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Guité-Verret A, Boivin J, Hanna AMR, Downar J, Bush SH, Marcoux I, Guay D, Tapp D, Lapenskie J, Gagnon B. Continuous palliative sedation until death: a qualitative study of palliative care clinicians' experiences. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:104. [PMID: 38637812 PMCID: PMC11027280 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01426-2] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The practice of continuous palliative sedation until death is the subject of much medical and ethical debate, which is reflected in the inconsistency that persists in the literature regarding the definition and indications of palliative sedation. AIM This study aims to gain a better understanding of palliative care clinicians' experiences with continuous palliative sedation. DESIGN We conducted a qualitative study based on focus group discussions. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS We conducted six focus groups with a total of 28 palliative care clinicians (i.e., 15 nurses, 12 physicians, and 1 end-of-life doula) from diverse care settings across Canada, where assisted dying has recently been legalized. RESULTS An interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to consolidate the data into six key themes: responding to suffering; grappling with uncertainty; adapting care to ensure ongoing quality; grounding clinical practice in ethics; combining medical expertise, relational tact, and reflexivity; and offering an alternative to assisted death. CONCLUSIONS Interaction with the patient's family, uncertainty about the patient's prognosis, the concurrent practice of assisted dying, and the treatment of existential suffering influence the quality of sedation and indicate a lack of clear palliative care guidelines. Nevertheless, clinicians exhibit a reflective and adaptive capacity that can facilitate good practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Guité-Verret
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada
| | - Jessica Boivin
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- CHU Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | | | - James Downar
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Shirley H Bush
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Isabelle Marcoux
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Diane Guay
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Diane Tapp
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada
- CHU Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Julie Lapenskie
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bruno Gagnon
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins Palliatifs et de fin de vie, Québec, Canada.
- CHU Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada.
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
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Pisa CA, Le Coz P, Einaudi MA, Tosello B, Katsogiannou M, Revon-Rivière G, Chabrol B, Michel F. Continuous Deep Sedation Until Death of Children at the End of Life: French Physicians' Opinions. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:451-463. [PMID: 38354284 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2023.0228] [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] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate physicians' opinions concerning continuous deep sedation until death (CDSUD) and implementation of Claeys-Leonetti; a law intended to be applicable to all patients, but without a specific framework for children thus giving rise to ethically and legally complex situations. The secondary objective was to identify if physicians' characteristics could influence their opinions. Study Design: This was a national, multicenter, noninterventional cross-sectional survey from January 30, 2020, until March 1, 2020. The target population consisted of French physicians involved in children's end-of-life situations. The validated questionnaire explored respondents' characteristics and their opinions on four hypothetical pediatric clinical cases. Results: Analysis was conducted on 391 respondents. The oncological situation was more easily recognized as end of life compared with the neurological pathology (77% vs. 40.4%). Dependence on mechanical ventilation was another major factor influencing physicians in identifying end-of-life situations. Physicians clearly recognized the difference in intention between CDSUD and euthanasia. They accepted to implement CDSUD more easily in newborns. The withdrawal of artificial nutrition and hydration gave rise to divergent opinions. Respondents were in favor of adolescents' decision-making autonomy and their access to drafting advance directives. The child's best interest prevailed in case of objection by parents, except in situations outside the law's framework or in cases of disagreement within the health care team. Conclusion: Results of our study showed differences in the interpretation of the law concerning the CDSUD application framework and provide elements for reflection, which may ultimately contribute to the development of specific guidelines in CDSUD in children at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole-Anne Pisa
- Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, AMU UMR ADES 7268, Mediterranean Ethical Space, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Le Coz
- CNRS, EFS, ADES, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Espace de réflexion éthique Paca-Corse, Marseille, France
| | - Marie-Ange Einaudi
- CNRS, EFS, ADES, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Espace de réflexion éthique Paca-Corse, Marseille, France
| | - Barthélemy Tosello
- CNRS, EFS, ADES, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Espace de réflexion éthique Paca-Corse, Marseille, France
- Department of Neonatology, North Hospital, Assistance Publique Des Hôpitaux de Marseille (APHM), Marseille, France
| | - Maria Katsogiannou
- Department of Clinical Research, Hôpital Saint Joseph, Marseille, France
| | - Gabriel Revon-Rivière
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille, France
- Pediatric Palliative Care Team, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Chabrol
- CNRS, EFS, ADES, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Espace de réflexion éthique Paca-Corse, Marseille, France
- Service of Paediatric Neurology, AMU UMR ADES 7268, Mediterranean Ethical Space, Marseille, France
| | - Fabrice Michel
- Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, AMU UMR ADES 7268, Mediterranean Ethical Space, Marseille, France
- CNRS, EFS, ADES, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Espace de réflexion éthique Paca-Corse, Marseille, France
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Rodrigues P, Ostyn J, Mroz S, Ronse A, Menten J, Gastmans C. Palliative care physicians' decision-making about palliative sedation for existential suffering: A Belgian nationwide qualitative study. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:119-127. [PMID: 36503696 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001559] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the content and process of decision-making about palliative sedation for existential suffering (PS-ES) as perceived by Belgian palliative care physicians. METHODS This Belgian nationwide qualitative study follows a grounded theory approach. We conducted semistructured interviews with 25 palliative care physicians working in 19 Belgian hospital-based palliative care units and 4 stand-alone hospices. We analyzed the data using the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven, and we followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Guidelines (COREQ). RESULTS Analysis of the data identified several criteria that physicians apply in their decision-making about PS-ES, namely, the importance of the patient's demand, PS-ES as a last resort option after all alternatives have been applied, the condition of unbearable suffering combined with other kinds of suffering, and the condition of being in a terminal stage. Regarding the process of decision-making itself, physicians refer to the need for multidisciplinary perspectives supported by an interpretative dialogue with the patient and all other stakeholders. The decision-making process involves a specific temporality and physicians' inner conviction about the need of PS-ES. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Belgian palliative care physicians are not sure about the criteria regarding decision-making in PS-ES. To deal with complex existential suffering in end-of-life situations, they stress the importance of participation by all stakeholders (patient, relatives, palliative care team, other physicians, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, chaplains, etc.) in the decision-making process to prevent inadequate decisions being made.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jozefien Ostyn
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Mroz
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Axelle Ronse
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Menten
- Department of Oncology, Laboratory of Experimental Radiotherapy, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Farrelly-Jackson S. Intentions at the End of Life: Continuous Deep Sedation and France's Claeys-Leonetti law. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND PHILOSOPHY 2024; 49:43-57. [PMID: 37804077 DOI: 10.1093/jmp/jhad040] [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] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2016, France passed a major law that is unique in giving terminally ill and suffering patients the right to the controversial procedure of continuous deep sedation until death (CDS). In so doing, the law identifies CDS as a sui generis clinical practice, distinct from other forms of palliative sedation therapy, as well as from euthanasia. As such, it reconfigures the ethical debate over CDS in interesting ways. This paper addresses one aspect of this reconfiguration and its implications for the intentions at work in this complex time at the end of life. The concept of intention is often considered central to the ethics of end-of-life care, but its role is recognized to be problematic, with charges of elusiveness and ambiguity. I aim to show that consideration of the French law affords a new understanding of the intentionality of CDS, and that in addition to the obvious importance of this for clarifying the ethics of the practice, it may suggest new ways of addressing the wider problem of ambiguous clinical intentions at end of life.
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Salas S, Economos G, Hugues D, Gilbert E, Gracia D, Poulain P, Mateus C, Collet E, Planchet-Barraud B, Colpaert A, Perceau-Chambard É, Calvel LY, Franck C, Mallet D, Baumstarck K, Evin A. Legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide: advanced cancer patient opinions - cross-sectional multicentre study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e1335-e1341. [PMID: 37536753 PMCID: PMC10850827 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-004134] [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: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The French government voted a new law in February 2016 called the Claeys-Leonetti Law, which established the right to deep and continuous sedation, confirmed the ban on euthanasia and ruled out physician-assisted suicide. The aim of this work was to gather the opinion of patients on continuous sedation and the legalisation of medical assistance in dying and to explore determinants associated with favourable and unfavourable opinions. METHODS This was a French national prospective multicentre study between 2016 and 2020. RESULTS 331 patients with incurable cancer suffering from locally advanced or metastatic cancer in 14 palliative care units were interviewed. 48.6% of participants expressed a favourable opinion about physician-assisted suicide and 27.2% an unfavourable opinion about its legalisation. Regarding euthanasia, 52% of patients were in favour of its legalisation. In univariate analysis, the only factor determining opinion was belief in God. CONCLUSIONS While most healthy French people are in favour of legalising euthanasia, only half of palliative care patients expressed this opinion. Medical palliative care specialists were largely opposed to euthanasia. The only determining factor identified was a cultural factor that was independent of the other studied variables. This common factor was found in other studies conducted on cohorts from other countries. This study contributes to the knowledge and thinking about the impact of patients' personal beliefs and values regarding their opinions about euthanasia and assisted suicide. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03664856.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Damien Hugues
- Medicine, CHI Toulon - La Seyne sur Mer, Toulon, France
| | | | - Dominique Gracia
- Centre Hospitalier de Salon de Provence, Salon de Provence, France
| | | | - Christine Mateus
- Palliative Care Unit, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Elsa Collet
- Centre Hospitalier de Martigues, Martigues, France
| | | | | | | | - Laurent Yves Calvel
- Equipe mobile de Soins Palliatifs, Hop Hautepierre, Strasbourg, France
- unité de Soins Palliatifs, Hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Cecile Franck
- Centre Hospitalier de la Région de Saint-Omer, Saint-Omer, France
| | - Donatien Mallet
- Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Tours, Tours, France
| | | | - Adrien Evin
- CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
- Nantes University, Nantes, France
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Lojo-Cruz C, Mora-Delgado J, Rivas Jiménez V, Carmona Espinazo F, López-Sáez JB. Survival Outcomes in Palliative Sedation Based on Referring Versus On-Call Physician Prescription. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5187. [PMID: 37629229 PMCID: PMC10455353 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165187] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This study sought to determine the survival duration of patients who underwent palliative sedation, comparing those who received prescriptions from referring physicians versus on-call physicians. It included all patients over 18 years old who died in the Palliative Care, Internal Medicine, and Oncology units at the Hospital Universitario of Jerez de la Frontera between 1 January 2019, and 31 December 2019. Various factors were analyzed, including age, gender, oncological or non-oncological disease, type of primary tumor and refractory symptoms. Statistical analysis was employed to compare survival times between patients who received palliative sedation from referring physicians and those prescribed by on-call physicians, while accounting for other potential confounding variables. This study revealed that the median survival time after the initiation of palliative sedation was 25 h, with an interquartile range of 8 to 48 h. Notably, if the sedation was prescribed by referring physicians, the median survival time was 30 h, while it decreased to 17 h when prescribed by on-call physicians (RR 0.357; 95% CI 0.146-0.873; p = 0.024). Furthermore, dyspnea as a refractory symptom was associated with a shorter survival time (RR 0.307; 95% CI 0.095-0.985; p = 0.047). The findings suggest that the on-call physician often administered palliative sedation to rapidly deteriorating patients, particularly those experiencing dyspnea, which likely contributed to the shorter survival time following sedation initiation. This study underscores the importance of careful patient selection and prompt initiation of palliative sedation to alleviate suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Lojo-Cruz
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Juan Mora-Delgado
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Víctor Rivas Jiménez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Fernando Carmona Espinazo
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerta del Mar, Avenida Ana de Viya 21, 11009 Cádiz, Spain;
| | - Juan-Bosco López-Sáez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerto Real, Calle Romería 7, 11510 Puerto Real, Spain;
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Fasse L, Roche N, Flahault C, Garrouste-Orgeas M, Ximenes M, Pages A, Evin A, Dauchy S, Scotte F, Le Provost JB, Blot F, Mateus C. The APSY-SED study: protocol of an observational, longitudinal, mixed methods and multicenter study exploring the psychological adjustment of relatives and healthcare providers of patients with cancer with continuous deep sedation until death. Palliat Care 2022; 21:217. [PMID: 36464684 PMCID: PMC9720978 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01106-z] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 2016, France is the only country in the World where continuous deep sedation until death (CDSUD) is regulated by law. CDSUD serves as a response to refractory suffering in palliative situations where the patients' death is expected to occur in the following hours or days. Little is known on the psychological adjustment surrounding a CDSUD procedure for healthcare providers (HCPs) and relatives. Our study aims to gather qualitative and quantitative data on the specific processes behind the psychological adjustment of both relatives and HCPs, after the administration of CDSUD for patients with cancer. METHODS The APSY-SED study is a prospective, longitudinal, mixed-methods and multicenter study. Recruitment will involve any French-speaking adult cancer patient for who a CDSUD is discussed, their relatives and HCPs. We plan to include 150 patients, 150 relatives, and 50 HCPs. The evaluation criteria of this research are: 1/ Primary criterion: Psychological adjustment of relatives and HCPs 6 and 13 months after the death of the patient with cancer (psychological adjustment = intensity of anxiety, depression and grief reactions, CDSUD-related distress, job satisfaction, Professional Stress and Professional experience). Secondary criteria: a)occurrence of wish for a CDSUD in patients in palliative phase; b)occurrence of wish for hastened death in patients in palliative phase; c)potential predictors of adjustment assessed after the discussion concerning CDSUD as an option and before the setting of the CDSUD; d) Thematic analysis and narrative account of meaning-making process concerning the grief experience. DISCUSSION The APSY-SED study will be the first to investigate the psychological adjustment of HCPs and relatives in the context of a CDSUD procedure implemented according to French law. Gathering data on the grief process for relatives can help understand bereavement after CDSUD, and participate in the elaboration of specific tailored interventions to support HCPs and relatives. Empirical findings on CDSUD among patients with cancer in France could be compared with existing data in other countries and with results related to other medical fields where CDSUD is also conducted. TRIAL REGISTRATION This protocol received the National Registration Number: ID-RCB2021-A03042-39 on 14/12/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Fasse
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France ,grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602Institut de Psychologie Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 71 avenue E. Vaillant, F-92100 Boulogne- Billancourt, France
| | - N. Roche
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - C. Flahault
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France ,grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602Institut de Psychologie Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 71 avenue E. Vaillant, F-92100 Boulogne- Billancourt, France
| | - M. Garrouste-Orgeas
- grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602IAME, INSERM, Université de Paris, F-75018 Paris, France ,Palliative Care unit, Reuilly Diaconesses Fondation, Rueil Malmaison, France ,Medical unit, French British Hospital, Levallois-Perret, France
| | - M. Ximenes
- Maison Médicale Marie Galène, Bordeaux, France
| | - A. Pages
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388Biostatistical Unit, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - A. Evin
- grid.277151.70000 0004 0472 0371Palliative Care unit, CHU, Nantes, France
| | - S. Dauchy
- grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602DMU Psychiatry and Addictology, AP-HP.Centre, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - F. Scotte
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - JB. Le Provost
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - F. Blot
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - C. Mateus
- grid.14925.3b0000 0001 2284 9388DIOPP, Gustave Roussy Hospital, Villejuif, France
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Galmiche P, Dauchy S. État des lieux des législations sur l’aide active à mourir dans le monde au 31 janvier 2022. PSYCHO-ONCOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.3166/pson-2022-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Au 31 janvier 2022, dix pays ont légiféré en faveur de l’aide active à mourir au terme de débats politiques, éthiques et sociaux. Cet article reprend le parcours législatif de ces pays (Suisse, États-Unis, Pays-Bas, Belgique, Luxembourg, Canada, Australie, Nouvelle-Zélande, Espagne et Autriche) et décrit les conditions prescrites par chaque loi pour encadrer et contrôler la pratique de l’euthanasie ou du suicide assisté. L’objectif est de mettre en lumière les arguments indispensables à la mise en place et à la mise en œuvre d’une loi ainsi que les critères d’éligibilité et garde-fous communs, avec une attention particulière portée aux critères relatifs à la maladie psychiatrique.
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Rodrigues P, Ostyn J, Mroz S, Ronsse A, Menten J, Gastmans C. Ethics of sedation for existential suffering: palliative medicine physician perceptions - qualitative study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2022; 13:209-217. [PMID: 35418444 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-003395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Palliative sedation for existential suffering (PS-ES) is considered a controversial practice to control refractory suffering at the end of life. This study aims to explore Belgian palliative care physicians' perceptions regarding the ethics of PS-ES. METHODS This nationwide qualitative study follows a Grounded Theory approach. We conducted semistructured interviews with 25 palliative care physicians working in 23 Belgian hospitals and hospices (Flanders, Brussels, Wallonia). We analysed the data using the Qualitative Analysis Guide Of Leuven and we followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. RESULTS The data revealed that Belgian palliative care physicians have difficulty characterising ES and distinguishing it from other types of suffering. They express mixed attitudes towards PS-ES and employ a wide range of ethical arguments in favour and against it, which are mainly linked to the four principles of biomedical ethics. CONCLUSION Since there is a lack of consensus among Belgian palliative care physicians about PS-ES, further research is needed to clarify their attitudes. A better understanding of physicians' underlying presuppositions can provide more insight into their perceptions of ES and PS-ES and provide further insight for establishing good practices in ES management at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Rodrigues
- ETHICS EA 7446, Université Catholique de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Jozefien Ostyn
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Mroz
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Axelle Ronsse
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Menten
- Radiation-Oncology and Palliatiev Care, UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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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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11
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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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12
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Gamblin V, Berry V, Tresch-Bruneel E, Reich M, Da Silva A, Villet S, Penel N, Prod'Homme C. Midazolam sedation in palliative medicine: retrospective study in a French center for cancer control. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:85. [PMID: 32560644 PMCID: PMC7305615 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00592-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND French legislation about sedation in palliative medicine evolved in 2016 with the introduction of a right to deep and continuous sedation, maintained until death. The objective was to describe midazolam sedation at the COL (Centre Oscar Lambret [Oscar Lambret Center], French regional center for cancer control), in order to establish a current overview before the final legislative changes. METHODS Descriptive, retrospective and single-center study, concerning major patients in palliative care hospitalized from 01/01/2014 to 12/31/2015, who had been sedated by midazolam. The proven sedations (explicitly named) and the probable sedations were distinguished. RESULTS A total of 54 sedations were identified (48 proven, 6 probable). Refractory symptoms accounted for 48.1% of indications, complications with immediate risk of death 46.3%, existential suffering 5.6%. Titration was performed in 44.4% of cases. Sedation was continuous until death for 98.1% of the cases. Probable sedation had a higher failure rate than proven sedation. Significant differences existed for the palliative care unit compared to other units regarding information to the patient, their consent, anticipation, mention by correspondence and carrying out titrations. When patients had already been treated with midazolam, the induction doses, initial maintenance doses, and doses at the time of death were significantly higher. For those receiving opioids, the maintenance dose at the time of death was higher. No comparison found a difference in overall survival. CONCLUSIONS After a sufficient follow-up has enabled teams to familiarize with this new legislation, reflection on sedation should be conducted to adapt to final recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Gamblin
- Palliative care unit, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France.
| | - Vincent Berry
- Palliative care unit, Maison Médicale Jean XXIII, 3 Place Erasme de Rotterdam, 59160, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Tresch-Bruneel
- Direction of Research and Innovation, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France
| | - Michel Reich
- Palliative care unit, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France
| | - Arlette Da Silva
- Palliative care unit, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France
| | - Stéphanie Villet
- Palliative care unit, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Penel
- Direction of Research and Innovation, Oscar Lambret center, 3 rue Frédéric Combemale, 59020, Lille, France
- Lille University Hospital and Medical School, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Chloé Prod'Homme
- Lille University Hospital and Medical School, Palliative care unit, 59000, Lille, France
- ETHICS (Experiment, Transhumanism, Human Interactions, Care and Society) - EA 7446, Lille Catholic University, 59800, Lille, France
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