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Midlöv EM, Lindberg T, Skär L. Relative's suggestions for improvements in support from health professionals before and after a patient's death in general palliative care at home: A qualitative register study. Scand J Caring Sci 2024; 38:358-367. [PMID: 38258965 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13239] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The efforts of relatives in providing palliative care (PC) at home are important. Relatives take great responsibility, face many challenges and are at increased risk of poor physical and mental health. Support for these relatives is important, but they often do not receive the support they need. When PC is provided at home, the support for relatives before and after a patient's death must be improved. This study aimed to describe relatives' suggestions to improve the support from health professionals (HPs) before and after a patient's death in general PC at home. METHODS This study had a qualitative descriptive design based on the data from open-ended questions in a survey collected from the Swedish Register of Palliative Care. The respondents were adult relatives involved in general PC at home across Sweden. The textual data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The analysis identified four themes: (1) seeking increased access to HPs, (2) needing enhanced information, (3) desiring improved communication and (4) requesting individual support. CONCLUSIONS It is important to understand and address how the support to relatives may be improved to reduce the unmet needs of relatives. The findings of this study offer some concrete suggestions for improvement on ways to support relatives. Further research should focus on tailored support interventions so that HPs can provide optimal support for relatives before and after a patient's death when PC is provided at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Mikaelsson Midlöv
- Department of Health, Faculty of Engineering, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
- Department of Care Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Terese Lindberg
- Department of Health, Faculty of Engineering, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Lisa Skär
- Faculty of Health Science, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, Sweden
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Foley G, McCauley R, McQuillan R, Ryan K. How do Patients With Advanced Cancer and Family Caregivers Accommodate One Another in Decision-Making? Findings From a Qualitative Study in Specialist Palliative Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241255117. [PMID: 38756049 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241255117] [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: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced cancer commonly involve family caregivers in decision-making for palliative care. However, how patients with advanced cancer and family caregivers accommodate each other in decision-making is unclear. METHODS A qualitative study in advanced cancer was conducted with 14 patients and 19 family caregivers recruited from two hospices comprising a large regional specialist palliative care service in Ireland. Data comprised semi-structured interviews with participants. The data were analyzed using grounded theory coding procedures. RESULTS Most patients preferred to make care decisions with their family caregiver or at least involve their family caregiver in care discussions. Patients engaged in shared decision-making because they felt they benefited from caregiver support. Patients accommodated family caregiver preferences out of concern for that person and because they trusted them. Family caregivers accommodated patient preferences because they wanted to honor the patient's wishes and felt a responsibility to protect patient autonomy when they had a close relationship with the patient. Prior conflict between the patient and family caregiver was a barrier to mutual accommodation. Although concealment was used as a mechanism to support accommodation between the patient and family caregiver, both sought to communicate openly with other family members to negate potential conflict between each other and the wider family. CONCLUSION Patients with advanced cancer and family caregivers in specialist palliative care support one another by accommodating each other's preferences for patient care. Patients with advanced cancer and family caregivers accommodate one another in decision-making out of a sense of responsibility to one another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Foley
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rachel McCauley
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Regina McQuillan
- Department of Palliative Medicine, St. Francis Hospice, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Palliative Care, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karen Ryan
- Department of Palliative Medicine, St. Francis Hospice, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Palliative Care, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College, Dublin, Ireland
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Haan M, Olthuis G, Boenink M, van Gurp J. Bridging comic art and research: lessons from an interdisciplinary collaboration project in a palliative care context. MEDICAL HUMANITIES 2024:medhum-2023-012750. [PMID: 38453454 DOI: 10.1136/medhum-2023-012750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The Dutch graphic novel Naasten, about palliative family caregiving, is the product of an interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers and two comic artists. This paper aims to present lessons, reflections and practical recommendations for other researchers interested in adopting (comic) arts-based research methods, in which artistic methods are used as novel ways for generating, analysing, interpreting or representing research data.Our project started with the goal of translation: we aimed at representing research findings into a more accessible, visual and textual form to stimulate discussion and reflection outside academia on moral challenges in family care. This was inspired by comics' hypothesised potential to show complex and embodied experiences, thus enabling more understanding in readers and offering powerful science communication tools. Although this goal of translation was realised in our project, we learnt along the way that the project could have benefited from a more explicit focus on interdisciplinarity from the start and by monitoring the interdisciplinary learning opportunities throughout the project. The following issues are important for any art-research collaboration: (1) an interest in and acknowledgement of each other's (potentially diverging) aims and roles: all parties should-from the start-commit themselves to interdisciplinary collaboration and to exploring the added value of using each other's methods, thereby finding a common methodological ground and language; (2) a continuous discussion of the sometimes contrasting approaches between artists and researchers: differences in using theory and story may result in different criteria for creating good art. When balancing scientific and aesthetic aims, the trustworthiness of the art work should remain an important criterion; (3) an awareness of the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration to offering new perspectives on one's scientific data collection and analysis, for example, providing other conceptualisations or indicating blind spots, provided that artists are involved in the early phases of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Haan
- IQ Health science department, Ethics of healthcare group, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Olthuis
- IQ Health science department, Ethics of healthcare group, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boenink
- IQ Health science department, Ethics of healthcare group, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle van Gurp
- IQ Health science department, Ethics of healthcare group, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Friedrichsen M, Waldréus N, Milovanovic M, Schaller AS, Jaarsma P, Jaarsma T. The responsibility to quench thirst by providing drinks when a relative is dying spouses' experience in specialist palliative home care. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:184. [PMID: 37981710 PMCID: PMC10658994 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01306-1] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thirst and dry mouth are common symptoms in terminally ill patients. It is known that family members usually request drips for their dying relative. Few studies have focused on thirst in terminally ill patients and their spouses' experience of this, leading to a knowledge gap in this area. AIM The aim of this study was to explore spouses' experiences of observing and managing thirst in a dying relative admitted to specialist palliative home care. METHODS A qualitative interview study with an inductive approach was conducted. Eighteen spouses caring for their husband or wife admitted to specialist palliative home care in different hospitals in Sweden were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed with a reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three main themes emerged regarding spouses' experiences of patients' thirst: Knowledge and views of thirst; Control of fluid intake provides vital information; and Taking charge of their drinking is a life and death responsibility. CONCLUSIONS Spouses experience a responsibility to serve the dying person with fluids so that they will not get thirsty. It is so obvious and commonplace to them. To be able to fulfil this responsibility, they need to keep track of the patient's fluid intake and know what quenches thirst. There is a need for research in this area to assist carers and patients in identifying which drinks best quench the patient's thirst. Interventions are also needed to help provide/make available knowledge on suitable thirst-quenching drinks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Friedrichsen
- Palliative Education and Research Centre, Vrinnevi Hospital, Norrköping, Sweden.
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Nana Waldréus
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Micha Milovanovic
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Vrinnevi Hospital, Norrköping, Sweden
| | | | - Pier Jaarsma
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Tiny Jaarsma
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Norinder M, Axelsson L, Årestedt K, Grande G, Ewing G, Alvariza A. Family caregivers' experiences of discussing their needs with a nurse during specialised home care utilizing the carer support needs assessment tool intervention - A qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 66:102412. [PMID: 37742425 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102412] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention (CSNAT-I) was designed to help family caregivers identify, reflect upon, and express their support needs in a conversation with a health care professional and gain tailored support. The CSNAT-I has shown positive effects for both nurses and family caregivers but for more comprehensive understanding this study aims to examine family caregivers' experiences of discussing their needs with a nurse during specialised home care, utilizing the CSNAT-I. METHODS The study used an inductive qualitative descriptive design based on framework analysis. Data was collected using individual semi-structured telephone interviews with 10 family caregivers, with a median age of 66, from four specialised home care services. RESULTS Family caregivers appreciated having scheduled meetings with nurses utilizing the CSNAT-I which gave them an opportunity to focus on what was important to them. Family caregivers experienced that the conversations were co-created with a flexible dialogue. The conversations provided new perspectives and insights which helped in finding possible solutions. Family caregivers felt empowered by the co-created conversation and took on a more active role in involving the rest of their family to find support to themselves and the patients. CONCLUSION The CSNAT-I can facilitate communication between family caregivers and nurses leading to adequate supportive inputs. The intervention gives family caregivers an increased opportunity to be involved in their own support, which may enhance their sense of security. According to family caregivers' experiences, CSNAT-I may be an adequate way to support family caregivers to reflect and discuss their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Norinder
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden; Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, 121 87, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Lena Axelsson
- Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristofer Årestedt
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden; Department of Research, Region Kalmar County, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Gunn Grande
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gail Ewing
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Research and Development / Palliative Care, Stockholms Sjukhem, Stockholm, Sweden
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Washington KT, Demiris G, Pitzer KA, Tunink C, Benson JJ, Oliver DP. Family Members' Perceptions of Caregiver-Centered Communication with Hospice Interdisciplinary Teams: Relationship to Caregiver Wellbeing. J Palliat Care 2023; 38:299-306. [PMID: 35876363 PMCID: PMC9873832 DOI: 10.1177/08258597221113725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigators sought to determine how family caregivers' psychological and physical wellbeing influenced their perceptions of communication with hospice providers. METHODS Researchers conducted a secondary analysis of quantitative data generated during two multisite randomized clinical trials of supportive interventions for hospice family caregivers. Caregivers' (N = 525) self-reported anxious symptoms, depressive symptoms, physical quality of life, and perceptions of communication with hospice providers were analyzed via a series of linear models that included demographic and contextual controls. RESULTS Caregivers' anxious symptoms, depressive symptoms, and physical quality of life were largely unrelated to caregivers' perceptions of their communication with hospice providers when adjusted for demographic and contextual factors. CONCLUSIONS Variation in caregivers' perceptions of their communication with hospice providers was not well explained by caregiver wellbeing. Additional research is needed to understand if and how caregivers' perceptions of communication with hospice providers are related to factors not included in this secondary analysis. Provider-related variables may be particularly important to consider.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla T. Washington
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine
| | - George Demiris
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics
| | - Kyle A. Pitzer
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine
- The Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Carl Tunink
- University of Missouri School of Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine
| | - Jacquelyn J. Benson
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine
| | - Debra Parker Oliver
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine
- Golfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College
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Fitzgeraldson E, Triandafilidis Z, Franklin Y, Palazzi K, Kay-Lambkin F, Fitzpatrick S. Feasibility and Acceptability of a Novel Online Program for Mental Health Carers. Int J Psychol Res (Medellin) 2023; 16:41-55. [PMID: 37547866 PMCID: PMC10402641 DOI: 10.21500/20112084.5733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a new online program (Minds Together ) for carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptoms. Methods Using a two-arm randomised controlled trial design, 108 carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology aged 16 years or over (89% female; mean age 50 years) received immediate or delayed access to the Minds Together program. Feasibility was measured using program activation and survey completion rates. Acceptability was measured using a project-specific satisfaction scale, semi-structured interviews, and program completion metadata. The study used intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis for participant-reported outcomes (carer burden, coping self-efficacy) across groups. Results Feasibility and acceptability thresholds were consistent with similar studies: 59% activated their program account, 47% met the program completion threshold, and almost all reported satisfaction with the program. The ITT indicated trends in increased coping self-efficacy and reduced carer burden for the Intervention group, compared to the Waitlist control. Conclusions The Minds Together program is a feasible and acceptable program for carers supporting a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology. Results support exploration of the program's efficacy in a full-scale RCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Fitzgeraldson
- Everymind, Newcastle, Australia. University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia. University of NewcastleUniversity of NewcastleAustralia
| | - Z Triandafilidis
- School of Medicine and Public, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia. University of NewcastleUniversity of NewcastleAustralia
| | - Y Franklin
- Everymind, Newcastle, Australia. Australia
| | - K Palazzi
- Everymind, Newcastle, Australia. Australia
| | - F Kay-Lambkin
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia. Hunter Medical Research InstituteAustralia
| | - S Fitzpatrick
- University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia. University of NewcastleUniversity of NewcastleAustralia
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Haan MM, van Gurp JL, Knippenberg M, Olthuis G. Facilitators and barriers in using comics to support family caregivers of patients receiving palliative care at home: A qualitative study. Palliat Med 2022; 36:994-1005. [PMID: 35502800 PMCID: PMC9174613 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221093513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregiving at home is highly important for people receiving palliative treatment, but also a complex experience, subject to implicit social expectations. This study empirically explored the claim that comics benefit palliative care practice, through evaluating a graphic novel's value as an aid in supportive conversations with family caregivers. AIM To identify facilitators and barriers in using Naasten (Loved ones), a Dutch research-based graphic novel about family caregivers providing care at the end-of-life. DESIGN Qualitative study, following thematic content analysis. PARTICIPANTS Three focus groups with family caregiver consultants, palliative care volunteers, and healthcare professionals (total N = 23) who supported family caregivers; and individual telephone interviews with family caregivers to whom the book was presented (N = 4). RESULTS Barriers and facilitators related to: (1) the family caregiver, (2) impact on the family caregiver, (3) impact on the conversation between the person who provides support and the family caregiver, (4) their relationship, and (5) the person who provides support. Naasten was reported as recognizable and supportive, and powerful in raising emotions, awareness and conversation. Barriers concerned the book's impact due to its style and guidance of a conversation, and doubts about its surplus-value. CONCLUSIONS Emotionally impactful comics may support bereaved family caregivers, but should be introduced with care among current family caregivers, for example, ensuring a right fit, introduction, and follow-up-while taking into account a caregiver's individual situation, needs, abilities, and affinity with the medium. Comics are preferably used in educational settings, contributing to professional awareness and tailored support of family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike M Haan
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle Lp van Gurp
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan Knippenberg
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Olthuis
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Siva R, Sadan V, Alexander G, Immanuel S, Joy P. Reflections on the Experience of Community Health Nurses in Palliative Care: A Qualitative Approach. Indian J Palliat Care 2021; 27:330-335. [PMID: 34511804 PMCID: PMC8428882 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_65_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a major demographic shift with increase in non-communicable diseases even in low- and middle-income countries. Many self-limiting illnesses are burdensome to people when they have limited access to health care system and poor family support. The aim of the study explores experiences of community health nurses in palliative care delivery in a primary health care setting. The study was conducted in Community Health Nursing Department, College of Nursing, CMC, Vellore. A qualitative research using a grounded theory approach was done which included in-depth interviews and focus group discussions from community health nursing faculty. This study used a deductive and inductive approach that stressed the process rather than the meaning of the studied phenomenon. The in-depth interviews lasted for 45 min-1 ½ h for each participant; focus group discussions were held in two sessions lasting for 2 ½ h. The group interviews were transcribed to verbatim. All transcripts were read multiple times to ensure correctness of the transcription by the authors to get an overall impression of the material before the initial coding. Authenticity, credibility, critical appraisal and integrity were demonstrated throughout the study. This study enlightens the experiences of the health care providers on palliative care delivery at the primary care setting and explores barriers, challenges and facilitators for delivery of good palliative home care. Totally, 15 subthemes were grouped under five major themes; community support, family support, acceptance of services, barriers and gaps in care. The in-depth interviews provided an insight into the experiences of the participants on successful collaborative services, caregivers fatigue and the barriers in providing services in the home care setting. Focus group discussion showed that a holistic approach to patient care in primary care setting is possible by community health nurses and a collaborative care from the secondary and tertiary care settings will bring down the non-compliance to the therapeutic regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Siva
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - V Sadan
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - G Alexander
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Immanuel
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Priyadharishini Joy
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Rochmawati E, Prawitasari Y. Perceived caregiving preparedness and quality of life among Indonesian family caregivers of patients with life-limiting illness. Int J Palliat Nurs 2021; 27:293-301. [PMID: 34459242 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2021.27.6.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers play an important role in palliative care. However, family caregivers often report that they felt insufficiently prepared to become a caregiver. This lack of preparedness may lead to a decline in the caregiver's quality of life (QoL), and they may not be able to provide sufficient palliative care to their family member. AIMS To investigate the preparedness of family members to become caregivers alongside their QoL. METHOD A correlational cross-sectional study design was used. A sample of 104 family caregivers completed a World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief to assess the QoL of participants. The Caregiving Inventory (CGI) was used to assess how prepared family members felt to become care-givers, and the CGI also included questions related to the patient's socio-demographic status and illness. Correlation analysis was used to address the research questions. Caregivers were caring for a family member with a life-limiting illness in a suburban district of Indonesia. FINDINGS The 104 family caregivers had a relatively low score for both QoL and caregiving preparedness. A caregiver feeling more prepared was associated with a higher QoL. The study also found a positive correlation (r value, between 0.236-0.481) between perceived caregiving preparedness, including its factors, and domains of QoL. CONCLUSION A person's preparedness to become a caregiver is significantly associated with all QoL domains: physical, psychological, social and environmental. Family members can be better prepared to become a caregiver with training and information about personal care and symptom management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erna Rochmawati
- Associate Professor, School of Master in Nursing, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta
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Warner G, Baird LG, McCormack B, Urquhart R, Lawson B, Tschupruk C, Christian E, Weeks L, Kumanan K, Sampalli T. Engaging family caregivers and health system partners in exploring how multi-level contexts in primary care practices affect case management functions and outcomes of patients and family caregivers at end of life: a realist synthesis. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:114. [PMID: 34271897 PMCID: PMC8285870 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00781-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An upstream approach to palliative care in the last 12 months of life delivered by primary care practices is often referred to as Primary Palliative Care (PPC). Implementing case management functions can support delivery of PPC and help patients and their families navigate health, social and fiscal environments that become more complex at end-of-life. A realist synthesis was conducted to understand how multi-level contexts affect case management functions related to initiating end-of-life conversations, assessing patient and caregiver needs, and patient/family centred planning in primary care practices to improve outcomes. The synthesis also explored how these functions aligned with critical community resources identified by patients/families dealing with end-of-life. METHODS A realist synthesis is theory driven and iterative, involving the investigation of proposed program theories of how particular contexts catalyze mechanisms (program resources and individual reactions to resources) to generate improved outcomes. To assess whether program theories were supported and plausible, two librarian-assisted and several researcher-initiated purposive searches of the literature were conducted, then extracted data were analyzed and synthesized. To assess relevancy, health system partners and family advisors informed the review process. RESULTS Twenty-eight articles were identified as being relevant and evidence was consolidated into two final program theories: 1) Making end-of-life discussions comfortable, and 2) Creating plans that reflect needs and values. Theories were explored in depth to assess the effect of multi-level contexts on primary care practices implementing tools or frameworks, strategies for improving end-of-life communications, or facilitators that could improve advance care planning by primary care practitioners. CONCLUSIONS Primary care practitioners' use of tools to assess patients/families' needs facilitated discussions and planning for end-of-life issues without specifically discussing death. Also, receiving training on how to better communicate increased practitioner confidence for initiating end-of-life discussions. Practitioner attitudes toward death and prior education or training in end-of-life care affected their ability to initiate end-of-life conversations and plan with patients/families. Recognizing and seizing opportunities when patients are aware of the need to plan for their end-of-life care, such as in contexts when patients experience transitions can increase readiness for end-of-life discussions and planning. Ultimately conversations and planning can improve patients/families' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Warner
- School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Lisa Garland Baird
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 4P3, Canada
| | - Brendan McCormack
- School of Health Sciences, Queen Margaret University, Queen Margaret University Drive, Musselburgh, EH21 6UU, Scotland
| | - Robin Urquhart
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS, B3H 1V7, Canada
| | - Beverley Lawson
- Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, 1465 Brenton Street, Suite 402, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3T4, Canada
| | - Cheryl Tschupruk
- Palliative Care Integration, Nova Scotia Health Authority, 530C Bethune Building, 1276 South Park st, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Erin Christian
- Primary Health Care Implementation, Nova Scotia Health Authority, 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2068, Halifax, NS, B3L 4P1, Canada
| | - Lori Weeks
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Kothai Kumanan
- Palliative Care Integration, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Room 522 Bethune Building, 1276 South Park St, Halifax, NS, B3H 2Y9, Canada
| | - Tara Sampalli
- Research, Innovation and Discovery, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
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Efstathiou N, Lock A, Ahmed S, Parkes L, Davies T, Law S. A realist evaluation of a "single point of contact" end-of-life care service. J Health Organ Manag 2021; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 32436670 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-07-2019-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Following the development of a service that consisted of a "single point of contact" to coordinate end-of-life care (EoLC), including EoLC facilitators and an urgent response team, we aimed to explore whether the provision of coordinated EoLC would support patients being cared or dying in their preferred place and avoid unwanted hospital admissions. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Using a realist evaluation approach, the authors examined "what worked for whom, how, in what circumstances and why". Multiple data were collected, including activity/performance indicators, observations of management meetings, documents, satisfaction survey and 30 interviews with service providers and users. FINDINGS Advance care planning (ACP) increased through the first three years of the service (from 45% to 83%) and on average 74% of patients achieved preferred place of death. More than 70% of patients avoided an emergency or unplanned hospital admission in their last month of life. The mechanisms and context identified as driving forces of the service included: 7/7 single point of contact; coordinating services across providers; recruiting and developing the workforce; understanding and clarifying new roles; and managing expectations. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS This was a service evaluation and the outcomes are related to the specific context and mechanisms. However, findings can be transferable to similar settings. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS "Single point of contact" services that offer coordinated EoLC can contribute in supporting people to be cared and die in their preferred place. ORIGINALITY/VALUE This paper provides an evaluation of a novel approach to EoLC and creates a set of hypotheses that could be further tested in similar services in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Efstathiou
- School of Nursing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anna Lock
- Connected Palliative Care, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Suha Ahmed
- Connected Palliative Care, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Linda Parkes
- Connected Palliative Care, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tammy Davies
- Connected Palliative Care, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Susan Law
- Connected Palliative Care, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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de Voogd X, Willems DL, Torensma M, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, Suurmond JL. Dignity of informal caregivers of migrant patients in the last phase of life: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:26. [PMID: 33541334 PMCID: PMC7863486 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00721-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A key aim of palliative care is to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. To help ensure quality of life for the families of patients with migrant backgrounds, this study sought insights into the dignity of informal caregivers in migrant communities. This could improve understanding of family-centered care for migrant patients. Methods Twenty semi-structured interviews with informal caregivers of Turkish, Moroccan, or Surinamese background living in the Netherlands were analyzed thematically. Results The dignity of the patient and that of their informal caregivers were found to be strongly interrelated. Most important for the dignity of caregivers was ensuring good care for their patients and preserving the patients’ dignity. Ensuring good care involved advocating for good and dignified care and for satisfaction of a patient’s wishes. For many informal caregivers, it also included delivering care to the patient by themselves or together with other family members, despite having to give up part of their own lives. Providing care themselves was part of maintaining a good relationship with the patient; the care was to cater to the patient’s preferences and help preserve the patient’s dignity, and it could be accompanied by valuable aspects such as times for good conversations. Positive interaction between an informal caregiver and a patient positively influenced the informal caregiver’s dignity. Informal caregiver and patient dignity were often compromised simultaneously; when informal caregivers felt healthcare professionals were undermining a patient’s dignity, their own dignity suffered. According to informal caregivers, healthcare professionals can help them preserve dignity by taking seriously their advice about the patient, keeping them informed about the prognosis of the disease and of the patient, and dealing respectfully with differences in values at the end of life. Conclusion The dignity of migrant patients’ informal caregivers in the last phase of a patient’s life is closely entwined with ensuring good care and dignity for the patient. Healthcare professionals can strengthen the dignity of informal caregivers by supporting their caregiving role. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-021-00721-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- X de Voogd
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands. .,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van Boechorstraat 7, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - D L Willems
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van Boechorstraat 7, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Boelelaan 1117, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M Torensma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van Boechorstraat 7, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - B D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van Boechorstraat 7, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Boelelaan 1117, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J L Suurmond
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van Boechorstraat 7, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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14
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Westergren A, Ahlström G, Persson M, Behm L. Next of kin participation in the care of older persons in nursing homes: A pre-post non-randomised educational evaluation, using within-group and individual person-level comparisons. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244600. [PMID: 33493153 PMCID: PMC7833216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Next of kin participation in care is a cornerstone of palliative care and is thus important in nursing homes, and outcomes following interventions need to be evaluated using robust methods. Objective To use within-group and within-individual analytical approaches to evaluate the participation of next of kin in care following an intervention and to compare the outcome between the intervention and control groups. Methods A pre–post intervention/control group study design was used. The educational intervention, directed towards staff members, focused on palliative care. The Next of Kin Participation in Care scale comprises the Communication and Trust subscale and the Collaboration in Care subscale, with nine items each. In total, 203 persons (intervention group: n = 95; control group: n = 108) were included. Three different analytical approaches were used: 1) traditional within-group comparison of raw ordinal scores and linearly transformed interval scores; 2) modern within-individual (person-level) interval score comparisons; 3) comparisons between the intervention group and control group based on individual person-level outcomes. Results Within-group comparisons of change revealed no change in any of the groups, whether based on raw or transformed scores. Despite this, significant improvements at the individual level were found in 32.9% of the intervention group and 11.6% of the control group for the total scale (p = 0.0024), in 25% of the intervention group and 10.5% of the control group for the Communication and Trust subscale (p = 0.0018), and in 31.2% of the intervention group and 10.5% of the control group for the Collaboration in Care subscale (p = 0.0016). However, a significant worsening at the individual level in Collaboration in Care was found in 35.1% of the intervention group but only among 8.4% of the control group (p < 0.0005). Conclusion The intervention seems to have a positive impact on next of kin participation in care in nursing homes, especially for communication and trust. However, some next of kin reported decreased participation in care after the intervention. Modern individual person-level approaches for the analysis of intervention outcomes revealed individual significant changes beyond traditional group-level comparisons that would otherwise be hidden. The findings are relevant for future outcome studies and may also necessitate a re-evaluation of previous studies that have not used individual person-level comparisons. Trial registration This study is part of the intervention project registered under Clinical Trials Registration NCT02708498.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Westergren
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Research Platform for Collaboration for Health, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Gerd Ahlström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Magnus Persson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lina Behm
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, Sweden
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15
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Broady TR. Carers’ Experiences of End‐of‐Life Care: A Scoping Review and Application of Personal Construct Psychology. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ap.12278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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16
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Lowers J, Scardaville M, Hughes S, Preston NJ. Comparison of the experience of caregiving at end of life or in hastened death: a narrative synthesis review. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:154. [PMID: 33032574 PMCID: PMC7545566 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background End-of-life caregiving frequently is managed by friends and family. Studies on hastened death, including aid in dying or assisted suicide, indicate friends and family also play essential roles before, during, and after death. No studies have compared the experiences of caregivers in hastened and non-hastened death. The study aim is to compare end-of-life and hastened death caregiving experience using Hudson’s modified stress-coping model for palliative caregiving. Method Narrative synthesis of qualitative studies for caregivers at end of life and in hastened death, with 9946 end-of life and 1414 hastened death qualitative, peer-reviewed research articles extracted from MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, published between January 1998 and April 2020. Results Forty-two end-of-life caregiving and 12 hastened death caregiving articles met inclusion criteria. In both end-of-life and hastened death contexts, caregivers are motivated to ease patient suffering and may put their own needs or feelings aside to focus on that priority. Hastened death caregivers’ expectation of impending death and the short duration of caregiving may result in less caregiver burden. Acceptance of the patient’s condition, social support, and support from healthcare professionals all appear to improve caregiver experience. However, data on hastened death are limited. Conclusion Caregivers in both groups sought closeness with the patient and reported satisfaction at having done their best to care for the patient in a critical time. Awareness of anticipated death and support from healthcare professionals appear to reduce caregiver stress. The modified stress-coping framework is an effective lens for interpreting caregivers’ experiences at end of life and in the context of hastened death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Lowers
- Emory University, Palliative Care Center, 1821 Clifton Road, Suite 1016, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
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17
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Chiang CC, Chang SC, Fan SY. The Concerns and Experience of Decision-Making Regarding Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders Among Caregivers in Hospice Palliative Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:123-129. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909120933535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order is an important end-of-life decision. In Taiwan, family caregivers are also involved in this decision-making process. This study aimed to explore the concerns and experiences regarding DNR decisions among caregivers in Taiwan. Qualitative study was conducted. Convenience sampling was used, and 26 caregivers were recruited whose patients had a DNR order and had received hospice care or hospice home care. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection, including the previous experiences of DNR discussions with the patients and medical staff and their concerns and difficulties in decision-making. The data analysis was based on the principle of thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) Patients: The caregivers respected the patients’ willingness and did not want to make them feel like “giving up.” (2) Caregivers’ self: They did not want to intensify the patients’ suffering but sometimes found it emotionally difficult to accept death. (3) Other family members: They were concerned about the other family members’ opinions on DNR orders, their blame, and their views on filial impiety. (4) Medical staff: The information and suggestions from the medical staff were foundational to their decision-making. The caregivers needed the health care professionals’ supports to deal with the concerns from patients and other family members as well as their emotional reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Chun Chiang
- Heart Lotus palliative ward, Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Hualien
| | - Shu-Chuan Chang
- The Nursing Committee, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien
- School of Nursing, Tzu Chi University, Hualien
| | - Sheng-Yu Fan
- Institute of Gerontology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan
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18
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Wu MP, Huang SJ, Tsao LI. The Life Experiences Among Primary Family Caregivers of Home-Based Palliative Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 37:816-822. [PMID: 32116010 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120907601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of patients with terminal illnesses prefer to die in their own homes due to aging, high medical payments, a limited number of hospitalization days, and the ability to receive care from family members. However, few studies have been conducted on the subjective perception and value of caregivers for home-based palliative care (HBPC). OBJECTIVE To identify common themes and topics of primary family caregivers' lived experiences with HBPC when taking care of terminally ill family members. METHODS We conducted audio-recorded transcripts of one-on-one in-depth interviews of primary family caregivers of HBPC. Through a purposive sampling method, the participants were all interviewed; these interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS A total of 22 primary family caregivers participated in the study. "Wholeheartedly accompanying one's family to the end of life at home" was the core category. Six main themes describing caregivers' experiences emerged from the interviews: (1) learning the basic skills of end-of-life home care, (2) arranging the sharing and rotation of care, (3) preparing for upcoming deaths and funerals, (4) negotiating the cultural and ethical issues of end-of-life home care, (5) ensuring a comfortable life with basic life support, and (6) maintaining care characterized by concern, perseverance, and patience. CONCLUSIONS Primary family caregivers of HBPC need support and must learn home care skills by means of the holistic approach. It is crucial to establish assessment tools for caregivers' preparedness for HBPC, including biopsychosocial and cultural considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ping Wu
- Department of Nursing and Center of R/D in Community Based Palliative Care, Taipei, Taiwan.,Community Nursing Section, Department of Nursing, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Jean Huang
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Ing Tsao
- National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
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19
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Tarberg AS, Kvangarsnes M, Hole T, Thronæs M, Madssen TS, Landstad BJ. Silent voices: Family caregivers' narratives of involvement in palliative care. Nurs Open 2019; 6:1446-1454. [PMID: 31660172 PMCID: PMC6805263 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore how family caregivers experience involvement in palliative care. DESIGN A qualitative design with a narrative approach was used. METHODS Purposive sampling and narrative interviews were conducted. Eleven bereaved family caregivers for patients with cancer receiving palliative care were interviewed in Mid-Norway between November 2016-May 2017. RESULTS We identified four themes related to family caregivers' experiences of involvement in the early, middle, terminal and bereavement phases of palliative care: (a) limited involvement in the early phase; (b) emphasis on patient-centred care in the middle phase; (c) lack of preparation for the dying phase; and (d) lack of systematic follow-up after death. Family caregivers experienced low level of involvement throughout the palliative pathway. CONCLUSION The involvement of family caregivers in palliative care may not be proportional to their responsibilities. The needs of family caregivers should be addressed in nursing education to give nurses competence to support family caregivers in providing home-based care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anett Skorpen Tarberg
- Helse Møre og Romsdal Hospital TrustÅlesundNorway
- European Palliative Care Research Centre (PRC), Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Marit Kvangarsnes
- Helse Møre og Romsdal Hospital TrustÅlesundNorway
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Health Sciences ÅlesundNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)ÅlesundNorway
| | - Torstein Hole
- Helse Møre og Romsdal Hospital TrustÅlesundNorway
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Morten Thronæs
- European Palliative Care Research Centre (PRC), Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
- Cancer Clinic, St. Olav HospitalTrondheim University HospitalTrondheimNorway
| | - Torfinn Støve Madssen
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Bodil J. Landstad
- Department of Health SciencesMid Sweden UniversityÖstersundSweden
- Levanger HospitalNord‐Trøndelag Hospital TrustLevangerNorway
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20
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Kristanti MS, Effendy C, Utarini A, Vernooij-Dassen M, Engels Y. The experience of family caregivers of patients with cancer in an Asian country: A grounded theory approach. Palliat Med 2019; 33:676-684. [PMID: 30916614 PMCID: PMC6537031 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319833260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strong family bonds are part of the Indonesian culture. Family members of patients with cancer are intensively involved in caring, also in hospitals. This is considered "normal": a societal and religious obligation. The values underpinning this might influence families' perception of it. AIM To explore and model experiences of family caregivers of patients with cancer in Indonesia in performing caregiving tasks. DESIGN A grounded theory approach was applied. The constant comparative method was used for data analysis and a paradigm scheme was employed for developing a theoretical model. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS The study was conducted in three hospitals in Indonesia. The participants were family caregivers of patients with cancer. RESULTS A total of 24 family caregivers participated. "Belief in caregiving" appeared to be the core phenomenon. This reflects the caregivers' conviction that providing care is an important value, which becomes the will power and source of their strength. It is a combination of spiritual and religious, value and motivation to care, and is influenced by contextual factors. It influences actions: coping mechanisms, sharing tasks, and making sacrifices. Social support influences the process of the core phenomenon and the actions of the caregivers. Both positive and negative experiences were identified. CONCLUSION We developed a model of family caregivers' experiences from a country where caregiving is deeply rooted in religion and culture. The model might also be useful in other cultural contexts. Our model shows that the spiritual domain, not only for the patient but also for the family caregivers, should be structurally addressed by professional caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Sinta Kristanti
- Radboud University Medical Center, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Christantie Effendy
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Adi Utarini
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Yvonne Engels
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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21
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Holm M, Årestedt K, Öhlen J, Alvariza A. Variations in grief, anxiety, depression, and health among family caregivers before and after the death of a close person in the context of palliative home care. DEATH STUDIES 2019; 44:531-539. [PMID: 30907298 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2019.1586797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This article investigates longitudinal variations in grief, self-rated health, and symptoms of anxiety and depression among family caregivers in palliative care. Data were taken from a randomized psycho-educational intervention trial and were collected at four time-points; at baseline, upon completion, 2 months later, and 6 months after the patient's death. In total, 117 family caregivers completed all questionnaires. The participants' grief was stable across the measurements, while anxiety, depression, and health varied significantly (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between the intervention or control group. In conclusion, grief emerged as a constant phenomenon, distinct from symptoms of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Holm
- Department of Nursing Sciences, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristofer Årestedt
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
- Department of Research, Kalmar County Hospital, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Joakim Öhlen
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care Unit, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Schaffler JL, Tremblay S, Laizner AM, Lambert S. Developing education materials for caregivers of culturally and linguistically diverse patients: Insights from a qualitative analysis of caregivers' needs, access and understanding of information. Health Expect 2019; 22:444-456. [PMID: 30767349 PMCID: PMC6543161 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To explore the information needs of caregivers of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) patients, and how they access and understand health information related to the management of their care person's chronic illness(es). Background Caregivers of CALD patients experience greater unmet needs compared to the general caregiver population. They experience many challenges in identifying resources and accessing formal supports to aid in self‐management behaviours. Methods Eleven caregivers were recruited from outpatient clinics in Québec, Canada. Consenting caregivers participated in one face‐to‐face or phone interview. A qualitative descriptive design and inductive content analysis were used to identify themes. Results Caregivers described a “village” approach to caregiving in which more than one individual was involved in patient care. The specific roles ascribed to caregivers defined their information needs. Caregivers described two categories of information needs: perceived and unperceived. Perceived information needs were explicit, and centred on the medical management of illnesses. Unperceived needs were unrecognized knowledge gaps that emerged during interviews and focused on self‐care. Conclusion Although caregivers' perceived needs are often met, their unperceived needs remain unmet. Health‐care providers should perform need assessments to identify caregivers' unperceived needs, with the aims of providing culturally competent care and ongoing support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Schaffler
- Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarah Tremblay
- Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Andréa M Laizner
- Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvie Lambert
- Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,St. Mary's Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Abstract
Perceptions of risks in decision making for home healthcare were examined. Twenty home healthcare professionals were interviewed. Content analysis yielded one theme (management of known and unpredictable risks) and four categories. Healthcare professionals had to handle both known and unpredictable risks in daily work in patients' homes concerning communication challenges, a fragmented organization at several levels, risky medication management, and balancing respect for patient autonomy and involvement in care against risk taking. Priority must be given to creating safer care in this setting.
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Pusa S, Dorell Å, Erlingsson C, Antonsson H, Brännström M, Sundin K. Nurses' perceptions about a web-based learning intervention concerning supportive family conversations in home health care. J Clin Nurs 2019; 28:1314-1326. [PMID: 30554435 PMCID: PMC7328792 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Aims and objectives To describe the perceptions that municipal primary healthcare nurses and municipal registered nurses had about a web‐based learning intervention concerning supportive family health conversations in municipal home health care. Background Even though family health conversations are well grounded in theory with several reported benefits for patients and families, most working nurses have little or no training in practising family systems nursing including family health conversations. Continued learning is necessary for nurses, where web‐based learning may be one answer of updating the professional skills and knowledge of nurses regarding supporting families. Design The study used a descriptive design and followed the “Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research” (COREQ) checklist. Methods Twenty‐one nurses participated in an educational intervention that consisted of web‐based learning and two face‐to‐face seminars about family systems nursing including family health conversations. The nurses were interviewed after completion, and the audio‐recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results The findings consist of nurses’ perceptions regarding the disposition of instruction, the prerequisites for learning and a changed approach when working with families. The findings are further reflected on through Illeris’ theory concerning learning triangle. Conclusions The findings are encouraging for educating nurses in family health conversations at their workplace, with the purpose of supporting patients and families. However, it is important to be aware of the different dimensions of learning, in addition to the appraisal of social aspects and organisational circumstances when educating nurses as they influence the utilisation of the knowledge. Relevance to clinical practice This web‐based learning intervention seems to be suitable for educating nurses in family health conversations and could be an appropriate step towards implementing these conversations in home health care with the purpose of supporting families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Pusa
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Åsa Dorell
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Christen Erlingsson
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaes University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | | | - Margareta Brännström
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Karin Sundin
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Udo C, Neljesjö M, Strömkvist I, Elf M. A qualitative study of assistant nurses' experiences of palliative care in residential care. Nurs Open 2018; 5:527-535. [PMID: 30338098 PMCID: PMC6177554 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore assistant nurses' experiences and perceptions of both positive and negative aspects of providing palliative care for older people in residential care facilities. DESIGN A qualitative explorative study. METHODS Critical incidents were collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews and analysed by performing a qualitative content analysis. RESULTS A total of 40 critical incidents from daily work was described by assistant nurses. The results showed that close cooperation between unlicensed and licensed professionals was crucial to provide good care but was sometimes negatively affected by the organizational structure. The availability of professionals was identified as a critical factor in providing good care at the end of life in a consultative organization. The most prominent findings were those that indicated that, especially in a consultative organization, there seems to be a need for clear roles, comprehensive and clear care plans and a solid support structure to ensure continuity of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Udo
- School of Education, Health and Social StudiesDalarna UniversityFalunSweden
- Center for Clinical Research DalarnaFalunSweden
| | - Maria Neljesjö
- School of Education, Health and Social StudiesDalarna UniversityFalunSweden
| | | | - Marie Elf
- School of Education, Health and Social StudiesDalarna UniversityFalunSweden
- Karolinska InstitutetDepartment of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and SocietyStockholmSweden
- Chalmers University of TechnologySchool of ArchitectureGothenburgSweden
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Fjose M, Eilertsen G, Kirkevold M, Grov EK. "Non-palliative care" - a qualitative study of older cancer patients' and their family members' experiences with the health care system. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:745. [PMID: 30268149 PMCID: PMC6162914 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3548-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Among all cancer patients in the palliative phase, ¾ have reached the age of 65. An aging population will increase the number of people afflicted with cancer, and create challenges for patients, family members and health services. Nevertheless, limited research has focused explicitly on the experiences and needs of older cancer patients in the palliative phase and their families. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore what older home dwelling cancer patients in the palliative phase and their close family members, as individuals and as a family, experience as important and difficult when facing the health services. Methods We used a qualitative descriptive design. Data was collected through family group interviews with 26 families. Each interview consisted of an older home dwelling cancer patient and one to four family members with different relationships to the patient (e.g. spouse, adult children and/or children-in-law). Data was analysed by qualitative content analysis. Results The main theme is “Non-palliative care” – health care services in the palliative phase not tailored to family needs. Three themes are revealed: 1) exhausting cancer follow-up, 2) a cry for family involvement, and 3) fragmented care. Conclusion The health services seem poorly organised for meeting the demands of palliative care for older home dwelling cancer patients in the palliative phase and their family members. Close family members would like to contribute but health services lack systems for involving them in the follow-up of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Fjose
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Postboks 7030, 5020, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Grethe Eilertsen
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, University College of Southeast Norway, Drammen, Norway
| | - Marit Kirkevold
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing Science, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Karine Grov
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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27
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Wittenberg Y, Kwekkeboom R, Staaks J, Verhoeff A, de Boer A. Informal caregivers' views on the division of responsibilities between themselves and professionals: A scoping review. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2018; 26:e460-e473. [PMID: 29250848 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.12529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This scoping review focuses on the views of informal caregivers regarding the division of care responsibilities between citizens, governments and professionals and the question of to what extent professionals take these views into account during collaboration with them. In Europe, the normative discourse on informal care has changed. Retreating governments and decreasing residential care increase the need to enhance the collaboration between informal caregivers and professionals. Professionals are assumed to adequately address the needs and wishes of informal caregivers, but little is known about informal caregivers' views on the division of care responsibilities. We performed a scoping review and searched for relevant studies published between 2000 and September 1, 2016 in seven databases. Thirteen papers were included, all published in Western countries. Most included papers described research with a qualitative research design. Based on the opinion of informal caregivers, we conclude that professionals do not seem to explicitly take into account the views of informal caregivers about the division of responsibilities during their collaboration with them. Roles of the informal caregivers and professionals are not always discussed and the division of responsibilities sometimes seems unclear. Acknowledging the role and expertise of informal caregivers seems to facilitate good collaboration, as well as attitudes such as professionals being open and honest, proactive and compassionate. Inflexible structures and services hinder good collaboration. Asking informal caregivers what their opinion is about the division of responsibilities could improve clarity about the care that is given by both informal caregivers and professionals and could improve their collaboration. Educational programs in social work, health and allied health professions should put more emphasis on this specific characteristic of collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Wittenberg
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Law, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Kwekkeboom
- Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Law, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Staaks
- University Library, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arnoud Verhoeff
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alice de Boer
- Faculty of Social Sciences, VU Amsterdam and The Netherlands Institute for Social Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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28
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Ewertzon M, Alvariza A, Winnberg E, Leksell J, Andershed B, Goliath I, Momeni P, Kneck Å, Skott M, Årestedt K. Adaptation and evaluation of the Family Involvement and Alienation Questionnaire for use in the care of older people, psychiatric care, palliative care and diabetes care. J Adv Nurs 2018; 74:1839-1850. [PMID: 29603762 DOI: 10.1111/jan.13579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM To adapt the Family Involvement and Alienation Questionnaire (FIAQ) for use in the care of older people, psychiatric care, palliative care and diabetes care and to evaluate its validity and reliability. BACKGROUND Involvement in the professional care has proven to be important for family members. However, they have described feelings of alienation in relation to how they experienced the professionals' approach. To explore this issue, a broad instrument that can be used in different care contexts is needed. DESIGN A psychometric evaluation study, with a cross-sectional design. METHOD The content validity of the FIAQ was evaluated during 2014 by cognitive interviews with 15 family members to adults in different care contexts. Psychometric evaluation was then conducted (2015-2016). A sample of 325 family members participated, 103 of whom in a test-retest evaluation. Both parametric and non-parametric methods were used. RESULTS The content validity revealed that the questionnaire was generally understood and considered to be relevant and retrievable by family members in the contexts of the care of older people, psychiatric care, palliative care and diabetes care. Furthermore, the FIAQ (Revised), demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties in terms of data quality, homogeneity, unidimensionality (factor structure), internal consistency and test-retest reliability. CONCLUSION The study provides evidence that the FIAQ (Revised) is reliable and valid for use in further research and in quality assessment in the contexts of the care of older people, psychiatric care, palliative care and diabetes care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Ewertzon
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences/Palliative Research Centre, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
- Capio Palliative Care, Dalen Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Winnberg
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Janeth Leksell
- School of Health and Social Sciences, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Andershed
- Facuilty of Health, Care and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Gjövik, Norway
| | - Ida Goliath
- Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Ersta Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pardis Momeni
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åsa Kneck
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Skott
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Northern Stockholm Psychiatry, Stockholm County Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristofer Årestedt
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Research, Kalmar County Hospital, Kalmar, Sweden
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29
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Hofmeister M, Memedovich A, Dowsett LE, Sevick L, McCarron T, Spackman E, Stafinski T, Menon D, Noseworthy T, Clement F. Palliative care in the home: a scoping review of study quality, primary outcomes, and thematic component analysis. BMC Palliat Care 2018. [PMID: 29514620 PMCID: PMC5842572 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0299-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of palliative care is to improve the quality of life of patients and families through the prevention and relief of suffering. Frequently, patients may choose to receive palliative care in the home. The objective of this paper is to summarize the quality and primary outcomes measured within the palliative care in the home literature. This will synthesize the current state of the literature and inform future work. Methods A scoping review was completed using PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EconLit, PsycINFO, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, and National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database were searched from inception to August 2016. Inclusion criteria included: 1) care was provided in the “home of the patient” as defined by the study, 2) outcomes were reported, and 3) reported original data. Thematic component analysis was completed to categorize interventions. Results Fifty-three studies formed the final data set. The literature varied extensively. Five themes were identified: accessibility of healthcare, caregiver support, individualized patient centered care, multidisciplinary care provision, and quality improvement. Primary outcomes were resource use, symptom burden, quality of life, satisfaction, caregiver distress, place of death, cost analysis, or described experiences. The majority of studies were of moderate or unclear quality. Conclusions There is robust literature of varying quality, assessing different components of palliative care in the home interventions, and measuring different outcomes. To be meaningful to patients, these interventions need to be consistently evaluated with outcomes that matter to patients. Future research could focus on reaching a consensus for outcomes to evaluate palliative care in the home interventions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12904-018-0299-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Hofmeister
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Ally Memedovich
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Laura E Dowsett
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Laura Sevick
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Tamara McCarron
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Eldon Spackman
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Tania Stafinski
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-300 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405-87 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Devidas Menon
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-300 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405-87 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Tom Noseworthy
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Fiona Clement
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada. .,O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Teaching Research and Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.
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30
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Ateş G, Ebenau AF, Busa C, Csikos Á, Hasselaar J, Jaspers B, Menten J, Payne S, Van Beek K, Varey S, Groot M, Radbruch L. "Never at ease" - family carers within integrated palliative care: a multinational, mixed method study. BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:39. [PMID: 29490657 PMCID: PMC5831577 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0291-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family carers manage a wide range of responsibilities in the lives and care of patients receiving palliative care. They fulfil multiple roles and perform activities within different settings. This has immediate consequences on family carers' every-day lives. According to literature, family carers in palliative care are both part of the formal and informal care network, but also persons in need of support. This article aims to investigate 1) burdens and rewards associated with family caregiving and 2) what family carers find helpful in their contact with professionals from integrated palliative care initiatives (IPC-i) and other services. METHODS Family carers looking after patients with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or chronic heart failure were purposefully recruited at 22 IPC-i in Belgium, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom in the course of the project "Patient-centred palliative care pathways in advanced cancer and chronic disease" (InSup-C). Semi-structured interviews (n = 156) and 87 quantitative questionnaires (CRA, POS, CANHELP Lite) were conducted with family carers. Interviews were analysed with transnationally agreed thematic codes (MAXQDA or NVivo). Statistical tests (SPSS) were carried out in accordance with the characteristic value of the items and distributions. RESULTS On average, quantitative data showed moderate burden, but the qualitative findings indicated that this burden might be underrated. There is some evidence that IPC-i with well-developed professional care networks and communication systems relieved family carers' burden by direct and indirect interventions; e.g. provision of night shift nurses or psychological support. Needs of family carers were similar in all participating countries. However, in all countries IPC-i mostly offered one-off events for family carers, lacking systematic or institutionalised support structures. CONCLUSIONS Data suggest that, most IPC-i did not pay enough attention to the needs of most family carers, and did not offer proactive care and access to supportive resources to them (e.g. training, respite care, access to resources). We recommend recognizing family carers as part of the 'unit of care' and partner in caregiving, to improve their knowledge about, and access to, and the support available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülay Ateş
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Anne Frederieke Ebenau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101 (internal code 549), 6500 Nijmegen, HB Netherlands
| | - Csilla Busa
- Department of Hospice and Palliative Care, Institution of Primary Health Care, University of Pecs Medical School, Szigeti str 12, Pécs, H-7624 Hungary
| | - Ágnes Csikos
- Department of Hospice and Palliative Care, Institution of Primary Health Care, University of Pecs Medical School, Szigeti str 12, Pécs, H-7624 Hungary
| | - Jeroen Hasselaar
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101 (internal code 549), 6500 Nijmegen, HB Netherlands
| | - Birgit Jaspers
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Center of Palliative Care, Malteser Hospital Seliger Gerhard Bonn/Rhein-Sieg, Von-Hompesch-Straße 1, Bonn, 53123 Germany
| | - Johan Menten
- Radiation Oncology Department and Palliative Care, University Hospital Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sheila Payne
- Division of Health Research, International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Furness Building, Lancaster, LA1 4YG UK
| | - Karen Van Beek
- Radiation Oncology Department and Palliative Care, University Hospital Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sandra Varey
- Division of Health Research, International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Furness Building, Lancaster, LA1 4YG UK
| | - Marieke Groot
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101 (internal code 549), 6500 Nijmegen, HB Netherlands
| | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Center of Palliative Care, Malteser Hospital Seliger Gerhard Bonn/Rhein-Sieg, Von-Hompesch-Straße 1, Bonn, 53123 Germany
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31
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Wahid AS, Sayma M, Jamshaid S, Kerwat D, Oyewole F, Saleh D, Ahmed A, Cox B, Perry C, Payne S. Barriers and facilitators influencing death at home: A meta-ethnography. Palliat Med 2018; 32:314-328. [PMID: 28604232 DOI: 10.1177/0269216317713427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many countries, achieving a home death represents a successful outcome from both a patient welfare and commissioning viewpoint. Significant variation exists in the proportion of home deaths achieved internationally, with many countries unable to meet the wishes of a large number of patients. This review builds on previous literature investigating factors influencing home death, synthesising qualitative research to supplement evidence that quantitative research in this field may have been unable to reach. AIM To identify and understand the barriers and facilitators influencing death at home. DESIGN Meta-ethnography. DATA SOURCES The review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic literature search was conducted using five databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Ovid, CINAHL and PsycINFO. Databases were searched from 2006 to 2016. Empirical, UK-based qualitative studies were included for analysis. RESULTS A total of 38 articles were included for analysis. Seven overarching barriers were identified: lack of knowledge, skills and support among informal carers and healthcare professionals; informal carer and family burden; recognising death; inadequacy of processes such as advance care planning and discharge; as well as inherent patient difficulties, either due to the condition or social circumstances. Four overarching facilitators were observed: support for patients and healthcare professionals, skilled staff, coordination and effective communication. CONCLUSION Future policies and clinical practice should develop measures to empower informal carers as well as emphasise earlier commencement of advance care planning. Best practice discharge should be recommended in addition to addressing remaining inequity to enable non-cancer patients greater access to palliative care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Samad Wahid
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Meelad Sayma
- 2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK.,3 Peninsula College of Medicine & Dentistry, Plymouth, UK
| | - Shiraz Jamshaid
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Doa'a Kerwat
- 2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK.,4 Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
| | - Folashade Oyewole
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Dina Saleh
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Aaniya Ahmed
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Benita Cox
- 2 Imperial College Business School, London, UK
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32
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Mroz EL, Poulin MJ, Grant PC, Depner RM, Breier J, Byrwa DJ, Wright ST. Caregiver Self-Esteem as a Predictor of Patient Relationship Satisfaction: A Longitudinal Study. J Palliat Med 2017; 21:376-379. [PMID: 29068755 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Longitudinal assessment of patient-caregiver relationships will determine whether caregiver self-esteem determines patient relationship satisfaction at end of life. BACKGROUND Research on close relationships and caregiving supports the idea that informal caregivers' self-esteem may influence their relationships with their terminally ill loved ones. However, this connection has not yet been investigated longitudinally, nor has it been applied specifically to care recipients' relationship satisfaction. METHODS A sample of 24 caregivers and 24 patients in a hospice home care program were recruited. Multiple patient and caregiver interviews were used to conduct a longitudinal study to measure fluctuations in patient health, changes in patient and caregiver relationship satisfaction, and self-esteem over a three-month period. RESULTS An interaction between caregiver self-esteem and patient relationship satisfaction demonstrated the role that self-esteem plays between caregivers and patients enrolled in hospice care. Specifically, for patients with caregivers with low self-esteem, patient relationship satisfaction significantly decreased as the patient's physical health decreased, whereas for patients whose caregivers had high self-esteem, patient relationship satisfaction marginally increased during poorer physical health. DISCUSSION High self-esteem may allow caregivers to overcome feelings of burden and maladaptive anticipatory grief to remain satisfied in their relationship with the patient. Caregiver self-esteem appears to play a role in fostering patient relationship satisfaction at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Mroz
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Michael J Poulin
- 2 Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo , Buffalo, New York
| | - Pei C Grant
- 3 Department of Research, Palliative Care Buffalo, The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care , Buffalo, New York
| | - Rachel M Depner
- 3 Department of Research, Palliative Care Buffalo, The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care , Buffalo, New York
| | - Jennifer Breier
- 3 Department of Research, Palliative Care Buffalo, The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care , Buffalo, New York
| | - David J Byrwa
- 3 Department of Research, Palliative Care Buffalo, The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care , Buffalo, New York
| | - Scott T Wright
- 4 Department of Research, Palliative Care Buffalo , Buffalo, New York
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33
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Unmet Needs and Caregiver Burden Among Family Caregivers of Hospice Patients in South Korea. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2017. [DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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34
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Duggleby W, Tycholiz J, Holtslander L, Hudson P, Nekolaichuk C, Mirhosseini M, Parmar J, Chambers T, Alook A, Swindle J. A metasynthesis study of family caregivers' transition experiences caring for community-dwelling persons with advanced cancer at the end of life. Palliat Med 2017; 31:602-616. [PMID: 28618898 DOI: 10.1177/0269216316673548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers (broadly defined as family and friends) experience multiple concurrent transitions when caring for a person with advanced cancer. AIMS To (a) explore the transition experience of family caregivers caring for persons with advanced cancer living in the community, (b) describe potential triggers for transitions, (c) identify what influences this experience, and (d) develop a conceptual framework of their transition experience. DESIGN Sandelowski and Barroso's methodology for synthesizing qualitative research included (a) a comprehensive search of empirical literature, (b) quality appraisal of qualitative studies, (c) classification of studies, and (d) synthesis of the findings. DATA SOURCES Literature was sourced from six electronic data bases. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) published qualitative studies (and mixed-method designs) of the caregiving experience of family caregivers of community-living persons with advanced cancer at the end of life, (b) participants (caregivers and care recipients) of 18 years of age and above, (c) studies published in English in any country, and (d) studies published between 2004 and 2014. RESULTS A total of 72 studies were included in the metasynthesis. Family caregivers experience a "life transition" whereby their lives are permanently altered. The participants described the process of redefining normal which consisted of coming to terms with their situation and connecting with others. Outcomes of these processes were as follows: (a) maintaining a sense of personhood, (b) reframing hope, (c) maintaining self-efficacy, (d) finding meaning, and (e) preparing for the death of their care recipient. CONCLUSION The findings provide a framework to guide the development of supportive programs and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Duggleby
- 1 Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jamie Tycholiz
- 2 Strategic Planning and Policy Development, Alberta Health, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lorraine Holtslander
- 3 College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,4 University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Peter Hudson
- 5 Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia.,6 The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,7 Palliative Care, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Cheryl Nekolaichuk
- 8 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mehrnoush Mirhosseini
- 8 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jasneet Parmar
- 9 Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,10 Network of Excellence in Seniors' Health and Wellness, Covenant Health, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Thane Chambers
- 11 University of Alberta Libraries, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Angele Alook
- 12 Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Swindle
- 1 Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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35
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Anderson EW, White KM. "This Is What Family Does": The Family Experience of Caring for Serious Illness. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:348-354. [PMID: 28662594 PMCID: PMC5768255 DOI: 10.1177/1049909117709251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: As the demographics of caregiving in United States evolve toward multigenerational, distributed family structures, the ways in which individuals and their families experience serious illness are changing. As part of a project to create an innovative model of supportive care for serious illness, a series of user interviews were conducted, forming the basis for this article. Objective: To understand the experience of caregiving for individuals with serious illness from an intergenerational family perspective. Methods: Twelve semistructured group interviews were conducted with patients, families, and professionals. Transcript data were analyzed with descriptive coding, looking for major themes and subthemes related to family experiences. Results: Seventy-three individuals participated in group interview sessions. While both families and individuals encountered caregiving challenges, the family unit experienced care in several unique ways. It accommodated differences in temperament and readiness, managed internal conflict, and strived to emerge as a cohesive unit. Individual struggles were often magnified or, more often, ameliorated by family context. Caregiving itself formed a legacy for future generations. Finally, care was seen as bidirectional, being tendered both by the family caregivers and in turn by the patient. Conclusions: When talking about care for serious illness, individuals report both rewards and challenges, often in a family context. The family enterprise manages a loved one’s care, negotiates the health-care system, and adjusts its own internal dynamics. Integrating the family narrative provides a more balanced view of the family system that provides the day-to-day care for individuals with serious illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Anderson
- 1 Division of Applied Research, Late Life Supportive Care, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katie M White
- 2 Division of Health Policy & Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Carlsen B, Lundberg K. ‘If it weren't for me…’: perspectives of family carers of older people receiving professional care. Scand J Caring Sci 2017; 32:213-221. [DOI: 10.1111/scs.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Still Searching: A Meta-Synthesis of a Good Death from the Bereaved Family Member Perspective. Behav Sci (Basel) 2017; 7:bs7020025. [PMID: 28441339 PMCID: PMC5485455 DOI: 10.3390/bs7020025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of a good death continues to receive attention in end-of-life (EOL) scholarship. We sought to continue this line of inquiry related to a good death by conducting a meta-synthesis of published qualitative research studies that examined a good death from the bereaved family member's perspective. Results of the meta-synthesis included 14 articles with 368 participants. Based on analysis, we present a conceptual model called The Opportunity Model for Presence during the EOL Process. The model is framed in socio-cultural factors, and major themes include EOL process engagement with categories of healthcare participants, communication and practical issues. The second theme, (dis)continuity of care, includes categories of place of care, knowledge of family member dying and moment of death. Both of these themes lead to perceptions of either a good or bad death, which influences the bereavement process. We argue the main contribution of the model is the ability to identify moments throughout the interaction where family members can be present to the EOL process. Recommendations for healthcare participants, including patients, family members and clinical care providers are offered to improve the quality of experience throughout the EOL process and limitations of the study are discussed.
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Anderson EW, Frazer MS, Schellinger SE. Expanding the Palliative Care Domains to Meet the Needs of a Community-Based Supportive Care Model. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:258-265. [PMID: 28423918 PMCID: PMC5768266 DOI: 10.1177/1049909117705061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Whole person care is appropriate for seriously ill persons. The current framework of palliative care domains in the National Consensus Project (NCP) Guidelines for Quality Palliative Care offers an opportunity to reassess the domains of care delivered at home, earlier in the course of illness. Objective: This qualitative study was used to test the applicability of a proposed, expanded set of domains. The results were used to inform a home-based, upstream model of supportive care for serious illness. Methods: Quotes relating to the experience of late-life serious illness were derived from transcripts of 12 semi-structured group interviews conducted with patients, family, and professionals. Quotes originally coded to the NCP domains of palliative care were then coded to the proposed domain set, which included new categories of family/caregiver, legal/financial, and legacy/bereavement domains. Results: A total of 489 quotes were assigned to the proposed expanded set of domains. One hundred one (19%) coded to the family/caregiver domain, 28 (5%) to the legacy/bereavement domain, and 27 (5%) to the legal/financial domain. Ninety-seven (87%) of the 111 quotes coded to family/caregiver had been initially coded to the NCP social aspects of care. Family/caregiver themes included challenges, rewards, insights, and family growth. Conclusion: The preponderance of family-related issues suggests that including the family domain may promote recognition and support of family caregivers and the services they provide. Although this study provides some support for including the legacy/bereavement and legal/financial domains, additional research is needed to determine whether there is a basis for including them in the domain structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Anderson
- 1 Division of Applied Research, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Monica S Frazer
- 1 Division of Applied Research, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Anderson EW, White KM. "It Has Changed My Life": An Exploration of Caregiver Experiences in Serious Illness. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:266-274. [PMID: 28413927 PMCID: PMC5768253 DOI: 10.1177/1049909117701895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Informal, unpaid caregivers shoulder much of the care burden for individuals with serious illness. As part of a project to create an innovative model of supportive care for serious illness, a series of user interviews were conducted, forming the basis for this article. Objective: To understand both individual and interpersonal aspects of caregiving for serious illness. Methods: Twelve semistructured group interviews were conducted with patients, families, and professionals as part of a larger study of late-life serious illness. Transcript data were analyzed with descriptive coding, and then coded material was analyzed to elicit major themes and subthemes. Results: A total of 73 individuals participated in group interview sessions. Using descriptive coding, quotes were assigned to first-order codes of rewards, challenges, and a category of learnings and adaptations. Subthemes of reward included gratitude, a sense of accomplishment or mastery, and closeness in personal relationships. The most oft-cited challenges included emotional and physical stresses of caregiving and feeling unprepared or unsupported in caregiving. Reflecting on their experiences, caregivers cited new ways in which they had learned to be creative, to show assertiveness and advocacy, and to create personal balance in a demanding situation. Conclusions: The experience of caregiving is a life-altering journey as individuals rise to challenges and reflect on the rewards. Caregivers described intensive caregiving, often without acknowledgment or understanding of their role from the health-care system. This invisibility created its own iatrogenic caregiving challenge. The identified themes suggest avenues of meaningful caregiver support that bear further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Anderson
- 1 Late Life Supportive Care, Division of Applied Research, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katie M White
- 2 Division of Health Policy & Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Holm M, Goliath I, Södlind H, Alvariza A. Leading an intervention for family caregivers-a part of nursing in palliative care. Int J Palliat Nurs 2017; 23:166-172. [PMID: 28486067 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2017.23.4.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Professional leadership has been highlighted as an important part of successful intervention delivery. The aim of this study is to explore the narratives of nurses involved in leading a group intervention for family caregivers in palliative care. Nurses were interviewed about their experiences as group leaders in a psycho-educational group intervention, which was delivered at 10 specialised palliative home care settings, with the help of an intervention manual. Data were analysed with interpretive descriptive methodology. Three themes were identified in the analysis: embracing the leading role, developing qualities as a group leader, and professional and personal development. The results showed that the role as group leader initially was a challenge for the nurses, but that they gradually were able to develop the professional and personal skills that were required. The nurses believed that their profession was best suited to lead this kind of supportive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Holm
- School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, Eskilstuna, Sweden
| | - Ida Goliath
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Södlind
- Palliative Care Unit, Solna Sundbyberg, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal University College, Stockholm, Sweden
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Harrop E, Morgan F, Byrne A, Nelson A. "It still haunts me whether we did the right thing": a qualitative analysis of free text survey data on the bereavement experiences and support needs of family caregivers. BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:92. [PMID: 27825330 PMCID: PMC5101847 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0165-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research suggests that there may be bereavement experiences and support needs which are specific to family caregivers providing end of life care (EoLC), although this remains an under-researched area. This paper focuses on themes relating to bereavement which were derived from an analysis of free text survey responses collected in a research priority setting exercise for palliative and EoLC. Methods The priority setting exercise involved a public survey, designed to generate research priorities. Rather than identify research topics, many people instead described their experiences and raised more general questions relating to palliative and end of life care. To explore these experiences and perspectives a supplementary thematic analysis was conducted on the survey responses. 1403 respondents took part, including patients, current and bereaved carers, health and social care professionals, volunteers and members of the public. Results Several grief issues were identified, which seem specific to the experiences of family caregivers. Responses demonstrated a relationship between death experiences, feelings of guilt and bereavement outcomes for some family caregivers, as well as caregiver experiences of a “void” created by the withdrawal of professional support after death. Communication and support needs were also identified by participants. Conclusion This analysis provides further evidence of some of the specific effects that caring for a loved one at the end of life can have on bereavement experiences. Finding ways of improving communication around the time of death and effective follow up approaches post death could help to address some of these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Cardiff University School of Medicine, 1st Floor Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park Way, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - Fiona Morgan
- SURE/ School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, 1st Floor Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park Way, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Cardiff University School of Medicine, 1st Floor Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park Way, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Annmarie Nelson
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Cardiff University School of Medicine, 1st Floor Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park Way, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
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Patients' experiences of care and support at home after a family member's participation in an intervention during palliative care. Palliat Support Care 2016; 15:305-312. [PMID: 27748224 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951516000729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients who receive palliative home care are in need of support from family members, who take on great responsibility related to caregiving but who often feel unprepared for this task. Increasing numbers of interventions aimed at supporting family members in palliative care have been described and evaluated. It is not known whether and how these interventions actually affect the care or support provided to a patient, even though it has been suggested that family members would be likely to provide better care and support and thus allow for positive experiences for patients. However, this has not been studied from the perspective of the patients themselves. The objective of our study was to explore patients' experiences of care and support at home after family members' participation in a psychoeducational intervention during palliative care. METHOD Our study took a qualitative approach, and interviews were conducted with 11 patients whose family members had participated in a psychoeducational intervention during palliative home care. The interviews were analyzed employing interpretive description. RESULTS Patients' experiences were represented by three themes: "safe at home," "facilitated and more honest communication," and "feeling like a unit of care." Patients felt that their needs were better met and that family members became more confident at home without risking their own health. Patients felt relieved when family members were given the opportunity to talk and reflect with others and hoped that the intervention would contribute to more honest communications between themselves and their family members. Further, it was of great importance to patients that family members receive attention from and be confirmed and supported by healthcare professionals. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our findings show how an intervention targeted at family members during palliative home care also benefits the patients.
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Halloran L. Who Cares? J Nurse Pract 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Hunstad I, Foelsvik Svindseth M. Challenges in home-based palliative care in Norway: a qualitative study of spouses' experiences. Int J Palliat Nurs 2016; 17:398-404. [PMID: 22067680 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2011.17.8.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Issues around patients' preferred place of care and death are taking greater precedence of late. However, little is known about patients' and carers' experiences of palliative care in the home setting. This study explored carers' views of what determines the quality of home care at the end of life. METHODS The study made use of systems theory, the purpose of which is to obtain a broad understanding of a phenomenon by looking at the relations between its individual elements. Seven carers (spouses) of people who died having received home-based palliative care in three different municipalities in Norway were interviewed. RESULTS None of the participants had planned to give or receive palliative care in the home. However, they did not regret that the home had been the place of care. Factors deemed important to acheiving the best possible home-based palliative care included around-the-clock help, holistic care, and affirmation of the significance of the carer's role. CONCLUSION Health professionals should be more forthcoming in discussing the benefits and challenges of home-based palliative care and make greater acknowledgment of the carer's role. Treatment plans may be helpful in acheiving these goals.
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Royackers A, Regan S, Donelle L. The eShift model of care: informal caregivers’ experience of a new model of home-based palliative care. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2016. [DOI: 10.1179/1743291x15y.0000000006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Doll A, Montag T, Simon ST, Bausewein C, Voltz R, Ostgathe C. [Communication issues with patients with incurable cancer and palliative management and care in the dying phase]. MMW Fortschr Med 2016; 158:39-43. [PMID: 28924767 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-016-7699-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Axel Doll
- Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Uniklinik Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, D-50937, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - Thomas Montag
- Uniklinik Köln, Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Uniklinik Köln, Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Klinikum der Univ. München, Campus Großhadern, Klinik und Poliklinik für Palliativmedizin;, München, Deutschland
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Uniklinik Köln, Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Christoph Ostgathe
- Uniklinik Erlangen, Palliativmedizinische Abteilung, Erlangen, Deutschland
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Zheng Y, Head BA, Schapmire TJ. A Systematic Review of Telehealth in Palliative Care: Caregiver Outcomes. Telemed J E Health 2015; 22:288-94. [PMID: 26360181 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2015.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Telehealth interventions have proven efficacy in healthcare, but little is known about the results of such interventions in palliative care. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate caregiver outcomes related to palliative telehealth interventions. MATERIALS AND METHODS We searched multiple databases for articles published between January 2003 and January 2015 related to telehealth in palliative care. Two hundred twenty-one articles were considered; nine of these met study inclusion criteria. Data on study design, population, interventions, methods, outcomes, conclusions, and methodological quality were extracted and evaluated by three investigators. RESULTS Of the nine studies, five measured caregiver quality of life, three measured caregiver anxiety, and two measured caregiver burden. All the studies measuring caregiver quality of life showed no significant difference after telehealth interventions. The caregiver anxiety score decreased after the intervention in two studies, and one study reported significantly reduced caregiver burden. Although feasibility of or caregiver satisfaction with the telehealth intervention was not the focus of this review, most studies reported such findings. Of the nine studies, the majority were rated as having moderate quality using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review suggests there is evidence of overall satisfaction in caregivers who undergo a telehealth intervention, but outcomes reported were often not substantial. Methodological flaws and small sample sizes negatively affected study quality. More rigorous research to test and evaluate such palliative interventions is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Zheng
- 1 Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Barbara A Head
- 2 School of Medicine, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Tara J Schapmire
- 2 School of Medicine, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
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Henoch I, Carlander I, Holm M, James I, Kenne Sarenmalm E, Lundh Hagelin C, Lind S, Sandgren A, Öhlén J. Palliative Care Research - A Systematic Review of foci, designs and methods of research conducted in Sweden between 2007 and 2012. Scand J Caring Sci 2015; 30:5-25. [DOI: 10.1111/scs.12253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ingela Henoch
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences; The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
- University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care (GPCC); University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Ida Carlander
- Palliative Research Centre; Ersta Sköndal University College and Ersta Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
- Medical Management Center; Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Maja Holm
- Palliative Research Centre; Ersta Sköndal University College and Ersta Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology; Care Sciences and Society; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Inger James
- School of Health and Medical Sciences; Örebro University; Örebro Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Kenne Sarenmalm
- Palliative Research Centre; Ersta Sköndal University College and Ersta Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
- Research and Development Centre; Skaraborg Hospital; Skövde Sweden
| | - Carina Lundh Hagelin
- Medical Management Center; Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Sophiahemmet University; Stockholm Sweden
- Research and Development Unit in Palliative care; Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Susanne Lind
- Palliative Research Centre; Ersta Sköndal University College and Ersta Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology; Care Sciences and Society; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Anna Sandgren
- School of Health Sciences; Jönköping University; Jönköping Sweden
- Center for Collaborative Palliative Care; Department of Health and Caring Sciences; Linneaus University; Kalmar/Växjö Sweden
| | - Joakim Öhlén
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences; The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
- University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care (GPCC); University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
- Palliative Research Centre; Ersta Sköndal University College and Ersta Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
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Morris SM, King C, Turner M, Payne S. Family carers providing support to a person dying in the home setting: A narrative literature review. Palliat Med 2015; 29:487-95. [PMID: 25634635 PMCID: PMC4436280 DOI: 10.1177/0269216314565706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study is based on people dying at home relying on the care of unpaid family carers. There is growing recognition of the central role that family carers play and the burdens that they bear, but knowledge gaps remain around how to best support them. AIM The aim of this study is to review the literature relating to the perspectives of family carers providing support to a person dying at home. DESIGN A narrative literature review was chosen to provide an overview and synthesis of findings. The following search terms were used: caregiver, carer, 'terminal care', 'supportive care', 'end of life care', 'palliative care', 'domiciliary care' AND home AND death OR dying. DATA SOURCES During April-May 2013, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Pubmed, Cochrane Reviews and Citation Indexes were searched. Inclusion criteria were as follows: English language, empirical studies and literature reviews, adult carers, perspectives of family carers, articles focusing on family carers providing end-of-life care in the home and those published between 2000 and 2013. RESULTS A total of 28 studies were included. The overarching themes were family carers' views on the impact of the home as a setting for end-of-life care, support that made a home death possible, family carer's views on deficits and gaps in support and transformations to the social and emotional space of the home. CONCLUSION Many studies focus on the support needs of people caring for a dying family member at home, but few studies have considered how the home space is affected. Given the increasing tendency for home deaths, greater understanding of the interplay of factors affecting family carers may help improve community services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Morris
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Claire King
- Health and Care Directorate, Cumbria County Council, Carlisle, UK
| | - Mary Turner
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Sheila Payne
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Totman J, Pistrang N, Smith S, Hennessey S, Martin J. 'You only have one chance to get it right': A qualitative study of relatives' experiences of caring at home for a family member with terminal cancer. Palliat Med 2015; 29:496-507. [PMID: 25634637 DOI: 10.1177/0269216314566840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relatives looking after a terminally ill family member at home face numerous challenges. Studies into relatives' experiences of home caregiving have been criticised for their descriptive nature and lack of theoretical underpinnings. AIM To explore the emotional challenges faced by home caregivers, and their experiences of healthcare professionals, from the perspective of existential psychology. DESIGN A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were analysed thematically using the Framework approach. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS The study took place within an inner-city London hospice. Participants (n = 15) were recently bereaved adult relatives of cancer patients who cared for their family member at home. RESULTS Participants' experiences of being a caregiver and of professional support were highly varied. The analysis generated 15 themes which were organised into a framework based on Yalom's four 'existential conditions': responsibility (e.g. 'being the linchpin of care'; 'you only have one chance to get it right'), isolation (e.g. 'being on my own', 'being held in mind'), death (e.g. 'knowing but not knowing') and meaningfulness (e.g. 'giving something back', 'acceptance and gratitude'). Healthcare professionals were perceived as influential in both helping and hindering relatives in meeting the challenges they faced. CONCLUSION Existential psychology provides a theoretical perspective from which to understand the psychological complexity of the emotional challenges home caregivers face and a framework which may usefully inform research and clinical practice. Professionals' attentiveness to caregivers' needs can have powerful effects in assuaging anxiety, reducing isolation and enabling relatives to connect with the meaningfulness of caregiving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Totman
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nancy Pistrang
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Smith
- Dimbleby Cancer Care Service, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Jonathan Martin
- St Joseph's Hospice Hackney, London, UK Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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