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Elsten EECM, Pot IE, Geijteman ECT, Hedman C, van der Heide A, van der Kuy PHM, Fürst CJ, Eychmüller S, van Zuylen L, van der Rijt CCD. Recommendations for Deprescribing of Medication in the Last Phase of Life: An International Delphi Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024; 68:443-455.e2. [PMID: 39094669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Medications may become inappropriate for patients in the last phase of life and may even compromise their quality of life. OBJECTIVE To find consensus on recommendations regarding deprescribing of medications for adult patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. METHODS Experts working in palliative care or other relevant disciplines were asked to participate in this international Delphi study. Existing tools for deprescribing of medication in the last phase of life were integrated in a list of 42 recommendations regarding potential deprescription of various medication types. In two Delphi rounds, experts were asked to rate their agreement with each recommendation on a 5-point Likert-scale (strongly agree-strongly disagree). Recommendations were accepted, if at least 70% of the experts (strongly) agreed, the interquartile range (IQR) was one or less, and less than 10% strongly disagreed. RESULTS About 47 experts from 10 countries participated (response rate 53%). In most cases (76%), consensus was reached on deprescribing recommendations for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. The highest level of consensus was reached for recommendations on the deprescription of diuretics in case of decreasing fluid intake or increasing fluid loss, lipid modifying agents if prescribed for primary prevention, and vitamin K antagonists and direct oral anticoagulants in case of high bleeding risk. CONCLUSION A high level of consensus was reached on recommendations on potential deprescription of several medications for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline E C M Elsten
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.E.C.M.E., I.E.P., E.C.T.G., C.C.D.V.D.R.), Erasmus Medical Center, Cancer Institute Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Public Health (E.E.C.M.E., A.V.D.H.), Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Iris E Pot
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.E.C.M.E., I.E.P., E.C.T.G., C.C.D.V.D.R.), Erasmus Medical Center, Cancer Institute Rotterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.E.C.M.E., I.E.P., E.C.T.G., C.C.D.V.D.R.), Erasmus Medical Center, Cancer Institute Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Christel Hedman
- R & D Department (C.H.), Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery (C.H.), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Sciences (C.H.), Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Institute for Palliative Care (C.H., C.J.F.), Lund University and Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health (E.E.C.M.E., A.V.D.H.), Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - P Hugo M van der Kuy
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy (H.V.D.K.), Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carl-Johan Fürst
- Institute for Palliative Care (C.H., C.J.F.), Lund University and Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Steffen Eychmüller
- University Center for Palliative Care (S.E.), University Hospital Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology (L.V.Z.), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carin C D van der Rijt
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.E.C.M.E., I.E.P., E.C.T.G., C.C.D.V.D.R.), Erasmus Medical Center, Cancer Institute Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Frisk G, Szilcz M, Hedman C, Björkhem-Bergman L. Treatment with Antithrombotics in the Last Year of Life-Incidence of Bleeding and Side Effects After Deprescribing. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:1310-1317. [PMID: 38973710 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2024.0108] [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: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients in palliative care are often treated with antithrombotics, even in the late stages of disease. Clear guidelines regarding deprescribing are lacking. Objective: The aims of this study were to investigate bleeding as a side effect of antithrombotic treatments the last year in life and map the timing of deprescribing. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. All medical records were screened for deceased patients admitted to a palliative care unit in Stockholm, Sweden, over a 3-year period. Patients with antithrombotics were identified; data on bleeding, and on side effects due to deprescribing, were extracted from the medical records. Log-binomial models were used to explore factors associated with bleeding. Results: Of 1501 patients, 897 were treated with antithrombotics during the last year of life (mean age 75 years, 41% women). Of these, 56% continued treatment up until the last 3 days of life. Of the 897 patients, 144 (16%) had at least one bleeding during the treatment. The risk for bleeding was significantly higher for men with prostate cancer compared to other cancer forms, adjusted relative risk 1.9 (95% CI 1.1-3.2). No difference in risk for bleeding was found between sex, age groups, type of antithrombotics, or indication. Two patients (0.2%) developed strokes after antithrombotics were deprescribed. Conclusions: Treatment with antithrombotics during the last year of life is associated with a high risk of bleeding. In this cohort, men with prostate cancer seemed to have more side effects of bleeding than other groups. Few experienced side effects from deprescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Frisk
- ASIH Stockholm Södra, Specialized home care and Specialized palliative ward, Älvsjö, Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Máté Szilcz
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, C8 Medicinsk epidemiologi och biostatistik, MEB Jonell, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christel Hedman
- Stockholms Sjukhems R&D Department, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinician Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Linda Björkhem-Bergman
- ASIH Stockholm Södra, Specialized home care and Specialized palliative ward, Älvsjö, Sweden
- Stockholms Sjukhems R&D Department, Stockholm, Sweden
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van der Waal MS, Teunissen SC, Uyttewaal AG, Verboeket-Crul C, Smits-Pelser H, Geijteman EC, Grant MP. Factors influencing deprescribing in primary care for those towards the end of life: A qualitative interview study with patients and healthcare practitioners. Palliat Med 2024; 38:884-892. [PMID: 38916262 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241261202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For people with limited lifetime expectancy, the benefit of many medications may be outweighed by their potential harms. Despite the relevance of reducing unnecessary medication use, deprescribing is poorly enacted in primary care practice. AIM This study aims to describe factors, as identified by primary care professionals and patients, that influence deprescribing in the last phase of life. DESIGN Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using a thematic approach. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS This study was performed in primary care settings, including general practices, hospices and community care teams in The Netherlands. Purposefully identified primary care professionals (general practitioners, pharmacists, nurses) and patients with limited lifetime expectancy due to advanced chronic illness or cancer and their caretakers were interviewed. RESULTS Three themes emerged detailing factors influencing deprescribing in the last phase of life in primary care: (1) non-maleficence, the wish to avoid additional psychological or physical distress; (2) reactive care, the lack of priority and awareness of eligible patients; and (3) discontinuity of care within primary care and between primary care and specialty care. CONCLUSIONS Deprescribing is an incremental process, complicated by the unpredictability of life expectancy and attitudes of patients and health care professionals that associate continued medication use with clinical stability. Opportunities to facilitate the deprescribing process and its acceptance include the routinely systematic identification of patients with limited life expectancy and potentially inappropriate medications, and normalisation of deprescribing as component of regular primary care, occurring for all patients and continuing into end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike S van der Waal
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Ccm Teunissen
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Eric Ct Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthew P Grant
- Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Schouten B, van Schoten SM, Bijnsdorp FM, Merten H, Nanayakkara PWB, Reyners AKL, Francke AL, Wagner C. Adverse events at the end of life of hospital patients with or without a condition relevant for palliative care: a nationwide retrospective record review study in the Netherlands. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:145. [PMID: 38858703 PMCID: PMC11163706 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01461-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient safety is crucial for quality of care. Preventable adverse events (AEs) occur in 1 of 20 patients in the hospital, but it is unknown whether this is different for patients with a condition relevant for palliative care. The majority of the limited available research on this topic is only focused on patients already receiving palliative care, and do not make comparisons with other patients at the end-of-life. We identified and compared the prevalence, preventability, nature and causes of AEs in patients with and without a condition relevant for palliative care. METHODS A nationwide retrospective record review study was performed in 20 Dutch hospitals. A total of 2,998 records of patients who died in hospital in 2019 was included. Records were reviewed for AEs. We identified two subgroups: patients with (n = 2,370) or without (n = 248) a condition relevant for palliative care through the selection method of Etkind (2017). Descriptive analyses were performed to calculate prevalence, nature, causes and prevention strategies. T-tests were performed to calculate differences between subgroups. RESULTS We found no significant differences between subgroups regarding AE prevalence, this was 15.3% in patients with a condition relevant for palliative care, versus 12.0% in patients without a condition relevant for palliative care (p = 0.148). Potentially preventable AE prevalence was 4.3% versus 4.4% (p = 0.975). Potentially preventable death prevalence in both groups was 3.2% (p = 0.938). There were differences in the nature of AEs: in patients with a condition relevant for palliative care this was mostly related to medication (33.1%), and in patients without a condition relevant for palliative care to surgery (50.8%). In both subgroups in the majority of AEs a patient related cause was identified. For the potentially preventable AEs in both subgroups the two most important prevention strategies as suggested by the medical reviewers were reflection and evaluation and quality assurance. DISCUSSION Patient safety risks appeared to be equally prevalent in both subgroups. The nature of AEs does differ between subgroups: medication- versus surgery-related, indicating that tailored safety measures are needed. Recommendations for practice are to focus on reflecting on AEs, complemented with case evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Schouten
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, P/O Box 7057, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1007 MB, The Netherlands.
| | - S M van Schoten
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, P/O Box 7057, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1007 MB, The Netherlands
| | - F M Bijnsdorp
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H Merten
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, P/O Box 7057, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1007 MB, The Netherlands
| | - P W B Nanayakkara
- Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A K L Reyners
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center of Expertise in Palliative Care, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A L Francke
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, P/O Box 7057, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1007 MB, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Expertise Center Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Wagner
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, P/O Box 7057, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1007 MB, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Tanuseputro P, Roberts RL, Milani C, Clarke AE, Webber C, Isenberg SR, Kobewka D, Turcotte L, Bush SH, Boese K, Arya A, Robert B, Sinnarajah A, Simon JE, Howard M, Lau J, Qureshi D, Fremont D, Downar J. Palliative End-of-Life Medication Prescribing Rates in Long-Term Care: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:532-538.e8. [PMID: 38242534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.11.026] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications are often needed to manage distressing end-of-life symptoms (eg, pain, agitation). OBJECTIVES In this study, we describe the variation in prescribing rates of symptom relief medications at the end of life among long-term care (LTC) decedents. We evaluate the extent these medications are prescribed in LTC homes and whether prescribing rates of end-of-life symptom management can be used as an indicator of quality end-of-life care. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study using administrative health data. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS LTC decedents in all 626 publicly funded LTC homes in Ontario, Canada, between January 1, 2017, and March 17, 2020. METHODS For each LTC home, we measured the percent of decedents who received 1+ prescription(s) for a subcutaneous end-of-life symptom management medication ("end-of-life medication") in their last 14 days of life. We then ranked LTC homes into quintiles based on prescribing rates. RESULTS We identified 55,916 LTC residents who died in LTC. On average, two-thirds of decedents (64.7%) in LTC homes were prescribed at least 1 subcutaneous end-of-life medication in the last 2 weeks of life. Opioids were the most common prescribed medication (overall average prescribing rate of 62.7%). LTC homes in the lowest prescribing quintile had a mean of 37.3% of decedents prescribed an end-of-life medication, and the highest quintile mean was 82.5%. In addition, across these quintiles, the lowest prescribing quintile had a high average (30.3%) of LTC residents transferred out of LTC in the 14 days compared with the highest prescribing quintile (12.7%). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Across Ontario's LTC homes, there are large differences in prescribing rates for subcutaneous end-of-life symptom relief medications. Although future work may elucidate why the variability exists, this study provides evidence that administrative data can provide valuable insight into the systemic delivery of end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Tanuseputro
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Rhiannon L Roberts
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Milani
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna E Clarke
- ICES uOttawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen Webber
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Kobewka
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Luke Turcotte
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shirley H Bush
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kaitlyn Boese
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amit Arya
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Kensington Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benoit Robert
- Centre of Excellence in Frailty-Informed Care, Perley Health, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jessica E Simon
- Department of Oncology, Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michelle Howard
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenny Lau
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Palliative Care, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Danial Qureshi
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deena Fremont
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Downar
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Huisman BAA, Geijteman ECT, Dees MK, van Zuylen L, van der Heide A, Perez RSGM. Better drug use in advanced disease: an international Delphi study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:e115-e121. [PMID: 30446489 PMCID: PMC10646859 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-001623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a limited life expectancy use many medications, some of which may be questionable. OBJECTIVES : To identify possible solutions for difficulties concerning medication management and formulate recommendations to improve medication management at the end of life. METHODS : A two-round Delphi study with experts in the field of medication management and end-of-life care (based on ranking in the citation index in Web of Science and relevant publications). We developed a questionnaire with 58 possible solutions for problems regarding medication management at the end of life that were identified in previously performed studies. RESULTS : A total of 42 experts from 13 countries participated. Response rate in the first round was 93%, mean agreement between experts for all solutions was 87 % (range 62%-100%); additional suggestions were given by 51%. The response rate in the second round was 74%. Awareness, education and timely communication about medication management came forward as top priorities for guidelines. In addition, solutions considered crucial by many of the experts were development of a list of inappropriate medications at the end of life and incorporation of recommendations for end-of-life medication management in disease-specific guidelines. CONCLUSIONS : In this international Delphi study, experts reached a high level of consensus on recommendations to improve medication management in end-of-life care. These findings may contribute to the development of clinical practice guidelines for medication management in end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregje A A Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Dees
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto S G M Perez
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Antonisse A, van der Baan FH, Grant M, Uyttewaal G, Verboeket C, Smits-Pelser H, Teunissen SCCM, Geijteman ECT. Use of preventive medication and supplements in general practice in patients in their last year of life: a Retrospective cohort study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:101. [PMID: 37061665 PMCID: PMC10105458 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02049-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several preventive medications and supplements become inappropriate in the last phase of life due to increased risk of adverse events caused by changed pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions, and changed care goals. Information on these preventive medication and supplements use in patients with a life-limiting illness in the home-care setting is limited. The primary aim of this study was to assess the use of four different groups of preventive drugs and supplements, which are inappropriate in adult patients with a life-limiting illness, living at home in the last year of life. The secondary aims were to assess reasons for discontinuing these drugs as documented in the general practitioners' patient file and whether these reasons affected the time between medication discontinuation and death. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study using the routine primary care database of the Julius General Practitioners' Network of the University Medical Centre Utrecht, a database consisting of routine care data from GPs from the city of Utrecht and its vicinity. Patients in the homecare setting with a life-limiting illness, diagnosed at least one year before death, were included. Descriptive analyses were used to describe the study population and the frequency of starting, using, and discontinuing medication and supplements in the last year of life. RESULTS A total of 458 of 666 included patients (69%) used at least one preventive drug in the last year of life. Vitamins were used by 36% of the patients, followed with 35% using cholesterol-lowering medication, 24% using calcium supplements and 9% using bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates were discontinued by 70% of the users, calcium supplements by 61%, vitamins by 56% and cholesterol-lowering medication by 48% of the users, with a median interval between day of discontinuation and death of 119, 60, 110 and, 65 days, respectively. The median time between medication or supplement discontinuation and death was longest in patients with side effects and who had medication reviews. CONCLUSION Many patients in their last phase of life in the home-care setting use inappropriate medication and supplements. Timely medication review may contribute to optimise medication use in the last year of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Antonisse
- Centre of Expertise Palliative Care, Department General Practice, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Frederieke H van der Baan
- Centre of Expertise Palliative Care, Department General Practice, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Matthew Grant
- Centre of Expertise Palliative Care, Department General Practice, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Saskia C C M Teunissen
- Centre of Expertise Palliative Care, Department General Practice, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Live well, die well – an international cohort study on experiences, concerns and preferences of patients in the last phase of life: the research protocol of the iLIVE study. BMJ Open 2022. [PMCID: PMC9362824 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adequately addressing the needs of patients at the end of life and their relatives is pivotal in preventing unnecessary suffering and optimising their quality of life. The purpose of the iLIVE study is to contribute to high-quality personalised care at the end of life in different countries and cultures, by investigating the experiences, concerns, preferences and use of care of terminally ill patients and their families. Methods and analysis The iLIVE study is an international cohort study in which patients with an estimated life expectancy of 6 months or less are followed up until they die. In total, 2200 patients will be included in 11 countries, that is, 200 per country. In addition, one relative per patient is invited to participate. All participants will be asked to fill in a questionnaire, at baseline and after 4 weeks. If a patient dies within 6 months of follow-up, the relative will be asked to fill in a post-bereavement questionnaire. Healthcare use in the last week of life will be evaluated as well; healthcare staff who attended the patient will be asked to fill in a brief questionnaire to evaluate the care that was provided. Qualitative interviews will be conducted with patients, relatives and healthcare professionals in all countries to gain more in-depth insights. Ethics and dissemination The cohort study has been approved by ethics committees and the institutional review boards (IRBs) of participating institutes in all countries. Results will be disseminated through the project website, publications in scientific journals and at conferences. Within the project, there will be a working group focusing on enhancing the engagement of the community at large with the reality of death and dying. Trial registration number NCT04271085.
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Meesters S, Grüne B, Bausewein C, Schildmann E. "Palliative Syringe Driver"? A Mixed-Methods Study in Different Hospital Departments on Continuous Infusions of Sedatives and/or Opioids in End-of-Life Care. J Patient Saf 2022; 18:e801-e809. [PMID: 35617602 PMCID: PMC9162073 DOI: 10.1097/pts.0000000000000918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Continuous infusions of sedatives and/or opioids (continuous infusions) are frequently used in end-of-life care. Available data indicate challenges in nonspecialist palliative care settings. We aimed to assess the use of continuous infusions during the last week of life in different hospital departments. METHODS In a sequential mixed-methods design, a retrospective cohort study was followed by consecutive qualitative interviews in 5 German hospital departments. Medical records of 517 patients who died from January 2015 to December 2017 were used, and 25 interviews with physicians and nurses were conducted. Recorded sedatives were those recommended in guidelines for "palliative sedation": benzodiazepines, levomepromazine, haloperidol (≥5 mg/d), and propofol. Exploratory statistical analysis (R 3.6.1.) and framework analysis of interviews (MAXQDA 2018.2) were performed. RESULTS During the last week of life, 359 of 517 deceased patients (69%) received continuous infusions. Some interviewees reported that continuous infusions are a kind of standard procedure for "palliative" patients. According to our interviewees' views, equating palliative care with continuous infusion therapy, insufficient experience regarding symptom control, and fewer care needs may contribute to this approach. In addition, interviewees reported that continuous infusions may be seen as an "overall-concept" for multiple symptoms. Medical record review demonstrated lack of a documented indication for 80 of 359 patients (22%). Some nurses experienced concerns or hesitations among physicians regarding the prescription of continuous infusions. CONCLUSIONS Continuous infusions seem to be common practice. Lack of documented indications and concerns regarding the handling and perception of a "standard procedure" in these highly individual care situations emphasize the need for further exploration and support to ensure high quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Meesters
- From the Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU Munich, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Grüne
- From the Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU Munich, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- From the Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU Munich, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Schildmann
- From the Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU Munich, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
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Peralta T, Castel-Branco MM, Reis-Pina P, Figueiredo IV, Dourado M. Prescription trends at the end of life in a palliative care unit: observational study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:65. [PMID: 35505394 PMCID: PMC9066954 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00954-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Symptomatic control is essential in palliative care, particularly in end-of-life, in which the pathophysiological changes that characterize this last phase of life strengthen the need to carry out an early therapeutic review. Hence, we aim to evaluate the prescribing pattern at a palliative care unit at two different time points: on admission and the day of the patient’s death. Methods Quantitative, analytic, longitudinal, retrospective and observational study. Participants were adult patients who were admitted and died in a palliative care unit, in Portugal. Sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacological data were collected, including frequencies and routes of administration of schedule prescribed drugs and rescue drugs, from the day of admission until the day of death. Results 115 patients were included with an average age of 70.0 ± 12.9 years old, 53.9 were male, mostly referred by the Hospital Palliative Care Support Teams. The most common pathology was cancer, mainly in advanced stage. On admission, the median scheduled prescription was seven and “as needed” was three drugs. On the day of death, a decrease of prescriptions was observed. Opioids were always the most prescribed drugs. Near death, there was a higher tendency to prescribe butylscopolamine, midazolam, diazepam and levomepromazine. The most frequent route of drug administration was oral on admission and subcutaneous on the day of death. Conclusions Polypharmacy is a reality in palliative care despite specialist palliative care teams. A reduction of prescribed drugs was verified, essentially due less comorbidity-oriented drugs. Further studies are required to analyse the importance of Hospital Palliative Care Support Teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Peralta
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria Margarida Castel-Branco
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo Reis-Pina
- Palliative Care Unit "Bento Menni", Casa de Saúde da Idanha, Sintra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Vitória Figueiredo
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marília Dourado
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Studies and Development of Continuous and Palliative Care (CEDCCP), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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11
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Prescribing practices, patterns, and potential harms in patients receiving palliative care: A systematic scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2021; 3:100050. [PMID: 35480601 PMCID: PMC9031741 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients receiving palliative care often have existing comorbidities necessitating the prescribing of multiple medications. To maximize quality of life in this patient cohort, it is important to tailor prescribing of medication for preventing and treating existing illnesses and those for controlling symptoms, such as pain, according to individual specific needs. Objective(s) To provide an overview of peer-reviewed observational research on prescribing practices, patterns, and potential harms in patients receiving palliative care. Methods A systematic scoping review was conducted using four electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science). Each database was searched from inception to May 2020. Search terms included ‘palliative care,’ ‘end of life,’ and ‘prescribing.’ Eligible studies had to examine prescribing for adults (≥18 years) receiving palliative care in any setting as a study aim or outcome. Studies focusing on single medication types (e.g., opioids), medication classes (e.g., chemotherapy), or clinical indications (e.g., pain) were excluded. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for scoping reviews, and the findings were described using narrative synthesis. Results Following deduplication, 16,565 unique citations were reviewed, and 56 studies met inclusion criteria. The average number of prescribed medications per patient ranged from 3 to 23. Typically, prescribing changes involved decreases in preventative medications and increases in symptom-specific medications closer to the time of death. Twenty-one studies assessed the appropriateness of prescribing using various tools. The prevalence of patients with ≥1 potentially inappropriate prescription ranged from 15 to 92%. Three studies reported on adverse drug events. Conclusions This scoping review provides a broad overview of existing research and shows that many patients receiving palliative care receive multiple medications closer to the time of death. Future research should focus in greater detail on prescribing appropriateness using tools specifically developed to guide prescribing in palliative care and the potential for harm.
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12
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Ham L, Geijteman ECT, Aarts MJ, Kuiper JG, Kunst PWA, Raijmakers NJH, Visser LE, van Zuylen L, Brokaar EJ, Fransen HP. Use of potentially inappropriate medication in older patients with lung cancer at the end of life. J Geriatr Oncol 2021; 13:53-59. [PMID: 34366274 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Medications at the end of life should be used for symptom control. Medications which potential adverse effects outweigh their expected benefits are called 'potentially inappropriate medications' (PIMs). PIMs are related with adverse drug events and reduced quality of life. In this study, we investigated to what extent PIMs are dispensed to older patients with lung cancer in the last month of life. METHODS We selected patients with lung cancer, aged 65+, diagnosed between 2009 and 2014, and who died before April 1st 2015 from the population-based Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR). The NCR is linked to the PHARMO Database Network, that includes medications dispensed by community pharmacies in the Netherlands. The eight PIM groups were based on the OncPal Deprescribing Guideline: aspirin, dyslipidaemia medications, antihypertensives, osteoporosis medications, peptic ulcer prophylaxis, oral hypoglycaemics, vitamins and minerals. RESULTS Data of 7864 patients with lung cancer were analyzed. Median age was 74 year (IQR = 70-79) and 67% was male. 45% of all patients received at least one PIM in their last month of life. Taking into account all dispensed medications, patients receiving PIMs received more different medications compared to those receiving no PIMs, respectively 10 (SD = 5) vs. 3 (SD = 4) different medications (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Almost half of the older patients with lung cancer in the Netherlands received PIMs in their last month of life. Since PIM use is associated with reduced quality of life, it is important that health care professionals continue to critically assess which medication can be discontinued at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurien Ham
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands; Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands.
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, the Netherlands
| | - Mieke J Aarts
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands
| | - Josephina G Kuiper
- PHARMO Institute for Drug Outcomes Research, Van Deventerlaan 30-40, Utrecht 3528 AE, the Netherlands
| | - Peter W A Kunst
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands; Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, PO box 9243, Amsterdam 1006 AE, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja J H Raijmakers
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands; Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands
| | - Loes E Visser
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Haga Teaching Hospital, PO box 40551, The Hague 2504 LN, the Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, PO box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, the Netherlands; Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus Medical Centre, PO box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, the Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam 1081 HV, the Netherlands
| | - Edwin J Brokaar
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Haga Teaching Hospital, PO box 40551, The Hague 2504 LN, the Netherlands
| | - Heidi P Fransen
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands; Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), PO box 19079, Utrecht 3501 DB, the Netherlands
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13
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Pollock K, Wilson E, Caswell G, Latif A, Caswell A, Avery A, Anderson C, Crosby V, Faull C. Family and health-care professionals managing medicines for patients with serious and terminal illness at home: a qualitative study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
More effective ways of managing symptoms of chronic and terminal illness enable patients to be cared for, and to die, at home. This requires patients and family caregivers to manage complex medicines regimens, including powerful painkillers that can have serious side effects. Little is known about how patients and family caregivers manage the physical and emotional work of managing medicines in the home or the support that they receive from health-care professionals and services.
Objective
To investigate how patients with serious and terminal illness, their family caregivers and the health-care professionals manage complex medication regimens and routines of care in the domestic setting.
Design
A qualitative study involving (1) semistructured interviews and group discussions with 40 health-care professionals and 21 bereaved family caregivers, (2) 20 patient case studies with up to 4 months’ follow-up and (3) two end-of-project stakeholder workshops.
Setting
This took place in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, UK.
Results
As patients’ health deteriorated, family caregivers assumed the role of a care co-ordinator, undertaking the everyday work of organising and collecting prescriptions and storing and administering medicines around other care tasks and daily routines. Participants described the difficulties of navigating a complex and fragmented system and the need to remain vigilant about medicines prescribed, especially when changes were made by different professionals. Access to support, resilience and coping capacity are mediated through the resources available to patients, through the relationships that they have with people in their personal and professional networks, and, beyond that, through the wider connections – or disconnections – that these links have with others. Health-care professionals often lacked understanding of the practical and emotional challenges involved. All participants experienced difficulties in communication and organisation within a health-care system that they felt was complicated and poorly co-ordinated. Having a key health professional to support and guide patients and family caregivers through the system was important to a good experience of care.
Limitations
The study achieved diversity in the recruitment of patients, with different characteristics relating to the type of illness and socioeconomic circumstances. However, recruitment of participants from ethnically diverse and disadvantaged or hard-to-reach populations was particularly challenging, and we were unable to include as many participants from these groups as had been originally planned.
Conclusions
The study identified two key and inter-related areas in which patient and family caregiver experience of managing medicines at home in end-of-life care could be improved: (1) reducing work and responsibility for medicines management and (2) improving co-ordination and communication in health care. It is important to be mindful of the need for transparency and open discussion about the extent to which patients and family caregivers can and should be co-opted as proto-professionals in the technically and emotionally demanding tasks of managing medicines at the end of life.
Future work
Priorities for future research include investigating how allocated key professionals could integrate and co-ordinate care and optimise medicines management; the role of domiciliary home care workers in supporting medicines management in end-of-life care; patient and family perspectives and understanding of anticipatory prescribing and their preferences for involvement in decision-making; the experience of medicines management in terminal illness among minority, disadvantaged and hard-to-reach patient groups; and barriers to and facilitators of increased involvement of community pharmacists in palliative and end-of-life care.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 14. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Pollock
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Asam Latif
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alan Caswell
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Dementia, Frail Older and Palliative Care Patient and Public Involvement Advisory Group, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Anthony Avery
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Claire Anderson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Vincent Crosby
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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14
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Huisman BAA, Geijteman ECT, Arevalo JJ, Dees MK, van Zuylen L, Szadek KM, van der Heide A, Steegers MAH. Use of antithrombotics at the end of life: an in-depth chart review study. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:110. [PMID: 34271885 PMCID: PMC8285840 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00786-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antithrombotics are frequently prescribed for patients with a limited life expectancy. In the last phase of life, when treatment is primarily focused on optimizing patients' quality of life, the use of antithrombotics should be reconsidered. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of a retrospective review of 180 medical records of patients who had died of a malignant or non-malignant disease, at home, in a hospice or in a hospital, in the Netherlands. All medication prescriptions and clinical notes of patients using antithrombotics in the last three months of life were reviewed manually. We subsequently developed case vignettes based on a purposive sample, with variation in setting, age, gender, type of medication, and underlying disease. RESULTS In total 60% (n=108) of patients had used antithrombotics in the last three months of life. Of all patients using antithrombotics 33.3 % died at home, 21.3 % in a hospice and 45.4 % in a hospital. In total, 157 antithrombotic prescriptions were registered; 30 prescriptions of vitamin K antagonists, 60 of heparins, and 66 of platelet aggregation inhibitors. Of 51 patients using heparins, 32 only received a prophylactic dose. In 75.9 % of patients antithrombotics were continued until the last week before death. Case vignettes suggest that inability to swallow, bleeding complications or the dying phase were important factors in making decisions about the use of antithrombotics. CONCLUSIONS Antithrombotics in patients with a life limiting disease are often continued until shortly before death. Clinical guidance may support physicians to reconsider (dis)continuation of antithrombotics and discuss this with the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregje A A Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Hospice Kuria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jimmy J Arevalo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Dees
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karolina M Szadek
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique A H Steegers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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Can primary palliative care education change life-sustaining treatment intensity of older adults at the end of life? A retrospective study. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:84. [PMID: 34154579 PMCID: PMC8218503 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00783-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative care education has been carried out in some hospitals and palliative care has gradually developed in mainland China. However, the clinical research is sparse and whether primary palliative care education influence treatment intensity of dying older adults is still unknown. This study aims to explore the changes to the intensity of end-of-life care in hospitalized older adults before and after the implementation of primary palliative care education. Methods A retrospective study was conducted. Two hundred three decedents were included from Beijing Tongren Hospital’s department of geriatrics between January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2019. Patients were split into two cohorts with regards to the start of palliative care education. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics as well as analgesia use, medical resources use and provision of life-sustaining treatments were compared. We used a chi-square test to compare categorical variables, a t test to compare continuous variables with normal distributions and a Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables with skewed distributions. Results Of the total participants in the study, 157(77.3%) patients were male. The median age was 88 (interquartile range; Q1-Q3 83–93) and the majority of patients (N = 172, 84.7%) aged 80 years or older. The top 3 causes of death were malignant solid tumor (N = 74, 36.5%), infectious disease (N = 74, 36.5%), and cardiovascular disease (N = 23, 11.3%). Approximately two thirds died of non-cancer diseases. There was no significant difference in age, gender, cause of death and functional status between the two groups (p > 0.05). After primary palliative care education, pain controlling drugs were used more (p < 0.05), fewer patients received electric defibrillation, bag mask ventilation and vasopressors (p < 0.05). There was no change in the length of hospitalization, intensive care admissions, polypharmacy, use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, blood infusions, albumin infusions, nasogastric/nasoenteric tubes, parenteral nutrition, renal replacement and mechanical ventilation (p > 0.05). Conclusions Primary palliative care education may promotes pain controlling drug use and DNR implementation. More efforts should be put on education about symptom assessment, prognostication, advance care planning, code status discussion in order to reduce acute medical care resource use and apply life-sustaining treatment appropriately.
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16
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Huisman BAA, Geijteman ECT, Kolf N, Dees MK, van Zuylen L, Szadek KM, Steegers MAH, van der Heide A. Physicians' Opinions on Anticoagulant Therapy in Patients with a Limited Life Expectancy. Semin Thromb Hemost 2021; 47:735-744. [PMID: 33971680 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a limited life expectancy have an increased risk of thromboembolic and bleeding complications. Anticoagulants are often continued until death, independent of their original indication. We aimed to identify the opinions of physicians about the use of anticoagulants at the end of life. A mixed-method research design was used. A secondary analysis was performed on data from a vignette study and an interview study. Participants included general practitioners and clinical specialists. Physicians varied in their opinions: some would continue and others would stop anticoagulants at the end of life because of the risk of thromboembolic or bleeding complications. The improvement or preservation of patients' quality of life was a reason for both stopping and continuing anticoagulants. Other factors considered in the decision-making were the types of anticoagulant, the indication for which the anticoagulant was prescribed, underlying diseases, and the condition and life expectancy of the patient. Factors that made decision-making difficult were the lack of evidence on either strategy, uncertainty about patients' life expectancy, and the fear of harming patients. Which decision was eventually made seems largely dependent on the choice of the patient. In conclusion, there is a substantial variation in physicians' opinions regarding the use of anticoagulants in patients with a limited life expectancy. Physicians agree that the primary goal of medical care at end of life is the improvement or preservation of patients' quality of life. An important barrier to decision-making is the lack of evidence about the risks and benefits of stopping anticoagulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregje A A Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Hospice Kuria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nathalie Kolf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Dees
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karolina M Szadek
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique A H Steegers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Ropri F, Weisse CS. Informal Caregivers' Administration of Hospice Prescribed Lorazepam to Homecare Patients With Anxiety. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:1071-1077. [PMID: 33034195 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120965955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of informal caregivers (IFCs) manage hospice patients' anxiety by administering lorazepam (Ativan), yet little is known about prescribing practices in home care or the extent to which IFCs carry out regimens. DESIGN AND METHODS Data on hospice prescribed lorazepam was determined through a retrospective review of medication records from 216 deceased patients. The dose of lorazepam and type of regimen (i.e., scheduled, PRN, combination) as well as frequency with which it was administered by IFCs was calculated upon admission to a residential care home and on patients' day of death. RESULTS The majority (63.1%) of patients were prescribed lorazepam on admission to the home, and more (79.5%) were prescribed lorazepam on the day of death. While higher doses of lorazepam were prescribed and administered on the day of death, the percentage of medication consumed was low on admission (17%) and day of death (27%). Nearly all (92.8%) prescribed lorazepam on the day of death were allowed PRN medication. For PRN only regimens, less than a quarter (24.4%) of patients were given lorazepam on admission with less than half (40.4%) given it while dying. Highest lorazepam administration rates (91.2%) occurred on the day of death when lorazepam was prescribed under a combined regimen. CONCLUSION The high frequency of PRN regimens reveal that IFCs are frequently tasked with making decisions about if and when to administer lorazepam. Low overall lorazepam administration suggests a closer monitoring of lorazepam use and enhanced support of IFCs may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ropri
- Neuroscience Program, 7254Union College, Schenectady, NY, USA
| | - Carol S Weisse
- Department of Psychology, 7254Union College, Schenectady, NY, USA
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18
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Huisman BAA, Geijteman ECT, Dees MK, Schonewille NN, Wieles M, van Zuylen L, Szadek KM, van der Heide A. Role of nurses in medication management at the end of life: a qualitative interview study. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:68. [PMID: 32404166 PMCID: PMC7222510 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00574-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients in the last phase of their lives often use many medications. Physicians tend to lack awareness that reviewing the usefulness of medication at the end of patients’ lives is important. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the perspectives of patients, informal caregivers, nurses and physicians on the role of nurses in medication management at the end of life. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients in the last phase of their lives, in hospitals, hospices and at home; and with their informal caregivers, nurses and physicians. Data were qualitatively analyzed using the constant comparative method. Results Seventy-six interviews were conducted, with 17 patients, 12 informal caregivers, 15 nurses, 20 (trainee) medical specialists and 12 family physicians. Participants agreed that the role of the nurse in medication management includes: 1) informing, 2) supporting, 3) representing and 4) involving the patient, their informal caregivers and physicians in medication management. Nurses have a particular role in continuity of care and proximity to the patient. They are expected to contribute to a multidimensional assessment and approach, which is important for promoting patients’ interest in medication management at the end of life. Conclusions We found that nurses can and should play an important role in medication management at the end of life by informing, supporting, representing and involving all relevant parties. Physicians should appreciate nurses’ input to optimize medication management in patients at the end of life. Health care professionals should recognize the role the nurses can have in promoting patients’ interest in medication management at the end of life. Nurses should be reinforced by education and training to take up this role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregje A A Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands. .,Hospice Kuria, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Eric C T Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Dees
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Noralie N Schonewille
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Gynaecology, OLVG West, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karolina M Szadek
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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19
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Abstract
Older adults, particularly those late in life, are at higher risk for medication misadventure, yet bear the burden of increasing polypharmacy. It is incumbent on practitioners who care for this vulnerable population to use one or more approaches to deprescribe medications that impose a greater burden than benefit, including medically futile medications. It is essential that health care providers use compassionate communication skills when explaining these interventions with patients and families, pointing out that this is a positive, patient-centric intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaida Talebreza
- Geriatric and Academic Palliative Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, George E. Wahlen Salt Lake City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 30 North 1900 East SOM AB193, Salt Lake City, UT 84132-0001, USA
| | - Mary Lynn McPherson
- Advanced Post-Graduate Education in Palliative Care, Online Master of Science in Palliative Care, Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy Baltimore, 20 North Pine Street, S405, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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20
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Bickel KE, Kennedy R, Levy C, Burgio KL, Bailey FA. The Relationship of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder to End-of-life Care Received by Dying Veterans: a Secondary Data Analysis. J Gen Intern Med 2020; 35:505-513. [PMID: 31792872 PMCID: PMC7018872 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05538-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be exacerbated by subsequent trauma, but it is unclear if symptoms are worsened by impending death. PTSD symptoms, including hyperarousal, negative mood and thoughts, and traumatic re-experiencing, can impact end-of-life symptoms, including pain, mood, and poor sleep. Thus, increased symptoms may lead to increased end-of-life healthcare utilization. OBJECTIVES To determine if veterans with PTSD have increased end-of-life healthcare utilization or medication use and to examine predictors of medication administration. DESIGN Secondary analysis of a stepped-wedge design implementation trial to improve end-of-life care for Veterans Affairs (VA) inpatients. Outcome variables were collected via direct chart review. Analyses included hierarchical, generalized estimating equation models, clustered by medical center. SUBJECTS Veterans, inpatient at one of six VA facilities, dying between 2005 and 2011. MAIN MEASURES Emergency room (ER) visits, hospitalizations, and medication administration in the last 7 days of life. KEY RESULTS Of 5341 veterans, 468 (8.76%) had PTSD. Of those, 21.4% (100/468) had major depression and 36.5% (171/468) had anxiety. Veterans with PTSD were younger (mean age 65.4 PTSD, 70.5 no PTSD, p < 0.0001) and had more VA hospitalizations and ER visits in the last 12 months of life (admissions: PTSD 2.8, no PTSD 2.4, p < 0.0001; ER visits: 3.2 vs 2.5, p < 0.0001). PTSD was associated with antipsychotic administration (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.06-2.18). Major depression (333/5341, 6.2%) was associated with opioid administration (OR 1.348, 95% CI 1.129-1.609) and benzodiazepines (OR 1.489, 95% CI 1.141-1.943). Anxiety disorders (778/5341, 14.6%) were only associated with benzodiazepines (OR 1.598, 95% CI 1.194-2.138). CONCLUSIONS PTSD's association with increased end-of-life healthcare utilization and increased antipsychotic administration in the final days of life suggests increased symptom burden and potential for terminal delirium in individuals with PTSD. Understanding the burden of psychiatric illness and potential risks for delirium may facilitate the end-of-life care for these patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT00234286.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen E Bickel
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Rocky Mountain VA Medical Center, Mail Stop B180, Academic Office One, 12631 E 17th Ave, Room 8407, Aurora, CO, 80045-2527, USA.
- Rocky Mountain Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Aurora, USA.
| | - Richard Kennedy
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cari Levy
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Rocky Mountain VA Medical Center, Mail Stop B180, Academic Office One, 12631 E 17th Ave, Room 8407, Aurora, CO, 80045-2527, USA
- Rocky Mountain Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Aurora, USA
| | - Kathryn L Burgio
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - F Amos Bailey
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Rocky Mountain VA Medical Center, Mail Stop B180, Academic Office One, 12631 E 17th Ave, Room 8407, Aurora, CO, 80045-2527, USA
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Stegmann ME, Geerse OP, Tange D, Richel C, Brom L, Engelen V, Duijts SFA. Experiences and needs of patients with incurable cancer regarding advance care planning: results from a national cross-sectional survey. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4211-4217. [PMID: 31900610 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05285-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients faced with incurable cancer may experience a lack of support from their physician throughout and after treatment. Studies on the needs and experiences of these patients are scarce. In this study, we explored the needs and experiences of patients diagnosed with incurable cancer regarding the conversation, in which they were told that their cancer was incurable, the care received after this conversation, and their preferences regarding end-of-life conversations. METHODS Data were cross-sectionally collected through a national online survey in the Netherlands (September 2018). Descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients were reported and subgroups were compared. RESULTS Six hundred fifty-four patients (mean age 60 years; 58% women) completed the survey. Patients were primarily diagnosed with breast cancer (22%) or a hematological malignancy (21%). Patients reported a strong need for emotional support during the conversation, in which they were told their cancer was incurable (mean score 8.3; scale 1-10). Their experienced satisfaction with received emotional support was mediocre (mean score 6.4; scale 1-10). Of those patients who felt like they did not receive any additional care (37%) after the diagnosis, the majority expressed a clear need for this kind of care (59%). Mostly, support pertained to psychosocial issues. Regarding conversations about the end of life, most patients (62%) expressed a need to discuss this topic, and preferred their healthcare provider to initiate this conversation. CONCLUSION Care for patients with incurable cancer can be further improved by tailoring conversations to specific needs and timely providing appropriate supportive care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariken E Stegmann
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, FA 21, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Olaf P Geerse
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, FA 21, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases and Tuberculosis, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dorien Tange
- Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organisations (Nederlandse Federatie van Kankerpatiëntorganisaties, NFK), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carol Richel
- Dutch Breast Cancer Association (Borstkankervereniging Nederland, BVN), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Brom
- The Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vivian Engelen
- Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organisations (Nederlandse Federatie van Kankerpatiëntorganisaties, NFK), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia F A Duijts
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, FA 21, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
- The Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Deprescribing: Right-Sizing Medication Regimens to Optimize Outcomes in Palliative Care. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13670-019-0274-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Wilson E, Caswell G, Turner N, Pollock K. Managing Medicines for Patients Dying at Home: A Review of Family Caregivers' Experiences. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:962-974. [PMID: 30217417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Increased life expectancy, technical advances in treatment and symptom control, and the extension of palliative care in community settings not only lengthen life but also make it possible for many patients to be cared for, and to die, at home. Moreover, death increasingly occurs in late old age and after a prolonged period of comorbidity and/or frailty. This has far-reaching consequences for the way that professional services are resourced and organized and for the informal carers who are often responsible for providing the greater part of patient care, including management of complex medication regimes. OBJECTIVES To explore the literature focused on family caregivers' (FCGs) experiences of medication management for patients being cared for and dying at home. METHODS This literature review takes a critical interpretive synthesis approach to the review of 15 identified articles. RESULTS Findings show that FCGs can struggle to manage medications for someone who is dying at home, yet there is an expectation that they will take on these roles and are often judged by professional standards. Five key themes identified particular issues around administration, organizational skills, empowerment, relationships, and support. CONCLUSION As increasing demands are placed on FCGs, there remains limited acknowledgment or understanding of the challenges they face, how they cope, or could be best supported. Alongside training, FCGs need access to 24 hours of support and medication reviews to rationalize unnecessary medications. Furthermore, the ethical challenges arising from administering medicines at the end of life also need to be acknowledged and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Wilson
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care (NCARE), School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Glenys Caswell
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care (NCARE), School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Turner
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care (NCARE), School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kristian Pollock
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research in End of Life Care (NCARE), School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Palliative sedation (PS) is performed in the terminally ill patient to manage one or more refractory symptoms. Proportional PS, which means that drugs can be titrated to the minimum effective dose, is the form most widely used. From a quarter to a third of all terminally ill patients undergo PS, with a quarter of these requiring continuous deep sedation. The prevalence of PS varies according to the care setting and case mix. The most frequent refractory physical symptoms are delirium and dyspnea, but PS is also considered for existential suffering or psychological distress, which is an extremely difficult and delicate issue to deal with. Active consensus from the patient and advanced care planning is recommended for PS. The decision-making process concerning the continuation or withdrawal of other treatments is not the same as that used for PS. The practice differs totally from euthanasia in its intentions, procedures, and results. The most widely used drugs are midazolam and haloperidol for refractory delirium, but chlorpromazine and other neuroleptics are also effective. In conclusion, some patients experience refractory symptoms during the last hours or days of life and PS is a medical intervention aimed at managing this unbearable suffering. It does not have a detrimental effect on survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Romina Rossi
- Palliative Care Unit, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Marco Maltoni
- Palliative Care Unit, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy.
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Geijteman EC, Huisman BA, Dees MK, Perez RS, van der Rijt CC, van Zuylen L, van der Heide A. Medication Discontinuation at the End of Life: A Questionnaire Study on Physicians' Experiences and Opinions. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1166-1170. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eric C.T. Geijteman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje A.A. Huisman
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K. Dees
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto S.G.M. Perez
- Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carin C.D. van der Rijt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Leong LJP, Crawford GB. Residential aged care residents and components of end of life care in an Australian hospital. BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:84. [PMID: 29885669 PMCID: PMC5994028 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0337-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With ageing of Australians, the numbers of residential aged care (RAC) residents is rising. This places a spotlight on decisions about appropriate care for this population, including hospitalisation and end-of-life (EOL) care. The aim was to study a sample of RAC residents who attended and died in hospital, to quantify measurable components of EOL care so as to describe the extent of palliative care required. Methods A retrospective case-note review of hospital records was conducted in Adelaide, Australia. Participants were 109 RAC residents who attended from July 2013 to June 2014 and died in hospital. Measurements were advance care planning, health care input from the RAC facilities to hospital and components of EOL care. Residents with and without advanced dementia were compared. Results Advance care directives (ACDs) were present from 11 to 50%, and advance care plans (ACPs) at 60%. There were more ACPs, resuscitation orders (for/against) and do-not-hospitalise orders in residents with advanced dementia than those without. General practitioner (GP) and extended care paramedic (ECP) input on decisions for hospital transfer were 30% and 1 %. Mean hospital stay to death was 5.2 days. For residents admitted under non-palliative care teams, specialist palliative care (SPC) was needed for phone advice in 5%, consultation in 45%, transfer to palliative care unit in 37%, and takeover by SPC team in 19%. Mean number of documented goals-of-care discussions with family/caregiver was 1.7. In the last 3 days of life, the mean daily number of doses of EOL medications was 4.2. Continuous subcutaneous infusion was commenced in 35%. Conclusion Staff in RAC need to be adequately resourced to make complex decisions about whether to transfer to hospital. RAC nurses are mainly making these decisions as GP and ECP input were suboptimal. Ways to support nurses and optimise decision-making are needed. Advance care planning can be improved, especially documentation of EOL wishes and hospitalisation orders. By describing the components of EOL care, it is hoped providers and policy makers have more information to assist with making decisions about what is the most appropriate care for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Jee Peng Leong
- Specialist Palliative Care Service - South, Tasmanian Health Service, 1st Floor, Peacock Building, Repatriation Centre, 90 Davey Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia.
| | - Gregory Brian Crawford
- Northern Adelaide Palliative Service, Modbury Hospital, 41-69 Smart Rd, Modbury, South Australia, 5092, Australia.,Discipline of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
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