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Curkovic M, Rubic F, Jozepovic A, Novak M, Filipovic-Grcic B, Mestrovic J, Lah Tomulic K, Peter B, Spoljar D, Grosek Š, Janković S, Vukovic J, Kujundžić Tiljak M, Štajduhar A, Borovecki A. Navigating the shadows: medical professionals' values and perspectives on end-of-life care within pediatric intensive care units in Croatia. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1394071. [PMID: 39188642 PMCID: PMC11345198 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1394071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim This study explores healthcare professionals' perspectives on end-of-life care in pediatric intensive care units (ICUs) in Croatia, aiming to illuminate their experiences with such practices, underlying attitudes, and major decision-making considerations. Amid the high variability, complexity, and emotional intensity of pediatric end-of-life decisions and practices, understanding these perspectives is crucial for improving care and policies. Methods The study utilized a cross-sectional survey intended for physicians and nurses across all pediatric ICUs in Croatia. It included healthcare professionals from six neonatal and four pediatric ICUs in total. As the data from neonatal and pediatric ICUs were examined jointly, the term pediatric ICU was used to denominate both types of ICUs. A statistical analysis was performed using Python and JASP, focusing on professional roles, professional experience, and regional differences. Results The study included a total of 103 participants (with an overall response rate-in relation to the whole target population-of 48% for physicians and 29% for nurses). The survey revealed diverse attitudes toward and experiences with various aspects of end-of-life care, with a significant portion of healthcare professionals indicating infrequent involvement in life-sustaining treatment (LST) limitation discussions and decisions, as well as somewhat ambiguous attitudes regarding such practices. Notably, discrepancies emerged between different professional roles and, in particular, regions, underscoring the high variability of LST limitation-related procedures. Conclusions The findings highlight a pressing need for more straightforward guidelines, legal frameworks, support mechanisms, and communication strategies to navigate the complex terrain of rather burdensome end-of-life pediatric care, which is intrinsically loaded with profound ethical quandaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Curkovic
- University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Filip Rubic
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Jozepovic
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Milivoj Novak
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Boris Filipovic-Grcic
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Julije Mestrovic
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Split, Split, Croatia
| | | | - Branimir Peter
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Diana Spoljar
- Palliative Care Service, Community Health Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Štefan Grosek
- Department of Perinatology, Division of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sunčana Janković
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jurica Vukovic
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirjana Kujundžić Tiljak
- Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andrija Štajduhar
- Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Borovecki
- Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Johnson KT, Dahl N. Paediatrics and discomfort with death and dying. Paediatr Child Health 2024; 29:303-305. [PMID: 39281358 PMCID: PMC11398928 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxad029] [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: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Death and dying, while uncommon in day-to-day paediatrics practice, are becoming increasingly common occurrences as children with life-limiting illnesses are living longer. We reflect on our experiences with death and dying in our residency training and whether paediatrics, as a specialty, is uncomfortable with death. Paediatric trainees should be included in honest discussions about disease trajectories and participate in providing end-of-life care. Anticipatory guidance helps personalize care and can prevent unnecessary procedures or suffering that patients may experience. While trainees may not be present at the end-of-life for many patients, managing death and dying are important competencies for future paediatricians. Current paediatricians should reflect on their comfort with death and how this may impact their patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Taneille Johnson
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Nicole Dahl
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario
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Foster JR, Lee LA, Seabrook JA, Ryan M, Slumkoski C, Walls M, Betts LJ, Burgess SA, Moghadam N, Garros D. A survey of pediatric intensive care unit clinician experience with restricted family presence during COVID-19. Can J Anaesth 2023; 70:1669-1681. [PMID: 37610552 PMCID: PMC10600297 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-023-02547-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Limiting family presence runs counter to the family-centred values of Canadian pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). This study explores how implementing and enforcing COVID-19-related restricted family presence (RFP) policies impacted PICU clinicians nationally. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional, online, self-administered survey of Canadian PICU clinicians to assess experience and opinions of restrictions, moral distress (Moral Distress Thermometer, range 0-10), and mental health impacts (Impact of Event Scale [IES], range 0-75 and attributable stress [five-point Likert scale]). For analysis, we used descriptive statistics, multivariate regression modelling, and a general inductive approach for free text. RESULTS Representing 17/19 Canadian PICUs, 368 of 388 respondents (94%) experienced RFP policies and were predominantly female (333/368, 91%), English speaking (338/368, 92%), and nurses (240/368, 65%). The mean (standard deviation [SD]) reported moral distress score was 4.5 (2.4) and was associated with perceived differential impact on families. The mean (SD) total IES score was 29.7 (10.5), suggesting moderate traumatic stress with 56% (176/317) reporting increased/significantly increased stress from restrictions related to separating families, denying access, and concern for family impacts. Incongruence between RFP policies/practices and PICU values was perceived by 66% of respondents (217/330). Most respondents (235/330, 71%) felt their opinions were not valued when implementing policies. Though respondents perceived that restrictions were implemented for the benefit of clinicians (252/332, 76%) and to protect families (236/315, 75%), 57% (188/332) disagreed that their RFP experience was mainly positive. CONCLUSION Pediatric intensive care unit-based RFP rules, largely designed and implemented without bedside clinician input, caused increased psychological burden for clinicians, characterized as moderate moral distress and trauma triggered by perceived impacts on families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Foster
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, 5850/5980 University Ave., PO Box 9700, Halifax, NS, B3K 6R8, Canada.
- Department of Critical Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute and Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Laurie A Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Critical Care, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute and Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Molly Ryan
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Corey Slumkoski
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Martha Walls
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Laura J Betts
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Stacy A Burgess
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Children's Health Program, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Neda Moghadam
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Daniel Garros
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Lazzara A, Boss RD. Observation of Child Experience During Discontinuing of Medically Provided Nutrition and Hydration. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:155-161. [PMID: 36526253 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Ethical and professional guidelines support withholding/discontinuing medically provided nutrition and hydration (MPNH) for children in specific scenarios yet literature shows many providers do not support this practice. One reason clinicians continue MPNH is worry about child suffering. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to assess clinician observations of infant/child experience following withholding/discontinuing MPNH. METHODS This study is a national survey of clinicians who had personally medically-managed an infant/child during the process of withholding/discontinuing MPNH. Survey disseminated via Twitter, email, and Facebook. Descriptive and content analyses were performed. RESULTS Responses from 195 clinicians represented experiences with 900+ children, with over half of those experiences occurring within the prior year. Palliative care was consulted in 76% of cases. Most clinicians reported that in their patients, comfort (80/142, 56%) and peacefulness (89/143, 62%) increased during withholding/discontinuing MPNH, as did dry lips/mouth (109/143, 76%). Most observed decreased work of breathing (58/142, 63%) and respiratory secretions (90/142, 63%). The perceived need for pain medication typically remained unchanged (54/142, 38%). When asked to describe the dying process during withholding/ discontinuing MPNH, the most common response was "peaceful." Clinicians also observed increasing levels of parent relief (78/137, 57%), peace (77/137, 56%), as well as anxiety (74/137, 54%). CONCLUSION Respiratory, gastrointestinal symptoms, signs of peacefulness, and comfort improved for most infants and children during withholding/withdrawing MPNH. Aside from dry lips/mouth, fewer than 10% of children were perceived to have increased symptom distress. This study's findings are consistent with adult data and failed to detect a compelling reason to forgo withholding/discontinuing MPNH solely due to concern about child comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Lazzara
- Department of Pediatrics (A.L., R.D.B.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Renee D Boss
- Department of Pediatrics (A.L., R.D.B.), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics (R.D.B.), Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Foster JR, Lee LA, Seabrook JA, Ryan M, Betts LJ, Burgess SA, Slumkoski C, Walls M, Garros D. Family presence in Canadian PICUs during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods environmental scan of policy and practice. CMAJ Open 2022; 10:E622-E632. [PMID: 35790228 PMCID: PMC9262350 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite their broad commitment to family-centred care, children's hospitals and associated pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) restricted family presence during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to describe family presence policies and practices in Canadian PICUs from March to May 2020, and their evolution by August to December 2020. METHODS We conducted an environmental scan of family presence policies and restrictions in all 19 Canadian PICUs using 2 methods. We conducted a literature review of public-facing visitation policy documents in June 2020 using a standardized data extraction form. We also administered a cross-sectional survey of PICU leadership (managers and physician chiefs) between August and December 2020 by telephone or videoconferencing. We used inductive content analysis to code qualitative data, generating summative count data. We analyzed quantitative data descriptively. RESULTS As part of the literature search, we collected 2 (12%) PICU-specific, 14 (82%) pediatric-specific and 1 (6%) hospital-wide visitation policy documents from the early pandemic. One policy document provided guidance on all of the policy elements sought; the number of enabled caregivers was not included in the documents for 7 of 19 units (37%). All 19 Canadian PICUs were represented among the 24 survey respondents (15 physician chiefs and 9 operations or clinical managers). Before the COVID-19 pandemic, all units allowed the presence of 2 or more family members. Early in the pandemic, reported practices limited the number of adult caregivers for patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection to 1 (n = 21/24, 88%) or 2 (n = 3/24, 12%); all units prohibited siblings. Some centres restricted caregivers from switching bedside presence with one another (patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 16/23, 70%; patients with confirmed or suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 20/23, 87%); leaving their child's PICU room (patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 1/24, 4%; patients with confirmed or suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 16/24, 67%); and joining in-person rounds (patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 9/22, 41%; patients with confirmed or suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection: n = 17/22, 77%). All respondents endorsed policy exceptions during end-of-life care. Some reported policies and practices were adapted over the study period. INTERPRETATION Early COVID-19-related family presence policies in Canadian PICUs varied among centres. Although some centres adapted policies and practices, this study revealed ongoing potential threats to family centred care at the mid-pandemic stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ruth Foster
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta.
| | - Laurie A Lee
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Molly Ryan
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Laura J Betts
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Stacy A Burgess
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Corey Slumkoski
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Martha Walls
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Daniel Garros
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Foster, Ryan, Betts, Burgess), Children's Health Program (Burgess), and patient partners, Department of Pediatric Critical Care (Slumkoski, Walls), IWK Health, Halifax, NS; Department of Critical Care (Foster), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Faculty of Nursing (Lee), and Department of Pediatrics (Lee), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College, and Children's Health Research Institute (Seabrook), London, Ont.; Stollery Children's Hospital (Garros), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; Division of Critical Care (Garros), Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
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End-of-Life Decision-Making in Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Croatia—A Focus Group Study among Nurses and Physicians. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020250. [PMID: 35208575 PMCID: PMC8879945 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Working in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units (ICUs) can be challenging and differs from work in adult ICUs. This study investigated for the first time the perceptions, experiences and challenges that healthcare professionals face when dealing with end-of-life decisions in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in Croatia. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study with focus groups was conducted among physicians and nurses working in NICUs and PICUs in five healthcare institutions (three pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) and five neonatal intensive care units (NICUs)) at the tertiary level of healthcare in the Republic of Croatia, in Zagreb, Rijeka and Split. A total of 20 physicians and 21 nurses participated in eight focus groups. The questions concerned everyday practices in end-of-life decision-making and their connection with interpersonal relationships between physicians, nurses, patients and their families. The constant comparative analysis method was used in the analysis of the data. Results: The analysis revealed two main themes that were the same among the professional groups as well as in both NICU and PICU units. The theme “critical illness” consisted of the following subthemes: the child, the family, myself and other professionals. The theme “end-of-life procedures” consisted of the following subthemes: breaking point, decision-making, end-of-life procedures, “spill-over” and the four walls of the ICU. The perceptions and experiences of end-of-life issues among nurses and physicians working in NICUs and PICUs share multiple common characteristics. The high variability in end-of-life procedures applied and various difficulties experienced during shared decision-making processes were observed. Conclusions: There is a need for further research in order to develop clinical and professional guidelines that will inform end-of-life decision-making, including the specific perspectives of everyone involved, and the need to influence policymakers.
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Nicoll J, Dryden-Palmer K, Frndova H, Gottesman R, Gray M, Hunt EA, Hutchison JS, Joffe AR, Lacroix J, Middaugh K, Nadkarni V, Szadkowski L, Tomlinson GA, Wensley D, Parshuram CS, Farrell C. Death and Dying in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Multicenter, Multinational Study. J Palliat Med 2021; 25:227-233. [PMID: 34847737 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: For hospitalized children admitted outside of a critical care unit, the location, mode of death, "do-not-resuscitate" order (DNR) use, and involvement of palliative care teams have not been described across high-income countries. Objective: To describe location of death, patient and terminal care plan characteristics of pediatric inpatient deaths inside and outside the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Design: Secondary analysis of inpatient deaths in the Evaluating Processes of Care and Outcomes of Children in Hospital (EPOCH) randomized controlled trial. Setting/Subjects: Twenty-one centers from Canada, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. Measurement: Descriptive statistics were used to compare patient and terminal care plan characteristics. A multivariable generalized estimating equation examined if palliative care consult during hospital admission was associated with location of death. Results: A total of 365 of 144,539 patients enrolled in EPOCH died; 219 (60%) died in PICU and 143 (40%) died on another inpatient unit. Compared with other inpatient wards, patients who died in PICU were less likely to be expected to die, have a DNR or palliative care consult. Hospital palliative care consultation was more common in older children and independently associated with a lower adjusted odds (95% confidence interval) of dying in PICU [0.59 (0.52-0.68)]. Conclusion: Most pediatric inpatient deaths occur in PICU where patients were less likely to have a DNR or palliative care consult. Palliative care consultation could be better integrated into end-of-life care for younger children and those dying in PICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Nicoll
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Janeway Children's Health and Rehabilitation Centre, Discipline of Pediatrics, Memorial University, St. John's Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.,Centre for Safety Research, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Dryden-Palmer
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helena Frndova
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronald Gottesman
- Department of Critical Care, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin Gray
- Pediatric Intensive Care, St. George's Hospital, Tooting, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth A Hunt
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - James S Hutchison
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ari R Joffe
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jacques Lacroix
- Division of Pediatric Intensive Care, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ste-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kristen Middaugh
- Centre for Safety Research, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vinay Nadkarni
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leah Szadkowski
- Centre for Safety Research, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - George A Tomlinson
- Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Wensley
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chris S Parshuram
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Safety Research, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine Farrell
- Division of Pediatric Intensive Care, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ste-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Bogetz JF, Revette A, Rosenberg AR, DeCourcey D. "I Could Never Prepare for Something Like the Death of My Own Child": Parental Perspectives on Preparedness at End of Life for Children With Complex Chronic Conditions. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1154-1162.e1. [PMID: 32629083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Children with complex chronic conditions (CCCs) have high morbidity and mortality. While these children often receive palliative care services, little is known about parental preparedness for their child's end of life (EOL). OBJECTIVES This study aimed to elucidate aspects important to preparedness at EOL among bereaved parents of children with CCCs. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, parents of children who received care at Boston Children's Hospital and died between 2006 and 2015 completed 21 open-response items querying communication, decision-making, and EOL experiences as part of the Survey of Caring for Children with CCCs. Additional demographic data were extracted from the child's medical record. An iterative multistage thematic analysis of responses was utilized to identify key contexts, conditions, and themes pertaining to preparedness. RESULTS One hundred ten of 114 parents responded to open-ended items; 63% (n = 69) had children with congenital or central nervous system progressive primary conditions for a median of 7.5 years (IQR 0.8-18.1) before death. Seventy-one percent (n = 78/110) had palliative care involvement and 65% (n = 69/106) completed advance care planning. Parents described preparedness as a complex concept that extended beyond "readiness" for their child's death. Three domains emerged that contributed to parents' lack of preparedness: 1) chronic illness experiences; 2) pretense of preparedness; and 3) circumstances and emotions surrounding their child's death. CONCLUSIONS Most bereaved parents of children with CCCs described feeling unprepared for their child's EOL, despite palliative care and advance care planning, suggesting preparedness is a nuanced concept beyond "readiness." More research is needed to identify supportive elements among parents facing their child's EOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jori F Bogetz
- Division of Pediatric Bioethics and Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA.
| | - Anna Revette
- Qualitative Research Scientist, Survey and Data Management Core, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Danielle DeCourcey
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Short SR, Thienprayoon R. Pediatric palliative care in the intensive care unit and questions of quality: a review of the determinants and mechanisms of high-quality palliative care in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Transl Pediatr 2018; 7:326-343. [PMID: 30460185 PMCID: PMC6212394 DOI: 10.21037/tp.2018.09.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the state and practice of pediatric palliative care (PC) within the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with specific consideration of quality issues. This includes defining PC and end of life (EOL) care. We will also describe PC as it pertains to alleviating children's suffering through the provision of "concurrent care" in the ICU environment. Modes of care, and attendant strengths, of both the consultant and integrated models will be presented. We will review salient issues related to the provision of PC in the PICU, barriers to optimal practice, parental, and staff perceptions. Opportunity areas for quality improvement and the role of initiatives and measures such as education, family-based initiatives, staff needs, symptom recognition, grief, and communication follow. To conclude, we will look to the literature for PC resources for pediatric intensivists and future directions of study.
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