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Riguzzi M, Thaqi Q, Lorch A, Blum D, Peng-Keller S, Naef R. Contextual determinants of guideline-based family support during end-of-life cancer care and subsequent bereavement care: A cross-sectional survey of registered nurses. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 70:102555. [PMID: 38626610 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102555] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE In end-of-life cancer care, 10-20% of bereaved family members experience adverse mental health effects, including prolonged grief disorder. Despite great efforts, evidence-based recommendations to support their grieving process and well-being are often not successfully adopted into routine clinical care. This study identified facilitators and barriers using implementation science methodology. METHODS 81 registered nurses working in cancer care from four hospitals and three home care services in Switzerland assessed their current family support practices in end-of-life care and bereavement care. They then assessed organisational attributes of their institution and their own individual characteristics and skills regarding literature-based factors of potential relevance. Facilitators and barriers to guideline-based family support were determined using fractional logistic regression. RESULTS Service specialisation in palliative care, a culture that supports change, the availability of family support guidelines, billing/reimbursement of bereavement support services, and individual knowledge of family support and skill were systematically associated with higher adoption of guideline-based family support practices. Lack of privacy with families and insufficient training acted as significant barriers. CONCLUSIONS While several potentially relevant factors have emerged in the literature, certain organisational and individual determinants actually empirically predict guideline-based family support according to nurses in end-of-life cancer care, with some determinants having much stronger implications than others. This provides crucial guidance for focussing quality improvement and implementation efforts through tailored strategies, especially with scarce resources. Furthermore, adoption is lower in bereavement care than in end-of-life care, suggesting a particular need for supportive organisational cultures including specific training and billing/reimbursement options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Riguzzi
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 84, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland; Centre of Clinical Nursing Science, University Hospital Zurich, Sonnentalstrasse 25, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland.
| | - Qëndresa Thaqi
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 84, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland; Centre of Clinical Nursing Science, University Hospital Zurich, Sonnentalstrasse 25, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Anja Lorch
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology Clinic, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Blum
- Competence Centre for Palliative Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; Centre for Palliative Care, City Hospital Zurich, Tièchestrasse 99, 8037 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon Peng-Keller
- Spiritual Care, Faculty of Theology, University of Zurich, Kirchgasse 9, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rahel Naef
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 84, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland; Centre of Clinical Nursing Science, University Hospital Zurich, Sonnentalstrasse 25, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
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Unesoko A, Ozawa N, Sugimura A, Sato K, Ando S. Nursing-care for family caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients to enhance preparedness for death. NAGOYA JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE 2024; 86:121-134. [PMID: 38505717 PMCID: PMC10945228 DOI: 10.18999/nagjms.86.1.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Family caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients prepare for a patient's death. Nursing-care for preparedness is effective for their psychological health. This study aims to structuralize nursing-care for preparedness and extract related factors while presenting the implications for improved quality of care. Data from a cross-sectional survey of general ward and palliative care unit nurses in designated cancer care hospitals (n=561) was analyzed with exploratory factor analysis and multiple regression analyses. The results of the analysis, the structure was classified into "Nurse-centered support" and "Support through inter-professional work." Both supports were practiced significantly more frequently in palliative care units than general wards. Related factors in general wards were; communication skills, cooperation with doctors, the existence of certified nurse/certified nurse specialists as consultants, attitudes toward care of the dying, frequency of death conferences, and cooperation with specialist cancer counselors. Therefore, the results can help improve the quality of family care in palliative care, especially in general wards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Unesoko
- Nursing for Advanced Practice, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Naoki Ozawa
- Ichinomiya Kenshin College School of Nursing, Ichinomiya, Japan
| | - Ayumi Sugimura
- Nursing for Advanced Practice, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sato
- Nursing for Advanced Practice, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shoko Ando
- Ichinomiya Kenshin College School of Nursing, Ichinomiya, Japan
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Xu DD, Zhang GX, Ding XB, Ma J, Suo YX, Peng YY, Zeng JL, Liu M, Hou RT, Li J, Hu F. Bereaved parents' perceptions of memory making: a qualitative meta-synthesis. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:24. [PMID: 38273273 PMCID: PMC10809512 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01339-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the experiences of parents who have experienced bereavement in their efforts to preserve memories of their deceased child. METHODS Employing a qualitative meta-synthesis approach, this study systematically sought relevant qualitative literature by conducting searches across various electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Wiley, up until July 2023. RESULTS Nine studies are eligible for inclusion and included in the meta-synthesis. Three overarching categories are identified: (1) Affirming the Significance of Memory Making. (2) Best Practices in Memory Making. (3) Barriers to Effective Memory Making. CONCLUSION Bereaved parents highly value the act of creating lasting memories, emphasizing its profound significance. While forming these memories, it is imperative to offer family-centered care and honor diverse preferences and needs. It is essential to offer effective support to parents, offering them a range of choices. Furthermore, a more comprehensive examination of memory-making practices is required to better understand their influence on parents' recollections of their deceased child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Dan Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Guang-Xiong Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Province Corps Hospital of The Chinese Armed Police Force (CAPF), Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Bo Ding
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ya-Xi Suo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yang-Yao Peng
- Department of Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ji-Li Zeng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan, China
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Pulmonary Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui-Tong Hou
- Department of Pulmonary Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Fen Hu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Clinical Research Center of Hubei Critical Care Medicine, PO Box 430071, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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Nysaeter TM, Olsson C, Sandsdalen T, Hov R, Larsson M. Family caregivers' preferences for support when caring for a family member with cancer in late palliative phase who wish to die at home - a grounded theory study. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:15. [PMID: 38212707 PMCID: PMC10782637 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01350-5] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers are essential in end-of-life care for cancer patients who wish to die at home. The knowledge is still limited regarding family caregivers needs and preferences for support and whether the preferences change during the patient's illness trajectory. Therefore, the aim was to explore family caregivers' preferences for support from home care services over time when caring for a family member with cancer at the end of life who wished to die at home. METHODS A qualitative method was applied according to Grounded Theory. Data was collected longitudinally over the illness trajectory by means of repeated individual interviews (n = 22) with adult family caregivers (n = 11). Sampling, data collection and data analysis were undertaken simultaneously in line with the constant comparative method. RESULTS The findings are captured in the core category "hold out in duty and love". The categories "having control and readiness for action" and "being involved in care" describe the family caregivers' preferences for being prepared and able to handle procedures, medical treatment and care, and to be involved by the healthcare personnel in the patient's care and decision making. The categories "being seen and confirmed" and "having a respite" describe family caregivers' preferences for support according to their own needs to be able to persevere in the situation. CONCLUSION Despite deterioration in the patient's illness and the increasing responsibility family caregiver struggle to hold out and focus on being in the present. Over time together with deterioration in the patient's illness and changes in the situation, they expressed a need for more intense and extensive support from the home care services. To meet the family caregivers' preferences for support a systematic implementation of a person-centred care model and multicomponent psycho- educational interventions performed by nurses can be proposed. Moreover, we suggest developing a tool based on the conceptual model generated in this study to identify and map family caregivers' needs and preferences for support. Such a tool can facilitate communication and ensure person-centred interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toril Merete Nysaeter
- Department of Health and Nursing Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, 2400, Norway.
| | - Cecilia Olsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University SE, Karlstad, Sweden
- Department of Bachelor Education in Nursing, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tuva Sandsdalen
- Department of Health and Nursing Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, 2400, Norway
| | - Reidun Hov
- Department of Health and Nursing Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, 2400, Norway
- Centre for Development of Institutional and Home Care Services (USHT), Inland (Hedmark), Hamar, Norway
| | - Maria Larsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University SE, Karlstad, Sweden
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Peng Y, Wu H, Tao J, Wang Y, Zhang M, Huang P. The Current Status of Bereavement Care in Chinese Emergency Departments: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231224550. [PMID: 38152874 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231224550] [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: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the current status and challenges of bereavement care will help facilitate the development of bereavement care in the emergency department. However, little is known about the status of bereavement care in Chinese emergency departments and nurses' perceptions of bereavement care. We used a self-made questionnaire to survey 124 head nurses and 870 emergency nurses in 21 hospitals in Jiangsu Province in September 2023. Among 124 emergency departments, 78 (62.90%) emergency departments provided bereavement care strategies, and the most frequent strategy was a waiting room, relevant information on funeral arrangements and the establishment of a relatively secluded environment conducive to the solace of the patient's family, or the provision of a dedicated farewell chamber. Emergency nurses believed that bereavement care is important but difficult to implement, with support resources, environment and human resources being the main challenges. In the future, further attention should be paid to the development of bereavement care in the emergency department, and the implementation of bereavement care should be supported in terms of policies, funds, resources and personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxin Peng
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Haoming Wu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Junjie Tao
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuchuan Wang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Dolmans RGF, Robertson FC, Eijkholt M, van Vliet P, Broekman MLD. Palliative Care in Severe Neurotrauma Patients in the Intensive Care Unit. Neurocrit Care 2023; 39:557-564. [PMID: 37173560 PMCID: PMC10689547 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01717-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide and many patients with TBI require intensive care unit (ICU) management. When facing a life-threatening illness, such as TBI, a palliative care approach that focuses on noncurative aspects of care should always be considered in the ICU. Research shows that neurosurgical patients in the ICU receive palliative care less frequently than the medical patients in the ICU, which is a missed opportunity for these patients. However, providing appropriate palliative care to neurotrauma patients in an ICU can be difficult, particularly for young adult patients. The patients' prognoses are often unclear, the likelihood of advance directives is small, and the bereaved families must act as decision-makers. This article highlights the different aspects of the palliative care approach as well as barriers and challenges that accompany the TBI patient population, with a particular focus on young adult patients with TBI and the role of their family members. The article concludes with recommendations for physicians for effective and adequate communication to successfully implement the palliative care approach into standard ICU care and to improve quality of care for patients with TBI and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne G F Dolmans
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Faith C Robertson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marleen Eijkholt
- Department of Ethics and Law in Healthcare, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter van Vliet
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Haaglanden Medical Centre, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Marike L D Broekman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Centre, The Hague, The Netherlands
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7
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Kirtania M, Katta A. Essential Elements of Home-based Palliative Care Model: A Rapid Review. Indian J Palliat Care 2023; 29:359-367. [PMID: 38058483 PMCID: PMC10696356 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_227_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The need for palliative care is increasing due to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and some communicable diseases. Chronic illnesses demand patient-centred care that focuses on the patient's individual healthcare needs. Palliative care improves the patients' and caregivers' quality of life by providing pain and symptom relief through a holistic approach after the disease is diagnosed. Though there are various models followed in different countries, home-based palliative care is preferred by patients who wish to stay close to their loved ones at their end of life. For providing home-based care, there are certainly important elements that have to be taken care of before planning the implementation because every country has its own healthcare needs, system, and context. India is a developing country where isolated Palliative Care is practiced, hence the situation demands the need of addressing the essential elements that can be included in the protocol of home-based palliative care to enhance the quality of care. Therefore, this study aims to identify a few elements needed to provide home-based palliative care in the Indian context. A rapid review was conducted where seven studies were included that mentioned the elements of home-based palliative care. The electronic databases searched were MedLine, PubMed, and Cochrane databases of systematic reviews. The review was carried out over a period of 8 weeks in June and July 2022. Seven common essential themes were identified; (i) inter-sectoral and inter-professional cooperation, (ii) trust and safety, (iii) holistic management, (iv) non-academic palliative care, (v) spiritual care, (vi) support to caregivers, and (vii) funding and financial support. Our review of effective palliative care models explicates the essential elements for quality home-based care for patients with a terminal illness. The application of the elements must be relevant to the local context due to the huge diversity of the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousami Kirtania
- Department of Public Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Ajitha Katta
- Department of Public Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Thrower C, Barrie C, Baxter S, Bloom M, Borja MC, Butters A, Dudgeon D, Haque A, Lee S, Mahmood I, Mirhosseini M, Mirza RM, Murzin K, Ankita A, Skantharajah N, Vadeboncoeur C, Wan A, Klinger CA. Interventions for Grieving and Bereaved Informal Caregivers: A Scoping Review of the Canadian Literature. J Palliat Care 2023; 38:215-224. [PMID: 35726197 PMCID: PMC10026166 DOI: 10.1177/08258597221101826] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The palliative approach to care is playing a larger role in the healthcare of older adults in Canada. Within (hospice) palliative care, informal caregivers play a crucial role as part of the interdisciplinary care team. Ensuring high quality palliative care includes providing effective grief and bereavement supports for them. Objective: This study aimed to identify current interventions addressing the grief and bereavement experiences of informal caregivers of geriatric patients in the Canadian (hospice) palliative/end-of-life care realm. Methods: A scoping review was undertaken using Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Seven electronic health and social science databases were searched. In addition, several stakeholder organizations' websites were reviewed to identify grey literature sources. Interventions that took place in Canada, were in English, and explored grief and bereavement supports for informal caregivers in an adult/geriatric (hospice) palliative care setting were included. After full text review, data were extracted and charted. Major themes were established following thematic content analysis. Results: Within a total of 18 sources, three themes were identified: (1) Classification of intervention, (2) Format of intervention, and (3) Intervention target. Method of delivery and type of intervention for grief and bereavement supports were aligned with the international literature. There is a need for large-scale evaluations of interventions and informal caregivers should be engaged in this process. Practitioners should be encouraged to direct bereavement interventions toward grieving caregivers, and to collaborate with them to improve access to these interventions. Policy makers should provide additional funding for grief interventions for informal caregivers. Conclusions: It is important to better understand the needs of informal caregivers experiencing grief and bereavement. Interdisciplinary collaborations will be necessary to develop, evaluate, and scale future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Thrower
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carol Barrie
- Canadian Frailty Network (CFN), Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon Baxter
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meryl Bloom
- Global Health Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Carolina Borja
- Health Studies Program, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anica Butters
- Health Studies Program, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah Dudgeon
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- School of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ayeshah Haque
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Suzanna Lee
- Health Studies Program, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Iqra Mahmood
- Health Studies Program, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mehrnoush Mirhosseini
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Raza M Mirza
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Life Course and Aging, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kate Murzin
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Realize, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Ankita Ankita
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neerjah Skantharajah
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Vadeboncoeur
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Network of Palliative Care for Children (CNPCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Wan
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Klinger
- Translational Research Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Life Course and Aging, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Pallium Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Challenges and Facilitators for Psychosocial Support when Aging and Dying in Place: A Rapid Review of the Literature. Can J Aging 2023; 42:135-153. [PMID: 35762308 DOI: 10.1017/s071498082200023x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Most seniors in Canada live at home and consistently indicate that they prefer to stay there for as long as possible. Consequently, this desire places increasing pressure on supports such as informal caregivers and community services. The current rapid review set out to examine the psychosocial aspects of aging and dying in place that point to gaps in programs and services to support this preference. We searched PubMed, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed entries, and identified 42 articles for analysis, which we charted on a form we created and tested. Lack of attention to the whole person, lack of preparation for the journey ahead, and difficulties establishing collaborative and trusting relationships were, broadly, the challenges identified. A blend of initiatives in the community combined with an integrated palliative approach to care may mitigate some of the challenges that limit options for aging and dying in place.
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10
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Im JH, Chow R, Novosel M, Xiang J, Strait M, Rao V, Kapo J, Zimmermann C, Prsic E. Association of palliative care and hospital outcomes among solid tumour oncology inpatients. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2023-004207. [PMID: 36849221 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to explore the association between receiving an inpatient palliative care consultation and hospital outcomes, including in-hospital death, intensive care unit (ICU) use, discharge to hospice, 30-day readmissions and 30-day emergency department (ED) visits. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of Yale New Haven Hospital medical oncology admissions from January 2018 through December 2021, with and without inpatient palliative care consultations. Hospital outcome data were extracted from medical records and operationalised as binary. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate ORs for the association between number of inpatient palliative care consultations and hospital outcomes. RESULTS Our sample included 19 422 patients. Age, Rothman Index, site of malignancy, length of stay, discharge to hospice, ICU admissions, hospital death and readmissions within 30 days differed significantly between patients who received versus did not receive a palliative care consultation. On multivariable analysis, receiving one additional palliative care consultation was significantly associated with higher odds of hospital death (adjusted OR=1.15, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.17) and discharge to hospice (adjusted OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.26), and lower odds of ICU admission (adjusted OR=0.94, 95% CI 0.92 to 0.97). There was no significant association between palliative care consultations and readmission within 30 days or with ED visits within 30 days. CONCLUSION Inpatients receiving palliative care had increased likelihood of hospital death. However, when controlling for significant differences in patient presentation, patients had nearly 25% greater odds of discharge to hospice and less odds to transition to ICU level of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hb Im
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ronald Chow
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Madison Novosel
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jenny Xiang
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael Strait
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Vinay Rao
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jennifer Kapo
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Prsic
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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11
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Lobb EA, Halkett GKB, McDougall E, Campbell R, Dhillon HM, Phillips JL, Nowak AK. Bereavement outcomes of carers of patients with high grade glioma: Experiences of support before and after the death. DEATH STUDIES 2023:1-10. [PMID: 36786747 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2167888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Carers of people with High Grade Glioma (HGG) completed a survey assessing their anxiety, depression, and grief in addition to open-ended questions exploring their experiences of support pre- and post-death (N = 25). One-third reported borderline or clinical levels of anxiety, depression, and grief related distress. Given the poor prognosis and rapid deterioration of patients with HGG, the findings highlight the importance of sensitive communication about prognosis early in the disease trajectory, information tailored to disease stage, the initiation of a referral to psychological support services, and timely discussions about the preferred place of care and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Lobb
- Calvary Health Care Kogarah, Sydney, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Georgia K B Halkett
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing/Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Emma McDougall
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing/Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Rachel Campbell
- Psycho-Oncology Cooperative Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Haryana M Dhillon
- Psycho-Oncology Cooperative Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-Based Decision-Making, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jane L Phillips
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anna K Nowak
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
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12
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O’Brien H, O’Brien T. Palliation in a pandemic: the human cost of achieving the greater good. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221141720. [PMID: 36544986 PMCID: PMC9761202 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221141720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 created major challenges for specialist palliative care services. Significant ethical challenges have arisen in practising a holistic approach to patient and family care, while observing local and national health care policy in the face of a global pandemic. This report highlights the challenges that arose for a patient, family members and staff consequent on COVID-related visiting restrictions. An integrated specialist palliative care inpatient unit and elderly care facility in Ireland. A 50-year-old married mother of three teenagers and one 12-year-old child with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is described. The patient could not speak or move her limbs. She communicated using an eye gaze device. She had previously declined enteral feeding, and noninvasive ventilatory support was not tolerated. Her husband was particularly attentive and remarkably intuitive in identifying her unspoken needs. At the start of the pandemic, visiting was severely curtailed in line with national policies. The change in visiting policies caused enormous distress to the patient, her family and to the staff members. IT devices were of limited benefit. The current pandemic has had a significant impact on families and health care professionals in which balancing individual need and traditional freedoms against the wider societal need are necessary in limiting the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony O’Brien
- Marymount University Hospital & Hospice,
Cork, Ireland
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13
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Zomerdijk N, Panozzo S, Mileshkin L, Yoong J, Nowak AK, Stockler MR, Philip J. Palliative care facilitates the preparedness of caregivers for thoracic cancer patients. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13716. [PMID: 36169179 PMCID: PMC9786261 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Palliative care improves outcomes for patients with thoracic cancer; however, limited evidence exists for the benefits of this approach for caregivers. This study aimed to advance understanding of the experiences of palliative care described by bereaved caregivers. METHODS Fifteen adult caregivers completed semi-structured interviews following prior participation in a randomised controlled trial of early referral to palliative care versus discretionary referral to palliative care. Interviews explored caregiver experiences of palliative care delivery. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed. RESULTS Four related themes about the experiences of palliative care were identified, each of which required sufficient time between palliative care first contact and death: 'relationship building'; 'clear communication and information'; 'access to practical support'; and 'access to psychosocial support'. The core category underpinning these themes was palliative care facilitates caregiver preparedness. Caregivers noted that palliative care played a critical role in preparing them for the future and described a sense of practical and emotional 'relief' associated with the support services made available to them. CONCLUSION Our findings emphasise that palliative care can have a positive impact on caregivers' preparedness for providing the care needed by thoracic cancer patients and that this can improve the experiences of both caregivers and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke Zomerdijk
- Melbourne School of Psychological SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre AllianceParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Stacey Panozzo
- Peter MacCallum Cancer CentreParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,Department of MedicineUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,St Vincent's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Jaclyn Yoong
- Monash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Monash HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Northern HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,NHMRC Clinical Trials CentreUniversity of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Anna K. Nowak
- Medical SchoolThe University of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia,Department of Medical OncologySir Charles Gairdner HospitalNedlandsWestern AustraliaAustralia,National Centre for Asbestos Related DiseasesInstitute for Respiratory HealthPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Martin R. Stockler
- NHMRC Clinical Trials CentreUniversity of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia,Department of Medical OncologyChris O'Brien LifehouseSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Jennifer Philip
- Peter MacCallum Cancer CentreParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,Department of MedicineUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,St Vincent's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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14
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Chan WCH, Yu CTK, Kwok DKS, Wan JKM. Prevalence and factors associated with demoralization in palliative care patients: A cross-sectional study from Hong Kong. Palliat Support Care 2022:1-9. [PMID: 36052852 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although demoralization is common among palliative care patients, it has not yet been examined empirically in the Hong Kong Chinese context. This study aims to examine (1) the prevalence of demoralization among community-dwelling palliative care patients in Hong Kong; (2) the percentage of palliative care patients who are demoralized but not depressed and vice versa; and (3) the association of socio-demographic factors, particularly family support, with demoralization. METHOD A cross-sectional study targeting community-living palliative care patients in Hong Kong was conducted. A total of 54 patients were recruited by a local hospice and interviewed for completing a questionnaire which included measures of demoralization, depression, perceived family support, and demographic information. RESULTS The prevalence of demoralization was 64.8%. Although there was overlap between demoralization and depression (52.8% meeting the criteria of both), 7.5% of depressed patients were not demoralized, and 13.2% of demoralized patients were not depressed. Participants who were not single and had more depressive symptoms and less family support had a significantly higher demoralization level. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This is the first study which reports the prevalence of demoralization in Hong Kong. Demoralization was found common in community-living palliative care patients receiving medical social work services in Hong Kong. This study provides evidence of the importance of differentiating the constructs between demoralization and depression. It also provides an implication that those who are married, more depressed, and have the least family support could be the most vulnerable group at risk of demoralization. We recommend that early assessment of demoralization among palliative care patients be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace Chi Ho Chan
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Clare Tsz Kiu Yu
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Denis Ka Shaw Kwok
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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15
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Clair CA, Abshire Saylor M, Nolan MT, Gallo JJ. "You think you got it down and then the moment comes": The certainty of uncertainty in end-of-life decision making. Palliat Support Care 2022; 21:1-6. [PMID: 35916315 PMCID: PMC9892352 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Some observers have proposed that physicians may die differently compared with the average patient. Semi-structured interviews with family members of physicians who died offer an opportunity to better understand how patient preferences and wishes are perceived and acted on by family members at the end of life. The decision-making experiences of these family members for a loved one who was a physician may have implications for the lay person at end of life. METHODS The Johns Hopkins Precursors Study includes individuals who matriculated into the graduating classes of 1948 to 1964 of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. From this cohort, we interviewed 26 family members of physicians who died. Interviews were coded and analyzed using a comparative, iterative process. RESULTS We found that family members of physicians who died described the uncertainty at end of life. This overarching theme was organized into the following: (a) the certainty of uncertainty; (b) the preparation for uncertainty; and (c) brokering of decisions in the face of uncertainty. Despite careful end-of-life preparation by well-informed physicians, family members were still left to broker decisions as they navigated the wishes of the physician and what the family and medical care team believed to be in the best interest of the physician. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our findings suggest that our family members were not immune to uncertainty. The clinical momentum at the end of life may contribute to challenges faced by patients and family members when brokering decisions. Normalizing uncertainty in medical training and for families may aid in addressing the stress of uncertainty at end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Clair
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Marie T Nolan
- Conway School of Nursing, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC
| | - Joseph J Gallo
- Bloomberg School of Public Health & School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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16
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Nissim RS, Hales S. Caring for the Family Caregiver: Development of a Caregiver Clinic at a Cancer Hospital as Standard of Care. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2022; 30:111-118. [PMID: 35699840 PMCID: PMC9195392 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-022-09891-8] [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] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Family caregivers make significant contributions to the overall care of cancer patients and are the “invisible backbone” of the health care system. Family caregivers experience a wide range of challenges and can be considered patients in their own right, requiring support and dedicated attention, which may benefit them, the patients they are caring for, and the health care system. Despite consistent evidence on caregiver distress and unmet needs, most cancer care is organized around the patient as the target of care and caregiver distress is not screened for or addressed systematically. This article describes the development of a novel clinical, educational, and research program dedicated to supporting family caregivers at the Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Canada and presents a model for a brief psychosocial intervention for caregivers. The objective of this article is to assist others in developing services to address the needs of family caregivers as a standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinat S Nissim
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, 610 University Ave., Toronto, ON, M5G 2M9, Canada.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Sarah Hales
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, 610 University Ave., Toronto, ON, M5G 2M9, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Bereavement care provision and its associated factors among nurses in cancer care settings: a cross-sectional study. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:7625-7633. [PMID: 35676344 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07180-6] [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: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The goals of this study were to (1) investigate bereavement care provision in practical settings, (2) examine the difference in care by nurses' affiliation (general hospital, hospice, or homecare setting), and (3) identify institutional and personal barriers associated with bereavement care provision. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire. Nurses (n = 309) who had an experience of cancer patient care before death at least once in a previous year were included in the analysis. Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney test were conducted to compare bereavement care provision by nurses' affiliation, and hierarchical logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the correlation between bereavement care provision and its associated factors. RESULTS Less than 30% of nurses reported providing bereavement care in structured settings such as home visits, counseling at a hospital, or phone calls. The differences in bereavement care provision by nurses' affiliation were significant, and the nurses working in a hospital were less likely to provide bereavement care than those working in a hospice or homecare setting. Working in a palliative care setting (OR = 2.35, 95%CI 1.09-5.07, p < 0.05) and greater confidence (OR = 2.18, 95%CI 1.07-4.42, p < 0.05) and knowledge regarding bereavement care (OR = 12.46, 95%CI 5.69-27.29, p < 0.001) were significantly associated factors of bereavement care provision. CONCLUSION This study indicated a lack of bereavement care provision, especially in general hospitals. Improving nurses' confidence and knowledge may encourage them to provide bereavement care provision.
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18
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Abstract
Specialists in palliative care view the family meeting as a means to engage patients and their families in a serious illness discussion that may clarify the values of patients and caregivers, provide information, determine care preferences, and identify sources of illness-related distress and burden. The family meeting is considered the best practice for achieving patient- and family-centered care in palliative care. Although studies of the family meeting are limited, those extant suggest that these interventions may reduce caregiver distress, mitigate the perception of unmet needs, prepare family members for caregiving, and improve bereavement outcomes. The experience of palliative care specialists further suggests that the family meeting may reinforce the therapeutic alliance with families, promote consensus, and reduce the need for ad hoc meetings. Physician satisfaction may be enhanced when the treatment plan includes the opportunity to show empathy and see the family’s perspective—core elements of the clinical approach to the family meeting. In the oncology setting, the potential to achieve these positive outcomes supports the integration of the family meeting into practice. Clinical skills for the planning and running of family meetings should be promoted with consideration of a standardized protocol for routine family meetings at critical points during the illness and its treatment using an interdisciplinary team. Further research is needed to refine understanding of the indications for the family meeting and determine the optimal timing, structure, and staffing models. Outcome studies employing validated measures are needed to better characterize the impact of family meetings on patient and family distress and on treatment outcomes. Although better evidence is needed to guide the future integration of the family meeting into oncology practice, current best practices can be recommended based on available data and the extensive observations of palliative care specialists.
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19
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Skantharajah N, Barrie C, Baxter S, Carolina Borja M, Butters A, Dudgeon D, Haque A, Mahmood I, Mirhosseini M, Mirza RM, Ankita A, Thrower C, Vadeboncoeur C, Wan A, Klinger CA. The Grief and Bereavement Experiences of Informal Caregivers: A Scoping Review of the North American Literature. J Palliat Care 2021; 37:242-258. [PMID: 34860618 PMCID: PMC9109594 DOI: 10.1177/08258597211052269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: Informal caregivers are a significant part of the
hospice and palliative care landscape as members of the interdisciplinary care
team. Despite this, little is known about the impact this responsibility has on
informal caregivers’ experiences of grief and bereavement.
Objective: To address this, a scoping review of the literature
was conducted to explore the current state of knowledge toward grief and
bereavement of informal caregivers of adult/geriatric patients in the hospice
and palliative/end-of-life care realm within North America.
Methods: Using Arksey and O’Malley's 5-step framework, key
electronic health care and social sciences databases (eg, CINAHL, MEDLINE,
ProQuest Sociological Abstracts, PsycINFO) alongside gray literature sources
were searched and screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria. A thematic
content analysis was used to identify key themes. Results: 29
articles met the final inclusion criteria with 3 central themes emerging: (1)
mediators of grief, (2) grief experiences, and (3) types of grief.
Discussion: Informal caregivers encounter unique grief and
bereavement experiences: The range of psychosocial outcomes, both negative and
positive, can be affected by various mediators such as caregiver burden,
demographics, disease type of the patient being cared for, etc. Bereavement
interventions must be designed with the mediators of grief in mind.
Conclusions: Understanding the nuances of informal caregivers’
experiences with grief and bereavement will inform and advance practice, policy,
and research. Practitioners/clinicians should be further educated on how to
properly acknowledge the complexity of grief and bereavement for informal
caregivers, specifically paying attention to mediators. Further research needs
to consider the role of culture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carol Barrie
- Canadian Frailty Network (CFN), Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon Baxter
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Deborah Dudgeon
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Mehrnoush Mirhosseini
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.,University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Raza M Mirza
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Christina Vadeboncoeur
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Network of Palliative Care for Children (CNPCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Wan
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Klinger
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Pallium Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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20
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Hiratsuka R, Aoyama M, Masukawa K, Shimizu Y, Hamano J, Sakaguchi Y, Watanabe M, Morita T, Kizawa Y, Tsuneto S, Shima Y, Miyashita M. The Association of Family Functioning With Possible Major Depressive Disorders and Complicated Grief Among Bereaved Family Members of Patients With Cancer: Results From the J-HOPE4 Study, a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Follow-Up Survey in Japan. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:1154-1164. [PMID: 34118370 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Family functioning is a modifiable factor associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and complicated grief (CG) among the bereaved families of patients with advanced cancer; however, the evidence regarding this association is limited. OBJECTIVES We aimed to explore the association of family functioning with possible MDD and CG among the bereaved families of patients with advanced cancer who died in palliative care units. METHODS This study is a part of the J-HOPE4 study, a nationwide cross-sectional multi-purpose questionnaire survey conducted in 2018. We recruited potential participants from 164 inpatient palliative care units in Japan and assessed family functioning with the Family Relations Index (FRI). Family functioning was classified into three categories (Well-functioning: FRI ≥ 10, Intermediate: FRI = 8〜9, Dysfunctioning ≤ 7). The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and the Brief Grief Questionnaire (BGQ) were used to assess depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 10) and complicated grief (BGQ score ≥ 8), respectively. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was performed with possible MDD and CG and factors the family functioning. RESULTS A total of 615 questionnaires were returned, of which 54.0 % (n = 510) age of questionnaires could be used. Although family functioning was associated with possible MDD (21.1% in Dysfunctional; 9.3% in Well-functional, P = 0.016), it was not associated with possible CG (14.8% in Dysfunctional; 9.9% in Well-functional, P = 0.929). Possible MDD and CG were significantly associated with deteriorated family relationships (OR:8.29; P = 0.004 and OR:34.00; P < 0.001, respectively), and consulting with health care providers about their concerns (OR:0.23; P = 0.003 and OR:0.23; P = 0.003, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Family function was affected by post-bereavement possible MDD and not by CG. Our findings suggest that health care providers can identify risk factors for MDD among bereaved, dysfunctional family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoko Hiratsuka
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Maho Aoyama
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kento Masukawa
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoichi Shimizu
- Department of Nursing, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Hamano
- Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Sakaguchi
- School of Human Welfare Studies, Kwansei Gakuin University, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Miwa Watanabe
- Department of Nursing, Makuhari Faculty of Human Care, Tohto University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kizawa
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuneto
- Department of Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuo Shima
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tsukuba Medical Center Hospital, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Miyashita
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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21
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Goldberg JM, Duplechain AC, Fraser CE, Boles JC. An Interdisciplinary Hospital-Based Committee to Improve Pediatric Bereavement Care. Hosp Pediatr 2021; 11:1287-1294. [PMID: 34599017 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-005964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although frequently overshadowed by adult mortality rates and bereavement care needs, the death of a child can significantly jeopardize the physical, psychosocial, and emotional health of surviving parents, caregivers, and family members. Unfortunately, researchers have only recently begun to explore the trajectory of pediatric bereavement care needs. As an ongoing public health concern, health care institutions and related organizations must partner with interdisciplinary care providers and bereaved families to design effective and sustainable bereavement supports in their communities. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to describe the development and accomplishments of an interdisciplinary bereavement committee at a children's hospital within an academic medical center. By relying on available empirical evidence and close collaboration with bereaved parent members, this effort has generated sizeable practice improvements and new service offerings within the organization, local community, and the individual patients and families the institution serves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Goldberg
- Patient- and Family-Centered Care, Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Anne C Duplechain
- Patient- and Family-Centered Care, Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Camille E Fraser
- Patient- and Family-Centered Care, Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jessika C Boles
- Patient- and Family-Centered Care, Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee .,Department of Psychology and Human Development, Peabody College Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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22
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Emotional and cognitive barriers of bereavement care among clinical staff in hospice palliative care. Palliat Support Care 2021; 18:676-682. [PMID: 32295666 DOI: 10.1017/s147895152000022x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bereavement care is one of the major components of hospice palliative care. Previous studies revealed the barriers to the success of the system, including lack of time or support from mental health professionals. Few studies have explored the intrapersonal barriers to bereavement care by clinical staff. The aims of the study were to explore (1) the emotional and cognitive barriers of bereavement care by hospice palliative care staff and (2) the demographic and work characteristics related to these emotional and cognitive barriers. METHOD The participants were clinical staff (n = 301) who were working in hospice palliative care units, including hospice wards, home care, and hospital-based palliative care teams. Their professional backgrounds included physicians (n = 12), nurses (n = 172), social workers (n = 59), psychologists (n = 34), spiritual care specialists (n = 15), and others (n = 9). A cross-sectional design was used and a standardized questionnaire including emotional and cognitive barriers was developed. Information on demographic and work characteristics was also collected. Content validity index, an exploratory factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis were conducted. RESULTS One emotional barrier, "negative emotional reactions" (13 items, Cronbach's α = 0.92), and three cognitive barriers, "lack of ability" (7 items, Cronbach's α = 0.85), "belief in avoidance" (5 items, Cronbach's α = 0.86), and "outcome expectancy" (4 items, Cronbach's α = 0.85) were identified. Clinical staff who had higher working stress, lower self-rated ability for bereavement care, and higher negative impact from major life loss tended to have higher emotional and cognitive barriers. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Clinical staff should be aware of intrapersonal barriers to bereavement care. Educational programs should be developed to improve the ability to engage in bereavement care.
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23
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Wu EX, Collins A, Briggs S, Stajduhar KI, Kalsi A, Hilliard N. Prolonged Grief and Bereavement Supports Within a Caregiver Population Who Transition Through a Palliative Care Program in British Columbia, Canada. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:361-369. [PMID: 34259023 PMCID: PMC8847765 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211030442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of prolonged grief disorder (PGD), and self-reported resilience among bereaved caregivers within a palliative care program that serves a large region of the Lower Mainland in British Columbia, Canada. Additionally, to discern effective bereavement supports utilized by caregivers following the loss of a loved one. METHODS A descriptive study using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Sociodemographic information (n = 427) was collected from bereaved caregivers 3 months after their loss. PGD and resilience were prospectively assessed 12 months post-loss using the prolonged grief scale (PG-13, n = 212) and brief resilience scale (BRS, n = 215), respectively. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on responses to the open-ended question on what bereavement services or activities caregivers found helpful in coping with the loss of a loved one. RESULTS Of the 212 individuals that completed the PG-13, 4.7% met diagnostic criteria for PGD, 27.4% were moderate risk, and 67.9% were low risk for PGD. Of the 215 caregivers that completed the BRS, 48.4% had low resilience, 51.6% had normal resilience, and 0% had high resilience. The major themes of formal supports, informal supports, and self-care activities emerged from caregiver comments regarding effective bereavement supports. CONCLUSION The incidence of PGD in caregivers is low within the Fraser Health Palliative Care program. Bereaved caregivers mainly utilize existing social networks and activities to cope with their loss. Focusing on a community-based approach to supports may improve bereavement experiences and lower rates of prolonged grief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth X Wu
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrew Collins
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Palliative Medicine, Fraser Health Authority, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shelley Briggs
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Fraser Health Authority, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kelli I Stajduhar
- School of Nursing & Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Asha Kalsi
- Health Information Science University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Neil Hilliard
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Palliative Medicine, Fraser Health Authority, British Columbia, Canada
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24
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Lichtenthal WG, Roberts KE, Ferrell BR. Bereavement Care: Walking the Walk. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:805-806. [PMID: 34061671 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy G Lichtenthal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kailey E Roberts
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Betty R Ferrell
- Division of Nursing Research and Education, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
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25
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Family caregiver grief and post-loss adjustment: A longitudinal cohort study. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:348-356. [PMID: 34162460 DOI: 10.1017/s147895152100095x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In order to better understand the different grieving trajectories of the family caregivers (FCs), this study aims to examine the evolution of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) symptoms and the predictive role of the caregiving-related factors in the FCs' grieving trajectory from pre- to post-death. METHOD A prospective cohort study was carried out with advanced cancer FCs evaluated before death (T1) and 6-12 months post-loss (T2). RESULTS Participants in T1 (n = 156) were mostly female, adult child, or spouse of the care recipient, with a mean age of 51.78 (SD = 13.29). At T2, 87 FCs participated in the survey. PGD prevalence was higher pre-death (38.6%) than in bereavement (33.7%). Of those who met the PGD criteria before death, most also met these criteria after death (n = 26, 61.9%). Psychological distress and caregiver burden were highly correlated with pre-death grief, which in turn played a critical role in mediating the link between psychological distress and bereavement outcome. Great emotional closeness in the relationship was predictive of PGD symptoms persistence. In contrast, the long-term consequences of caregiver burden were not confirmed. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This study provides evidence for the diversity of individual FC responses and the complex pattern of interactions between caregiving-related factors, relationship quality, and PGD symptoms evolution from pre- to post-death.
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O'Sullivan A, Alvariza A, Öhlén J, Larsdotter C. Support received by family members before, at and after an ill person's death. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:92. [PMID: 34167530 PMCID: PMC8228910 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is widely recognised, that family members are central to care of people with advanced illness, and that support should be provided to all family members in need thereof. The aim of this study was to investigate family members’ experiences of support received during the last three months of life, at the time of death and after the death of a person with advanced illness. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional survey design was employed, using the VOICES(SF) questionnaire and multiple methods for data analyses. The sample consisted of 485 bereaved family members (aged: 20–90 years old, 70% women) of people who died in hospital between August 2016-April 2017. Results Of the family members, 58,8% reported they had received enough help and support during the illness, whereas 30,2% had not. Family members’ comments about support during the illness were mainly related to care the ill person had or had not received, rather than about support they themselves received. Of all family members, 52,8% reported having had enough support at the time of the ill person’s death. Related to support at death, 14,6% reported that the imminence of death was not clear, which was described as having affected their opportunity to be with the dying person at the time of death. Of all, 25,2% had a follow-up conversation after the death, 48% did not and did not want to, and 21% had no follow-up conversation, but would have liked one. A follow-up conversation was described as helpful for the bereavement process, and disappointment was expressed when not receiving support after the death. Conclusions Family members’ experiences of support were partly related to whether the ill person’s care needs were fulfilled. Healthcare staff expressing empathy and respect in the care of dying people and their family members were important for family members’ experiences of support. Family members’ difficulty recognising that death was imminent and the importance of healthcare staff providing them with clear information were expressed in connection with support at death. Follow-up conversations were valued by family members, especially if with a healthcare professional who was present at the time of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O'Sullivan
- Palliative Research Centre, Department of Healthcare Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Palliative Research Centre, Department of Healthcare Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joakim Öhlén
- Centre for Person-Centered Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy At the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Västra Götaland Region, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Larsdotter
- Palliative Research Centre, Department of Healthcare Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, P.O. Box 5605, 114 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
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27
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Krakauer EL, Kane K, Kwete X, Afshan G, Bazzett-Matabele L, Ruthnie Bien-Aimé DD, Borges LF, Byrne-Martelli S, Connor S, Correa R, Devi CRB, Diop M, Elmore SN, Gafer N, Goodman A, Grover S, Hasenburg A, Irwin K, Kamdar M, Kumar S, Truong QXN, Randall T, Rassouli M, Sessa C, Spence D, Trimble T, Varghese C, Fidarova E. Essential Package of Palliative Care for Women With Cervical Cancer: Responding to the Suffering of a Highly Vulnerable Population. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:873-885. [PMID: 34115527 PMCID: PMC8457866 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with cervical cancer, especially those with advanced disease, appear to experience suffering that is more prevalent, complex, and severe than that caused by other cancers and serious illnesses, and approximately 85% live in low- and middle-income countries where palliative care is rarely accessible. To respond to the highly prevalent and extreme suffering in this vulnerable population, we convened a group of experienced experts in all aspects of care for women with cervical cancer, and from countries of all income levels, to create an essential package of palliative care for cervical cancer (EPPCCC). The EPPCCC consists of a set of interventions, medicines, simple equipment, social supports, and human resources, and is designed to be safe and effective for preventing and relieving all types of suffering associated with cervical cancer. It includes only inexpensive and readily available medicines and equipment, and its use requires only basic training. Thus, the EPPCCC can and should be made accessible everywhere, including for the rural poor. We provide guidance for integrating the EPPCCC into gynecologic and oncologic care at all levels of health care systems, and into primary care, in countries of all income levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L. Krakauer
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Departments of Medicine and of Global Health & Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Palliative Care, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Khadidjatou Kane
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Gauhar Afshan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Lisa Bazzett-Matabele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Danta Dona Ruthnie Bien-Aimé
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Université Episcopale d'Haiti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
- Faculté des Sciences Infirmières de Leogane, Leogane, Haiti
| | - Lawrence F. Borges
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sarah Byrne-Martelli
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | - Raimundo Correa
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit and Palliative Care Service, Clínica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Mamadou Diop
- Cancer Institute of Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Shekinah N. Elmore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Nahla Gafer
- Radiation and Isotope Centre, Oncology Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan
- Comboni College of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Annekathryn Goodman
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Annette Hasenburg
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kelly Irwin
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mihir Kamdar
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatrics, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Suresh Kumar
- Institute of Palliative Medicine, Medical College, Kerala, India
| | - Quynh Xuan Nguyen Truong
- College of Public Health Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- School of Social Work, Boston College, Boston, MA
- University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tom Randall
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Maryam Rassouli
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Cristiana Sessa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Dingle Spence
- Hope Institute Hospital, Kingston, Jamaica
- University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | | | - Cherian Varghese
- Department of Non-communicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elena Fidarova
- Department of Non-communicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Kim Y, Carver CS, Cannady RS. Bereaved Family Cancer Caregivers' Unmet Needs: Measure Development and Validation. Ann Behav Med 2021; 54:164-175. [PMID: 31602463 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaz036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence shows that bereaved family caregivers report elevated distress for an extended period, which compromises their quality of life. A first step in the development of programs to enhance bereaved caregivers' quality of life should be determining the needs they experience to manage the loss, and the needs that are not being satisfied. Thus, this study aimed to develop a new measure to assess unmet needs among bereaved family caregivers. METHOD The 20-item Needs Assessment of Family Caregivers-Bereaved to Cancer measure was developed and validated with bereaved cancer caregivers 5 (n = 159) and 8 (n = 194) years after the initial cancer diagnosis of the index patient, when stress in providing care to the patient was assessed. RESULTS Exploratory factor analysis yielded two primary factors: unmet needs for reintegration and unmet needs for managing the loss. Bereaved caregivers who were younger and ethnic minority, and who had greater earlier perceived stress of caregiving, reported their needs were more poorly met (t > 2.33, p < .05). The extent to which bereaved caregivers' needs to manage the loss were not perceived as being met was a consistent and strong predictor of poor adjustment to bereavement at both 5- and 8-year marks (t > 1.96, p < .05), beyond the effects of a host of demographic and earlier caregiving characteristics. CONCLUSION Findings support the validity of the Needs Assessment of Family Caregivers-Bereaved to Cancer and suggest that interventions to help bereaved caregivers manage the loss by assisting their transition to re-engagement in daily and social activities will benefit caregivers by mitigating bereavement-related distress years after the loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmee Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
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29
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Zhou S, Zhao Q, Weng H, Wang N, Wu X, Li X, Zhang L. Translation, cultural adaptation and validation of the Chinese version of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool for family caregivers of cancer patients receiving home-based hospice care. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:71. [PMID: 34011333 PMCID: PMC8136129 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00766-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Family caregivers need to be supported in caring for patients at the end of life, but practical tools to assess their support needs have been missing in China. So this study aimed to culturally adapt and validate the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool (CSNAT). Methods Cross-cultural adaptation of the original CSNAT for a Chinese setting was performed according to Brislin’s translation guidelines. A pilot study was conducted with 15 Chinese family caregivers of cancer patients receiving hospice home care and 5 medical staff. A cross-sectional survey of 205 family caregivers was conducted from December 2018 to May 2019 at a home-based hospice care institute in Shenzhen, China. The validation procedure comprised the establishment of (1) content validity by a group of six experts; (2) face validity by 15 family caregivers; (3) criterion validity by calculating Spearman’s correlations between the CSNAT and caregiving burden, caregiving preparedness and quality of life scales; (4) internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha. Results The CSNAT demonstrated good face validity and good content validity. CSNAT scores showed clear positive correlations with caregiving burden and negative correlations with preparedness for caregiving and quality of life. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.899), although such reliability testing is not recommended for this tool. Conclusions The Chinese version of the CSNAT is a valid tool that is appropriate for identifying needs of family caregivers of cancer patients in home-based hospice care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Zhou
- Shenzhen People's Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, 1023 Sha Tai South Road, Bai Yun District, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Huimin Weng
- Shenzhen People's Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, 1023 Sha Tai South Road, Bai Yun District, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xia Wu
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, 1023 Sha Tai South Road, Bai Yun District, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xinxin Li
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, 1023 Sha Tai South Road, Bai Yun District, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, 1023 Sha Tai South Road, Bai Yun District, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China.
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30
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Preferences of quality delivery of palliative care among cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries: A review. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:275-282. [PMID: 33952378 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND All forms of cancer pose a tremendous and increasing problem globally. The prevalence of cancer across the globe is anticipated to double over the next two decades. About 50% of most cancer cases are expected to occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where there is a greater disproportionate level in mortality. Access to effective and timely care for cancer patients remains a challenge, especially in LMICs due to late disease diagnosis and detection, coupled with the limited availability of appropriate therapeutic options and delay in proper interventions. METHODOLOGY This study explored several mixed-method researches and randomized trials that addressed the preferences of quality delivery of palliative care among cancer patients in LMICs. A designated set of keywords such as Palliative Care; Preferences; Cancer patients; Psycho-social Support; End-of-life Care; Low and Middle-Income Countries were inserted on electronic databases to retrieve articles. The databases include PubMed, Scinapse, Medline, The Google Scholar, Academic search premier, SAGE, and EBSCO host. RESULTS Findings from this review discussed the socioeconomic and behavioral factors, which address the quality delivery of palliative care among cancer patients. These factors if measured with acceptance level in cancer patients could help to address areas that need improvement from the stage of disease diagnosis to the end-of-life. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESULTS Valuable collaborations among international and local health institutions are needed to build and implement a systematic framework for palliative care in LMICs. Policies and programs that are country and culturally specific, encompassing both theoretical and practical models of care in the milieu of existing quandaries should be developed.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Thailand has few hospices and a limited range of palliative care services. AIMS To explore palliative care models in Thailand. METHODS A convergent mixed-methods study design using purposive sampling to select three levels of healthcare services and one religious organisation. FINDINGS The quantitative data revealed that the structures of palliative care accessibility, referral systems, and continuity of care were in place at all levels of healthcare services. The qualitative data revealed the themes of the structure of palliative care, processes and outcomes. CONCLUSION The variety of palliative care structures identified in Thailand are suitable for the context in which palliative care is provided. The problems that need solving are referral systems, patient access to opioids, inequitites in care distribution and medicine dispensing and palliative care outcome evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchira Chaiviboontham
- Associate Professor, Ramathibodi School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Piyawan Pokpalagon
- Associate Professor, Ramathibodi School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
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Sato T, Fujisawa D, Arai D, Nakachi I, Takeuchi M, Nukaga S, Kobayashi K, Ikemura S, Terai H, Yasuda H, Kawada I, Sato Y, Satomi R, Takahashi S, Hashiguchi MH, Nakamura M, Oyamada Y, Terashima T, Sayama K, Saito F, Sakamaki F, Inoue T, Naoki K, Fukunaga K, Soejima K. Trends of concerns from diagnosis in patients with advanced lung cancer and their family caregivers: A 2-year longitudinal study. Palliat Med 2021; 35:943-951. [PMID: 33761790 PMCID: PMC8114458 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211001721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both advanced cancer patients and their family caregivers experience distress and have a range of concerns after cancer diagnosis. However, longitudinal studies on this topic have been lacking. AIM To investigate concerns in both patients with advanced lung cancer and their family caregivers longitudinally from diagnosis. DESIGN A multi-center prospective questionnaire-based study. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS We recruited patients with newly diagnosed advanced lung cancer and their family caregivers at 16 hospitals in Japan. We prospectively assessed the prevalence of their concerns using the Concerns Checklist and investigated the associations between their concerns and mental status as well as quality of life until 24 months after diagnosis. RESULTS A total of 248 patients and their 232 family caregivers were enrolled. The prevalence of serious concerns was highest at diagnosis (patients: 68.3%, family caregivers: 65.3%). The most common serious concern was concern about the future in both groups at diagnosis (38.2% and 40.5%, respectively) and this remained high in prevalence over time, while the high prevalence of concern about lack of information improved 3 months after diagnosis in both groups. Approximately one-third of patient-family caregiver dyads had discrepant reports of serious concerns. The presence of serious concerns was significantly associated with anxiety and depression continuously in both groups. CONCLUSIONS The majority of advanced lung cancer patients and their family caregivers have serious concerns from diagnosis, which is associated with their psychological distress. The spectrum of concerns alters over the disease trajectory, warranting efficient tailored care and support for both groups immediately after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Sato
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Medicine, Keiyu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Medicine, Sano-kosei General Hospital, Sano, Japan
| | - Daisuke Fujisawa
- Division of Patient Safety, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Arai
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Pulmonary division, Internal Medicine, Saiseikai Utsunomiya Hospital, Utsunomiya, Japan
| | - Ichiro Nakachi
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Pulmonary division, Internal Medicine, Saiseikai Utsunomiya Hospital, Utsunomiya, Japan
| | - Mari Takeuchi
- Palliative Care Center, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigenari Nukaga
- Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keigo Kobayashi
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Medicine, Sano-kosei General Hospital, Sano, Japan
| | - Shinnosuke Ikemura
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideki Terai
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Clinical and Translational Research Center, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yasuda
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ichiro Kawada
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sato
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Satomi
- Department of Medicine, Sano-kosei General Hospital, Sano, Japan.,Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Saeko Takahashi
- Department of Medicine, Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mizuha Haraguchi Hashiguchi
- Department of Medicine, Keiyu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nippon Kokan Hospital, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Morio Nakamura
- Department of Medicine, Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Oyamada
- Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Terashima
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Koichi Sayama
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Kawasaki Municipal Hospital, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Fumitake Saito
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Eiju General Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumio Sakamaki
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Tokai University Hachioji Hospital, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Inoue
- Department of Medicine, Sano-kosei General Hospital, Sano, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Naoki
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Koichi Fukunaga
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenzo Soejima
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Clinical and Translational Research Center, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Weaver MS, Shostrom VK, Neumann ML, Robinson JE, Hinds PS. Homestead together: Pediatric palliative care telehealth support for rural children with cancer during home-based end-of-life care. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28921. [PMID: 33522720 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with terminal cancer and their families describe a preference for home-based end-of-life care. Inadequate support outside of the hospital is a limiting factor in home location feasibility, particularly in rural regions lacking pediatric-trained hospice providers. METHODS The purpose of this longitudinal palliative telehealth support pilot study was to explore physical and emotional symptom burden and family impact assessments for children with terminal cancer receiving home based-hospice care. Each child received standard of care home-based hospice care from an adult-trained rural hospice team with the inclusion of telehealth pediatric palliative care visits at a scheduled minimum of every 14 days. RESULTS Eleven children (mean age 11.9 years) received pediatric palliative telehealth visits a minimum of every 14 days, with an average of 4.8 additional telehealth visits initiated by the family. Average time from enrollment to death was 21.6 days (range 4-95). Children self-reported higher physical symptom prevalence than parents or hospice nurses perceived the child was experiencing at time of hospice enrollment with underrecognition of the child's emotional burden. At the time of hospice enrollment, family impact was reported by family caregivers as 46.4/100 (SD 18.7), with noted trend of improved family function while receiving home hospice care with telehealth support. All children remained at home for end-of-life care. CONCLUSION Pediatric palliative care telehealth combined with adult-trained rural hospice providers may be utilized to support pediatric oncology patients and their family caregivers as part of longitudinal home-based hospice care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Valerie K Shostrom
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Marie L Neumann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jacob E Robinson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia.,Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
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Dionne-Odom JN, Williams GR, Warren PP, Tims S, Huang CHS, Taylor RA, Ledbetter L, Lever T, Mitchell K, Thompson M, Dosse C, Engler S, Holmes A, Connelley B, Hicks J, Bakitas MA, Nabors B, Tucker R. Implementing a Clinic-Based Telehealth Support Service (FamilyStrong) for Family Caregivers of Individuals with Grade IV Brain Tumors. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:347-353. [PMID: 32721254 PMCID: PMC7894044 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Nearly 3 million U.S. family caregivers support someone with cancer. However, oncology clinic-based service lines that proactively screen, assess, and support cancer caregivers are nearly nonexistent. Objective: To examine first-year experiences of a nurse-led clinic-based telehealth support service (FamilyStrong) for family caregivers of patients with recently diagnosed grade IV brain tumors. Methods: This is a retrospective evaluation of operational outcomes from initial implementation of the FamilyStrong Service, developed in partnership with Caregiver and Bereavement Support Services at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the UAB Center for Palliative and Supportive Care. From August 2018 to December 2019, 53 family caregivers were proactively identified and enrolled by a palliative care nurse, working approximately one day/week, who performed monthly caregiver distress thermometer screenings by phone and provided emotional, educational, problem-solving, and referral support. Results: Enrolled family caregivers were a mean age of 53.5 years and mostly female (62.3%), full- or part-time employed (67.9%), and the patient's spouse/partner (79.3%). Caregivers provided support 6.7 days/week for 11.2 hours/day. The palliative care nurse performed 235 distress screenings and provided support that included 68 documented instances of emotional, problem-solving, and educational support, 41 nurse-facilitated communications with the neuro-oncology team about patient issues, and 24 referrals to UAB and community services (e.g., counseling). The most common problems caregivers wanted assistance with included: managing their relative's health condition and symptoms (51%), coordinating care/services (21%), and planning for the future/advance care planning (17%). Discussion: The FamilyStrong Program is among the first "real world" oncology clinic-based formal support services for advance cancer family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Nicholas Dionne-Odom
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Grant R. Williams
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Paula P. Warren
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sheri Tims
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Chao-Hui S. Huang
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Richard A. Taylor
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Trevor Lever
- Kirklin Clinic, UAB Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Kelsey Mitchell
- Clinicial Informatics, UAB Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Moneka Thompson
- Department of Pastoral Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Chinara Dosse
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sally Engler
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Amy Holmes
- Social Work Services, UAB Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Hicks
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Marie A. Bakitas
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Burt Nabors
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rodney Tucker
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Borghi L, Menichetti J, Vegni E. A Phone-Based Early Psychological Intervention for Supporting Bereaved Families in the Time of COVID-19. Front Public Health 2021; 9:625691. [PMID: 33604325 PMCID: PMC7884921 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.625691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The exceptional circumstances of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic are making the grief processes challenging for families who are losing a relative for COVID-19. This community case study aimed to describe a phone-based primary preventive psychological intervention that has been delivered to these families by the Clinical Psychology unit of an Italian hospital. In particular, the article reports how the intervention has been organized within the overall hospital care pathway for families, the specific contents and components of the intervention, and the seven-phase structure of the intervention. The unique features and related challenges of the intervention, along with the implications for clinical practice, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Borghi
- Clinical Psychology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Julia Menichetti
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Akershus Universitetssykehus, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elena Vegni
- Clinical Psychology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Unit of Clinical Psychology, Santi Paolo and Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Menichetti Delor JP, Borghi L, Cao di San Marco E, Fossati I, Vegni E. Phone follow up to families of COVID-19 patients who died at the hospital: families' grief reactions and clinical psychologists' roles. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 56:498-511. [PMID: 33511652 PMCID: PMC8013378 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
A proportion of persons affected by coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) die and do so in extraordinary circumstances. This can make grief management extremely challenging for families. The Clinical Psychology unit of an Italian hospital offered a bereavement follow‐up call to such families. This study aimed to explore the families' experiences and needs collected during these calls, and the role that the psychologists played through the call. A total of 246 families were called over 3 months. Multiple qualitative methods included: (i) written reports of the calls with relatives of patients who died at the hospital for COVID‐19; (ii) qualitative semi‐structured interviews with psychologists involved in the calls; (iii) observation of psychologists' peer group discussions. A thematic analysis was conducted. Six themes emerged: without death rituals, solitary, unexpected, unfair, unsafe, coexisting with other stressors. Families' reactions were perceived by psychologists as close to a traumatic grief. Families' needs ranged from finding alternative rituals to giving meaning and expressing different emotions. The psychologists played both a social‐institutional and a psychological‐human role through the calls (e.g., they cured disrupted communication or validated feelings and choices). This study highlighted the potential of traumatic grief of families of COVID‐19 victims, and provided indications for supporting them within the space of a short phone call.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lidia Borghi
- Clinical Psychology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Ivan Fossati
- Unit of Clinical Psychology, Santi Paolo and Carlo Hospital of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Vegni
- Clinical Psychology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychology, Santi Paolo and Carlo Hospital of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Borghi L, Menichetti J. Strategies to Cope With the COVID-Related Deaths Among Family Members. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:622850. [PMID: 33716823 PMCID: PMC7946858 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.622850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The extraordinary circumstances of deaths during COVID-19 pandemic have been challenging for the deceased's families. This contribution aims to describe some spontaneous strategies that family members may adopt to cope with the loss of a relative for COVID-19. The present reflection derives from the experience of a clinical psychology unit of one of the biggest public hospital in Milan, Italy, which supported 246 families of COVID-19 victims in the 1st days after the loss. Spontaneous strategies used by family members to deal with such a unique mourning process involved: creating alternative good-bye rituals, normalizing the loss, addressing faith and hope, highlighting the perks of isolation, supporting others in need, and delivering the bad news to others. These observed strategies may suggest how to assess and support a "normal" bereavement process during the extraordinary COVID-19 circumstances, in order to prevent further psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Borghi
- Clinical Psychology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Julia Menichetti
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Miwa O, Jungetsu S, Seiko U. Survey of Bereavement Care Provided by Home-Visit Nurses for Bereaved Families in Japan. Health (London) 2021. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2021.136050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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39
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Vermorgen M, Vandenbogaerde I, Van Audenhove C, Hudson P, Deliens L, Cohen J, De Vleminck A. Are family carers part of the care team providing end-of-life care? A qualitative interview study on the collaboration between family and professional carers. Palliat Med 2021; 35:109-119. [PMID: 32928056 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320954342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The attention of healthcare professionals is directed mainly towards the recipients of care and often insufficiently towards family carers. However, an effective collaboration between professionals and family carers is vital to provide quality palliative and end-of-life care. Such collaboration is under-studied in a palliative care context. AIM This study aimed to investigate how family carers of people who live at home with a life-limiting chronic illness experience and perceive collaboration with different healthcare professionals in the last phase of life. DESIGN Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with the primary family carers of people with a life-limiting chronic illness. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse the data. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS A heterogeneous sample of 30 family carers of people with cancer, heart failure or dementia was recruited through a variety of care providers and services, in order to reflect the heterogeneity of caregiving in serious illness. RESULTS Five main themes emerged from interpretative phenomenological analysis that describe the quality of the collaboration between family carers and professionals: respecting family carers both as someone with care needs and as a member of the care team; the continuous availability and accessibility of healthcare professionals; the provision of information and communication including family carer issues; the coordination of care between all parties and contextual factors. The dominant experience by family carers was one of missed opportunities across these themes. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative study about the experiences and perceptions of family carers of people with a chronic life-limiting illness living at home regarding the collaboration with different healthcare providers in the last phase life, showed that family carers experience a lot of possibilities, but perceive missed opportunities as well, for healthcare professionals to effectively collaborate with them for palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten Vermorgen
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabel Vandenbogaerde
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Peter Hudson
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium.,Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joachim Cohen
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aline De Vleminck
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
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40
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Hudson P, Girgis A, Thomas K, Philip J, Currow DC, Mitchell G, Parker D, Liew D, Brand C, Le B, Moran J. Do family meetings for hospitalised palliative care patients improve outcomes and reduce health care costs? A cluster randomised trial. Palliat Med 2021; 35:188-199. [PMID: 33135552 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320967282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family meetings facilitate the exploration of issues and goals of care however, there has been minimal research to determine the benefits and cost implications. AIMS To determine: (1) if family caregivers of hospitalised patients referred to palliative care who receive a structured family meeting report lower psychological distress (primary outcome), fewer unmet needs, improved quality of life; feel more prepared for the caregiving role; and receive better quality of end-of-life care; (2) if outcomes vary dependant upon site of care and; (3) the cost-benefit of implementing meetings into routine practice. DESIGN Pragmatic cluster randomised trial involving palliative care patients and their primary family caregivers at three Australian hospitals. Participants completed measures upon admission (Time 1); 10 days later (Time 2) and two months after the patient died (Time 3). Regression analyses, health utilisation and process evaluation were conducted. RESULTS 297 dyads recruited; control (n = 153) and intervention (n = 144). The intervention group demonstrated significantly lower psychological distress (Diff: -1.68, p < 0.01) and higher preparedness (Diff: 3.48, p = 0.001) at Time 2. No differences were identified based on quality of end of life care or health utilisation measures. CONCLUSIONS Family meetings may be helpful in reducing family caregiver distress and enhancing their preparedness for the caregiving role and it appears they may be conducted without increased hospital health utilisation impacts; although opportunity costs need to be considered in order to routinely offer these as a standardised intervention. Additional health economic examination is also advocated to comprehensively understand the cost-benefit implications. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12615000200583.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hudson
- St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Vrije University Brussels, Belgium
| | - Afaf Girgis
- Centre for Oncology Education and Research Translation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jennifer Philip
- St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Danny Liew
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline Brand
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brian Le
- Melbourne Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Juli Moran
- Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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Palacio Gonzalez C, Roman-Calderón JP, Limonero JT. The relationship between positive aspects of caring, anxiety and depression in the caregivers of cancer patients: The mediational role of burden. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 30:e13346. [PMID: 33037849 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine how the burden of caregivers of patients with an advanced oncological illness mediates the relationship between positive aspects of care, depression and anxiety. METHODS Quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. One hundred informal adult caregivers of patients with advanced oncological illness who attended the pain and palliative care unit or the psychological unit at the Instituto de Cancerologia Clinica las Americas (Medellin, Colombia) completed self-report assessments including positive aspects of care (PAC), burden and anxiety/depression measured using the HADS (Hospitalized Anxiety Depression Scale). The partial least squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) approach was selected to validate the hypotheses of the study. RESULTS Most of the participants were women (86%), with a mean age of 46.52 years (SD=15.05). Most of the participants reported experiencing both PAC and anxiety. They also scored low for burden. PAC exerted a negative effect on Burden, whereas Burden contributed positively to Anxiety and Depression. The indirect impact of PAC on Anxiety and Depression was significant p < .00. CONCLUSIONS Positive aspects of care in advanced cancer caregivers constitutes a protective factor against caregiver's burden, depression and anxiety. Health staff can promote caregivers' adaptation and wellbeing emphasizing these PAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Palacio Gonzalez
- Instituto de Cancerología, Clínica las Americas, Medellín, Colombia.,Research Group on Stress and Health, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Pain and Palliative Care Group, School of Health Sciences, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana in Medellín, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | - Joaquín T Limonero
- Research Group on Stress and Health, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Gregory C, Gellis Z. Problem Solving Therapy for Home-Hospice Caregivers: A Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2020; 16:297-312. [PMID: 32865148 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2020.1800554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This pilot study examined the effects of Brief Problem-Solving Therapy on caregiver quality of life, depression, and problem-solving in family caregivers of hospice patients. Thirty-seven family caregivers to home-based hospice patients (mean age 62.8 [SD = 12.32]) were randomized to the study group (PST-Hospice), for a 45 minute per week/5 week intervention or comparison group of usual care plus caregiver education (UC + CE). The severity of depressive symptoms, caregiver quality of life and problem-solving functioning were assessed at baseline and follow-up. At post-test, the PST-Hospice condition had significantly higher scores on caregiver quality of life compared to UC + CE. On the Social Problem Solving Inventory-Revised Short Form (SPSI-R) measure, PST-Hospice scores clinically improved as compared to UC + CE on Positive Problem Orientation and Rational Problem-Solving subscales. In addition, this pilot study found that brief problem-solving treatment delivered by a hospice social worker appears to be an acceptable and feasible tool for routine use in the home-hospice setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Gregory
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zvi Gellis
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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43
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Durepos P, Ploeg J, Akhtar-Danesh N, Sussman T, Orr E, Kaasalainen S. Caregiver preparedness for death in dementia: an evaluation of existing tools. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:1671-1680. [PMID: 31144986 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1622074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Death preparedness amongst family caregivers (CG) is a valuable and measurable concept. Preparedness predicts CG outcomes in bereavement and is modifiable through a palliative approach which includes advance care planning (ACP) interventions. Improving death preparedness is important for CGs of persons with dementia (PwD) whom are more likely to develop negative outcomes in bereavement, and experience less than adequate palliative care. However, the adequacy of existing tools to measure death preparedness in CGs of PwD is unknown, which limits intervention design and prospective evaluation of ACP effectiveness.Methods: We conducted a review and evaluation of existing tools measuring the attribute domains and traits of CG death preparedness. Literature was searched for articles describing caregiving at end of life (EOL). Measurement tools were extracted, screened for inclusion criteria, and data extracted regarding: conceptual basis, population of development, and psychometrics. Tool content was compared to preparedness domains/traits to assess congruency and evaluate the adequacy of tools as measures of death preparedness for CGs of PwD.Results: Authors extracted 569 tools from articles, retaining seven tools for evaluation. The majority of tools, n = 5 (70%) did not sample all preparedness domains/traits. Few tools had items specific to EOL; only one tool had a specific item questioning CG preparedness for death, and only one tool had items specific to dementia.Conclusion: Limitations in existing tools suggest they are not adequate measures of death preparedness for CGs of PwD. Consequently, the authors are currently developing a questionnaire to be titled, 'Caring Ahead' for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Durepos
- McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Hamilton Health Sciences Corporation, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenny Ploeg
- McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Aging, Community and Health Research Unit, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Noori Akhtar-Danesh
- McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- Department of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Orr
- McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Ahn S, Romo RD, Campbell CL. A systematic review of interventions for family caregivers who care for patients with advanced cancer at home. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2020; 103:1518-1530. [PMID: 32201172 PMCID: PMC7311285 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the characteristics of interventions to support family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer. METHODS Five databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) were searched for English language articles of intervention studies utilizing randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental designs, reporting caregiver-related outcomes of interventions for family caregivers caring for patients with advanced cancer at home. RESULTS A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Based on these studies, the types of interventions were categorized into psychosocial, educational, or both. The characteristics of interventions varied. Most interventions demonstrated statistically significant results of reducing psychological distress and caregiving burden and improving quality of life, self-efficacy, and competence for caregiving. However, there was inconsistency in the use of measures. CONCLUSIONS Most studies showed positive effects of the interventions on caregiver-specific outcomes, yet direct comparisons of the effectiveness were limited. There is a lack of research aimed to support family caregivers' physical health. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Given caregivers' needs to maintain their wellbeing and the positive effects of support for them, research examining long-term efficacy of interventions and measuring objective health outcomes with rigorous quality of studies is still needed for better outcomes for family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soojung Ahn
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA.
| | - Rafael D Romo
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA; Department of Nursing, Dominican University of California, San Rafael, USA
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Harrop E, Morgan F, Longo M, Semedo L, Fitzgibbon J, Pickett S, Scott H, Seddon K, Sivell S, Nelson A, Byrne A. The impacts and effectiveness of support for people bereaved through advanced illness: A systematic review and thematic synthesis. Palliat Med 2020; 34:871-888. [PMID: 32419630 PMCID: PMC7341024 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320920533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bereavement support is a key component of palliative care, with different types of support recommended according to need. Previous reviews have typically focused on specialised interventions and have not considered more generic forms of support, drawing on different research methodologies. AIM To review the quantitative and qualitative evidence on the effectiveness and impact of interventions and services providing support for adults bereaved through advanced illness. DESIGN A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted, with narrative synthesis of quantitative results and thematic synthesis of qualitative results. The review protocol is published in PROSPERO ( www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero , CRD42016043530). DATA SOURCES The databases MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Social Policy and Practice were searched from 1990 to March 2019. Studies were included which reported evaluation results of bereavement interventions, following screening by two independent researchers. Study quality was assessed using GATE checklists. RESULTS A total of 31 studies were included, reporting on bereavement support groups, psychological and counselling interventions and a mix of other forms of support. Improvements in study outcomes were commonly reported, but the quality of the quantitative evidence was generally poor or mixed. Three main impacts were identified in the qualitative evidence, which also varied in quality: 'loss and grief resolution', 'sense of mastery and moving ahead' and 'social support'. CONCLUSION Conclusions on effectiveness are limited by small sample sizes and heterogeneity in study populations, models of care and outcomes. The qualitative evidence suggests several cross-cutting benefits and helps explain the impact mechanisms and contextual factors that are integral to the support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Fiona Morgan
- Marie Curie Research Centre and SURE, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lenira Semedo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jim Fitzgibbon
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Sara Pickett
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Hannah Scott
- School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kathy Seddon
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stephanie Sivell
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Annmarie Nelson
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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The Use of a Palliative Care Screening Tool to Improve Referrals to Palliative Care Services in Community-Based Hospitals: A Quality Improvement Initiative. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2020; 22:327-334. [PMID: 32568941 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite efforts to improve access to palliative care services, a significant number of patients still have unmet needs throughout their continuum of care. As such, this project was conducted to increase recognition of patients who could benefit from palliative care, increase referrals, and connect regional sites. This study utilized Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles through a quality improvement approach to develop and test the Palliative Care Screening Tool and aimed to screen 100% of patients within 24 hours who were admitted to selected units by February 2017. The intervention was implemented in 3 different units, each within community hospitals. Patients 18 years or older were screened if they were admitted to one of the selected units for the project, regardless of their diagnosis, age, or comorbidities. The percentage of newly admitted patients who were screened and the total number of palliative care consults were assessed as outcome measures. The tool was met with varying compliance among the 3 sites. However, there was an overall increase in consults across all hospital sites, and an increase in the proportion of noncancer patients was demonstrated. Although the aim was not reached, the tool helped to create a shift in the demographic of patients identified as palliative.
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Kent K, Jessup B, Marsh P, Barnett T, Ball M. A systematic review and quality appraisal of bereavement care practice guidelines. J Eval Clin Pract 2020; 26:852-862. [PMID: 31287214 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Bereavement care practice guidelines assist in delivering high-quality bereavement care. However, the quality of published guidelines is unknown. A systematic review was conducted to identify and evaluate the quality of the process used to develop bereavement care practice guidelines using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument. A keyword search was conducted in MEDLINE-Complete, CINAHL-Complete, Health-Source (Nursing/Academic Edition), Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and an internet search engine in October 2017. Sixteen guidelines with differing scope and purpose but similar core values were identified from the grey literature and then appraised at high quality (n = 1), moderate quality (n = 4), or low quality (n = 11). The domains "clarity of presentation" and "scope and purpose" achieved the highest scores (mean ± SD 71.0 ± 27.6% and 64.4 ± 37.5%, respectively), while "editorial independence" showed the lowest mean score (9.2 ± 13.3%). While few of the bereavement care practice guidelines met the AGREE II quality standards related to their development process, neither the quality of the content of each guideline nor the in-context application was assessed by the AGREE II instrument. Ongoing development of practice guidelines may benefit from consideration and application of the framework outlined in the AGREE II or similar appraisal instrument.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kent
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Belinda Jessup
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Pauline Marsh
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tony Barnett
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Madeleine Ball
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Coventry A, Ford R, Rosenberg J, McInnes E. A qualitative meta-synthesis investigating the experiences of the patient's family when treatment is withdrawn in the intensive care unit. J Adv Nurs 2020; 76:2222-2234. [PMID: 32406076 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To synthesize qualitative studies of patients' families' experiences and perceptions of end-of-life care in the intensive care unit when life-sustaining treatments are withdrawn. DESIGN Qualitative meta-synthesis. DATA SOURCES Comprehensive search of 18 electronic databases for qualitative studies published between January 2005 - February 2019. REVIEW METHOD Meta-aggregation. RESULTS Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. A conceptual 'Model of Preparedness' was developed reflecting the elements of end-of-life care most valued by families: 'End-of-life communication'; 'Valued attributes of patient care'; 'Preparing the family'; 'Supporting the family'; and 'Bereavement care'. CONCLUSION A family-centred approach to end-of-life care that acknowledges the values and preferences of families in the intensive care unit is important. Families have unmet needs related to communication, support, and bereavement care. Effective communication and support are central to preparedness and if these care components are in place, families can be better equipped to manage the death, their sadness, loss, and grief. The findings suggest that health professionals may benefit from specialist end-of-life care education to support families and guide the establishment of preparedness. IMPACT Understanding the role and characteristics of preparedness during end-of-life care will inform future practice in the intensive care unit and may improve family member satisfaction with care and recovery from loss. Nurses are optimally positioned to address the perceived shortfalls in end-of-life care. These findings have implications for health education, policies, and standards for end-of-life care in the intensive care unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysia Coventry
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Rosemary Ford
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - John Rosenberg
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Australia
| | - Elizabeth McInnes
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia.,Professor of Nursing, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Deputy Director, Nursing Research Institute St Vincent's Health Australia Sydney, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne & Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
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Kaimal G, Mensinger JL, Carroll-Haskins K. Outcomes of collage art-based and narrative self-expression among home hospice caregivers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ART THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17454832.2020.1752756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Girija Kaimal
- Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Janell L. Mensinger
- Villanova University, M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, PA, USA
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Hudson P, Morrison RS, Schulz R, Brody AA, Dahlin C, Kelly K, Meier DE. Improving Support for Family Caregivers of People with a Serious Illness in the United States: Strategic Agenda and Call to Action. Palliat Med Rep 2020; 1:6-17. [PMID: 34223450 PMCID: PMC8241318 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2020.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: An estimated 30% of the adult American population are caregivers and many of the people they support live with serious illnesses. Caregivers provide an average of 20 hours of services per week and are heavily involved in assisting with activities of daily living. This input represents considerable economic value to the health care system and to the well-being of communities. However, the impact of the burden on caregivers is considerable with negative outcomes on their physical, psychological, social, and financial well-being. The current landscape of caregiver policy in the United States is not well coordinated and does not meet the needs of this population. Objective: To develop a strategy to enhance the future of family caregiver support of people with serious illness within the United States. Methods: (1) Creation of project steering and key stakeholder groups; (2) survey and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders; (3) review of key family caregiver reports, systematic reviews, policies, and financial initiatives. Results: A strategy to provide clear direction to enhance the future of family caregiver support of people with serious illness within the United States was developed focusing explicitly on policy, research, training, service delivery, and public engagement. Conclusions: The strategy is an initial step aimed at enhancing support for family caregivers of people living with serious illness. It outlines key recommendations and a "call to action." Subsequent work will be needed on prioritization of tasks, gaining buy-in at all levels of the policy-making apparatus, operationalization, and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hudson
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Vrije University Brussels, Belgium
| | - R. Sean Morrison
- National Palliative Care Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Lilian and Benjamin Hertzberg Palliative Care Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard Schulz
- Center for Social and Urban Research, Education, and Policy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Education, and Policy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Caregiving Research, Education, and Policy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abraham Aizer Brody
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Constance Dahlin
- Center to Advance Palliative Care, New York, New York, USA
- Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- North Shore Medical Center, Salem, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kathleen Kelly
- Family Caregiver Alliance, National Center on Caregiving, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Diane E. Meier
- North Shore Medical Center, Salem, Massachusetts, USA
- Patty and Jay Baker National Palliative Care Center, Icahn School of Medicine of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Medical Ethics, Icahn School of Medicine of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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