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Ferraz-Gonçalves JA, Flores A, Silva AA, Simões A, Pais C, Melo C, Pirra D, Coelho D, Conde L, Real L, Feio M, Barbosa M, Martins MDL, Areias M, Muñoz-Romero R, Ferreira RC, Freitas S. Continuous Sedation in Palliative Care in Portugal: A Prospective Multicentric Study. J Palliat Care 2024:8258597241256874. [PMID: 38794900 DOI: 10.1177/08258597241256874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to survey the practice of palliative sedation in Portugal, where data on this subject were lacking. Methods: This was a prospective multicentric study that included all patients admitted to each team that agreed to participate. Patients were followed until death, discharge, or after 3 months of follow-up. Results: The study included 8 teams: 4 as palliative care units (PCU), 1 as a hospital palliative care team (HPCT), 2 as home care (HC), and 1 as HPCT and HC. Of the 361 patients enrolled, 52% were male, the median age was 76 years, and 285 (79%) had cancer. Continuous sedation was undergone by 49 (14%) patients: 26 (53%) were male, and the median age was 76. Most patients, 46 (94%), had an oncological diagnosis. Only in a minority of cases, the family, 16 (33%), or the patient, 5 (10%), participated in the decision to sedate. Delirium was the most frequent symptom leading to sedation. The medication most used was midazolam (65%). In the multivariable analysis, only age and the combined score were independently associated with sedation; patients <76 years and those with higher levels of suffering had a higher probability of being sedated. Conclusions: The practice of continuous palliative sedation in Portugal is within the range reported in other studies. One particularly relevant point was the low participation of patients and their families in the decision-making process. Each team must have a deep discussion on this aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Flores
- Department of Palliative Care, Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal
| | - Ana Abreu Silva
- Department of Palliative Care, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira (SESARAM), Funchal, Portugal
| | - Ana Simões
- Hospital Palliative Care Team and Home Care Unit, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carmen Pais
- Clinical Academic Center of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro - Professor Doctor Nuno Grande - CACTMAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Clarisse Melo
- Community Team of Palliative Care, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diana Pirra
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospital Santa Luzia, Elvas, Portugal
| | - Dora Coelho
- Department of Palliative Care, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Lília Conde
- Community Team of Palliative Care, Maia/Valongo, Portugal
| | - Lorena Real
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospital Santa Luzia, Elvas, Portugal
| | - Madalena Feio
- Hospital Palliative Care Team and Home Care Unit, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuel Barbosa
- Community Team of Palliative Care, Maia/Valongo, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lurdes Martins
- Clinical Academic Center of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro - Professor Doctor Nuno Grande - CACTMAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Marlene Areias
- Department of Palliative Care, Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal
| | - Rafael Muñoz-Romero
- Department of Palliative Care, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Rita Cunha Ferreira
- Community Team of Palliative Care, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susete Freitas
- Department of Palliative Care, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira (SESARAM), Funchal, Portugal
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Fredheim OMS, Torvund SK, Thoresen L, Magelssen M. How should respiratory depression and loss of airway patency be handled during initiation of palliative sedation? Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2024; 68:675-680. [PMID: 38391048 DOI: 10.1111/aas.14396] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of airway patency has been reported during initiation of palliative sedation. In present guidelines the loss of airway patency during initiation of palliative sedation is not addressed. Airway patency can be restored by jaw thrust/chin lift or placing the patient in the recovery position. AIM A structured ethical analysis of how respiratory depression and loss of airway patency during initiation of palliative sedation should be handled. The essence of the dilemma is whether it is appropriate to apply simple non-invasive methods to restore airway patency in order to avoid the patient's immediate death. DESIGN A structured analysis based on the four principles of healthcare ethics and stakeholders' interests. RESULTS Beneficence and autonomy support a decision not to regain airway patency whereas non-maleficence lends weight to a decision to restore airway patency. Whether the proportionality criterion of the principle of double effect is met depends on the features of the individual case. The ethical problem appears to be a genuine dilemma where important values and arguments point to different conclusions. CONCLUSION Whether to restore airway patency when the airway is obstructed during initiation of palliative sedation will ultimately be based on clinical judgment taking into account both any known patient preferences and relevant clinical information. There are strong arguments favoring both options in this clinical and ethical dilemma. The fact that a clear and universal recommendation cannot be made does not imply indifference regarding what is the clinically and ethically best option for each individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav Magnus S Fredheim
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Division of Surgery, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Solveig K Torvund
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Division of Surgery, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Lisbeth Thoresen
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Magelssen
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Nolen A, Selby D, Qureshi F, Mills A. Practices of and Perspectives on Palliative Sedation Among Palliative Care Physicians in Ontario, Canada: A Mixed-Methods Study. Palliat Med Rep 2024; 5:94-103. [PMID: 38415075 PMCID: PMC10898238 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2023.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative sedation (PS) is a therapeutic intervention employed to manage severe and refractory symptoms in terminally ill patients at end of life. Inconsistencies in PS practice guidelines coupled with clinician ambiguity have resulted in confusion about how PS is best integrated into practice. Understanding the perspectives, experiences, and practices relating to this modality will provide insight into its clinical application and challenges within the palliative care landscape. Objective The aim is to explore the perspectives of palliative care physicians administering PS, including how practitioners define PS, factors influencing decision making about the use of PS, and possible reasons for changes in practice patterns over time. Methods A survey (n = 37) and semistructured interviews (n = 23) were conducted with palliative care physicians throughout Ontario. Codes were determined collaboratively and applied line-by-line by two independent investigators. Survey responses were analyzed alongside interview transcripts and noted to be concordant. Themes were generated through reflexive thematic analysis. Results Five key themes were identified: (1) lack of standardization, (2) differing definitions, (3) logistical challenges, (4) perceived "back-up" to Medical Assistance in Dying, and (5) tool of the most responsible physician. Conclusion There was significant variability in how participants defined PS and in frequency of use of PS. Physicians described greater ease implementing PS when practicing in palliative care units, with significant barriers faced by individuals providing home-based palliative care or working as consultants on inpatient units. Educational efforts are required about the intent and practice of PS, particularly among inpatient interprofessional teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Nolen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Debbie Selby
- Division of Palliative Care and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fahad Qureshi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anneliese Mills
- Department of Family and Community Medicine and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Heijltjes MT, van Thiel GJ, Rietjens JA, van der Heide A, Hendriksen G, van Delden JJ. Continuous deep sedation at the end of life: a qualitative interview-study among health care providers on an evolving practice. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:160. [PMID: 37880650 PMCID: PMC10601190 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01289-z] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuous deep sedation (CDS) can be used for patients at the end of life who suffer intolerably from severe symptoms that cannot be relieved otherwise. In the Netherlands, the use of CDS is guided by an national guideline since 2005. The percentage of patients for whom CDS is used increased from 8% of all patients who died in 2005 to 18% in 2015. The aim of this study is to explore potential causes of the rise in the use of CDS in the Netherlands according to health care providers who have been participating in this practice. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematically analysed. Participants were Dutch health care providers (HCPs), working at patients' homes, hospices, elderly care facilities and in hospitals and experienced in providing CDS, who were recruited via purposeful sampling. RESULTS 41 Health care providers participated in an interview. For these HCPs the reason to start CDS is often a combination of symptoms resulting in a refractory state. HCPs indicated that symptoms of non-physical origin are increasingly important in the decision to start CDS. Most HCPs felt that suffering at the end of life is less tolerated by patients, their relatives, and sometimes by HCPs; they report more requests to relieve suffering by using CDS. Some HCPs in our study have experienced increasing pressure to perform CDS. Some HCPs stated that they more often used intermittent sedation, sometimes resulting in CDS. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insight into how participating HCPs perceive that their practice of CDS changed over time. The combination of a broader interpretation of refractory suffering by HCPs and a decreased tolerance of suffering at the end of life by patients, their relatives and HCPs, may have led to a lower threshold to start CDS. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Research Ethics Committee of University Medical Center Utrecht assessed that the study was exempt from ethical review according to Dutch law (Protocol number 19-435/C).
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelon T Heijltjes
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, PO Box 85500, Utrecht, 3508 GA, The Netherlands.
| | - Ghislaine Jmw van Thiel
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, PO Box 85500, Utrecht, 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Ac Rietjens
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geeske Hendriksen
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, PO Box 85500, Utrecht, 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Jm van Delden
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, PO Box 85500, Utrecht, 3508 GA, The Netherlands
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Sim J, Goh WY, Wiryasaputra L, Hum AYM, Neo HY, Poi CH. Use of Phenobarbitone for Palliative Sedation in Dyspneic Crises Due to COVID-19 Pneumonia - A Case Series. J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother 2022; 36:242-248. [PMID: 36005904 DOI: 10.1080/15360288.2022.2113596] [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: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Patients who suffer from dyspnea while dying from COVID-19 are treated with opioids and benzodiazepines. In some instances, patients may experience refractory dyspnea at the end of life. Palliative sedation can be prescribed to alleviate such patients' suffering. We describe two patients being treated for severe COVID-19 pneumonia in a tertiary hospital. Both developed intractable dyspneic crises despite high-dose opioids and benzodiazepines. This led to their requirement of palliative sedation in the general ward using subcutaneous phenobarbitone (phenobarbital). We outline clinical considerations for the use of palliative sedation in COVID-19 related dyspnea. In particular, we discuss the evidence for, benefits and limitations of using phenobarbitone for palliative sedation in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Sim
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wen Yang Goh
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lynn Wiryasaputra
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Allyn Yin-Mei Hum
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Han Yee Neo
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choo Hwee Poi
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Hwang IC. Current Status and Future Directions of Research on Palliative Sedation. JOURNAL OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2022; 25:193-197. [PMID: 37674671 PMCID: PMC10179994 DOI: 10.14475/jhpc.2022.25.4.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Patients with terminal cancer experience very severe symptoms during the end of life, and palliative sedation (PS) may be considered if those symptoms are refractory to any other treatment. This brief report presents ethical considerations, practices, and recent concerns on PS. PS is quite different from euthanasia. There is a lack of consensus and standards on protocols, but its notable effects have been reported in hospice care settings. Most studies to date have reported no difference in survival between patients receiving PS and those not, and PS must be conducted proportionally with the lightest level of sedation. The most common indication for PS is delirium, and midazolam is the main sedative used. It is recommended that information regarding PS should be provided to patients and their caregivers repeatedly as early as possible. Existential suffering alone is not an indication for PS, and there is a lack of evidence on bispectral analysis. Additional research on PS is needed in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Cheol Hwang
- Department of Family Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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Lee SH, Kwon JH, Won YW, Kang JH. Palliative Sedation in End-of-Life Patients in Eastern Asia: A Narrative Review. Cancer Res Treat 2022; 54:644-650. [PMID: 35436813 PMCID: PMC9296933 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2022.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although palliative sedation (PS) is a common practice in the palliative care of cancer patients in Western countries, there is little related research on the practice in Korea. PS can be classified into several categories according to sedation level and continuity. PS is clearly distinct from euthanasia. While euthanasia is illegal and regarded as unethical in Korea, there is little ethical and legal controversy about PS in terms of the doctrine of double effect. Most studies have asserted that PS does not shorten the survival of terminal cancer patients. Since preference for PS heavily depends on stakeholder value, it should be preceded by shared decision-making through full communication among the patient, family members, and medical team. This is a narrative review article analyzing previous studies, especially from the three Eastern Asian countries, Korea, Japan and Taiwan, which share similar cultures compared with Western countries. Practical issues concerning PS-for example, prevalence, type and dosage of medications, salvage medication, timing of its initiation, and assessment-are described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hun Lee
- Department of Family Medicine, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Jung Hye Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Sejong, Korea
| | - Young-Woong Won
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
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8
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Imai K, Morita T, Yokomichi N, Mori M, Naito AS, Yamauchi T, Tsukuura H, Uneno Y, Tsuneto S, Inoue S. Association of the RASS Score with Intensity of Symptoms, Discomfort, and Communication Capacity in Terminally Ill Cancer Patients Receiving Palliative Sedation: Is RASS an Appropriate Outcome Measure? Palliat Med Rep 2022; 3:47-54. [PMID: 35558868 PMCID: PMC9080998 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2021.0087] [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] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative sedation is sometimes needed for refractory symptoms, and the Richmond Agitation–Sedation Scale (RASS) is one of the key measures. The primary aim of this study was to explore the association between RASS and degree of distress quantified by other measures: Item “symptom control” of Support Team Assessment Schedule (STAS, item 2), Discomfort Scale for Dementia of Alzheimer Type (Discomfort Scale), and Noncommunicative Patient's Pain Assessment Instrument (NOPPAIN), as well as a communication capacity measured by the Communication Capacity Scale (CCS), item 4. Methods: This was a prospective observational study on terminally ill cancer patients with palliative sedation in a palliative care unit of a designated cancer hospital. Primarily responsible palliative care physicians rated RASS, Discomfort Scale, NOPPAIN, and CCS just before sedation and 1, 4, 24, and 48 hours after, and ward nurses rated STAS at the same time. Since the ward nurses evaluated STAS during palliative sedation, we regarded STAS as a standard of distress measure. Results: A total of 249 assessments were performed for 55 patients. RASS was moderately to highly associated with symptom intensity measured by STAS, discomfort measured by the Discomfort Scale, and pain measured by NOPPAIN (r = 0.63 to 0.73). But communication capacity measured by CCS is not parallel with RASS and demonstrated a valley shape. In 82 assessments with an RASS score of −1 to −3, 11 patients (13%) had physical symptoms of STAS of 2 or more. Conclusions: RASS can roughly estimate physical distress in patients with palliative sedation, but a measure to more precisely quantify the symptom experience is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Imai
- Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Naosuke Yokomichi
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Akemi Shirado Naito
- Department of Palliative Care, Miyazaki Medical Association Hospital, Miyazaki, Japan
| | | | | | - Yu Uneno
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology and Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuneto
- Department of Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Imai K, Morita T, Yokomichi N, Kawaguchi T, Kohara H, Yamaguchi T, Kikuchi A, Odagiri T, Watanabe YS, Kamura R, Maeda I, Kawashima N, Ito S, Baba M, Matsuda Y, Oya K, Kaneishi K, Hiratsuka Y, Naito AS, Mori M. Efficacy of Proportional Sedation and Deep Sedation Defined by Sedation Protocols: A Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Comparative Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:1165-1174. [PMID: 34118372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the efficacy of two types of palliative sedation: proportional and deep sedation, defined by sedation protocols. METHODS From a multicenter prospective observational study, we analyzed the data of those patients who received the continuous infusion of midazolam according to the sedation protocol. The primary endpoint was goal achievement at 4 hours: in proportional sedation, symptom relief (Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale: IPOS ≤ 1) and absence of agitation (modified Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale: RASS ≤ 0); in deep sedation, the achievement of deep sedation (RASS ≤ -4). Secondary endpoints included deep sedation as a result of proportional sedation, communication capacity (Communication Capacity Scale item 4 ≤ 2), IPOS and RASS scores, and adverse events. RESULTS A total of 81 patients from 14 palliative care units were analyzed: proportional sedation (n = 64) and deep sedation (n = 17). At 4 hours, the goal was achieved in 77% (n = 49; 95% confidence interval: 66-87) with proportional sedation; and 88% (n = 15; 71-100) with deep sedation. Deep sedation was necessary in 45% of those who received proportional sedation. Communication capacity was maintained in 34% with proportional sedation and 10% with deep sedation. IPOS decreased from 3.5 to 0.9 with proportional sedation, and 3.5 to 0.4 with deep sedation; RASS decreased from +0.3 to -2.6, and +0.4 to -4.2, respectively. Fatal events related to the treatment occurred in 2% (n = 1) with proportional and none with deep sedation. CONCLUSION Proportional sedation achieved satisfactory symptom relief while maintaining some patients' consciousness, and deep sedation achieved good symptom relief while the majority of patients lost consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Imai
- Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital (K.I.), Hamamatsu, Japan.
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care (T.M., N.Y., M.M.), Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Naosuke Yokomichi
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care (T.M., N.Y., M.M.), Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takashi Kawaguchi
- Department of Practical Pharmacy (T.K.), Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kohara
- Department of Internal Medicine (H.K.), Hatsukaichi Memorial Hospital, Hatsukaichi, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Division of Palliative Care (T.Y.), Konan Medical Center, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ayako Kikuchi
- Department of Oncology and Palliative Medicine (A.K.), Mitsubishi Kyoto Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takuya Odagiri
- Komaki City Hospital (T.O.), Palliative Care, Komaki, Japan
| | - Yuki Sumazaki Watanabe
- Department of Palliative Medicine (Y.S.W.), National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Rena Kamura
- Hospice (R.K.), Yodogawa Christian Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Isseki Maeda
- Department of Palliative Care (I.M.), Senri-Chuo Hospital, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Natsuki Kawashima
- Department of Palliative Medicine (N.K.), Tsukuba Medical Center Hospital, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Satoko Ito
- Hospice (S.I.), The Japan Baptist Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mika Baba
- Department of Palliative Medicine (M.B.), Suita Tokushukai Hospital, Suita, Japan
| | - Yosuke Matsuda
- Palliative Care Department (Y.M.), St. Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyofumi Oya
- Transitional and Palliative Care (K.O.), Aso Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kaneishi
- Department of Palliative Care Unit (K.K.), JCHO Tokyo Shinjuku Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yusuke Hiratsuka
- Department of Palliative Medicine (Y.H.), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Akemi Shirado Naito
- Department of Palliative Care (A.S.N.), Miyazaki Medical Association Hospital, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Division of Palliative and Supportive Care (T.M., N.Y., M.M.), Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Ahn HK, Ahn HY, Park SJ, Hwang IC. Characteristics Associated with Survival in Patients Receiving Continuous Deep Sedation in a Hospice Care Unit. JOURNAL OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 24:254-260. [PMID: 37674644 PMCID: PMC10180067 DOI: 10.14475/jhpc.2021.24.4.254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Continuous deep sedation (CDS) is an extreme form of palliative sedation to relieve refractory symptoms at the end of life. In this study, we shared our experiences with CDS and examined the clinical characteristics associated with survival in patients with terminal cancer who received CDS. We conducted a chart audit of 106 consecutive patients with terminal cancer who received CDS at a single hospice care unit between January 2014 and December 2016. Survival was defined as the first day of admission to the date of death. The associations between clinical characteristics and survival were presented as hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals using a Cox proportional hazard model. The mean age of participants was 65.2 years, and 33.0% (n=35) were women. Diazepam was the most commonly administered drug, and haloperidol or lorazepam were also used if needed. One sedative was enough for a majority of the patients. Stepwise multivariate analysis identified poor functioning, a high Palliative Prognostic Index score, hyperbilirubinemia, high serum ferritin levels, and a low number of sedatives as independent poor prognostic factors. Our experiences and findings are expected to be helpful for shared decision-making and further research on palliative sedation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Kyung Ahn
- Oncology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Hong Yup Ahn
- Department of Statistics, Dongguk University, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - In Cheol Hwang
- Department of Family Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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Potter J, Shields S, Breen R. Palliative Sedation, Compassionate Extubation, and the Principle of Double Effect: An Ethical Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 38:1536-1540. [PMID: 33657860 DOI: 10.1177/1049909121998630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Palliative sedation is a well-recognized and commonly used medical practice at the end of life for patients who are experiencing refractory symptoms that cannot be controlled by other means of medical management. Given concerns about potentially hastening death by suppressing patients' respiratory drive, traditionally this medical practice has been considered ethically justifiable via application of the ethical doctrine known as the Principle of Double Effect. And even though most recent evidence suggests that palliative sedation is a safe and effective practice that does not hasten death when the sedative medications are properly titrated, the Principle of Double Effect is still commonly utilized to justify the practice of palliative sedation and any risk-however small-it may entail of hastening the death of patients. One less common clinical scenario where the Principle of Double Effect may still be appropriate ethical justification for palliative sedation is when the practice of palliative sedation is pursued concurrently with the active withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment-particularly the practice of compassionate extubation. This case study then describes an unconventional case of palliative sedation with concurrent compassionate extubation where Principle of Double Effect reasoning was effectively employed to ethically justify continuing to palliatively sedate a patient during compassionate extubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Potter
- Ethics Program, 5325Wellstar Health System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Steven Shields
- Ethics Program, 5325Wellstar Health System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Renée Breen
- Palliative Medicine, 1366Northside Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Belar A, Arantzamendi M, Payne S, Preston N, Rijpstra M, Hasselaar J, Radbruch L, Vanderelst M, Ling J, Centeno C. How to measure the effects and potential adverse events of palliative sedation? An integrative review. Palliat Med 2021; 35:295-314. [PMID: 33307989 PMCID: PMC7897792 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320974264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation is the monitored use of medications intended to relieve refractory suffering. The assessment of palliative sedation has been focused on the assess of the level of consciousness but a more comprehensive approach to assessment is needed. AIM To understand how the potential effects and possible adverse events of palliative sedation in Palliative Care patients are measured. DESIGN Integrative review of most recent empirical research. DATA SOURCES Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, PubMed, and CINAHL were searched (2010-2020) using the terms sedation, palliative care, terminal care, assessment. Limits included studies in English and adults. Inclusion criteria were: scientific assessment papers, effects and complications of palliative sedation; patients with incurable illness. RESULTS Out of 588 titles, 26 fulfilled inclusion criteria. The Discomfort Scale-Dementia of Alzheimer Type and Patient Comfort Score were used to assess comfort. The Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale and The Ramsay Sedation Scale are the most used to measure its effect. Refractory symptoms were assessed through multi-symptom or specific scales; except for psychological or existential distress. Delirium was assessed using the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale and pain through the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool. The use of technical approaches to monitor effects is upcoming. There is lack of measurement of possible adverse events and variability in timing measurement. CONCLUSIONS There are palliative care validated instruments to assess the sedation effect but this review shows the need for a more standardized approach when assessing it. Instruments should be used within an experienced and trained expert, providing a holistic assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alazne Belar
- Institute for Culture and Society-ATLANTES, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - María Arantzamendi
- Institute for Culture and Society-ATLANTES, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sheila Payne
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Nancy Preston
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Maaike Rijpstra
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain, Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Hasselaar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain, Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Universitaetsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Vanderelst
- Department of Oncology, Laboratory of experimental radiotherapy, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Julie Ling
- European Association of Palliative Care, Vilvoorde, Belgium
| | - Carlos Centeno
- Institute for Culture and Society-ATLANTES, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Pamplona, Spain
- Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Departamento Medicina Paliativa, Pamplona, Spain
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Heijltjes MT, van Thiel GJMW, Rietjens JAC, van der Heide A, de Graeff A, van Delden JJM. Changing Practices in the Use of Continuous Sedation at the End of Life: A Systematic Review of the Literature. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:828-846.e3. [PMID: 32599152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The use of continuous sedation until death (CSD) has been highly debated for many years. It is unknown how the use of CSD evolves over time. Reports suggest that there is an international increase in the use of CSD for terminally ill patients. OBJECTIVE To gain insight in developments in the use of CSD in various countries and subpopulations. METHODS We performed a search of the literature published between January 2000 and April 2020, in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library by using the Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols guidelines. The search contained the following terms: continuous sedation, terminal sedation, palliative sedation, deep sedation, end-of-life sedation, sedation practice, and sedation until death. RESULTS We found 23 articles on 16 nationwide studies and 38 articles on 37 subpopulation studies. In nationwide studies on frequencies of CSD in deceased persons varied from 3% in Denmark in 2001 to 18% in The Netherlands in 2015. Nationwide studies indicate an increase in the use of CSD. Frequencies of CSD in the different subpopulations varied too widely to observe time trends. Over the years, more studies reported on the use of CSD for nonphysical symptoms including fear, anxiety, and psycho-existential distress. In some studies, there was an increase in requests for sedation of patients from their families. CONCLUSIONS The frequency of CSD seems to increase over time, possibly partly because of an extension of indications for sedation, from mainly physical symptoms to also nonphysical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelon T Heijltjes
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Ghislaine J M W van Thiel
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A C Rietjens
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander de Graeff
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands and Academic Hospice Demeter, De Bilt, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes J M van Delden
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Fredheim OM, Skulberg IM, Magelssen M, Steine S. Clinical and ethical aspects of palliative sedation with propofol-A retrospective quantitative and qualitative study. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2020; 64:1319-1326. [PMID: 32632937 DOI: 10.1111/aas.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The anesthetic propofol is often mentioned as a drug that can be used in palliative sedation. The existing literature of how to use propofol in palliative sedation is scarce, with lack of information about how propofol could be initiated for palliative sedation, doses and treatment outcomes. AIM To describe the patient population, previous and concomitant medication, and clinical outcome when propofol was used for palliative sedation. METHODS A retrospective study with quantitative and qualitative data. All patients who during a 4.5-year period received propofol for palliative sedation at the Department of palliative medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Norway were included. RESULTS Fourteen patients were included. In six patients the main indication for palliative sedation was pain, in seven dyspnoea and in one delirium. In eight of these cases propofol was chosen because of the pharmacokinetic properties (rapid effect), and in the remaining cases propofol was chosen because midazolam in spite of dose titration failed to provide sufficient symptom relief. In all patients sedation and adequate symptom control was achieved during manual dose titration. During the maintenance phase three of 14 patients had spontaneous awakenings. At death, propofol doses ranged from 60 to 340 mg/hour. CONCLUSIONS Severe suffering at the end of life can be successfully treated with propofol for palliative sedation. This can be performed in palliative medicine wards, but skilled observation and dose titration throughout the period of palliative sedation is necessary. Successful initial sedation does not guarantee uninterrupted sedation until death. EDITORIAL COMMENT In palliative care, some patients at the end of life can reach a stage where there have been maximal analgesic and or anxiolytic treatments though without achieving comfort in the awake state. This report describes and discusses use of propofol in these infrequent cases to relieve suffering as part of palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav M. Fredheim
- Department of Palliative Medicine Akershus University Hospital Lørenskog Norway
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging Faculty of Medicine Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim Norway
- National Competence Centre for Complex Symptom Disorders Department of Pain and Complex Disorders St. Olavs Hospital Trondheim Norway
| | | | - Morten Magelssen
- Centre for Medical Ethics Institute of Health and Society University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - Siri Steine
- Department of Palliative Medicine Akershus University Hospital Lørenskog Norway
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Won YW, Kang JH. Debatable Issues in Palliative Sedation; Authors' Reply to the Response by Robert Twycross. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 59:e2-e3. [PMID: 32007486 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Woong Won
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.
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Twycross R. A Response to Clinical Patterns of Continuous and Intermittent Palliative Sedation in Patients With Terminal Cancer: A Descriptive, Observational Study by Young-Woong Won Et Al. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 59:e1-e2. [PMID: 32007487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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