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Ng IKS, Tan LF, Kumarakulasinghe NB, Goh WGW, Ngiam N, Teo DB. Providing family updates: a primer for the medical trainee. Postgrad Med J 2024; 100:344-349. [PMID: 38272463 DOI: 10.1093/postmj/qgad143] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Providing family updates is a common clinical task for medical trainees and practitioners working in hospital settings. Good clinical communication skills are essential in clinical care as it is associated with improved patient satisfaction, understanding of condition, treatment adherence, and better overall clinical outcomes. Moreover, poor communications are often the source of medical complaints. However, while patient-centred communication skills training has generally been incorporated into clinical education, there hitherto remains inadequate training on clinical communications with patients' families, which carry different nuances. In recent years, it is increasingly recognized that familial involvement in the care of hospitalized patients leads to better clinical and psychological outcomes. In fact, in Asian populations with more collectivistic cultures, families are generally highly involved in patient care and decision-making. Therefore, effective clinical communications and regular provision of family updates are essential to build therapeutic rapport, facilitate familial involvement in patient care, and also provide a more holistic understanding of the patient's background and psychosocial set-up. In this article, we herein describe a seven-step understand the clinical context, gather perspectives, deliver medical information, address questions, concerns and expectations, provide tentative plans, demonstrate empathy, postcommunication reflections model as a practical guide for medical trainees and practitioners in provision of structured and effective family updates in their clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac K S Ng
- Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Li Feng Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Healthy Ageing Programme, Alexandra Hospital, Singapore 159964, Singapore
| | - Nesaretnam Barr Kumarakulasinghe
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Wilson G W Goh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Nicola Ngiam
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Desmond B Teo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Fast and Chronic Programmes, Alexandra Hospital, Singapore 159964, Singapore
- Division of Advanced Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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Rannikko J, Paananen J, Stolt M, Suhonen R. Quality of interaction between the nursing personnel and the informal caregivers of people with memory disorders: A systematic review and metasummary of qualitative studies. Nurs Open 2023; 10:7566-7584. [PMID: 37828798 PMCID: PMC10643836 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2029] [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: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore the factors that affect the quality of interactions between nursing personnel and the informal caregivers of people with memory disorders. DESIGN Systematic review and metasummary of qualitative empirical research. METHODS The literature search targeted studies concerning the professional care interactions between nursing personnel and the informal caregivers of people with progressive memory disorders. The search in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus covered records from the earliest possible date up to December 2020. The data were summarised using a qualitative metasummary method. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was used to validate the reporting process. RESULTS Ten articles were included. As presented in 33 statements, the factors affecting the quality of interactions were related to (1) expectations, (2) memory disorders, (3) interaction strategies, (4) time and place of interactions and (5) organisational aspects. Meeting the individual interactional needs of informal caregivers is recommended. The results provide guidance for improving the quality of interactions between nursing personnel and informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jenny Paananen
- Department of Nursing ScienceUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Minna Stolt
- Department of Nursing ScienceUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
- Satakunta Wellbeing Services CountyPoriFinland
| | - Riitta Suhonen
- Department of Nursing ScienceUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
- Turku University Hospital and Wellbeing Services County of Southwest FinlandTurkuFinland
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3
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Solera-Gómez S, Benedito-Monleón A, LLinares-Insa LI, Sancho-Cantus D, Navarro-Illana E. Educational Needs in Oncology Nursing: A Scoping Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:2494. [PMID: 36554019 PMCID: PMC9778242 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122494] [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: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Care in oncology requires both technical and psychosocial skills by nursing staff, so continuous learning is necessary. Evidence suggests there are some educational gaps in oncology nursing staff, and continuing educational interventions have been effective in overcoming these deficiencies. Aim: to determine the basic educational lines that a continuous training program should have for oncology nurses. A bibliographic review study was carried out in two phases from October 2020 to January 2021. In a first phase, the main databases were analyzed: PubMed, Web of Science, Dialnet and Medline, following the PRISMA methodology; and subsequently, an analysis of the most important thematic nuclei that a training program in cancer nursing should contain. The DAFO matrix and the Hanlon prioritization method were used. Four competencies that every oncology nurse should have were described: communication, coping, self-direction of learning and technical health. The thematic contents that a training program should contain were then determined, and aspects such as stress prevention and burnout, adequate communication with patient and family, and continuous educational and technical skills were considered. The results found suggest that there are deficiencies in the education of nursing staff. Continuing education programs are effective in supplementing them. They should develop the four skills described in the results section.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David Sancho-Cantus
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Catholic University of Valencia, 46600 Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Esther Navarro-Illana
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Catholic University of Valencia, 46600 Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Navigating Difficult Conversations with Children When Parents are Ill: How Medical Family Therapists Can Assist. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-021-09628-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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5
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Laidsaar-Powell R, Keast R, Butow P, Mahony J, Hagerty F, Townsend J, Young J, Butt Z, Juraskova I. Improving breast cancer nurses' management of challenging situations involving family carers: Pilot evaluation of a brief targeted online education module (TRIO-Conflict). PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:3023-3031. [PMID: 33941422 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Given the stressful and emotional nature of cancer, challenging interactions between nurses, patients, and family frequently occur. Nurses are rarely equipped with strategies to avoid or de-escalate stressful situations with carers, which can include displays of conflict, anger, or dominance. A brief online education module (TRIO-Conflict) was developed to provide nurses with management strategies to use in situations of conflict. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of TRIO-Conflict. METHODS Nurses were recruited through an Australian breast cancer organisation (McGrath Foundation). Participants completed pre/post module measures of attitudes towards carers, confidence in their skills to effectively navigate challenging interactions with carers, and applied knowledge of management strategies. Data were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Qualitative feedback was analysed using content analysis. RESULTS 52 nurses completed pre-/post- measures, with 4 semi-structured interviews conducted. Significant improvements in attitudes towards carers (p = .010) and confidence in one's own ability to manage challenging interactions with carers (p < .001) were found, but not knowledge of strategies. Most nurses found TRIO-Conflict very/extremely helpful (87%) and were satisfied with content (94%) and usability (93%). CONCLUSION TRIO-Conflict utilised evidence-based learning techniques (provision of example phrases, video vignettes, reflective exercises) to improve nurses attitudes and confidence. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS TRIO-Conflict is a brief, targeted, clinically relevant, and easily accessible online training programme which could be widely disseminated to oncology nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Laidsaar-Powell
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Rachael Keast
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phyllis Butow
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Jade Young
- McGrath Foundation, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Zoe Butt
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ilona Juraskova
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Liljeroos M, Milberg P, Krevers B, Milberg A. Dying within dyads: Stress, sense of security and support during palliative home care. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257274. [PMID: 34520480 PMCID: PMC8439476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine similarities and dissimilarities in patient and family caregiver dyads in their experience of stress, support, and sense of security. Methods 144 patients and their family caregivers participated. Patients were admitted to six Swedish specialist palliative home care units and diagnosed with a non-curable disease with an expected short survival. We analysed similarity patterns of answers within dyads (correlations) as well as dissimilarities, expressed as the difference between within-dyad responses. The latter were subjected to a model-building procedure using GLM, with 13 sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as independent variables. Results Within dyads, patients and family caregivers scored similar in their perception of support and sense of security with care. There was also dissimilarity within dyad responses in their perception of stress and support that could be attributed to sociodemographic or clinical characteristics. When patients scored higher levels of stress than family caregivers, the family caregiver was more likely to be male. Also family caregiver attachment style (attachment anxiety), patient age and the relationship of the family caregiver to the patient explained dissimilarities within the dyads. Conclusions Patients and family caregivers within the dyads often, but not always, had similar scores. We suggest that it is important that the healthcare staff identify situations in which perceptions within the dyads regarding stress and perception of support differ, such that they can recognise patients’ and family caregivers’ unique needs in different situations, to be able to provide adequate support and facilitate dyadic coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Liljeroos
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Centre for Clinical Research Sörmland, Uppsala University, Eskilstuna, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Per Milberg
- IFM Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Barbro Krevers
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Milberg
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Advanced Home Care and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
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Juraskova I, Laidsaar-Powell R, Keast R, Schofield P, Costa DS, Kay J, Turner S, Koczwara B, Saunders C, Jefford M, Yates P, Boyle F, White K, Miller A, Morton RL, Butt Z, Butow P. eTRIO trial: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of online education modules to facilitate effective family caregiver involvement in oncology. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043224. [PMID: 34049902 PMCID: PMC8166623 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Informal family caregivers play a crucial role in cancer care. Effective caregiver involvement in cancer care can improve both patient and caregiver outcomes. Despite this, interventions improving the caregiver involvement are sparse. This protocol describes a randomised controlled trial evaluating the combined effectiveness of novel online caregiver communication education modules for: (1) oncology clinicians (eTRIO) and (2) patients with cancer and caregivers (eTRIO-pc). METHODS AND ANALYSIS Thirty medical/radiation/surgical oncology or haematology doctors and nurses will be randomly allocated to either intervention (eTRIO) or control (an Australian State Government Health website on caregivers) education conditions. Following completion of education, each clinician will recruit nine patient-caregiver pairs, who will be allocated to the same condition as their recruiting clinician. Eligibility includes any new adult patient diagnosed with any type/stage cancer attending consultations with a caregiver. Approximately 270 patient-caregiver pairs will be recruited. The primary outcome is caregiver self-efficacy in triadic (clinician-patient-caregiver) communication. Patient and clinician self-efficacy in triadic communication are secondary outcomes. Additional secondary outcomes for clinicians include preferences for caregiver involvement, perceived module usability/acceptability, analysis of module use, satisfaction with the module, knowledge of strategies and feedback interviews. Secondary outcomes for caregivers and patients include preferences for caregiver involvement, satisfaction with clinician communication, distress, quality of life, healthcare expenditure, perceived module usability/acceptability and analysis of module use. A subset of patients and caregivers will complete feedback interviews. Secondary outcomes for caregivers include preparedness for caregiving, patient-caregiver communication and caring experience. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, and 1 week, 12 weeks and 26 weeks post-intervention. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been received by the Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee (REGIS project ID number: 2019/PID09787), with site-specific approval from each recruitment site. Protocol V.7 (dated 1 September 2020) is currently approved and reported in this manuscript. Findings will be disseminated via presentations and peer-reviewed publications. Engagement with clinicians, media, government, consumers and peak cancer groups will facilitate widespread dissemination and long-term availability of the educational modules. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12619001507178.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Juraskova
- School of Psychology, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED), The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R Laidsaar-Powell
- School of Psychology, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED), The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael Keast
- School of Psychology, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED), The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Department of Psychology, and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Health Services Research and Implementation Sciences, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel Sj Costa
- Pain Management Research Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Judy Kay
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Faculty of Engineering, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sandra Turner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bogda Koczwara
- Flinders University School of Medicine, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- Division of Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael Jefford
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patsy Yates
- Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Frances Boyle
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Patricia Ritchie Centre for Cancer Care & Research, Mater Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate White
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Cancer Nursing Research Unit, University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Annie Miller
- Cancer Information and Support Services Division, Cancer Council New South Wales, Woolloomooloo, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zoe Butt
- School of Psychology, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED), The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phyllis Butow
- School of Psychology, Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED), The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Kazlauskaite V, Fife ST. Adolescent Experience With Parental Cancer and Involvement With Medical Professionals: A Heuristic Phenomenological Inquiry. JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENT RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/0743558420985446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Experiencing the death of a loved one can be a difficult occurrence. Adolescents, in particular, experience death in a unique way. Yet there is relatively little research on adolescents’ experience with parental death and their involvement in the medical setting during a parent’s terminal illness. This qualitative study utilized heuristic inquiry, a type of phenomenological research, to investigate adolescents’ involvement in the hospital setting during parental terminal illness. Qualitative analysis of participants’ experiences resulted in two primary categories associated with adolescents’ involvement with medical professionals during parental illness: factors influencing hospital involvement and experience with health care professionals. The findings have implications for medical and mental health professionals who work with adolescent family members of terminally ill patients.
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Emmamally W, Erlingsson C, Brysiewicz P. Families' perceptions of relational practice in the emergency department: A qualitative study. Int Emerg Nurs 2020; 51:100877. [PMID: 32479929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ienj.2020.100877] [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] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to describe families' perceptions of relational practice when interacting with health care professionals in emergency departments in the South African context. BACKGROUND Relational practice is seen as an approach that amplifies the voices of families through creating meaningful connections with health care professionals. However, the voices of families maybe obliterated by factors in the clinical environment including the pressure to perform and timely patient flow. DESIGN The study adopted a qualitative design. METHODS Qualitative data were collected from six family members by means of semi-structured interviews and were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Four major categories emerged from family members' perceptions regarding relational practice when interacting with health care professionals in the emergency department, Disrupted worlds; Care is what you see and hear; Powerlessness; Feeling disconnected. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlighted the need for improved relational practice between families and health care professionals in the emergency department. Pathways need to be created to involve families in decision-making and genuinely engage with them. There is a need to move away from the hierarchical "expert" emergency department culture towards one that seeks to include the voices of families in driving emergency department care.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Emmamally
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - C Erlingsson
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Sweden
| | - P Brysiewicz
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Kamal E. Letter to Editor Regarding "Involving the Family in Patient Care: A Culturally Tailored Communication Model" by Jazieh et al.. GLOBAL JOURNAL ON QUALITY AND SAFETY IN HEALTHCARE 2020; 3:30-31. [PMID: 37440971 PMCID: PMC10335783 DOI: 10.4103/jqsh.jqsh_2_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eman Kamal
- Department of Quality Management and Patient Safety Administration, King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Kerr D, Milnes S, Ammentorp J, McKie C, Dunning T, Ostaszkiewicz J, Wolderslund M, Martin P. Challenges for nurses when communicating with people who have life-limiting illness and their families: A focus group study. J Clin Nurs 2019; 29:416-428. [PMID: 31715040 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The proposed study aimed to answer the following question: What communication issues do nurses find challenging when caring for people with life-limiting illness? BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that attitudes, skills and knowledge about how nurses communicate effectively with patients and their families could be improved. However, the literature predominantly focuses on nurses working in oncology and the medical profession. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was used. METHODS Focus groups were conducted with 39 nurses from three wards within a regional healthcare organisation in Victoria, Australia. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The COREQ checklist was used to document reporting of the study. RESULTS In their view, nurses have the potential to develop a strong bond with patients and their families. Three key themes were identified: (a) feeling unskilled to have difficult conversations with patients who have life-limiting illness; (b) interacting with family members adds complexity to care of patients who have life-limiting illness; and (c) organisational factors impede nurses' capacity to have meaningful conversations with patients and their families. CONCLUSIONS Caring for individuals with life-limiting illness is complex and often occurs in an emotionally charged environment. However, nurses report being hampered by time restraints and lack of information about the patient's condition and goals of care. Limitations in conversation structure and a comprehensive range of core communication skills affect their ability to confidently engage in conversations, particularly when they are responding to prognostic questions. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Whilst nurses are responsible for performing technical skills, they can maximise care by developing a trusting relationship with patients and their relatives. Increased acuity limits the time nurses have to talk with patients. In addition, they lack confidence to deal with difficult questions. Specific training may increase nurses' confidence and efficiency when communicating with patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra Kerr
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Waterfront Campus, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Sharyn Milnes
- Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Jette Ammentorp
- Health Services Research Unit, Lillebaelt Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Claire McKie
- Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic., Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Trisha Dunning
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Waterfront Campus, Geelong, Vic., Australia.,Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Joan Ostaszkiewicz
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Waterfront Campus, Geelong, Vic., Australia.,Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Maiken Wolderslund
- Health Services Research Unit, Lillebaelt Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Peter Martin
- Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic., Australia.,School of Medicine, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, Vic., Australia
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12
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Petursdottir AB, Haraldsdottir E, Svavarsdottir EK. The impact of implementing an educational intervention to enhance a family-oriented approach in specialised palliative home care: A quasi-experimental study. Scand J Caring Sci 2018; 33:342-350. [PMID: 30488975 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Healthcare providers' beliefs, attitudes, experiences and knowledge, which guide the care they deliver, are the key factors influencing the quality of palliative care. Education and coaching innovation are needed to translate research outcomes and adopt evidence-based nursing care into practice. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of an advanced educational and coaching programme in a family systems' nursing approach for palliative care nurses in a home-care setting. METHODS A quasi-experimental study using qualitative data from open-ended questions to augment the quantitative outcome study that included a single-group, pre- and post-test design. A total population sample of nurses was recruited from a specialised palliative home care unit at a university hospital. The study utilised two self-reported questionnaires. RESULTS There was a statistically significant increase in the nurses' critical appraisal of clinical nursing practice related to family nursing after participation in the educational programme than before. No statistical difference was found in items related to nurses' experience of the interaction and reciprocity in the nurse-family relationship after participation in the programme than compared to before or in nurses' cancer-related beliefs. However, there was an overall significant positive change found in attitudes towards families in the total score of the Family Practice Scale. Nurses were also more positive about the further development of their knowledge and skills in advanced family nursing evident in the qualitative data. CONCLUSION An advanced educational intervention programme was successful in improving the nurses' knowledge, skills, satisfaction and confidence in relation to applied family nursing approach within the context of caring for families affected by advanced/final stage cancer. However, further refinement of the implementation process is needed to enhance family care improvement and the nurses' professional development in advanced family nursing in specialised palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asta B Petursdottir
- Palliative Home-care Unit, Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.,School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Erna Haraldsdottir
- Columbas Hospice and Queen Margret University, Edinburgh, Scotland.,School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Erla Kolbrun Svavarsdottir
- School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.,Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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13
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Koren D, Laidsaar-Powell R, Tilden W, Latt M, Butow P. Health care providers' perceptions of family caregivers' involvement in consultations within a geriatric hospital setting. Geriatr Nurs 2018; 39:419-427. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2017.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Banerjee SC, Manna R, Coyle N, Penn S, Gallegos TE, Zaider T, Krueger CA, Bialer PA, Bylund CL, Parker PA. The implementation and evaluation of a communication skills training program for oncology nurses. Transl Behav Med 2018; 7:615-623. [PMID: 28211000 DOI: 10.1007/s13142-017-0473-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many nurses express difficulty in communicating with their patients, especially in oncology settings where there are numerous challenges and high-stake decisions during the course of diagnosis and treatment. Providing specific training in communication skills is one way to enhance the communication between nurses and their patients. We developed and implemented a communication skills training program for nurses, consisting of three teaching modules: responding empathically to patients; discussing death, dying, and end-of-life goals of care; and responding to challenging interactions with families. Training included didactic and experiential small group role plays. This paper presents results on program evaluation, self-efficacy, and behavioral demonstration of learned communication skills. Three hundred forty-two inpatient oncology nurses participated in a 1-day communication skills training program and completed course evaluations, self-reports, and pre- and post-standardized patient assessments. Participants rated the training favorably, and they reported significant gains in self-efficacy in their ability to communicate with patients in various contexts. Participants also demonstrated significant improvement in several empathic skills, as well as in clarifying skill. Our work demonstrates that implementation of a nurse communication skills training program at a major cancer center is feasible and acceptable and has a significant impact on participants' self-efficacy and uptake of communication skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita C Banerjee
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA.
| | - Ruth Manna
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Nessa Coyle
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Stacey Penn
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Tess E Gallegos
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Talia Zaider
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Carol A Krueger
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Philip A Bialer
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Carma L Bylund
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA.,Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Patricia A Parker
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, USA
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D'Agostino TA, Bialer PA, Walters CB, Killen AR, Sigurdsson HO, Parker PA. A Communication Training Program to Encourage Speaking-Up Behavior in Surgical Oncology. AORN J 2017; 106:295-305. [PMID: 28958315 DOI: 10.1016/j.aorn.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Patient safety in the OR depends on effective communication. We developed and tested a communication training program for surgical oncology staff members to increase communication about patient safety concerns. In phase one, 34 staff members participated in focus groups to identify and rank factors that affect speaking-up behavior. We compiled ranked items into thematic categories that included role relations and hierarchy, staff rapport, perceived competence, perceived efficacy of speaking up, staff personality, fear of retaliation, institutional regulations, and time pressure. We then developed a communication training program that 42 participants completed during phase two. Participants offered favorable ratings of the usefulness and perceived effect of the training. Participants reported significant improvement in communicating patient safety concerns (t40 = -2.76, P = .009, d = 0.48). Findings offer insight into communication challenges experienced by surgical oncology staff members and suggest that our training demonstrates the potential to improve team communication.
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