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Niaré D, Robert G, Rocquevieille A, De Geyer L, Frin M, Pennec S, Hanslik T, Blanchon T, Rossignol L, Morel V. General practitioners and palliative care practices: a better knowledge of specific services is still needed. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:832. [PMID: 39044274 PMCID: PMC11264423 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11266-8] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND France allows deep sedation for pain relief, but not for euthanasia. In anticipation of an increase in home-based palliative care, the role of general practitioners is central to the design of outpatient palliative care services. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of general practitioners in mainland France regarding palliative and end of life care. METHODS This was a national descriptive cross-sectional study within the Sentinelles network. Self-report questionnaires were distributed to general practitioners between November 2020 and November 2021. A descriptive analysis was carried out. RESULTS Out of the 123 participating general practitioners, 84% had received academic training in palliative care (n = 104). While a significant majority (69%) expressed comfort in pain management, only a quarter (25%) declared that they were competent at indicating deep and continuous sedation for pain relief. Awareness of outpatient palliative care facilities close to their place of practice such as hospitalization at home was over 97% (n = 117/120). Awareness of hospital facilities, including identified palliative care beds on hospital wards and palliative care units, was lower (75% (n = 59/79) and 86% (n = 86/100), respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that French general practitioners are reasonably aware of palliative care resources available. However, there is room for improvement, particularly in understanding hospital-based facilities. Furthermore, a quarter of the general practitioners expressed discomfort with deep and continuous sedation for pain relief, highlighting the need for increased training in this specific aspect of palliative and end of life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daouda Niaré
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, F-75012, Paris, France.
| | - Guillaume Robert
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, F-75012, Paris, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Rennes, Service de soins palliatifs, 35033, Rennes Cedex, France
- Université Rennes 1, Rennes, France
| | | | | | | | - Sophie Pennec
- Institut National d'études Démographiques (INED), F-93320, Aubervilliers, France
- School of Demography, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Thomas Hanslik
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, F-75012, Paris, France
- UFR des sciences de la santé Simone-Veil, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, F-78180, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
- Service de médecine interne, Hôpital Ambroise-Paré, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, F-92100, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Thierry Blanchon
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Louise Rossignol
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, F-75012, Paris, France
- Département de Médecine Générale, Université Paris Cité, F-75018, Paris, France
| | - Vincent Morel
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Rennes, Service de soins palliatifs, 35033, Rennes Cedex, France
- Université Rennes 1, Rennes, France
- Université de Rennes, INSERM, Centre d'investigation clinique de Rennes (CIC 1414), 35000, Rennes, France
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Feliciano DR, Reis-Pina P. Enhancing End-of-Life Care with Home-Based Palliative Interventions: A Systematic Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00856-X. [PMID: 39002710 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.07.005] [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: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Home-Based Palliative Care (HPC) interventions have emerged as a promising approach to deliver patient-centered care in familiar surroundings, aligning with patients' preferences and improving quality of life (QOL). OBJECTIVES This review aimed to systematically assess the impact of HPC interventions on symptom management, QOL, healthcare resource utilization and place of death among patients with severe, progressive illnesses requiring end-of-life care. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies published between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2023. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of HPC interventions compared to usual care. Risk of bias assessment was performed using Cochrane tools. RESULTS Nine publications meeting inclusion criteria were identified. Findings indicate that HPC interventions, delivered by specialized teams or integrated care approaches, significantly improve QOL and increase the likelihood of patients dying at home. Moreover, HPC is associated with reduced healthcare utilization, including fewer hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and shorter hospital stays. No significant differences were observed in symptom management. CONCLUSION HPC interventions demonstrate significant benefits in addressing the complex needs of patients with advanced illnesses. These findings underscore the importance of integrating HPC into healthcare systems to optimize outcomes and promote quality end-of-life care. Future research should focus on expanding access to HPC services, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, and incorporating patient preferences to further improve care delivery in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulo Reis-Pina
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal; Bento Menni Palliative Care Unit, Sintra, Portugal.
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3
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Aurén-Møkleby M, Aasbø G, Fredheim OMS, Mengshoel AM, Solbrække KN, Thoresen L. "It turned out right for both of us": A qualitative study about a preference for home death and actual place of death. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38916193 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2369847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
This qualitative study was conducted in Norway to explore couples' preference for home death when one of the partners was dying from cancer, and what made home death possible or not. We conducted dyad interviews with five couples. After the patients' death, the spouses participated in individual interviews. The data were interpreted using thematic narrative analysis. One patient died at home, and three died in a healthcare institution. The narratives show how interdependency and mutual care were important when dealing with home death. When care needs were manageable at home, home was perceived a safe place and the preferred place for death. When care needs were experienced to become unmanageable at home, the sense of safety changed and admission to a health care institution was considered the best option. Regardless of place of death, the spouses experienced the end to have turned out right for their partner and themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gunvor Aasbø
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olav Magnus S Fredheim
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Kari N Solbrække
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lisbeth Thoresen
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Sørstrøm AK, Ludvigsen MS, Kymre IG. Facilitating planned home death: A qualitative study on home care nurses' experiences of enablers and barriers. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38515196 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to explore home care nurses' experience of enablers and barriers for planned home death in municipal health care. DESIGN A focused ethnography. METHODS This qualitative study collected data from 20 semi-structured interviews of home care nurses and 8.5 h of participant observations. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The findings in our study show that home care nurses consider supportive cultures, a commitment to safety and continuity when facilitating planned home deaths and family rotations to be enablers for planned home deaths. Barriers to planned home deaths involve a lack of palliative experience affecting confidence, shortages of nurses and medical supplies and night shift challenges. CONCLUSION This study underscores the need for supportive organizational cultures, ongoing education and improved communication and staffing policies to enhance the quality of care and the experiences of patients and home care nurses, especially in the context of planned home deaths. IMPACT The study adds knowledge to the evidence base of the practice of facilitating planned home deaths. The findings of the study could offer valuable insights for shaping future policies or devising effective implementation strategies. REPORTING METHOD Adherence to the COREQ guidelines for reporting qualitative research was maintained. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution. WHAT DOES THIS ARTICLE CONTRIBUTE TO THE WIDER GLOBAL CLINICAL COMMUNITY?: Identified enablers and barriers provide a new perspective, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of planning home deaths. The study emphasizes supportive cultures, safety commitment and family rotations as crucial for planned home deaths, guiding healthcare professionals to adopt best practices and enhance palliative care quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mette Spliid Ludvigsen
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine - Randers Regional Hospital, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Wang Y, Zhang X, Huang Y, Ma X. Palliative Care for Cancer Patients in Asia: Challenges and Countermeasures. Oncol Rev 2024; 17:11866. [PMID: 38293617 PMCID: PMC10824851 DOI: 10.3389/or.2023.11866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
With the increasing incidence of cancer worldwide, palliative care has become an effective intervention to relieve cancer patients' pain and improve their quality of life, although the present development of palliative medicine and hospice care in many Asian countries remains insufficient. To this end, this review comprehensively discussed the main challenges that influence the promotion of palliative medicine, from the perspective of both healthcare professionals and cancer patients. We further proposed and summarized a series of potentially effective countermeasures and solutions, including the shared decision-making modal, multidisciplinary professional cooperation, application of modern science and technology, standardization training for medical workers, personalized palliative treatment regimens, and others, aiming to improve the clinical quality of palliative care practice for cancer patients and promote the development of palliative medicine in Asian regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xinqing Zhang
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yilin Huang
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Nilsson J, Bergström S, Hållberg H, Berglund A, Bergqvist M, Holgersson G. Prospective Study of Preferred Versus Actual Place of Death Among Swedish Palliative Cancer Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023:10499091231213640. [PMID: 37933153 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231213640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The place of death of cancer patients is an important aspect of end-of-life care. However, little research has been conducted regarding factors that may influence the preferred and actual place of death in cancer patients and whether the patients die at their preferred place of death. In this study, we aimed to investigate the preferred and actual place of death for palliative cancer patients, and factors influencing these variables. Methods: Patients diagnosed with cancer and admitted to a palliative care team across three Swedish cities between 2019 and 2022 were asked for participation. Participants completed a questionnaire capturing sociodemographic data and preferred place of death. Further data regarding age, sex, and cancer type were collated at inclusion, and the actual place of death recorded for those deceased by 5-May-2023. Results: The study included 242 patients. A majority (79%) wanted to die at home which was the actual death location for 76% of the patients. When the place-of-death decision was made by the patient alone, 75% chose home, compared to 96% when decided jointly with relatives-a statistically significant variation (p = 0.0037). For the patients who wanted to die at home, 80% actually died at home, with insignificant disparities among subgroups. Conclusions: Most palliative cancer patients in this Swedish cohort preferred and achieved death at home. Involving relatives in decision-making may influence the preferred place of death, however larger studies are needed to comprehensively assess factors affecting the preferred and actual place of death in different subgroups of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Nilsson
- Center for Research & Development, Uppsala University/ County Council of Gävleborg, Gävle Hospital, Gävle, Sweden
- Department of Radiation Sciences & Oncology, Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Radiology, Gävle Hospital, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Stefan Bergström
- Center for Research & Development, Uppsala University/ County Council of Gävleborg, Gävle Hospital, Gävle, Sweden
| | | | | | - Michael Bergqvist
- Department of Radiation Sciences & Oncology, Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Immunology Genetics and Pathology, Section of clinical and experimental oncology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Georg Holgersson
- Department of Immunology Genetics and Pathology, Section of clinical and experimental oncology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
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7
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Mitchell H, Cairnduff V, O'Hare S, Simpson L, White R, Gavin AT. Factors associated with emergency admission for people dying from cancer in Northern Ireland: an observational data linkage study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1184. [PMID: 37907903 PMCID: PMC10617099 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10228-w] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people living with cancer are admitted as an emergency, some just prior to diagnosis and others in their last year of life. Factors associated with accessing emergency care for people dying of cancer are complex and not well understood. This can make it difficult to have the resources and staffing in place to best care for individuals in their last year of life and their families. METHODS This study uses routinely collected administrative data from people who died of cancer in N. Ireland (NI) during 2015 and explores how personal characteristics (e.g., gender, age) and disease related factors (e.g., tumour site, cancer stage at initial diagnosis) were associated with having an emergency admission to hospital in the last year and the last 28 days of their lives, using multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Almost three in four people had at least one emergency admission in the last year of life, and over one in three had an emergency admission the last 28 days of life. Patterns were similar for both time outcomes with males, people with haematological, lung or brain cancers, younger persons, those diagnosed with late-stage cancer, and people diagnosed close to time of death, being significantly more likely to have an emergency admission. While there was no significant association between deprivation and emergency admission rates, those living in urban areas were more likely to have an emergency admission in their last month of life compared to rural dwellers. Late diagnosis was evident with 538 people (12.8% of all deaths from cancer) being diagnosed within one month of death and 1242 (29%) within 3 months of death. CONCLUSION The high level of emergency admissions points to gaps in routine end-of-life care, and the need for additional training for hospital staff including frontline emergency department (ED) staff who are often the 'gatekeepers' to emergency inpatient care for people living with cancer. The levels of late diagnosis indicate a need for increased population awareness of cancer symptoms and system change to promote earlier diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Mitchell
- Centre for Public Health, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
| | - V Cairnduff
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - S O'Hare
- Centre for Public Health, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - L Simpson
- Centre for Public Health, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - R White
- Macmillan Cancer Support, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - A T Gavin
- Centre for Public Health, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
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Mikaelsson Midlöv E, Lindberg T, Sterner T, Skär L. Support given by health professionals before and after a patient's death to relatives involved in general palliative care at home in Sweden: Findings from the Swedish Register of Palliative Care. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37746762 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES General palliative care (PC) is provided more at home, leading to increased involvement of relatives. Although support for relatives is a fundamental component of PC, there are deficiencies in the support provided to relatives when general PC is provided at home. This study aimed to describe the support provided by health professionals before and after a patient's death to relatives involved in general PC at home. METHODS A cross-sectional register study was implemented, with data from the Swedish Register of Palliative care. The sample consisted of 160 completed surveys from relatives who had been involved in general PC at home, with 160 related surveys answered by health professionals. Only the questions about support to relatives were used from the surveys. RESULTS The findings showed that although many relatives appear to receive support in general PC at home, not all relatives receive optimal support before or after a patient's death. The findings also indicated differences in whether relatives received some support before and after a patient's death depending on the type of relative. There were also differences in responses between health professionals and relatives regarding if relatives received counseling from a doctor about whether the patient was dying. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS There is potential for improvements regarding support for relatives, especially after a patient's death, which has been confirmed in previous studies. The differences in whether relatives received support before and after a patient's death depending on the type of relative highlight the need for future research on how to support different types of relatives before and after a patient's death when general PC is provided at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Mikaelsson Midlöv
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Health, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
- Faculty of Health and Society, Department of Care Science, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Terese Lindberg
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Health, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Therese Sterner
- Faculty of Health and Society, Department of Care Science, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lisa Skär
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Health, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
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Aurén-Møkleby M, Thoresen L, Mengshoel AM, Solbrække KN, Aasbø G. 'It's not just about me': a qualitative study of couples' narratives about home death when one of the partners is dying of cancer. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231189517. [PMID: 37545874 PMCID: PMC10399270 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231189517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Most cancer patients state a preference for home death. Care and support from primary caregivers are important to enable dying at home. A preference for home death from the perspective of couples has rarely been investigated. Objectives To explore how a preference for home death is understood and enacted in couples where one of the partners is dying of cancer. Design A qualitative interview research design with a narrative approach was used. Methods Five couples participated in dyad interviews. During the analysis, two interviews that particularly illuminated couples' shared and individual views were chosen as the primary cases. Results The interviews show, in two highly different ways, how a preference for home death is a significant relational matter. The interviews are presented as two cases: 'Struggles in an Unknown Terrain' and 'Reliance at the Kitchen Table'. They show how a preference for home death can be understood and enacted as a struggle or as reliance based on the couple's shared biography and the partner's ability to care for the partner during the end-of-life phase. The analysis highlighted the negotiations that underpin a preference for home death. In these negotiations, the couples drew on idealised understandings of home death. These ideas were supported by cultural values related to autonomy and independence as well as participation and citizenship. Thus, in the negotiations about being cared for and caring, legitimate dependency and the maintenance of a reciprocal relationship were balanced. The presence of healthcare professionals and medical devices in the home had to be balanced with the need to maintain a sense of self and an authentic home. Conclusion A relational perspective on a preference for home death made us attentive to couples' negotiations. These negotiations give couples the opportunity to re-evaluate and reconfirm individual and mutual needs in the end-of-life phase.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisbeth Thoresen
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Gunvor Aasbø
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, NorwayDepartment of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
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Valentino TCDO, Paiva CE, de Oliveira MA, Hui D, Bruera E, Julião M, Paiva BSR. Preference and actual place-of-death in advanced cancer: prospective longitudinal study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2023-004299. [PMID: 37402541 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the preferred place-of-death (PPoD) among patients with advanced cancer over time, and the concordance between preferred and actual place-of-death. METHODS Prospective cohort study. A total of 190 patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers (n=190) were interviewed every 3 months, from study enrolment to 12 months (M0, M1, M2, M3, M4). PPoD data were obtained under four different end-of-life scenarios: (1) severe clinical deterioration without further specification; (2) clinical deterioration suffering from severe symptoms; (3) clinical deterioration receiving home-based visits; and (4) clinical deterioration receiving home-based visits and suffering from severe symptoms. RESULTS Home was the most common PPoD over time among patients in scenarios 1 (n=121, 63.7%; n=77, 68.8%; n=39, 57.4%; n=30, 62.5%; n=23, 60.5%) and 3 (n=147, 77.4%; n=87, 77.7%; n=48, 70.6%; n=36, 75.0%; n=30, 78.9%). PPoD in palliative care unit (PCU) and hospital were most frequent at baseline in scenario 2 (n=79, 41.6%; n=78, 41.1%), followed by hospital over time (n=61, 54.5%; n=45, 66.2%; n=35, 72.9%; n=28, 73.7%). During the curse of illness, 6.3% of patients change their PPoD in at least one of end-of-life scenario. About 49.7%, 30.6% and 19.7% of patients died in PCU, hospital and home, respectively. Living in rural area (OR=4.21), poor health self-perception (OR=4.49) and pain at the last days of life (OR=2.77) were associated with death in PPoD. The overall agreement between last preference and actual place-of-death was 51.0% (k=0.252). CONCLUSION Home death was not the preferred place for a large number of patients when this option was presented within a clinical context scenario. The PPoD and actual place-of-death were depending on the clinical situation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Eduardo Paiva
- GPQual - Research Group on Palliative Care and Quality of Life, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Antonio de Oliveira
- GPQual - Research Group on Palliative Care and Quality of Life, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - David Hui
- Palliative Care, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Palliative Care & Rehabilitation Medicine, UT M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Miguel Julião
- Equipa Comunitária de Suporte em Cuidados Paliativos de Sintra, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bianca Sakamoto Ribeiro Paiva
- GPQual - Research Group on Palliative Care and Quality of Life, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
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Tam KI, Che SL, Zhu M, Leong SM. Home or hospital as the place of end-of-life care and death: A survey among Chinese residents of Macao. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1043144. [PMID: 36778560 PMCID: PMC9911451 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1043144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The study was the first to explore Chinese residents' preferred place of care at the end of life and preferred place of death in Macao. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted online and face-to-face. The questionnaire was designed in Chinese, and both online and face-to-face surveys were conducted in Chinese. The study was conducted in Macao. Macao residents aged 18 years and older were recruited. Results A total of 737 responses were valid, 65% were female, aged between 19 and 101 years; 43.4% of respondents preferred to be cared for at home in the last 6 months; however, less than one-fifth preferred to die at home. One-third of respondents chose to die in the hospice, and over a quarter of them preferred to die in hospitals. Compared with people aged between 18 and 39 years, people aged between 40 and 64 years did not want to be cared for at home in the last 6 months, and they did not want to die at home either. Conclusion The results of the study suggested that there is a need for palliative home care in Macao, and the government should consider developing such a service and review current laws and regulations in supporting the service. Education is equally important for healthcare professionals, enabling them to support palliative care development in the community.
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12
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Fürst P, Schultz T, Strang P. Specialized Palliative Care for Patients with Chronic Heart Failure at End of Life: Transfers, Emergency Department Visits, and Hospital Deaths. J Palliat Med 2022. [PMID: 36576786 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Specialized palliative care (SPC) may contribute to improved quality of life in patients with life-limiting chronic heart failure (CHF). This study examined SPC and possible differences in the care process regarding emergency department (ED) visits, transfers, and place of death for severely ill patients with CHF. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational registry study used the health care consumption data from the Stockholm Regional Council. Logistic regression analyses of age, sex, palliative care, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status were performed. Results: Of the 4322 individuals who died of heart failure between 2015 and 2019 and did not reside in a nursing home, 24% received SPC. Receiving SPC was associated with a lower odds ratio (OR) of ED visits (OR 0.24, p < 0.0001), unplanned transfers (OR 0.39, p < 0.0001), and emergency hospital as a place of death (OR 0.10, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, a better socioeconomic situation, younger age, and fewer comorbidities were associated with a lower OR of ED visits and transfers (p < 0.0001 to p = 0.013 in different comparisons). Multiple comorbidities (p < 0.0002) and younger age (p < 0.0001) were associated with a higher OR of emergency hospitals as a place of death. Conclusion: Approximately one-quarter of patients who died of heart failure received SPC. Receipt of SPC was associated with a significantly reduced number of ED visits, transfers between health care services, and risk of dying in emergency hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Fürst
- Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Palliative Medicine, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Schultz
- Palliative Medicine, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Strang
- Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Palliative Medicine, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
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Lindskog M, Schultz T, Strang P. Acute healthcare utilization in end-of-life among Swedish brain tumor patients – a population based register study. Palliat Care 2022; 21:133. [PMID: 35869460 PMCID: PMC9308283 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Patients with progressive primary brain tumors commonly develop a spectrum of physical as well as cognitive symptoms. This places a large burden on family members and the condition’s complexity often requires frequent health care contacts. We investigated potential associations between sociodemographic or socioeconomic factors, comorbidity or receipt of specialized palliative care (SPC) and acute healthcare utilization in the end-of-life (EOL) phase.
Methods
A population-based retrospective study of all adult patients dying with a primary malignant brain tumor as main diagnosis in 2015–2019 in the Stockholm area, the most densely populated region in Sweden (N = 780). Registry data was collected from the Stockholm Region´s central data warehouse (VAL). Outcome variables included emergency room (ER) visits or hospitalizations in the last month of life, or death in acute hospitals. Possible explanatory variables included age, sex, living arrangements (residents in nursing homes versus all others), Charlson Comorbidity Index, socio-economic status (SES) measured by Mosaic groups, and receipt of SPC in the last three months of life. T-tests or Wilcoxon Rank Sum tests were used for comparisons of means of independent groups and Chi-square test for comparison of proportions. Associations were tested by univariable and multivariable logistic regressions calculating odds ratios (OR).
Results
The proportion of patients receiving SPC increased gradually during the last year of life and was 77% in the last 3 months of life. Multivariable analyses showed SPC to be equal in relation to sex and SES, and inversely associated with age (p ≤ 0.01), comorbidity (p = 0.001), and nursing home residency (p < 0.0001). Unplanned ER visits (OR 0.41) and hospitalizations (OR 0.45) during the last month of life were significantly less common among patients receiving SPC, in multivariable analysis (p < 0.001). In accordance, hospital deaths were infrequent in patients receiving SPC (2%) as compared to one in every four patients without SPC (p < 0.0001). Patients with less comorbidity had lower acute healthcare utilization in the last month of life (OR 0.35 to 0.65), whereas age or SES was not significantly associated with acute care utilization. Female sex was associated with a lower likelihood of EOL hospitalization (OR 0.72). Nursing home residency was independently associated with a decreased likelihood of EOL acute healthcare utilization including fewer hospital deaths (OR 0.08–0.54).
Conclusions
Receipt of SPC or nursing home residency was associated with lower acute health care utilization among brain tumor patients. Patients with more severe comorbidities were less likely to receive SPC and required excess acute healthcare in end-of-life and therefore constitute a particularly vulnerable group.
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Björkhem-Bergman L. Overtreatment in end-of-life care: how can we do better? Acta Oncol 2022; 61:1435-1436. [PMID: 36622891 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2164919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Björkhem-Bergman
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.,Palliative Medicine, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
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Feng L, He Y, Dong S, Wang R, Long S, He L. An exploratory descriptive cohort study of 90-day prognosis after acute ischaemic stroke with mechanical thrombectomy. Contemp Nurse 2022; 58:264-275. [PMID: 36052463 DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2022.2107038] [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: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the relationship between nursing assessment findings at discharge and acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patient prognosis after mechanical thrombectomy (MT). METHODS We analysed the characteristics of 144 AIS patients with MT treatment admitted to a university affiliated teaching hospital in Chengdu, Sichuan Province China, from January 2020 to December 2020. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score was used to assess outcomes 90-days after discharge. Exploratory analyses were undertaken using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 26.0). RESULTS At 90-days, 47.9% (n = 69) had a good prognosis (mRS ≤ 2) including 22.2%(n = 32) fully recovered patients. There were 5 (3.5%) deceased patients and 48.6% (n =70) of patients had a poor prognosis (mRS ≥ 3). In univariate analysis, clinical prognosis correlated with the need for inpatient endotracheal intubation (p = 0.02), nasogastric tube (p<0.001), indwelling urinary catheter (p<0.001), central venous catheter (p = 0.03), health knowledge needs of pressure injury prevention (p = 0.03), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (p<0.001) and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score (p<0.001) at the time of discharge from hospital. The average hospitalisation time of the 144 patients was 12[IQR, 9-25] days, and the average cost of hospitalisation was $Y$21291.93 (SD 9165.01). CONCLUSION Almost half of the surviving patients had a poor prognosis. In our country, this surgery and rehabilitation impose a significant financial burden that needs to be addressed. However, the longer length of hospital stay and higher costs at discharge may be contributing factors to worse outcomes. The outcomes of comprehensive nursing assessment of the patients, including nursing needs, activities of daily living, and neurological function, can predict their outcome. IMPACT STATEMENT We recommend a comprehensive nursing assessment at discharge that predicts patient outcomes and can be used for subsequent targeted interventions. The prognosis of patients with acute ischaemic stroke after mechanical thrombectomy is poor, and the financial burden needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Feng
- West China School of Nursing,Sichuan University/Department of Neurology,West China Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu China
| | - Yueyue He
- West China School of Nursing,Sichuan University/Department of Neurology,West China Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu China
| | - Shuju Dong
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu China
| | - Rui Wang
- West China School of Nursing,Sichuan University/Department of Neurology,West China Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu China
| | - Shiyan Long
- West China School of Nursing,Sichuan University/Department of Neurology,West China Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu China
| | - Li He
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu China
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Bergqvist J, Hedman C, Schultz T, Strang P. Equal receipt of specialized palliative care in breast and prostate cancer: a register study. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:7721-7730. [PMID: 35697884 PMCID: PMC9385819 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07150-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There are inequalities in cancer treatment. This study aimed to investigate whether receipt of specialized palliative care (SPC) is affected by typical female and male diagnoses (breast and prostate cancer), age, socioeconomic status (SES), comorbidities as measured by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), or living arrangements (home vs nursing home residence). Furthermore, we wanted to investigate if receipt of SPC affects the place of death, or correlated with emergency department visits, or hospital admissions. METHODS All breast and prostate cancer patients who died with verified distant metastases during 2015-2019 in the Stockholm Region were included (n = 2516). We used univariable and stepwise (forward) logistic multiple regression models. RESULTS Lower age, lower CCI score, and higher SES significantly predicted receipt of palliative care 3 months before death (p = .007-p < .0001). Patients with prostate cancer, a lower CCI score, receiving palliative care services, or living in a nursing home were admitted to a hospital or visited an emergency room less often during their last month of life (p = .01 to < .0001). Patients receiving palliative care services had a low likelihood of dying in an acute care hospital (p < .001). Those who died in a hospital were younger, had a lower CCI score, and had received less palliative care or nursing home services (p = .02- < .0001). CONCLUSION Age, comorbidities, and nursing home residence affected the likelihood of receiving SPC. However, the diagnosis of breast versus prostate cancer did not. Emergency room visits, hospital admissions, and hospital deaths are registered less often for patients with SPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Bergqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Breast Center, Department of Surgery, Capio St Gorans Sjukhus, St Görans plan 1, 112 19, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christel Hedman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, 102 26, P. O. Box 12230, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Schultz
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, 102 26, P. O. Box 12230, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Strang
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, 102 26, P. O. Box 12230, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Regional Cancer Centre Stockholm-Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden
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17
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Grudzen CR, Barker PC, Bischof JJ, Cuthel AM, Isaacs ED, Southerland LT, Yamarik RL. Palliative care models for patients living with advanced cancer: a narrative review for the emergency department clinician. EMERGENCY CANCER CARE 2022; 1:10. [PMID: 35966217 PMCID: PMC9362452 DOI: 10.1186/s44201-022-00010-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Eighty-one percent of persons living with cancer have an emergency department (ED) visit within the last 6 months of life. Many cancer patients in the ED are at an advanced stage with high symptom burden and complex needs, and over half is admitted to an inpatient setting. Innovative models of care have been developed to provide high quality, ambulatory, and home-based care to persons living with serious, life-limiting illness, such as advanced cancer. New care models can be divided into a number of categories based on either prognosis (e.g., greater than or less than 6 months), or level of care (e.g., lower versus higher intensity needs, such as intravenous pain/nausea medication or frequent monitoring), and goals of care (e.g., cancer-directed treatment versus symptom-focused care only). We performed a narrative review to (1) compare models of care for seriously ill cancer patients in the ED and (2) examine factors that may hasten or impede wider dissemination of these models.
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18
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Strang P. Palliative oncology and palliative care. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3399-3409. [PMID: 35762045 PMCID: PMC9533690 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
New therapeutic approaches can produce promising results even in severely ill cancer patients. But they also pose new challenges with respect to prognostication, as patients who were once not eligible for treatment, due to age or comorbidities, now are. Palliative oncology constitutes a major part of oncological care, with life prolongation and quality of life as its main goals. Palliative care specialists are experts in symptom control and psychosocial and existential support, and the integration of their expertise early on in patient care can prolong survival. In this article, I discuss the need to integrate specialist palliative care into early cancer treatment plans to achieve quality of life for patients. I also discuss the ways in which palliative care specialists balance the benefits of novel treatments against their adverse effects for patients, particularly for the elderly, the frail and those in advance stages of disease. I highlight the need to ensure equal access to palliative care to improve cancer patients' quality of life but also why futile, burdensome treatments should be avoided especially in the frail, elderly patients. Further, I discuss benefits and problems related to nutritional support in patients with cachexia and exemplify why translational research is needed to link basic research with clinical oncology and effective symptom control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Strang
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm's Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, and R & D Department, Sweden
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19
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García-Sanjuán S, Fernández-Alcántara M, Clement-Carbonell V, Campos-Calderón CP, Orts-Beneito N, Cabañero-Martínez MJ. Levels and Determinants of Place-Of-Death Congruence in Palliative Patients: A Systematic Review. Front Psychol 2022; 12:807869. [PMID: 35095694 PMCID: PMC8792401 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.807869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Congruence, understood as the agreement between the patient's preferred place of death and their actual place of death, is emerging as one of the main variables indicating the quality of end-of-life care. The aim of this research was to conduct a systematic literature review on levels and determinants of congruence in palliative patients over the period 2010-2021. Method: A systematic review of the literature in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cuiden, the Cochrane Library, CSIC Indexes, and IBECS. Information was extracted on research characteristics, congruence, and associated factors. Results: A total of 30 studies were identified, mainly of retrospective observational design. The congruence values varied substantially between the various studies, ranging from 21 to 100%. The main predictors of congruence include illness-related factors (functional status, treatments and diagnosis), individual factors (age, gender, marital status, and end of life preferences), and environmental factors (place of residence, availability of health, and palliative care services). Conclusion: This review, in comparison with previous studies, shows that treatment-related factors such as physical pain control, marital status, having a non-working relative, age, discussing preferred place of death with a healthcare professional, and caregiver's preference have been associated with higher levels of congruence. Depending on the study, other factors have been associated with either higher or lower congruence, such as the patient's diagnosis, gender, or place of residence. This information is useful for designing interventions aimed towards greater congruence at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofía García-Sanjuán
- Department of Nursing, Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Núria Orts-Beneito
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - María José Cabañero-Martínez
- Department of Nursing, Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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20
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Roberts B, Robertson M, Ojukwu EI, Wu DS. Home Based Palliative Care: Known Benefits and Future Directions. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2021; 10:141-147. [PMID: 34849331 PMCID: PMC8614075 DOI: 10.1007/s13670-021-00372-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To summarize key recent evidence regarding the impact of Home-Based Palliative Care (HBPalC) and to highlight opportunities for future study. Recent Findings HBPalC is cost effective and benefits patients and caregivers across the health care continuum. Summary High-quality data support the cost effectiveness of HBPalC. A growing literature base supports the benefits of HBPalC for patients, families, and informal caregivers by alleviating symptoms, reducing unwanted hospitalizations, and offering support at the end of life. Numerous innovative HBPalC models exist, but there is a lack of high-quality evidence comparing specific models across subpopulations. Our wide literature search captured no research regarding HBPalC for underserved populations. Further research will also be necessary to guide quality standards for HBPalC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Roberts
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Mariah Robertson
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Ekene I Ojukwu
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - David Shih Wu
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
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21
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Cai J, Zhang L, Guerriere D, Coyte PC. Determinants of primary and non-primary informal care-giving to home-based palliative care cancer care-recipients in Ontario, Canada. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:e405-e419. [PMID: 33761168 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Informal care plays an important role in the care of care-recipients. Most of the previous studies focused on the primary caregivers and ignored the importance of non-primary caregivers. Moreover, little is known about the provision of informal care in the context of home-based palliative care. The purpose of this study was to examine the provision of primary and non-primary informal care-giving and their respective determinants. Primary caregivers assume the main responsibility for care, while non-primary caregivers are those other than the primary caregiver who provide care-giving. A longitudinal, prospective cohort design was conducted and data were drawn from two palliative care programs in Canada between November 2013 and August 2017. A total of 273 caregivers of home-based palliative care cancer care-recipients were interviewed biweekly until the care recipient died. The outcomes were the propensity and intensity of informal care-giving. Regression analysis with instrumental variables was used. About 90% of primary caregivers were spouses and children, while 53% of non-primary caregivers were others rather than spouses and children. The average number of hours of primary and non-primary informal care-giving reported for each 2-week interview period was 83 hr and 23 hr, respectively. Hours of home-based personal support workers decreased the intensity of primary care-giving and the likelihood of non-primary care-giving. Home-based nursing visits increased the propensity of non-primary care-giving. The primary care-giving and non-primary care-giving complement each other. Care recipients living alone received less primary informal care-giving. Employed primary caregivers decreased their provision of primary care-giving, but promoted the involvement of non-primary care-giving. Our study has clinical practices and policy implications. Suitable and targeted interventions are encouraged to make sure the provision of primary and non-primary care-giving, to balance the work of the primary caregivers and their care-giving responsibility, and to effectively arrange the formal home-based palliative care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoli Cai
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Denise Guerriere
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter C Coyte
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
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22
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Becqué YN, Rietjens JAC, van der Heide A, Witkamp E. How nurses support family caregivers in the complex context of end-of-life home care: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:162. [PMID: 34657623 PMCID: PMC8521979 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00854-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Family caregivers are crucial in providing end-of-life care at home. Without their care, it would be difficult for many patients to die at home. In addition to providing care, family caregivers also need support for themselves. Nurses could play an important role in supporting family caregivers, but little is known about if and how they do so. The aim of this study is to explore how nurses currently approach and support family caregivers in end-of-life home care and which factors influence their support of family caregivers. Methods Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 14 nurses from nine home care organisations in the Netherlands, in 2018. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results We identified two underlying nursing perspectives on supporting family caregivers: an instrumental perspective (seeing family caregivers mostly as collaborative partners in care) and a relational perspective (seeing family caregivers as both providing and needing support). All the interviewed nurses stated that they pay attention to family caregivers’ needs. The activities mentioned most often were: identification of support needs, practical education, support in decision-making about the patient’s treatment, emotional support, and organising respite care, such as night care, to relieve the family caregiver. The provision of support is usually based on intuition and experience, rather than on a systematic approach. Besides, nurses reported different factors at the individual, organisational and societal levels that influenced their support of family caregivers, such as their knowledge and experience, the way in which care is organised, and laws and regulations. Conclusions Nurses tend to address family caregivers’ needs, but such care was affected by various factors at different levels. There is a risk that nursing support does not meet family caregivers’ needs. A more reflective approach is needed and evidence-based needs assessment tools may help nurses to systematically assess family caregivers’ needs and to provide appropriate support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne N Becqué
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rochussenstraat 198, P.O. Box 25035, 3001, HA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. .,Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, P.O. Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Judith A C Rietjens
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, P.O. Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, P.O. Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Erica Witkamp
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rochussenstraat 198, P.O. Box 25035, 3001, HA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, P.O. Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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23
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Pastrana T, Wüller J, Weyers S, Bruera E. Insights from a community-based palliative care course: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:106. [PMID: 34256751 PMCID: PMC8278762 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vast majority of medical students have no exposure to clinical palliative care encounters, especially in the community. Medical schools should respond to current challenges and needs of health systems by guaranteeing students adequate training that addresses palliative care needs of populations in different settings. The main purpose of this qualitative study was to capture the experiences of a select group of medical students' following a community-based PC course. METHODS We carried out a qualitative study using two focus groups to capture the experience of medical students in a course that combined classroom teaching with community-based learning for undergraduate medical students in Germany. Discussions were transcribed and analyzed thematically. RESULTS Fifteen female students in their 2nd to 5th year participated in the focus groups, which provided didactic teaching and experiential learning. Four areas were particularly relevant: (1) authenticity, (2) demystification of the concepts of palliative care through personal contact with patients, (3) translation of theoretical knowledge into practice, and (4) observation of a role model interacting with seriously ill patients and engaging in difficult conversations. CONCLUSION Students whose encounters with patients and their families went beyond a review of their medical records had a better grasp of the holistic nature of PC than those who did not. Bringing students directly from the hospital to patients in their homes reinforced the benefits of an integrated healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Pastrana
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Johannes Wüller
- Home Care Städteregion Aachen Non-profit Limited Liability Company, Aachen, Germany
| | - Simone Weyers
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society (CHS), Düsseldorf University Hospital, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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24
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A Comparison of the Survival, Place of Death, and Medical Utilization of Terminal Patients Receiving Hospital-Based and Community-Based Palliative Home Care: A Retrospective and Propensity Score Matching Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147272. [PMID: 34299722 PMCID: PMC8307712 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Evidence shows that community-based palliative home care (PHC) provision enhances continuous care and improves patient outcomes. This study compared patient survival, place of death, and medical utilization in community- versus hospital-based PHC. A retrospective cohort study was conducted of patients aged over 18 referred to either community- or hospital-based PHC from May to December 2018 at a tertiary hospital and surrounding communities in Southern Taiwan. A descriptive analysis, Chi-square test, t-test, and Log-rank test were used for the data analysis of 131 hospital-based PHC patients and 43 community-based PHC patients, with 42 paired patient datasets analyzed after propensity score matching. More nurse visits (p = 0.02), fewer emergency-room visits (p = 0.01), and a shorter waiting time to access PHC (p = 0.02) were found in the community group. There was no difference in the duration of survival and hospitalization between groups. Most hospital-based patients (57%) died in hospice wards, while most community-based patients died at home (52%). Community-based PHC is comparable to hospital-based PHC in Taiwan. Although it has fewer staffing and training requirements, it is an alternative for terminal patients to meet the growing end-of-life care demand.
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25
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Strang P, Fürst P, Hedman C, Bergqvist J, Adlitzer H, Schultz T. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer: access to palliative care, emergency room visits and hospital deaths. BMC Pulm Med 2021; 21:170. [PMID: 34011344 PMCID: PMC8132345 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-021-01533-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the severe symptoms experienced by dying COPD patients, specialized palliative care (SPC) services focus mainly on cancer patients. We aimed to study the access to SPC that COPD and lung cancer (LC) patients receive and how that access affects the need for acute hospital care.
Methods A descriptive regional registry study using data acquired through VAL, the Stockholm Regional Council’s central data warehouse, which covers nearly all healthcare use in the county of Stockholm. All the patients who died of COPD or LC from 2015 to 2019 were included. T-tests, chi-2 tests, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed on the accumulated data. Results In total, 6479 patients, (2917 with COPD and 3562 with LC) were studied. The patients with LC had more access to SPC during the last three months of life than did those with COPD (77% vs. 18%, respectively; p < .0001), whereas patients with COPD were more likely to be residents of nursing homes than those with LC (32% vs. 9%, respectively; p < .0001). Higher socioeconomic status (SES) (p < .01) and patient age < 80 years (p < .001) were associated with increased access to SPC for LC patients. Access to SPC correlated with fewer emergency room visits (p < .0001 for both COPD and LC patients) and fewer admissions to acute hospitals during the last month of life (p < .0001 for both groups). More COPD patients died in acute hospitals than lung cancer patients, (39% vs. 20%; χ2 = 287, p < .0001), with significantly lower figures for those who had access to SPC (p < .0001). Conclusions Compared to dying COPD patients, LC patients have more access to SPC. Access to SPC reduces the need for emergency room visits and admissions to acute hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Strang
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Regional Cancer Centre in Stockholm, Gotland, Sweden. .,R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, P.O. Box 12230, 102 26, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Per Fürst
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, P.O. Box 12230, 102 26, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christel Hedman
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, P.O. Box 12230, 102 26, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jenny Bergqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Capio St Görans Sjukhus, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Torbjörn Schultz
- R & D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, P.O. Box 12230, 102 26, Stockholm, Sweden
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26
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Cai J, Zhang L, Guerriere D, Fan H, Coyte PC. Where Do Cancer Patients in Receipt of Home-Based Palliative Care Prefer to Die and What Are the Determinants of a Preference for a Home Death? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 18:ijerph18010235. [PMID: 33396880 PMCID: PMC7796022 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the preferred place of death may assist to organize and deliver palliative health care services. The study aims to assess preference for place of death among cancer patients in receipt of home-based palliative care, and to determine the variables that affect their preference for a home death. A prospective cohort design was carried out from July 2010 to August 2012. Over the course of their palliative care trajectory, a total of 303 family caregivers of cancer patients were interviewed. Multivariate regression analysis was employed to assess the determinants of a preferred home death. The majority (65%) of patients had a preference of home death. The intensity of home-based physician visits and home-based personal support worker (PSW) care promotes a preference for a home death. Married patients, patients receiving post-graduate education and patients with higher Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) scores were more likely to have a preference of home death. Patients reduced the likelihood of preferring a home death when their family caregiver had high burden. This study suggests that the majority of cancer patients have a preference of home death. Health mangers and policy makers have the potential to develop policies that facilitate those preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoli Cai
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, No. 3 Shangyuancun, Haidian District, Beijing 100044, China; (J.C.); (L.Z.)
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, No. 3 Shangyuancun, Haidian District, Beijing 100044, China; (J.C.); (L.Z.)
| | - Denise Guerriere
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, Suite 425, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6, Canada; (D.G.); (P.C.C.)
| | - Hongli Fan
- School of Insurance, Shandong University of Finance and Economics, No. 40 Shungeng Road, Shizhong District, Jinan 250000, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Peter C. Coyte
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, Suite 425, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6, Canada; (D.G.); (P.C.C.)
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