha, Sintra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Vitória Figueiredo
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marília Dourado
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Studies and Development of Continuous and Palliative Care (CEDCCP), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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26
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Deprescribing in Palliative Cancer Care. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12050613. [PMID: 35629281 PMCID: PMC9147815 DOI: 10.3390/life12050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of palliative care is to maintain as high a quality of life (QoL) as possible despite a life-threatening illness. Thus, the prescribed medications need to be evaluated and the benefit of each treatment must be weighed against potential side effects. Medications that contribute to symptom relief and maintained QoL should be prioritized. However, studies have shown that treatment with preventive drugs that may not benefit the patient in end-of-life is generally deprescribed very late in the disease trajectory of cancer patients. Yet, knowing how and when to deprescribe drugs can be difficult. In addition, some drugs, such as beta-blockers, proton pump inhibitors, anti-depressants and cortisone need to be scaled down slowly to avoid troublesome withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, other medicines, such as statins, antihypertensives and vitamins, can be discontinued directly. The aim of this review is to give some advice according to when and how to deprescribe medications in palliative cancer care according to current evidence and clinical praxis. The review includes antihypertensive drugs, statins, anti-coagulants, aspirin, anti-diabetics, proton pump inhibitors, histamin-2-blockers, bisphosphonates denosumab, urologicals, anti-depressants, cortisone, thyroxin and vitamins.
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27
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Atrial fibrillation in older adults with cancer. J Geriatr Cardiol 2022; 19:1-8. [PMID: 35233218 PMCID: PMC8832038 DOI: 10.11909/j.issn.1671-5411.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer and atrial fibrillation (AF) are common co-morbid conditions in older adults. Both cancer and cancer treatment increase the risk of developing new AF which increases morbidity and mortality. Heart rate and rhythm control along with anticoagulation therapy remain the mainstay of treatment of AF in older adults with both cancer and AF. Adjustments to the treatment may be necessary because of drug interactions with concurrent chemotherapy. Cancer and old age increase the risk of both, thromboembolism and bleeding. The risk of these complications is further enhanced by concomitant cancer therapy, frailty, poor nutrition status and, coexisting geriatric syndromes. Therefore, careful attention needs to be given to the risks and benefits of using anticoagulant medications. This review focuses on the management of AF in older patients with cancer, including at the end-of-life care.
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28
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Wilson E, Caswell G, Pollock K. The 'work' of managing medications when someone is seriously ill and dying at home: A longitudinal qualitative case study of patient and family perspectives'. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1941-1950. [PMID: 34252329 PMCID: PMC8640265 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211030113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Managing medications can impose difficulties for patients and families which may intensify towards the end of life. Family caregivers are often assumed to be willing and able to support patients with medications, yet little is known about the challenges they experience or how they cope with these. AIM To explore patient and family caregivers' views of managing medications when someone is seriously ill and dying at home. DESIGN A qualitative design underpinned by a social constructionist perspective involving interviews with bereaved family caregivers, patients and current family caregivers. A thematic analysis was undertaken. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Two English counties. Data reported in this paper were generated across two data sets using: (1) Interviews with bereaved family caregivers (n = 21) of patients who had been cared for at home during the last 6 months of life. (2) Interviews (n = 43) included within longitudinal family focused case studies (n = 20) with patients and current family caregivers followed-up over 4 months. RESULTS The 'work of managing medications' was identified as a central theme across the two data sets, with further subthemes of practical, physical, emotional and knowledge-based work. These are discussed by drawing together ideas of illness work, and how the management of medications can substantially add to the burden placed on patients and families. CONCLUSIONS It is essential to consider the limits of what it is reasonable to ask patients and families to do, especially when fatigued, distressed and under pressure. Focus should be on improving support via greater professional understanding of the work needed to manage medications at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Wilson
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kristian Pollock
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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29
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Tjia J, Lund JL, Mack DS, Mbrah A, Yuan Y, Chen Q, Osundolire S, McDermott CL. Methodological Challenges for Epidemiologic Studies of Deprescribing at the End of Life. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2021; 8:116-129. [PMID: 34722115 PMCID: PMC8553236 DOI: 10.1007/s40471-021-00264-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To describe approaches to measuring deprescribing and associated outcomes in studies of patients approaching end of life (EOL). Recent Findings We reviewed studies published through 2020 that evaluated deprescribing in patients with limited life expectancy and approaching EOL. Deprescribing includes reducing the number of medications, decreasing medication dose(s), and eliminating potentially inappropriate medications. Tools such as STOPPFrail, OncPal, and the Unnecessary Drug Use Measure can facilitate deprescribing. Outcome measures vary and selection of measures should align with the operationalized deprescribing definition used by study investigators. Summary EOL deprescribing considerations include medication appropriateness in the context of patient goals for care, expected benefit from medication given life expectancy, and heightened potential for medication-related harm as death nears. Additional data are needed on how EOL deprescribing impacts patient quality of life, caregiver burden, and out-of-pocket medication-related costs to patients and caregivers. Investigators should design deprescribing studies with this information in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Tjia
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jennifer L Lund
- Department of Epidemiology, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Deborah S Mack
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Attah Mbrah
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Yiyang Yuan
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Qiaoxi Chen
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Seun Osundolire
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, AS6-2065, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Cara L McDermott
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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30
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Tjia J, Clayton MF, Fromme EK, McPherson ML, DeSanto-Madeya S. Shared Medication PLanning In (SIMPLIfy) Home Hospice: An Educational Program to Enable Goal-Concordant Prescribing In Home Hospice. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:1092-1099. [PMID: 34098012 PMCID: PMC8556298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.05.015] [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: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Simplifying medication regimens by tapering and/or withdrawing unnecessary drugs is important to optimize quality of life and safety for patients with serious illness. Few resources are available to educate clinicians, patients and family caregivers about this process. OBJECTIVE To describe the development of an educational program called Shared Medication PLanning In (SIMPLIfy) Home Hospice. METHODS An environmental scan identified a state-of-the-art educational program for home hospice deprescribing that we adapted using a stakeholder panel engagement process. The stakeholder panel (two hospice administrators, three nurses, two physicians, two pharmacists, and two former family caregivers) drawn from two geographically diverse hospice agencies reviewed the educational program and recommended additional content. RESULTS Iterative rounds of review and feedback resulted in: 1) a three-part clinician educational program (total duration = 1.5 hour) that presents a standardized, goal-concordant, medication review approach to align medications and conversations about regimen simplification with patient and family caregiver goals of care; 2) a patient-family caregiver medication management educational notebook that presents common symptoms, hospice medications, and medication regimen simplification principles; and 3) a brief guide including helpful phrases to use as conversation starters for key steps in the program. A professional designer created thematic coherence for all materials that was well received by stakeholder panelists and hospice staff. CONCLUSION Educational materials can support hospice programs' and clinicians' efforts to implement goal-concordant medication simplification that optimizes end-of-life outcomes for patients and family caregivers. Evaluation of outcomes including medication appropriateness and family caregiver medication administration burden are not yet available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Tjia
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
| | | | - Erik K Fromme
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Susan DeSanto-Madeya
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; University of Rhode Island College of Nursing, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
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31
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Prescribing practices, patterns, and potential harms in patients receiving palliative care: A systematic scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2021; 3:100050. [PMID: 35480601 PMCID: PMC9031741 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients receiving palliative care often have existing comorbidities necessitating the prescribing of multiple medications. To maximize quality of life in this patient cohort, it is important to tailor prescribing of medication for preventing and treating existing illnesses and those for controlling symptoms, such as pain, according to individual specific needs. Objective(s) To provide an overview of peer-reviewed observational research on prescribing practices, patterns, and potential harms in patients receiving palliative care. Methods A systematic scoping review was conducted using four electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science). Each database was searched from inception to May 2020. Search terms included ‘palliative care,’ ‘end of life,’ and ‘prescribing.’ Eligible studies had to examine prescribing for adults (≥18 years) receiving palliative care in any setting as a study aim or outcome. Studies focusing on single medication types (e.g., opioids), medication classes (e.g., chemotherapy), or clinical indications (e.g., pain) were excluded. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for scoping reviews, and the findings were described using narrative synthesis. Results Following deduplication, 16,565 unique citations were reviewed, and 56 studies met inclusion criteria. The average number of prescribed medications per patient ranged from 3 to 23. Typically, prescribing changes involved decreases in preventative medications and increases in symptom-specific medications closer to the time of death. Twenty-one studies assessed the appropriateness of prescribing using various tools. The prevalence of patients with ≥1 potentially inappropriate prescription ranged from 15 to 92%. Three studies reported on adverse drug events. Conclusions This scoping review provides a broad overview of existing research and shows that many patients receiving palliative care receive multiple medications closer to the time of death. Future research should focus in greater detail on prescribing appropriateness using tools specifically developed to guide prescribing in palliative care and the potential for harm.
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32
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Low CE, Sanchez Pellecer DE, Santivasi WL, Thompson VH, Elwood T, Davidson AJ, Tlusty JA, Feely MA, Ingram C. Deprescribing in Hospice Patients: Discontinuing Aspirin, Multivitamins, and Statins. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2021; 5:721-726. [PMID: 34355129 PMCID: PMC8325098 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2021.06.010] [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] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To facilitate deprescribing of aspirin, multivitamins, and statins in hospice patients enrolled in Mayo Clinic Hospice, Rochester, Minnesota. Patients and Methods During the fall of 2019, we conducted a quality improvement project to improve care of Mayo Clinic Hospice patients by decreasing the percentage of patients taking aspirin, multivitamins, or statins. Project interventions included the addition of a palliative medicine fellow to the hospice interdisciplinary team, nurse education, and implementation of an evidence-based deprescribing resource tool. The resource tool included a communication framework to guide deprescribing conversations and a literature summary supporting deprescribing. The project team recorded the number of patients taking 1 of these medications by intermittently surveying the hospice census. Process and counterbalance measures were tracked with online surveys of hospice nursing staff. Results At the start of the project, 22 of 69 patients (32%) were taking aspirin, a multivitamin, or a statin. After introduction of the deprescribing resource tool and the addition of a palliative medicine fellow to the interdisciplinary team, this was reduced to 20 of 83 patients (24%), a 24% decrease. Results appeared to be driven primarily by a reduction in multivitamin use (33% decrease). Self-reported comfort and knowledge about deprescribing improved among the hospice nursing staff, as did satisfaction in their workflow from 5.4 to 6.0 (maximum, 7). Conclusion The addition of a dedicated team member to address medication issues and provision of an evidence-based deprescribing resource tool appear to reduce the use of unnecessary and potentially harmful medications in ambulatory hospice patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cari E Low
- Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN
| | - Daniel E Sanchez Pellecer
- Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN
| | - Wil L Santivasi
- Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | | | | | - Molly A Feely
- Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Cory Ingram
- Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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33
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Pollock K, Wilson E, Caswell G, Latif A, Caswell A, Avery A, Anderson C, Crosby V, Faull C. Family and health-care professionals managing medicines for patients with serious and terminal illness at home: a qualitative study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09140] [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
Background
More effective ways of managing symptoms of chronic and terminal illness enable patients to be cared for, and to die, at home. This requires patients and family caregivers to manage complex medicines regimens, including powerful painkillers that can have serious side effects. Little is known about how patients and family caregivers manage the physical and emotional work of managing medicines in the home or the support that they receive from health-care professionals and services.
Objective
To investigate how patients with serious and terminal illness, their family caregivers and the health-care professionals manage complex medication regimens and routines of care in the domestic setting.
Design
A qualitative study involving (1) semistructured interviews and group discussions with 40 health-care professionals and 21 bereaved family caregivers, (2) 20 patient case studies with up to 4 months’ follow-up and (3) two end-of-project stakeholder workshops.
Setting
This took place in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, UK.
Results
As patients’ health deteriorated, family caregivers assumed the role of a care co-ordinator, undertaking the everyday work of organising and collecting prescriptions and storing and administering medicines around other care tasks and daily routines. Participants described the difficulties of navigating a complex and fragmented system and the need to remain vigilant about medicines prescribed, especially when changes were made by different professionals. Access to support, resilience and coping capacity are mediated through the resources available to patients, through the relationships that they have with people in their personal and professional networks, and, beyond that, through the wider connections – or disconnections – that these links have with others. Health-care professionals often lacked understanding of the practical and emotional challenges involved. All participants experienced difficulties in communication and organisation within a health-care system that they felt was complicated and poorly co-ordinated. Having a key health professional to support and guide patients and family caregivers through the system was important to a good experience of care.
Limitations
The study achieved diversity in the recruitment of patients, with different characteristics relating to the type of illness and socioeconomic circumstances. However, recruitment of participants from ethnically diverse and disadvantaged or hard-to-reach populations was particularly challenging, and we were unable to include as many participants from these groups as had been originally planned.
Conclusions
The study identified two key and inter-related areas in which patient and family caregiver experience of managing medicines at home in end-of-life care could be improved: (1) reducing work and responsibility for medicines management and (2) improving co-ordination and communication in health care. It is important to be mindful of the need for transparency and open discussion about the extent to which patients and family caregivers can and should be co-opted as proto-professionals in the technically and emotionally demanding tasks of managing medicines at the end of life.
Future work
Priorities for future research include investigating how allocated key professionals could integrate and co-ordinate care and optimise medicines management; the role of domiciliary home care workers in supporting medicines management in end-of-life care; patient and family perspectives and understanding of anticipatory prescribing and their preferences for involvement in decision-making; the experience of medicines management in terminal illness among minority, disadvantaged and hard-to-reach patient groups; and barriers to and facilitators of increased involvement of community pharmacists in palliative and end-of-life care.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 14. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Pollock
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Asam Latif
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alan Caswell
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Dementia, Frail Older and Palliative Care Patient and Public Involvement Advisory Group, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Anthony Avery
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Claire Anderson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Vincent Crosby
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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Flo-Groeneboom E, Elvegaard T, Gulla C, Husebo BS. The longitudinal association between the use of antihypertensive medications and 24-hour sleep in nursing homes: results from the randomized controlled COSMOS trial. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:430. [PMID: 34275457 PMCID: PMC8286557 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02317-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antihypertensive medication use and sleep problems are highly prevalent in nursing home patients. While it is hypothesized that blood pressure and antihypertensive medication use can affect sleep, this has not been investigated in depth in this population. Alongside a multicomponent intervention including a systematic medication review, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between antihypertensive medication use, blood pressure and day- and night-time sleep over 4 months. METHODS This study was based on secondary analyses from the multicomponent cluster randomized controlled COSMOS trial, in which the acronym denotes the intervention: COmmuncation, Systematic pain assessment and treatment, Medication review, Organization of activities and Safety. We included baseline and 4-month follow-up data from a subgroup of nursing home patients who wore actigraphs (n = 107). The subgroup had different levels of blood pressure, from low (< 120) to high (≥ 141). Assessments included blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use, and sleep parameters as assessed by actigraphy. RESULTS We found a significant reduction in total sleep time at month four in the intervention group compared to the control group. When analysing the control group alone, we found a significant association between antihypertensive medication use and increased daytime sleep. We also found negative associations between blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use and sleep onset latency in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a correlation between excessive daytime sleep and antihypertensive medication use. These findings should be followed up with further research, and with clinical caution, as antihypertensive medications are frequently used in nursing homes, and sleep problems may be especially detrimental for this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT02238652 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Flo-Groeneboom
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Postboks 7807, 5020, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Tony Elvegaard
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Christine Gulla
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- National Centre for Emergency Primary Health Care, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bettina S Husebo
- Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Municipality of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Understanding the role of hospice pharmacists: a qualitative study. Int J Clin Pharm 2021; 43:1546-1554. [PMID: 34121156 PMCID: PMC8642336 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01281-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Pharmacists are important members of multidisciplinary teams but, despite surveys of provision, the role of the hospice pharmacist is not well described. Objective To explore the role of the hospice pharmacist and identify barriers and facilitators to the role. Setting Hospices offering in-patient services caring for adults towards the end of life in one geographical area of northern England. Method Pharmacists providing services to hospices were invited to take part in qualitative semi-structured interviews asking about experience, patient contact, team working and barriers and facilitators to the role. These were recorded verbatim and data were analysed thematically using framework analysis. Main outcome measure The hospice pharmacist’s perceptions of their role and barriers and facilitators to it. Results Fifteen pharmacists took part. Two themes and ten subthemes were identified focused on tasks and communication. Practise was varied and time limited the quantity and depth of services carried out but was often spent navigating complex drug supply routes. Participants found methods of communication suited to the hours they spent in the hospice although communication of data was a barrier to effective clinical service provision. Participants identified the need for appropriate training and standards of practice for hospice pharmacists would enable better use of their skills. Conclusion Barriers to the role of hospice pharmacist include time, access to role specific training, access to clinical information and complex medicines supply chains. The role would benefit from definition to ensure that hospices are able to use hospice pharmacists to their greatest potential.
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Mochamat, Cuhls H, Sellin J, Conrad R, Radbruch L, Mücke M. Fatigue in advanced disease associated with palliative care: A systematic review of non-pharmacological treatments. Palliat Med 2021; 35:697-709. [PMID: 33765888 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211000628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue is a common complaint reported by patients with advanced disease, impacting their daily activities and quality of life. The pathophysiology is incompletely understood, and evidence-based treatment approaches are needed. AIM This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions as treatment for fatigue in advanced disease. DESIGN The review design follows the Cochrane guidelines for systematic reviews of interventions. DATA SOURCES We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov and a selection of journals up to February 28th 2019, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of non-pharmacological treatments for fatigue in advanced disease associated with palliative care. Further potentially relevant studies were identified from the reference lists in relevant reviews, and in studies considered for this review. RESULTS We screened 579 publications; 15 met the inclusion criteria, with data from 1179 participants: 815 were treated with physical exercise, 309 with psycho-educational therapy and 55 with an energy restoration approach. Sources of potential bias included lack of description of blinding and allocation concealment methods, and small study sizes. Physical exercise as treatment for fatigue in patients with advanced cancer was supported by moderate-quality evidence. CONCLUSION Physical exercise should be considered as a measure to reduce fatigue in patients with advanced cancer, but data on other advanced diseases is lacking. Due to the differences between studies, no clear recommendations can be made with respect to the best type of physical therapy. Restoration exercise and psycho-educational therapy are promising treatment options, although further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mochamat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, University of Diponegoro/Kariadi Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia.,Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Henning Cuhls
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia Sellin
- Centre for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rupert Conrad
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Center for Palliative Care, Malteser Hospital Bonn/Rhein-Sieg, Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Mücke
- Centre for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Lovell AG, Protus BM, Dickman JR, Saphire ML. Palatability of Crushed Over-the-Counter Medications. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 61:755-762. [PMID: 32976943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Dysphagia is a common concern, especially in the last several days of life. Medications are often crushed for ease of administration for individuals with swallowing difficulty. OBJECTIVES To assess palatability of commonly used crushed over-the-counter (OTC) medications. A secondary objective is to evaluate pharmacist knowledge and opinions of crushing medications. METHODS Pharmacist participants sampled crushed OTC medications and completed presampling and postsampling surveys about crushing medications. Participants were excluded for current smoking or tobacco use, pregnancy, allergy to any study medication or applesauce, or potential drug-drug interaction with study medications. Eight OTC medications were crushed and mixed in applesauce: naproxen, fexofenadine, phenazopyridine, multivitamin, loperamide, famotidine, sennosides, and sennosides-docusate. Participants were blinded to medication samples and control (plain applesauce). Samples were rated from one (least palatable) to five (most palatable). Investigators recorded participants' comments, behaviors, and facial expressions during sampling. RESULTS Nineteen volunteers completed the study. Most participants rated three samples as not palatable (score of two or less): fexofenadine, 16 (84%); loperamide, 13 (68%); and sennosides-docusate, 16 (84%). All participants rated famotidine and sennosides palatable. The percentage of participants who would consider palatability in recommendations for crushing medications increased from 47% prestudy to 79% poststudy. CONCLUSION Palatability should be considered when recommending crushed medications. Survey responses indicate that pharmacists' opinions of crushed medications changed after this palatability experiment. Clinicians should evaluate the appropriateness of all medications when dysphagia is a concern and deprescribe medications when appropriate to reduce burden for patients and caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia R Dickman
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Maureen L Saphire
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Le V, Patel N, Nguyen Q, Woldu H, Nguyen L, Lee A, Deguzman L, Krishnaswami A. Retrospective analysis of a pilot pharmacist-led hospice deprescribing program initiative. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 69:1370-1376. [PMID: 33772752 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Medication deprescribing in palliative care settings has been insufficiently studied. OBJECTIVE To determine the feasibility of a deprescribing program in hospice patients with limited life expectancy. DESIGN Pharmacist-led, single arm, single-centered, retrospective analysis of a pilot deprescribing program in an integrated healthcare delivery organization between 9/1/2018 to 1/31/2019. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who achieved ≥50% reduction of the recommended medications to deprescribe. RESULTS A total of 97 patients were included in the analysis. The average age was 77.5 ± 23.7 years, with 53.6% being women and 54.6% white. The most common primary diagnosis was cancer (58.8%), with cardiovascular disease the next most common (15.5%). The mean number of baseline comorbidities was 2.0 ± 1.6. Of 698 prescriptions at the start of hospice enrollment, 79.4% of patients achieved a ≥50% reduction in medications recommended for deprescribing. This success was seen mostly in cardiovascular and other nonspecific medications. We found that every 1-unit increase in the number of patient encounters with hospice pharmacists was associated with a 3.2-fold higher odds of achieving a ≥50% reduction in medications that were recommended for deprescribing. CONCLUSION The findings from this pilot study revealed that a collaborative, pharmacist-led, collaborative medication deprescribing program initiative was associated with a 79% success in ≥50% medication reduction. More frequent patient encounters had higher odds of success. Future studies, utilizing a control group, should focus on determining the effectiveness of the program and the impact on quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vy Le
- Division of Pharmacy, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Neerali Patel
- Division of Pharmacy, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Quyen Nguyen
- Division of Pharmacy, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Henock Woldu
- Division of Pharmacy, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Lily Nguyen
- Division of Pharmacy, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Ava Lee
- Division of Hospice and Palliative Care, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, USA
| | - Lynn Deguzman
- Kaiser Permanente, Regional Office, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Ashok Krishnaswami
- Division of Cardiology, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California, USA
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Le BH, Aggarwal G, Douglas C, Green M, Nicoll A, Ahmedzai S. Oxycodone/naloxone prolonged-release tablets in patients with moderate-to-severe, chronic cancer pain: Challenges in the context of hepatic impairment. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2021; 18:13-18. [PMID: 33660420 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Opioids such as oxycodone are recommended in the management of moderate-to-severe, chronic cancer pain. All opioids can potentially cause constipation, which may be a significant barrier to their use. Multiple randomised clinical trials have shown that the use of naloxone as a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist, in combination with oxycodone can prevent or reduce opioid-induced constipation while having equivalent analgesic efficacy to oxycodone alone. However, clinical experience has shown that unexpected events may occur in some patients when unrecognized liver impairment is present. We describe the underlying biological reasons and propose simple, but effective steps to avoid this unusual but potentially serious occurrence. In healthy individuals, naloxone undergoes extensive hepatic first pass metabolism resulting in low systemic bioavailability. However, in patients with hepatic impairment, porto-systemic shunting can increase systemic bioavailability of naloxone, potentially compromising the analgesic efficacy of oral naloxone-oxycodone combinations. This reduced first pass effect can occur in a range of settings that may not always be apparent to the treating clinician, including silent cirrhosis, non-cirrhotic portal hypertension and disruption of liver internal vasculature by metastases. Hepatic function test results correlate poorly with presence and extent of liver disease, and are not indicative of porto-systemic shunting. Presence of hepatic impairment should thus be considered when medication-related outcomes with oxycodone-naloxone combination are not as expected, even if liver function test results are normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian H Le
- The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ghauri Aggarwal
- Concord Hospital, Concord Centre for Palliative Care, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carol Douglas
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Health Service, Palliative Care, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Green
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sunshine Hospital, Medical Oncology, Victoria, Australia.,Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Medical Oncology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amanda Nicoll
- Box Hill Hospital, Gastroenterology, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sam Ahmedzai
- The University of Sheffield, Oncology, Western Bank, Sheffield, UK
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Li Y, Whelan CM, Husain AF. Deprescribing in the Home Palliative Setting. J Palliat Med 2020; 24:1030-1035. [PMID: 33326319 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0376] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: When patients' goals of care have shifted toward comfort, treatment should focus on alleviating symptoms rather than prolonging life at the expense of comfort. Objective: To determine whether the number of noncomfort medications is associated with deprescribing in patients seen by a home-visiting palliative care physician. Design: Single-centre retrospective chart review of patients cared for in the home setting by a specialty palliative care program to determine factors associated with deprescribing. All medications on initial consult were classified as comfort, possibly for comfort, and definitely not for comfort (DNC). Patients were stratified depending on whether intentional deprescribing occurred. Data were analyzed for associations between deprescribing and other variables: number and proportion of DNC medications, diagnosis, palliative performance scale (PPS), number of encounters, code status, preferred place of death, and time to death. Setting: Study population included 80 patients followed by specialist home-visiting palliative physicians in a tertiary center. Inclusion criteria were adult patients with PPS ≤60%, initially seen by a home-visiting palliative physician between 2016 and 2018 and followed for at least 60 days or until death. Results: Deprescribing occurred in 44% of study patients within 60 days. Median number of DNC medications was 3 in the deprescribed group and 0 in the nondeprescribed group (p < 0.001). Proportion of DNC medications was 29% in the deprescribed group and 15% in the nondeprescribed group (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Deprescribing is associated with an increased number and proportion of DNC medications at the time of initial in-home palliative assessment. Deprescribing rates varied greatly between different home-visiting palliative providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ciara M Whelan
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Sinai Health Division of Palliative Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amna F Husain
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health Division of Palliative Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Duncan I, Maxwell TL, Huynh N, Todd M. Polypharmacy, Medication Possession, and Deprescribing of Potentially Non-Beneficial Drugs in Hospice Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 37:1076-1085. [PMID: 32662276 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120939091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients frequently have comorbidities that when combined with their primary diagnosis qualifies the patient for hospice. Consequently, patients are at risk for polypharmacy due to the number of medications prescribed to treat both the underlying conditions and the related symptoms. Polypharmacy is associated with negative consequences, including increased risk for adverse drug events, drug-drug and drug-disease interactions, reduced functional status and falls, multiple geriatric syndromes, medication nonadherence, and increased mortality. Polypharmacy also increases the complexity of medication management for caregivers and contributes to the cost of prescription drugs for hospices and patients. Deprescribing or removing nonbeneficial or ineffective medications can reduce polypharmacy in hospice. We study medication possession ratios and rates of deprescribing of commonly prescribed but potentially nonbeneficial classes of medication using a large hospice pharmacy database. Prevalence of some classes of potentially inappropriate medications is high. We report possession ratios for 10 frequently prescribed classes, and, because death and prescription termination are competing events, we calculate prescription termination rates using Cumulative Incidence Functions. Median duration of antifungal and antiviral medications is brief (5 and 7 days, respectively), while statins and diabetes medications have slow discontinuance rates (median termination durations of 93 and 197 days). Almost all patients with a proton pump inhibitor prescription have the drug for their entire hospice stay. Data from this study identify those drug classes that are commonly deprescribed slowly, suggesting drug classes and diagnoses that hospices may wish to focus on more closely, as they act to limit polypharmacy and reduce prescription costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Duncan
- Department of Statistics & Applied Probability, 8786University of California-Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | - Nhan Huynh
- Department of Statistics & Applied Probability, 8786University of California-Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Marisa Todd
- 142913Enclara Pharmacia Inc, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Ropri F, Weisse CS. Informal Caregivers' Administration of Hospice Prescribed Lorazepam to Homecare Patients With Anxiety. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:1071-1077. [PMID: 33034195 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120965955] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of informal caregivers (IFCs) manage hospice patients' anxiety by administering lorazepam (Ativan), yet little is known about prescribing practices in home care or the extent to which IFCs carry out regimens. DESIGN AND METHODS Data on hospice prescribed lorazepam was determined through a retrospective review of medication records from 216 deceased patients. The dose of lorazepam and type of regimen (i.e., scheduled, PRN, combination) as well as frequency with which it was administered by IFCs was calculated upon admission to a residential care home and on patients' day of death. RESULTS The majority (63.1%) of patients were prescribed lorazepam on admission to the home, and more (79.5%) were prescribed lorazepam on the day of death. While higher doses of lorazepam were prescribed and administered on the day of death, the percentage of medication consumed was low on admission (17%) and day of death (27%). Nearly all (92.8%) prescribed lorazepam on the day of death were allowed PRN medication. For PRN only regimens, less than a quarter (24.4%) of patients were given lorazepam on admission with less than half (40.4%) given it while dying. Highest lorazepam administration rates (91.2%) occurred on the day of death when lorazepam was prescribed under a combined regimen. CONCLUSION The high frequency of PRN regimens reveal that IFCs are frequently tasked with making decisions about if and when to administer lorazepam. Low overall lorazepam administration suggests a closer monitoring of lorazepam use and enhanced support of IFCs may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ropri
- Neuroscience Program, 7254Union College, Schenectady, NY, USA
| | - Carol S Weisse
- Department of Psychology, 7254Union College, Schenectady, NY, USA
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McNeill R, Hanger HC, Chieng J, Chin P. Polypharmacy in Palliative Care: Two Deprescribing Tools Compared with a Clinical Review. J Palliat Med 2020; 24:661-667. [PMID: 32991250 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Lack of guidance is highlighted as a barrier to deprescribing in palliative care. Two deprescribing tools exist, but with inclusion and exclusion criteria that limit utility. The tools have not previously been compared directly or used in an unselected palliative population. Objective: To compare the OncPal and STOPPFrail deprescribing tools to an expert review in an unselected palliative population. Secondary aims included a description of medicines incorrectly classified by both tools. Design: Fifty palliative inpatients were retrospectively reviewed by an expert panel, and both tools were independently applied to the patients. Positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) were calculated per patient using the expert review as the gold standard. Results: The median number of medicines per patient was 11, with 19% of medicines deemed inappropriate. The PPV and NPV were 75% (interquartile range 50-100) and 91% (interquartile range 84-100), respectively, for OncPal, and 100% (interquartile range 50-100) and 90% (interquartile range 78-100), respectively, for STOPPFrail. There was no statistically significant difference between the tools (PPV p = 0.42 and NPV p = 0.07). The main medicines incorrectly ceased by OncPal were antianginals for stable coronary artery disease, and haloperidol for nausea by STOPPFrail. Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the tools. Both tools performed well in an unselected population. Some minor amendments could improve the PPV of both tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard McNeill
- Department of Palliative Care, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Hugh Carl Hanger
- Department of Older Persons' Health, Burwood Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Jenny Chieng
- Department of Older Persons' Health, Burwood Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Department of General Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Paul Chin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Otago, New Zealand
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Purchases of medicines among community-dwelling older people: comparing people in the last 2 years of life and those who lived at least 2 years longer. Eur J Ageing 2020; 17:361-369. [PMID: 32904873 PMCID: PMC7459050 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00543-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While it is known that those who are living their last years are frequent users of social and health services, research about medicines at the end of life is scarce. We examined whether the proportions of purchasers and the types of prescription medicines purchased during a 2-year period differed between community-dwelling old people who died (decedents) in 2002, 2006 or 2011 and old people who lived at least 2 years longer (survivors) in Finland. We also examined how those differences changed over time. The study population was identified from nationwide registers and consisted of 174,097 community-dwelling people who were 70 years of age or older. Of these, 81,893 were decedents and 92,204 survivors. Data on purchases of medicines were gathered from the Finnish prescription database. Along with descriptive analyses, binary logistic regression analysis was used to find the association between decedent status and the purchase of medicines in general and different categories of medicines in particular. Almost all community-dwelling decedents and survivors purchased medicines at least once during the 2-year period. Over time, the proportion of purchasers increased in both groups but especially among survivors, thereby reducing the differences between the groups. However, the probability of purchasing medicines in general and different categories of medicine in particular remained significantly higher for decedents than for survivors after adjustments. This study shows that purchases of medication are concentrated at the end of life, as is the use of social and health services. However, the differences between decedents and survivors diminish over time.
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Golčić M, Dobrila-Dintinjana R, Golčić G, Plavšić I, Gović-Golčić L, Belev B, Gajski D, Rotim K. Should we treat pain in the elderly palliative care cancer patients differently? Acta Clin Croat 2020; 59:387-393. [PMID: 34177047 PMCID: PMC8212638 DOI: 10.20471/acc.2020.59.03.01] [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] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids are considered the cornerstone of pain management in palliative care. Available data suggest that older patients use different analgesics and lower opioid doses compared to younger patients. However, it has not been elucidated yet whether such dosing is associated with worse pain levels or shorter survival in the palliative care setting. We evaluated the relationship among pain scores, quality of life, opioid dose, and survival in palliative care cancer patients in a hospice setting. A total of 137 palliative care cancer patients were analyzed prospectively. We divided patients into two groups using the age of 65 as a cut-off value. Younger patients exhibited significantly higher pain ratings (5.14 vs. 3.59, p=0.01), although older patients used almost 20 mg less oral morphine equivalent (OME) on arrival (p=0.36) and 55 mg OME/day less during the last week (p=0.03). There were no differences in survival between the two groups (17.36 vs. 17.58 days). The elderly patients also used nonsteroidal analgesics less often and paracetamol more often. Hence, using lower opioid doses in older palliative care cancer patients does not result in worse pain rating, and could be a plausible approach for pain management in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renata Dobrila-Dintinjana
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Goran Golčić
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ivana Plavšić
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Lidija Gović-Golčić
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Borislav Belev
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Domagoj Gajski
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Krešimir Rotim
- 1Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Rijeka University Hospital Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 2Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Health Centre, Rijeka, Croatia; 3General Practice Office, Rijeka, Croatia; 4Department of Oncology, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 5Department of Neurosurgery, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 6Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; 7University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia; 8Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
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Vu M, Sileanu FE, Aspinall SL, Niznik JD, Springer SP, Mor MK, Zhao X, Ersek M, Hanlon JT, Gellad WF, Schleiden LJ, Thorpe JM, Thorpe CT. Antihypertensive Deprescribing in Older Adult Veterans at End of Life Admitted to Veteran Affairs Nursing Homes. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 22:132-140.e5. [PMID: 32723537 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2020.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Geriatric palliative care approaches support deprescribing of antihypertensives in older nursing home (NH) residents with limited life expectancy and/or advanced dementia (LLE/AD) who are intensely treated for hypertension (HTN), but information on real-world deprescribing patterns in this population is limited. We examined the incidence and factors associated with antihypertensive deprescribing. DESIGN National, retrospective cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Older Veterans with LLE/AD and HTN admitted to VA NHs in fiscal years 2009-2015 with potential overtreatment of HTN at admission, defined as receiving at least 1 antihypertensive class of medications and mean daily systolic blood pressure (SBP) <120 mm Hg. MEASURES Deprescribing was defined as subsequent dose reduction or discontinuation of an antihypertensive for ≥7 days. Competing risk models assessed cumulative incidence and factors associated with deprescribing. RESULTS Within our sample (n = 10,574), cumulative incidence of deprescribing at 30 days was 41%. Veterans with the greatest level of overtreatment (ie, multiple antihypertensives and SBP <100 mm Hg) had an increased likelihood (hazard ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.59, 1.93) of deprescribing vs those with the lowest level of overtreatment (ie, one antihypertensive and SBP ≥100 to <120 mm Hg). Several markers of poor prognosis (ie, recent weight loss, poor appetite, dehydration, dependence for activities of daily living, pain) and later admission year were associated with increased likelihood of deprescribing, whereas cardiovascular risk factors (ie, diabetes, congestive heart failure, obesity), shortness of breath, and admission source from another NH or home/assisted living setting (vs acute hospital) were associated with decreased likelihood. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Real-world deprescribing patterns of antihypertensives among NH residents with HTN and LLE/AD appear to reflect variation in recommendations for HTN treatment intensity and individualization of patient care in a population with potential overtreatment. Factors facilitating deprescribing included treatment intensity and markers of poor prognosis. Comparative effectiveness and safety studies are needed to guide clinical decisions around deprescribing and HTN management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Vu
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Veteran Affairs Pharmacy Benefits Management Service, Center for Medication Safety, Hines, IL, USA
| | - Florentina E Sileanu
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sherrie L Aspinall
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Veteran Affairs Pharmacy Benefits Management Service, Center for Medication Safety, Hines, IL, USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joshua D Niznik
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sydney P Springer
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of New England College of Pharmacy, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Maria K Mor
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xinhua Zhao
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mary Ersek
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affair's Medical Center, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Philadelphia, PA, USA; University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joseph T Hanlon
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Walid F Gellad
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Loren J Schleiden
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joshua M Thorpe
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carolyn T Thorpe
- Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Aitken C, Boyd M, Nielsen L, Collier A. Medication use in aged care residents in the last year of life: A scoping review. Palliat Med 2020; 34:832-850. [PMID: 32286162 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320911596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A substantial number of older adults die in residential aged care facilities, yet little is known about the characteristics of and how best to optimise medication use in the last year of life. AIM The aim of this review was to map characteristics of medication use in aged care residents during the last year of life in order to examine key concepts related to medication safety and draw implications for further research and service provision. DESIGN A scoping review following Arskey and O'Malley's framework was conducted using a targeted keyword search, followed by assessments of eligibility based on title and content of abstracts and full papers. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, the scoping review protocol was prospectively registered to the Open Science Framework on 27 November 2018. DATA SOURCES We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL and Cochrane databases to identify peer-reviewed studies published between 1937 and 2018, written in English and looking at medication use in individuals living in aged care facilities within their last year of life. RESULTS A total of 30 papers were reviewed. Five key overarching themes were derived from the analysis process: (1) access to medicines at the end of life, (2) categorisation and classes: medicines and populations, (3) polypharmacy and total medication numbers, (4) use of symptomatic versus preventive medications and (5) 'inappropriate' medications. CONCLUSION Number of prescriptions or blunt categorisations of medications to assess their appropriateness are unlikely to be sufficient to promote well-being and medication safety for older people in residential aged care in the final stages of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michal Boyd
- The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Aileen Collier
- The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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Felton M, Tannenbaum C, McPherson ML, Pruskowski J. Communication Techniques for Deprescribing Conversations #369. J Palliat Med 2020; 22:335-336. [PMID: 30794498 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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The Design and Impact of an Interprofessional Education Event Among Pharmacy and Nursing Students in Palliative Care-RnRx. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2020; 22:292-297. [PMID: 32511170 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Nearly all reports of interprofessional education (IPE) in palliative care have excluded pharmacy students. This article describes an IPE event between pharmacy and nursing students and assesses its impact on IPE competencies. Second-year nursing students and third-year pharmacy students participated in an evening-long event, focused on a married couple who each require palliative care-one for end-of-life planning and one for chronic disease progression. The impact of the event was assessed using the Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Scale (ICCAS) and qualitative feedback. Two hundred nine (96.7%) completed the ICCAS, and 16 of the 20 statements of the ICCAS showed large positive effect sizes (Cohen d ≥ 0.8), with the remaining 4 showing moderate positive effect sizes (Cohen d ≥ 0.5). The greatest effect sizes were related to improved awareness of complementary skillsets and knowledge between the professions. Addressing team conflict and including the patient/family in decision-making showed the least improvement. While ongoing interactions are ideal for the development of skills related to conflict and team development, this article demonstrates that even a 1-time activity can have an impact on students' interprofessional care competence.
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50
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Chan YC, Yang MLC, Ho HF. Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients Referred to an Emergency Department-Based End-of-Life Care Service in Hong Kong: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:25-31. [PMID: 32425050 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120926148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study describes the characteristics and outcomes of patients referred to an emergency department (ED)-based end-of-life (EOL) service in a tertiary acute hospital in Hong Kong. We examine how emergency physicians (EPs) perform in recognizing and managing dying patients. METHODS From September 2010 to April 2018, patients referred to this EOL service in this hospital were included. A group of 5 EPs assessed whether the referred patient would die within a few days. Dying patients (EOL group) were admitted to ED-based EOL service whereas those not likely dying within few days (non-EOL group) would continue management in respective specialty wards. Baseline characteristics of these 2 groups were compared. The time-to-death and use of opioids and anticholinergics were compared. RESULTS In total, 783 of 830 patients assessed were recognized as being in dying phase, with 688 admitted under ED-based EOL care. Their demographics and characteristics were described. Mean time from assessment to death (time-to-death) was significantly less in EOL group (38.93 hours) than in non-EOL group (250.36 hours; P = .004). Mean time-to-death was not significantly different between those under EP-based EOL service or not. The ED-based EOL care had significantly more patients receiving symptomatic treatment. INTERPRETATION The characteristics of patients under an ED-based EOL service are described. Emergency physicians are capable of recognizing dying patients. Emergency department-based EOL service does not alter the dying process and offers adequate palliation of symptoms. Emergency physician should assume a more active role in providing adequate EOL care to suitable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yat Chun Chan
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 434412Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
| | - Marc L C Yang
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 434412Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
| | - Hiu Fai Ho
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 434412Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
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