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Curtisi J, Ellis-Wittenhagen J, Kokanovich T, Volk-Craft B. Compassionate Ventilator Release in Patients With Neuromuscular Disease: A Two-Case Comparison. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00906-0. [PMID: 39117043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Dyspnea, the subjective sensation of breathlessness, is a distressing and potentially traumatic symptom. Dyspnea associated with mechanical ventilation may contribute to intensive care unit (ICU) associated post-traumatic stress disorder and impaired quality of life. Dyspnea is both difficult to alleviate and a cause of significant distress to patients, their loved ones, and care providers People living with neuromuscular disease, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or myasthenia gravis (MG), often rely on a ventilator at late stages of illness due to complications of progressive respiratory muscle weakness and paralysis. When unable to wean from the ventilator, conversations turn towards goals of care and release from the ventilator for comfort and end of life (EOL). Patients with and without neuromuscular disease have high risk for dyspnea at EOL upon ventilator liberation. Although limited recommendations have been published specific to patients with ALS, no guidelines currently exist for the terminal liberation from mechanical ventilation in patients experiencing respiratory muscle insufficiency from a neuromuscular disease. Further research on this topic is needed, including creation of a protocol for ventilator release in patients with neuromuscular disease. The following case reports detail the dissimilar EOL experiences of two patients with different forms of neuromuscular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Curtisi
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospice of the Valley (J.C., B.V.C.), Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
| | | | - Timothy Kokanovich
- Department of Palliative Care, Mayo Clinic Arizona (J.E.W., T.K.), Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Barbara Volk-Craft
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospice of the Valley (J.C., B.V.C.), Phoenix, Arizona, USA
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Simão D, Barata PC, Alves M, Papoila AL, Oliveira S, Lawlor P. Symptom Clusters in Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study to Examine Their Stability and Prognostic Significance. Oncologist 2024; 29:e152-e163. [PMID: 37536276 PMCID: PMC10769798 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study's purpose was to assess symptom cluster (SC) stability during disease progression and determine their strength of association with survival in patients with advanced cancer . Consecutively eligible patients with advanced cancer not receiving cancer-specific treatment and referred to a Tertiary Palliative Care Clinic were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. At first consultation (D0) and in subsequent consultations at day 15 (D15) and day 30 (D30), patients rated 9 symptoms through the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System scale (0-10) and 10 others using a Likert scale (1-5). Principal components factor analysis with varimax rotation was used to determine SCs at each consultation. Of 318 patients with advanced cancer, 301 met eligibility criteria with a median age of 69 years (range 37-94). Three SCs were identified: neuro-psycho-metabolic (NPM), gastrointestinal, and sleep impairment, with some variations in their constitution over time. Exploratory factor analysis accounted for 40% of variance of observed variables in all SCs. Shorter median survival was observed continuously for NPM cluster (D0 23 vs. 58 days, P < .001; D15 41 vs. 104 days, P=.004; D30 46 vs. 114 days, P = .002), although the presence of 2 or more SCs on D0 and D15 also had prognostic significance (D0: 21 vs. 45 days, P = .005; D30: 50 vs. 96 days, P = .040). In a multivariable model, NPM cluster (D0 hazard ratio estimate: HR 1.64; 95%CI, 1.17-2.31; P = .005; D15 HR: 2.51; 95%CI, 1.25-5.05; P = .009; D30 HR: 3.9; 95%CI, 1.54-9.86; P = .004) and hospitalization (D0 HR: 2.27; 95%CI, 1.47-3.51; P < .001; D15 HR: 2.43; 95%CI, 1.18-5.01; P = .016; D30 HR: 3.41; 95%CI, 1.35-8.62; P = .009) were independently and significantly associated with worse survival. Three clinically relevant SCs were identified, and their constitution had small variations, maintaining a stable set of nuclear symptoms through disease progression. Presence of the NPM cluster and hospitalization maintained their prognostic value over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Simão
- Medical Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro C Barata
- Medical Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
- Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Marta Alves
- Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana L Papoila
- Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia Oliveira
- Medical Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter Lawlor
- Bruyere Continuing Care, Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Bruyere and Ottawa Hospital Research Institutes, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Kindred M, Isha S, Hanson A, Satashia P, Thompson A, Mielke C, Sanghavi D. Letter to the Editor: Improvement in Palliative Care Utilization and Provider Confidence With Respiratory Distress Observation Scale: A Single-Center Experience. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:1602-1603. [PMID: 38060318 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2023.0498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Kindred
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Shahin Isha
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Abby Hanson
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Parthkumar Satashia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Ashley Thompson
- Department of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Cathy Mielke
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Devang Sanghavi
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Murphy MC, Simonis J. Assessment Tools for Dyspnea and Respiratory Distress at the End of Life #453. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:582-583. [PMID: 37011292 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Casey Murphy
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin), and Associate Editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
| | - Jacquelyn Simonis
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin), and Associate Editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
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Li N, Cui M, Wang Y. Effect of Dexmedetomidine for Palliative Sedation for Refractory Dyspnoea in Patients with Terminal-Stage Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2023; 15:291-299. [PMID: 36987523 PMCID: PMC10040164 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s404934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dyspnoea affects a considerable percentage of patients with terminal-stage cancer, and clinical guidelines recommend palliative sedation for patients with refractory dyspnoea. Midazolam is currently the most commonly used sedative; however, it can cause serious adverse reactions, such as respiratory/circulatory depression. Hence, there is a need for an alternative sedative. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a promising alternative as its "awake sedation" effect; however, little is known regarding its use in patients with end-stage dyspnoea. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the safety and usefulness of DEX for palliative sedation of patients with refractory dyspnoea. Methods This retrospective study included patients with terminal-stage cancer who received DEX for palliative sedation owing to refractory dyspnoea in the hospice ward from January 2018 to October 2022. We analysed their general data, dyspnoea conditions, sedation details, sedative treatment effect, dyspnoea relief, and changes in vital signs before and after sedation, via paired t-tests. Results We included 17 patients with terminal-stage cancer who received DEX palliative sedation at a dose of 0.2-0.9 µg/kg·h for refractory dyspnoea, among whom 6 (35%) received a loading dose of 1 µg/kg in 10 min. After 1 h of sedation and at the maximum sedation dose, the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale and Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale scores decreased significantly compared with those before sedation (all P<0.001), as did the respiratory rate (P=0.024 and P=0.008, respectively). The heart rate and blood oxygen saturation did not significantly change, whereas the systolic and diastolic blood pressure after 1 h of sedation were significantly lower than those before sedation (both P=0.015). Conclusion DEX is a promising palliative sedative for patients with terminal-stage cancer, as it safely relieved the symptoms of refractory dyspnoea without inducing serious adverse reactions. Therefore, DEX may greatly enhance the quality of life for patients with terminal-stage cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Department of Hospice Care, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng Cui
- Department of Hospice Care, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Meng Cui; Yumei Wang, Department of Hospice Care, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 18940254587; +86 18940251490, Email ;
| | - Yumei Wang
- Department of Hospice Care, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
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Obarzanek L, Wu W, Tutag-Lehr V. Opioid Management of Dyspnea at End of Life: A Systematic Review. J Palliat Med 2022; 26:711-726. [PMID: 36453988 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this systematic review is to consolidate the existing evidence on opioid use, including administration, dosing, and efficacy, for the relief of dyspnea at end of life. The overarching goal is to optimize clinical management of dyspnea by identifying patterns in opioid use, improving opioid management of dyspnea, and to prioritize future research. Background: Opioids are commonly used in the management of dyspnea at end of life, yet specific administration guidelines are limited. A greater understanding of the effectiveness of opioids in relieving end-of-life dyspnea with consideration of study design, patients, and opioids, including dyspnea evaluation tools and outcomes, will leverage development of standardized administration and dosing. Methods: A PRISMA-guided systematic review using six databases identified quality studies of opioid management for patients with dyspnea at end of life. Results: Twenty-three references met review inclusion criteria, which included terminally ill cancer and noncancer patients with various diagnoses. Studies included two randomized controlled trials, and three nonrandomized experimental, three prospective observational, one cross-sectional, and one case series. Thirteen retrospective chart reviews were also included due to the limited rigorous studies rendered by the search. Thirteen studies evaluated morphine, followed by fentanyl (6), oxycodone (5), general opioid use (4), and hydromorphone (2). Routes of administration were parenteral, oral, combination, and nebulization. Dyspnea was evaluated using self-reporting and non-self-reporting evaluation tools. Sedation was the most reported opioid-related adverse effect. Discussion: Challenges persist in conducting end-of-life research, preventing consensus on standardization of opioid treatment for dyspnea within this specific palliative time frame. Future robust prospective trials using specific, accurate assessment with reassessment of dyspnea/respiratory distress, and consideration of opioid tolerance, polypharmacy, and comorbidities are required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wendy Wu
- Shiffman Medical Library, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Victoria Tutag-Lehr
- Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Obarzanek L, Campbell ML. Dyspnea in Patients with Advanced Stage Cancer: A Nurses Guide to Assessment and Treatment. Semin Oncol Nurs 2022; 38:151255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2022.151255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Takura T, Koike T, Matsuo Y, Sekimoto A, Mutou M. Proxy responses regarding quality of life of patients with terminal lung cancer: preliminary results from a prospective observational study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e048232. [PMID: 35210333 PMCID: PMC8883223 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This prospective study used the EQ-5D utility and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores to analyse the potential usefulness of proxy responses in quality of life assessments of Japanese patients with terminal lung cancer sufficiently healthy to communicate and reply by themselves. We did not investigate the potential usefulness of using proxy responses for patients who could not respond by themselves. DESIGN A prospective observational study. SETTING Single centre. PARTICIPANTS The EQ-5D and VAS responses were gathered from 30 in-hospital patients with lung cancer for a total of three observation points. At nearly the same time, two nurses responded by providing proxy responses. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES EQ-5D and VAS responses. RESULTS There were no significant differences between the patients' and nurses' responses for EQ-5D utility and VAS scores. For the five dimensions of the EQ-5D, significant differences were found between the patients' and nurses' responses for usual activities (patients' response 1.64±0.07, nurses' response 1.41±0.05, p=0.03) and anxiety/depression (patients' response: 1.40±0.05, nurses' response: 1.19±0.03, p=0.02). There was a significant weak positive correlation between patients' and nurses' responses regarding changes in responses from the first to the third observation point (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient ρ=0.228; p<0.01). CONCLUSION The results suggest that proxy responses are useful because there were no significant differences between the patients' and nurses' responses for EQ-5D utility and VAS scores at the three observation points. These findings should, however, be verified in future large-scale trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Takura
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Health Policy, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine Faculty of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoko Koike
- Keio University Faculty of Nursing And Medical Care Graduate School of Health Management, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoko Matsuo
- W. L. Gore & Associates, G.K, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masami Mutou
- National Cancer Center-Hospital East, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
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Trybus T, Victor LS, Silva RSD, Carvalho DR, Cubas MR. Clinical applicability of the terminological subset of palliative care for dignified dying. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2021; 55:e20210126. [PMID: 34807226 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2021-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical applicability of the terminological subset of the international classification for the nursing practice of palliative care for a dignified dying, in oncology. METHOD Prospective study evaluating the clinical applicability of 33 nursing diagnoses/outcomes and 220 nursing interventions. It used case studies of 20 cancer patients undergoing palliation. The nursing process steps were operated by two nurses. Descriptive statistics was used to present, according to the theoretical model, the nursing diagnoses/outcomes and interventions identified in the patients. All statements identified in patients at some point during care were considered applicable in clinical practice. RESULTS Twenty-nine nursing diagnoses/outcomes and 197 nursing interventions from the subset were identified. CONCLUSION In the context of palliative care in patients with cancer, the clinical applicability of 87.8% of the diagnoses/outcomes and 89.5% of the interventions that make up the palliative care terminological subset for dignified dying is affirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Trybus
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Programa de Pós-graduação em Tecnologia em Saúde, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Rudval Souza da Silva
- Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Mestrado Profissional em Saúde Coletiva, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Deborah Ribeiro Carvalho
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Programa de Pós-graduação em Tecnologia em Saúde, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Marcia Regina Cubas
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Programa de Pós-graduação em Tecnologia em Saúde, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Brooks FA, Keeney T, Ritchie C, Tolchin DW. Rehabilitation for Symptom Management for Patients with Cancer at the End of Life: Current Evidence and Barriers to Care. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-021-00325-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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The conscious state of the dying patient: An integrative review. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:731-743. [PMID: 34615571 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521001541] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The cognitive state of the dying in the last days of life may deteriorate, resulting in a reduced ability to communicate their care needs. Distressing symptoms, physical and existential, may go unrecognized and untreated. The objectives of this integrative review were to systematically interrogate the literature to determine the changing conscious state of dying adults and to identify changes in their care needs. METHODS An integrative review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020160475). The World Health Organization definition of palliative care informed the review. CINAHL, MEDLINE (OVID), Scopus, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and PubMed were searched from inception to October 2019 using search strategies for each database. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Methodological quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for the Case Series appraisal tool. Extracted data were synthesized using a narrative approach. RESULTS Of 5,136 papers identified, 11 quantitative case series studies were included. Six themes were identified: conscious state and change over time, awareness, pain, absence of holistic care, the voiceless patient, and signs and symptoms of dying. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS In the last days of life, the physical and conscious state of the dying patient declines, resulting in an inability to express their care needs. Dignity in dying and freedom from pain and suffering are both an imperative and a human right; and unvoiced care needs can result in unnecessary suffering and distress. This review revealed that little is known about how healthcare professionals assess holistic care needs at this vulnerable time. Although much has been written about palliative and end-of-life care, the assessment of care needs when patients are no longer able to voice their own needs has largely been ignored, with little attention from clinical, educational, or research perspectives. This gap in evidence has important implications for the dying and their families.
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Campbell ML, Donesky D, Sarkozy A, Reinke LF. Treatment of Dyspnea in Advanced Disease and at the End of Life. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2021; 23:406-420. [PMID: 33883525 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dyspnea is a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that consists of qualitatively distinct sensations, varies in intensity, and can only be known through the patient's report. Dyspnea is akin to suffocation and is one of the most distressing symptoms experienced by patients with advanced illness and at the end of life. Common approaches to dyspnea management, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, breathing strategies, or supplemental oxygen, have become accepted through pragmatic use or because studies do not include dyspnea as a measured outcome. Patients and clinicians urgently need evidence-based treatments to alleviate this frightening symptom. To fill this gap, a group of dyspnea researchers with expertise to conduct a literature review of evidence-based interventions for dyspnea in patients with serious illness produced these guidelines. We present the evidence from the strongest recommendations for practice to the weakest recommendations and include practical considerations for clinical nurses.
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Matsunuma R, Yamaguchi T, Mori M, Ikari T, Suzuki K, Matsuda Y, Matsumoto Y, Watanabe H, Amano K, Kamura R, Kizawa Y. Predictive Factors for the Development of Dyspnea Within 7 Days After Admission Among Terminally Ill Cancer Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:413-420. [PMID: 34235973 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211028817] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predictive factors for the development of dyspnea have not been reported among terminally ill cancer patients. OBJECTIVE This current study aimed to identify the predictive factors attributed to the development of dyspnea within 7 days after admission among patients with cancer. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of a multicenter prospective observational study on the dying process among patients admitted in inpatient hospices/palliative care units. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those who developed dyspnea (development group) and those who did not (non-development group). To determine independent predictive factors, univariate and multivariate analyses using the logistic regression model were performed. RESULTS From January 2017 to December 2017, 1159 patients were included in this analysis. Univariate analysis showed that male participants, those with primary lung cancer, ascites, and Karnofsky Performance Status score (KPS) of ≤40, smokers, and benzodiazepine users were significantly higher in the development group. Multivariate analysis revealed that primary lung cancer (odds ratio [OR]: 2.80, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.47-5.31; p = 0.002), KPS score (≤40) (OR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.02-3.31; p = 0.044), and presence of ascites (OR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.36-4.02; p = 0.002) were independent predictive factors for the development of dyspnea. CONCLUSIONS Lung cancer, poor performance status, and ascites may be predictive factors for the development of dyspnea among terminally ill cancer patients. However, further studies should be performed to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Matsunuma
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Konan Medical Center, Kobe, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Palliative and Supportive Care Division, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Tomoo Ikari
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kozue Suzuki
- Department of Palliative Care, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer, and Infectious Disease Center, Komagome Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Matsuda
- Department of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine, National Hospital Organization Kinki-Chuo Chest Medical Center, Sakai, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Matsumoto
- Department of Palliative Medicine, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | | | - Koji Amano
- Department of Palliative Medicine, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Palliative and Supportive Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Rena Kamura
- Yodogawa Christian Hospital, Hospice, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kizawa
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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Rinnan E, André B, Espnes GA, Drageset J, Garåsen H, Haugan G. Despite Symptom Severity, do Nursing Home Residents Experience Joy-of-Life? The Associations Between Joy-of-Life and Symptom Severity in Norwegian Nursing Home Residents. J Holist Nurs 2021; 40:84-96. [PMID: 34213960 PMCID: PMC9121523 DOI: 10.1177/08980101211021219] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Finding new approaches to increase health and well-being among nursing home (NH) residents is highly warranted. From a holistic perspective, several Norwegian municipalities have implemented the certification scheme framed "Joy-of-Life Nursing Home" Aims: In a holistic perspective on NH care, this study investigated if NH residents despite potential symptom severity experience joy-of-life (JoL). Therefore, we examined the frequency of common symptoms and the association between common symptoms and JoL in cognitively intact NH residents. Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed. Using the QLQ-C15-PAL quality-of-life questionnaire, hospital anxiety and depression scale, and JoL scale, a total of 188 cognitively intact NH residents participated. Results: Symptom severity was high; 54% reported fatigue, 52% reported constipation, 45% reported pain, 43% reported dyspnea, 32% reported insomnia, 22% reported appetite loss, and 20% reported nausea, while 20% reported anxiety and 23% reported depressive symptoms. Nevertheless, 59% of the NH residents reported high JoL, which was significantly positively related to the quality of life and negatively associated with anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Rinnan
- 8018NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology.,25574Trondheim Municipality
| | - Beate André
- NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology
| | | | - Jorun Drageset
- 1657Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.,1658University of Bergen
| | | | - Gørill Haugan
- 8018NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology.,1786Nord University
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Hui D, Bohlke K, Bao T, Campbell TC, Coyne PJ, Currow DC, Gupta A, Leiser AL, Mori M, Nava S, Reinke LF, Roeland EJ, Seigel C, Walsh D, Campbell ML. Management of Dyspnea in Advanced Cancer: ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1389-1411. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.03465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide guidance on the clinical management of dyspnea in adult patients with advanced cancer. METHODS ASCO convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and formulate recommendations. An Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) systematic review provided the evidence base for nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions to alleviate dyspnea. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies with a concurrent comparison group published through early May 2020. The ASCO Expert Panel also wished to address dyspnea assessment, management of underlying conditions, and palliative care referrals, and for these questions, an additional systematic review identified RCTs, systematic reviews, and guidelines published through July 2020. RESULTS The AHRQ systematic review included 48 RCTs and two retrospective cohort studies. Lung cancer and mesothelioma were the most commonly addressed types of cancer. Nonpharmacologic interventions such as fans provided some relief from breathlessness. Support for pharmacologic interventions was limited. A meta-analysis of specialty breathlessness services reported improvements in distress because of dyspnea. RECOMMENDATIONS A hierarchical approach to dyspnea management is recommended, beginning with dyspnea assessment, ascertainment and management of potentially reversible causes, and referral to an interdisciplinary palliative care team. Nonpharmacologic interventions that may be offered to relieve dyspnea include airflow interventions (eg, a fan directed at the cheek), standard supplemental oxygen for patients with hypoxemia, and other psychoeducational, self-management, or complementary approaches. For patients who derive inadequate relief from nonpharmacologic interventions, systemic opioids should be offered. Other pharmacologic interventions, such as corticosteroids and benzodiazepines, are also discussed. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines .
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hui
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Kari Bohlke
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | - Ting Bao
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | | | | | - Arjun Gupta
- Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Aliza L. Leiser
- Rutgers RWJ Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Masanori Mori
- Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Stefano Nava
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University, Bologna, Italy
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Tinti S, Destrebecq A, Terzoni S, De Maria B, Falcone G, Da Col D, Pairona G, Longhi C, Giudici E, Pidone IM, Alberti A, Sofia M, Ramponi I, Campbell ML. Respiratory Distress Observation Scale Italian Version: Cultural-Linguistic Validation and Psychometric Properties. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2021; 23:187-194. [PMID: 33633100 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dyspnea can be assessed using self-rating scales but, as death approaches, self-reporting becomes difficult. The validated Respiratory Distress Observation Scale measures dyspnea distress. The aim of this study was to develop the Italian version of the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale and to examine its psychometric properties. This was a cross-sectional study, analyzing cultural and linguistic validation, content validity, and psychometric properties. Eighty-nine palliative care subjects were enrolled to validate the Italian version of the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale. Patients had an average age of 74.5 (SD, 11.6) years, and 52% (n = 46) were female. Fourteen experts in palliative care evaluated the Italian Respiratory Distress Observation Scale in terms of the content validity ratio and the content validity index (CVI). The Italian Respiratory Distress Observation Scale was reported with an internal consistency (Cronbach α value) of .72 and an overall substantial interrater reliability (Cohen κ method). The Italian Respiratory Distress Observation Scale achieved a scale-level CVI of 93%, an items-level CVI of greater than 86%, and a minimum content validity ratio value of 0.71. A weak positive correlation was found between the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale and the Dyspnea Visual Analog Scale scores (0.374; P < .001). The Italian Respiratory Distress Observation Scale showed good reliability and validity for patients in palliative care. The Respiratory Distress Observation Scale measured respiratory distress in patients nearest to death.
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Tate K, Reid RC, McLane P, Cummings GE, Rowe BH, Estabrooks CA, Norton P, Lee JS, Wagg A, Robinson C, Cummings GG. Who Doesn't Come Home? Factors Influencing Mortality Among Long-Term Care Residents Transitioning to and From Emergency Departments in Two Canadian Cities. J Appl Gerontol 2020; 40:1215-1225. [PMID: 33025863 PMCID: PMC8406367 DOI: 10.1177/0733464820962638] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Residents of long-term care (LTC) whose deaths are imminent are likely to trigger a transfer to the emergency department (ED), which may not be appropriate. Using data from an observational study, we employed structural equation modeling to examine relationships among organizational and resident variables and death during transitions between LTC and ED. We identified 524 residents involved in 637 transfers from 38 LTC facilities and 2 EDs. Our model fit the data, (χ2 = 72.91, df = 56, p = .064), explaining 15% variance in resident death. Sustained shortness of breath (SOB), persistent decreased level of consciousness (LOC) and high triage acuity at ED presentation were direct and significant predictors of death. The estimated model can be used as a framework for future research. Standardized reporting of SOB and changes in LOC, scoring of resident acuity in LTC and timely palliative care consultation for families in the ED, when they are present, warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R Colin Reid
- The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, Canada
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18
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Symptom-Related Distress among Indigenous Australians in Specialist End-of-Life Care: Findings from the Multi-Jurisdictional Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration Data. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17093131. [PMID: 32365883 PMCID: PMC7246427 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Symptom relief is fundamental to palliative care. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) Australians are known to experience inequities in health care delivery and outcomes, but large-scale studies of end-of-life symptoms in this population are lacking. We compared symptom-related distress among Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian patients in specialist palliative care using the multi-jurisdictional Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration dataset. Based on patient-reported rating scale responses, adjusted relative risks (aRRs) stratified by care setting were calculated for occurrence of (i) symptom-related moderate-to-severe distress and worsening distress during a first episode of care and (ii) symptom-related moderate-to-severe distress at the final pre-death assessment. The p-value significance threshold was corrected for multiple comparisons. First-episode frequencies of symptom-related distress were similar among Indigenous (n = 1180) and non-Indigenous (n = 107,952) patients in both inpatient and community settings. In final pre-death assessments (681 Indigenous and 67,339 non-Indigenous patients), both groups had similar occurrence of moderate-to-severe distress when care was provided in hospital. In community settings, Indigenous compared with non-Indigenous patients had lower pre-death risks of moderate-to-severe distress from overall symptom occurrence (aRR 0.78; p = 0.001; confidence interval [CI] 0.67-0.91). These findings provide reassurance of reasonable equivalence of end-of-life outcomes for Indigenous patients who have been accepted for specialist palliative care.
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Eisenmann Y, Golla H, Schmidt H, Voltz R, Perrar KM. Palliative Care in Advanced Dementia. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:699. [PMID: 32792997 PMCID: PMC7394698 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia syndrome is common and expected to increase significantly among older people and characterized by the loss of cognitive, psychological and physical functions. Palliative care is applicable for people with dementia, however they are less likely to have access to palliative care. This narrative review summarizes specifics of palliative care in advanced dementia. Most people with advanced dementia live and die in institutional care and they suffer a range of burdensome symptoms and complications. Shortly before dying people with advanced dementia suffer symptoms as pain, eating problems, breathlessness, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and complications as respiratory or urinary infections and frequently experience burdensome transitions. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions may reduce symptom burden. Sensitive observation and appropriate assessment tools enable health professionals to assess symptoms and needs and to evaluate interventions. Due to lack of decisional capacity, proxy decision making is often necessary. Advanced care planning is an opportunity establishing values and preferences and is associated with comfort and decrease of burdensome interventions. Family carers are important for people with advanced dementia they also experience distress and are in need for support. Recommendations refer to early integration of palliative care, recognizing signs of approaching death, symptom assessment and management, advanced care planning, person-centered care, continuity of care, and collaboration of health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Eisenmann
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Heidrun Golla
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Holger Schmidt
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Clinical Trials Center (ZKS), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Klaus Maria Perrar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Krooupa AM, Vivat B, McKeever S, Marcus E, Sawyer J, Stone P. Identification and evaluation of observational measures for the assessment and/or monitoring of level of consciousness in adult palliative care patients: A systematic review for I-CAN-CARE. Palliat Med 2020; 34:83-113. [PMID: 31434526 PMCID: PMC6952953 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319871666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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 The use of observational measures to assess palliative care patients' level of consciousness may improve patient care and comfort. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the validity and reliability of these measures in palliative care settings. AIM To identify and evaluate the psychometric performance of observational level of consciousness measures used in palliative care. DESIGN Systematic review; PROSPERO registration: CRD42017073080. DATA SOURCES We searched six databases until November 2018, using search terms combining subject headings and free-text terms. Psychometric performance for each identified tool was appraised independently by two reviewers following established criteria for developing and evaluating health outcome measures. RESULTS We found 35 different levels of consciousness tools used in 65 studies. Only seven studies reported information about psychometric performance of just eight tools. All other studies used either ad hoc measures for which no formal validation had been undertaken (n = 21) or established tools mainly developed and validated in non-palliative care settings (n = 37). The Consciousness Scale for Palliative Care and a modified version of the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale received the highest ratings in our appraisal, but, since psychometric evidence was limited, no tool could be assessed for all psychometric properties. CONCLUSION An increasing number of studies in palliative care are using observational measures of level of consciousness. However, only a few of these tools have been tested for their psychometric performance in that context. Future research in this area should validate and/or refine the existing measures, rather than developing new tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Krooupa
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Bella Vivat
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Stephen McKeever
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK.,school of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Kingston Hill, UK
| | - Elena Marcus
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Joseph Sawyer
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Paddy Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
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Piamjariyakul U, Petitte T, Smothers A, Wen S, Morrissey E, Young S, Sokos G, Moss AH, Smith CE. Study protocol of coaching end-of-life palliative care for advanced heart failure patients and their family caregivers in rural appalachia: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:119. [PMID: 31884945 PMCID: PMC6936135 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0500-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart failure (HF) afflicts 6.5 million Americans with devastating consequences to patients and their family caregivers. Families are rarely prepared for worsening HF and are not informed about end-of-life and palliative care (EOLPC) conservative comfort options especially during the end stage. West Virginia (WV) has the highest rate of HF deaths in the U.S. where 14% of the population over 65 years have HF. Thus, there is a need to investigate a new family EOLPC intervention (FamPALcare), where nurses coach family-managed advanced HF care at home. METHODS This study uses a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design stratified by gender to determine any differences in the FamPALcare HF patients and their family caregiver outcomes versus standard care group outcomes (N = 72). Aim 1 is to test the FamPALcare nursing care intervention with patients and family members managing home supportive EOLPC for advanced HF. Aim 2 is to assess implementation of the FamPALcare intervention and research procedures for subsequent clinical trials. Intervention group will receive routine standard care, plus 5-weekly FamPALcare intervention delivered by community-based nurses. The intervention sessions involve coaching patients and family caregivers in advanced HF home care and supporting EOLPC discussions based on patients' preferences. Data are collected at baseline, 3, and 6 months. Recruitment is from sites affiliated with a large regional hospital in WV and community centers across the state. DISCUSSION The outcomes of this clinical trial will result in new knowledge on coaching techniques for EOLPC and approaches to palliative and end-of-life rural home care. The HF population in WV will benefit from a reduction in suffering from the most common advanced HF symptoms, selecting their preferred EOLPC care options, determining their advance directives, and increasing skills and resources for advanced HF home care. The study will provide a long-term collaboration with rural community leaders, and collection of data on the implementation and research procedures for a subsequent large multi-site clinical trial of the FamPALcare intervention. Multidisciplinary students have opportunity to engage in the research process. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04153890, Registered on 4 November 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ubolrat Piamjariyakul
- West Virginia University, School of Nursing Health Sciences Center, Post Office Box 9600 - Office 6701, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9602, USA.
| | - Trisha Petitte
- West Virginia University, School of Nursing Health Sciences Center, Post Office Box 9600 - Office 6701, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9602, USA
| | - Angel Smothers
- West Virginia University, School of Nursing Health Sciences Center, Post Office Box 9600 - Office 6701, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9602, USA
| | - Sijin Wen
- Department of Biostatistics School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, USA
| | - Elizabeth Morrissey
- West Virginia University, School of Nursing Health Sciences Center, Post Office Box 9600 - Office 6701, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9602, USA
| | - Stephanie Young
- West Virginia University, School of Nursing Health Sciences Center, Post Office Box 9600 - Office 6701, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9602, USA
| | - George Sokos
- Advanced Heart Failure, West Virginia University Heart and Vascular Institute, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, USA
| | - Alvin H Moss
- Sections of Nephrology and Supportive Care, West Virginia University Center for Health Ethics and Law, Morgantown, USA
| | - Carol E Smith
- University of Kansas Medical Center, School of Nursing and School of Preventive Medicine, Morgantown, USA
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Okamoto S, Uneno Y, Mori M, Yamaguchi T, Nakajima N. Communication with Families in the Last Days of a Patient’s Life and Optimal Delivery of a Death Pronouncement. Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.84730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Zhuang Q, Yang GM, Neo SHS, Cheung YB. Validity, Reliability, and Diagnostic Accuracy of the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale for Assessment of Dyspnea in Adult Palliative Care Patients. J Pain Symptom Manage 2019; 57:304-310. [PMID: 30391404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.10.506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence and severity of dyspnea increase at the end of life. Many of these patients have difficulty in reporting their symptoms. Accurate surrogate measures are needed for appropriate assessment and treatment. The Respiratory Distress Observation Scale (RDOS) is proposed as a possible scale although more external validation is needed. We set out to validate the RDOS in the context of palliative care patients near the end of life. MEASURES We prospectively studied 122 palliative care patients in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Prior RDOS training was done using a standardized instructional video. Dyspnea was assessed by RDOS, Dyspnea Numerical Rating Scale, and Dyspnea Categorical Scale. Pain was assessed by Pain Numerical Rating Scale. We measured RDOS inter-rater reliability, convergent validity, and divergent validity. We used area under receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) analysis to examine the discriminant properties of RDOS using dyspnea self-report as benchmark. RESULTS RDOS had good inter-rater reliability with an intraclass correlation of 0.947 (95% CI 0.919-0.976). It showed moderate-to-strong correlation with Dyspnea Numerical Rating Scale (r = 0.702) and Dyspnea Categorical Scale (r = 0.677) and negligible correlation to Pain Numerical Rating Scale (r = 0.080). It showed good discriminant properties of identifying patients with moderate and severe dyspnea with an AUC of 0.874 (95% CI 0.812-0.936). RDOS ≥ 4 predicted patients with moderate and severe dyspnea with a sensitivity of 76.6%, specificity of 86.2%, positive predictive value of 86.0%, and negative predictive value of 76.9%. CONCLUSIONS The RDOS shows promise and clinical utility as an observational dyspnea assessment tool. Further studies in uncommunicative patients are needed to determine clinical usefulness and generalizability of results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grace Meijuan Yang
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore; Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | | | - Yin Bun Cheung
- Program in Health Services & Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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Barbato M, Barclay G, Potter J, Yeo W. Breakthrough Medication in Unresponsive Palliative Care Patients: Indications, Practice, and Efficacy. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:944-950. [PMID: 30201486 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT An unresponsive patient's need and their response to breakthrough medication is determined by clinical assessment and/or observational measures. How closely these methods match the patient's experience is unknown. OBJECTIVES Determine the efficacy and effectiveness of breakthrough medication in unresponsive patients and the perception of patient comfort made by nurses and family. METHODS A prospective study of breakthrough medication in unresponsive patients. The Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) and Patient Comfort Score (PCS) were compared with time-matched Bispectral Index (BIS) Scores. The effects of opioid vs. opioid + benzodiazepine breakthroughs and the relation between synchronous nurse and family measurements of the PCS were evaluated. Analysis of variance and paired t-tests were used for BIS analyses and nonparametric Mann-Whitney tests for RASS and PCS. RESULTS Significant reductions at 30 and 60 minutes after breakthrough medication were noted for BIS (P < 0.0004), RASS (P = 0.043 and 0.004, respectively), and PCS (P < 0.0004). A direct comparison of the effect of opioid breakthrough medication vs. opioid plus benzodiazepine revealed no significant difference (BIS, P = 0.512; RASS, P = 0.195; PCS, P = 0.119). Of the 157 synchronous nurse and family measures of patient comfort, families rated patient discomfort significantly higher than nurses (P < 0.0004). CONCLUSION This study provides additional evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of breakthrough medication and the merit of observational measures in determining a patient's response. The onset of action is evident at 30 minutes after injection. Family assessment of patient comfort may be more nuanced than that of nurses, and they not uncommonly rate patient discomfort higher than nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Barbato
- Palliative Care Services, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Greg Barclay
- Palliative Care Services, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jan Potter
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wilf Yeo
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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Campbell ML, McErlane L. Feasibility of a Study To Test the Effectiveness of a Dyspnea Assessment and Treatment Bundle To Improve Family Caregiving of Patients in Home Hospice. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1547. [PMID: 30383512 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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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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