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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. "In God We Trust": An Exploratory Study of the Associations Between Religiosity and the Caregiving Experiences of Parents of Children with Rare Diseases in Poland. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024:10.1007/s10943-024-02095-4. [PMID: 39103591 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-024-02095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Most children with a rare disease are cared for by their family members but parenting such a child is extremely demanding due to the complexity and severity of symptoms, with serious physical, emotional, social, and financial consequences for caregivers. Although religion may serve as a positive coping strategy, little is known about its role in helping caregivers manage the stress related to the burden of caregiving in Poland. Therefore, we surveyed 925 Polish family caregivers of children with rare diseases to understand the association between caregivers' religiosity and their caring experiences. The findings suggest that parents' religiosity is associated with a more positive caregiving experience, perceived quality of life, and experienced caregiving burden. While religious caregivers reported experiencing less distressing emotions and stressed the encouraging impact of their child's disease on their life more often, non-religious caregivers experienced role captivity and role overload more frequently. Since religion may serve as a source of strength and a protecting factor against mental health problems and the burden of caregiving, healthcare professionals should be aware of the importance of religious and spiritual care, and caregivers' religiosity should be considered an integral part of a holistic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, St, 60-806, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Engel M, Brouwer MA, Jansen N, Leget C, Teunissen SCCM, Kars MC. The spiritual dimension of parenting a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition: A mixed-methods systematic review. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1303-1325. [PMID: 37461310 PMCID: PMC10548770 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231186173] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spirituality refers to the dynamic dimension of human life that relates to the way that persons experience meaning, purpose, and transcendence. The complex task of parenting a child with a life-limiting condition may raise existential questions, which are easily overlooked by healthcare professionals. AIM We explored how the spiritual dimension becomes manifest in parents of children in pediatric palliative care. DESIGN A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted, registered in Prospero (2021 CRD42021285318). DATA SOURCES PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycInfo, and Cochrane were searched for articles published between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2023. We included original empirical studies that reported on spirituality of parents of seriously ill children, from parents' perspectives. RESULTS Sixty-three studies were included: 22 North-American, 19 Asian, 13 European, 9 other. Studies varied in defining spirituality. We identified five different aspects of spirituality: religion, hope, parental identity, personal development, and feeling connected with others. All aspects could function as source of spirituality or cause of spiritual concern. Sources of spirituality helped parents to give meaning to their experiences and made them feel supported. However, parents also reported struggling with spiritual concerns. Several parents highlighted their need for professional support. CONCLUSIONS Although studies vary in defining spirituality, reports on spirituality focus on how parents connect to their faith, others, and themselves as parents. Healthcare professionals can support parents by paying attention to the spiritual process parents are going through. More research is needed into how healthcare professionals can support parents of seriously ill children in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijanne Engel
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marije A Brouwer
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Jansen
- Faculty of Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carlo Leget
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia CCM Teunissen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marijke C Kars
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Center of Expertise in Palliative Care Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Sari DM, Wijaya LCG, Sitorus WDR, Dewi MM. Psychological burden in spinal muscular atrophy patients and their families: a systematic review. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-022-00572-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal-recessive disorder that manifests in paralysis and skeletal muscle weaknesses. This neuromuscular problem is caused by degeneration of the spinal cord anterior horn cells.
Main body of the abstract
SMA leads to a decreased motoric function that affects patients’ daily activity and eventually induces the psychological burden. Given the increasing psychological burden of the patients and their families, this review summarizes the studies assessing the psychological burden of SMA patients and their families. We aimed to highlight the leading causes of their psychological burden. We systematically searched literature from the period 2011 to 2020 in two electronic databases by using the keywords “Spinal Muscular Atrophy”, “Psychology”, “Caregivers”, and “Burden”, then filtered it with the eligibility criteria and screened the abstract of the studies. By searching, screening, and filtering the studies, we included seven studies in this review. This review showed an increasing psychological burden in SMA patients, moreover for the parents. The dependency mainly causes the psychological burden since they eagerly struggle to achieve an everyday life.
Conclusion
Health professionals’ understanding capability regarding the mental condition of patients and their families is a potential aspect that can create better care. This review is encouraging for researchers and clinicians to have an enormous understanding of SMA.
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von der Lippe C, Neteland I, Feragen KB. Children with a rare congenital genetic disorder: a systematic review of parent experiences. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:375. [PMID: 36253830 PMCID: PMC9575260 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02525-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caring for a child with a chronic disease may be demanding and stressful. When a child has a rare condition, the impact of care on parents is amplified due to the rarity of the diagnosis. In order to address the lack of generalized and synthesized knowledge regarding parents' experiences of having a child with a rare genetic disorder, and give a holistic picture of these experiences, a systematic review of the available qualitative research was conducted. METHODS We performed a systematic review, including qualitative studies on parents of children with rare genetic disorders, published between 2000 and 2020. RESULTS The review included 33 qualitative studies. Findings were synthesized and categorized according to three main themes: Parents' experiences with health care, Responsibilities and challenges, and Factors promoting positive experiences in parents. The findings demonstrate that parents of children with rare genetic disorders share many common challenges, despite evident differences across conditions. CONCLUSION Coordinated care, and a more holistic approach in the follow up of children with rare genetic disorders is needed. International collaboration on research, diagnostics, producing scientific correct and understandable information available for health care professionals and lay people should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte von der Lippe
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ingrid Neteland
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin Billaud Feragen
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
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Hjorth E, Kreicbergs U, Sejersen T, Werlauff U, Rahbek J, Lövgren M. Parents' advice to other parents of children with spinal muscular atrophy: Two nationwide follow-ups. J Child Health Care 2022; 26:407-421. [PMID: 33998314 DOI: 10.1177/13674935211015561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Being a parent of a child with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a disease that causes progressive muscle weakness, involves a range of challenges. The purpose of this study was to explore what advice parents of children with severe SMA, in absence of effective therapies, would like to give to other parents. This study derives from two nationwide parental surveys in Sweden and Denmark, where content analysis was used to analyse one open-ended question about parents' advice to other parents. Ninety-five parents (parents of children diagnosed with SMA type 1 or 2, for whom respiratory support was considered during first year of life) participated (response rate: 84%). Of these 95 parents, 81 gave written advice to other parents. Advice covered coping with everyday life with the ill child, existential issues of living with and losing a child with SMA and involvement in care of the child. Parents highlighted leading normal lives insofar as possible, for example, trying to see healthy aspects in their child, not only focusing on care and treatment. Shared advice can be related to resilience strategies to parents, which can help healthcare professionals and others to support parents in similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Hjorth
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 27106Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Sejersen
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Neurology, 27106Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Werlauff
- National Rehabilitation Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases (RCFM), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jes Rahbek
- National Rehabilitation Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases (RCFM), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden.,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, 27106Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Najafi K, Shirinabadi Farahani A, Rassouli M, Alavi Majd H, Karami M. Emotional upheaval, the essence of anticipatory grief in mothers of children with life threatening illnesses: a qualitative study. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:196. [PMID: 35953867 PMCID: PMC9366755 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00904-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Life-threatening illnesses in childhood are considered a crisis for the whole family, especially for the mother, which leads to experiencing different degrees of grief and emotional-behavioral problems.
Objective The present study is conducted with the aim of explaining the concept of anticipatory grief from the perspective of the mothers of the children with life-threatening illnesses. Methods This qualitative study is part of a sequential exploratory research for model development in the field of anticipatory grief, which was conducted using conventional content analysis method. The data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 19 mothers of the children with life-threatening illnesses living in Shiraz and Tehran, who were selected through purposive sampling with maximum variation. When data saturation were achieved, the data were codified by MAXQDA-10 software and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s approach. Findings Data analysis resulted in the identification of 8 subcategories including shock, irritability, fear of losing, feeling guilty, uncertainty, hopelessness, loneliness and isolation, and mourning without a coffin, all forming the major theme emotional upheaval. Discussion and conclusion As the result of being in a situation of imminent and possible loss of her child, the mother experiences different responses of sadness and sorrow and suffers the consequences the core of which is consisted of emotional upheaval. Therefore, by explaining the behaviors related to anticipatory grief, efficient and effective interventions can be designed to improve coping among this group of mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Najafi
- Student Research Committee, Departmant of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Shirinabadi Farahani
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Rassouli
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Alavi Majd
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Karami
- Student Research Committee, Departmant of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Brandt M, Johannsen L, Inhestern L, Bergelt C. Parents as informal caregivers of children and adolescents with spinal muscular atrophy: a systematic review of quantitative and qualitative data on the psychosocial situation, caregiver burden, and family needs. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:274. [PMID: 35854387 PMCID: PMC9295422 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02407-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare degenerative neuromuscular disease, mostly occurring in infants and children, leading to muscle wasting and weakness, and premature death. Due to new developments of multiple disease-modifying treatments within the last years, the interest of research in patients affected by SMA increased steadily. However, the psychosocial situation of parents as informal caregivers is still rarely addressed. OBJECTIVES This review aims to highlight quantitative and qualitative data about the psychosocial situation, caregiver burden, and needs of parents as informal caregivers for children and adolescents with SMA. METHODS A systematic literature review was performed including quantitative and qualitative original studies focusing on different psychosocial aspects and outcomes for parents of children and adolescents < 21 years of age with SMA type I-IV (PROSPERO; registration number CRD42020219020). We searched the following databases in November 2020 with a research update in August 2021: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science. RESULTS In total, 24 articles from 23 studies were selected for inclusion (15 quantitative studies, 7 articles from 6 qualitative studies, 2 mixed methods studies). The synthesis of included studies shows multiple sources of psychosocial burden for parents of children and adolescents affected by SMA: Most studies found reduced levels of quality of life, moderate to high levels of caregiver burden and distress, as well as physical and mental health symptoms. Further, findings indicate several unmet family needs regarding information, care coordination, treatment decisions, financial support, and adequate supportive care services. CONCLUSION Parents of children and adolescents with SMA face multiple sources of psychosocial stressors, caregiver burden and various unmet family needs. To unburden families, the needs of parents as caregivers should be included in integrated care paths for SMA to improve their psychosocial situation and thus their ability to care for their children and to treat or prevent physical and mental health problems due to overburdening. Future research should focus not only on quality of life and on caregiving-related burden but should also examine the clinical relevance of reported symptoms to support the implementation of adequate support services for families affected by SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Brandt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 202446, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Lene Johannsen
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 202446, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 202446, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 202446, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute for Medical Psychology, Greifswald University Medicine, Walther-Rathenau-Straße 48, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
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Kartoz CR, Wells M, Hammell P. Measuring Anticipated Loss of Aging Parents: Development of the Parent Anticipatory Loss Scale. J Nurs Meas 2021; 30:21-39. [PMID: 34518421 DOI: 10.1891/jnm-d-20-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Research indicates non-caregiving adult children with aging parents experience anticipatory loss for parents that consists of feelings of gratitude, sadness, and worry. The purpose of this research was to develop the Parent Anticipatory Loss Scale. METHODS Interview data from non-caregiving adult children and extant literature formed the basis for creating items measuring three components of Parent Anticipatory Loss. Expert content validity was established prior to administering the survey to a convenience sample of non-caregiving (N = 315), mostly Caucasian (n = 182, 57.6%) men (n = 202, 63.9%). The crowdsourcing platform, Mechanical Turk, provided an innovative method for sample recruitment. RESULTS Questions were eliminated as indicated during analysis, yielding a 19-item scale (α = 0.93) with three subscales (α = 0.897 for Gratitude, α = 0.841 for Sadness, and α = 0.833 for Worry). Exploratory factor analysis (Varimax rotation) showed gratitude accounted for 46% of the variance, with sadness and worry accounting for 9.5% and 5.3%. CONCLUSIONS The Parent Anticipatory Loss scale demonstrates good initial reliability and validity and can be used to measure anticipatory loss for aging parents. Further testing with cross cultural samples is warranted.
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Self-Care Experiences of Adolescents with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2021; 15:231-238. [PMID: 34293478 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2021.07.002] [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: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined the self-care experiences of adolescents with spinal muscle atrophy (SMA) and their perceptions of the interactions between their body and the environment. METHODS We interviewed ten adolescents with SMA aged 13-18 years old regarding personal care practices. Purposive sampling was conducted in two medical centers in northern Taiwan. Data were analyzed using the Giorgi analysis method. RESULTS Four constitutions were identified: 1. limited space for independent development, 2. multiple reconstructions of self-image to improve physical ability, 3. self-care of disease, and 4. developing activity styles to accommodate social culture. CONCLUSION The self-care lived experiences of patients reflect dynamic changes in the body and environment. Self-existence was exhibited by adjustment, practice, and creativity of physical activity to integrate into society. Nursing staff should understand the self-care experiences and needs of adolescents with SMA to develop a database of self-care skills. This study recommended that nursing staff improve their ability to guide patients in taking care of themselves by developing body awareness self-care courses and individual care plans in response to various stages of disability to help patients delay deterioration, realize their physical potential, and promote independence and social development.
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Lascelles KM. Might Informal Carers of Adults With Enduring Suicidality Experience Anticipatory Loss? CRISIS 2021; 43:215-219. [PMID: 33860678 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Carers of loved ones who repeatedly express suicidal intent and/or engage in suicidal behavior may experience a sense of anticipation of eventual suicide due to the potential of a fatal act of self-harm. An understanding of John Rolland's concept of anticipatory loss may help clinicians understand and attend to the experiences of carers of adults who engage in repeated suicidal behavior. Indeed, there appear to be some similarities between this model of anticipatory loss and experiences of informal carers, indicating that the phenomenon, which is hitherto under-explored in the suicidology field, may merit further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Moya Lascelles
- Mental Health Directorate, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
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Multidisciplinary approach and psychosocial management of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Arch Pediatr 2020; 27:7S45-7S49. [DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(20)30277-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Kiefer P, Kirschner J, Pechmann A, Langer T. Experiences of caregivers of children with spinal muscular atrophy participating in the expanded access program for nusinersen: a longitudinal qualitative study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2020; 15:194. [PMID: 32727502 PMCID: PMC7391692 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-020-01477-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Expanded access programs (EAPs) allow patients with serious, life-threatening conditions access to drugs prior to their formal approval. Despite the possible benefits for patients, EAPs present several challenges, including uncertainty regarding a drug’s efficacy and safety as well as inequities regarding access to treatment. Although the number of EAPs is growing, the experience of patients participating in EAPs has not yet been studied. In Germany, an EAP for the treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) with nusinersen ran from December 2016 to May 2017). SMA is a rare, progressive neuromuscular disorder characterized by muscle atrophy and proximal muscle weakness. Insights into patients’ and caregivers’ experiences could help to improve future EAPs. Results We conducted a prospective study using semi-structured interviews with caregivers of children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1who participated in the nusinersen EAP in Germany. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using an inductive approach according to the principles of content analysis. Eight families participated in the study. Their children were between 2 and 28 months old. Six children received non-invasive ventilation. Participation in the EAP marked an important turning point in the caregivers’ experiences. Their perspective changed from a severely limited life expectancy and a palliative approach to a more optimistic view including hopes for a longer life and positive development of their children. However, participating in the EAP was also challenging for caregivers in several ways. Lack of information regarding the launch of the program and the enrollment procedures caused significant uncertainty and stress among caregivers prior to the actual treatment. Further, concerns persisted that nusinersen could not be approved or that the child could be excluded due to an insufficient treatment response. Good communication and trusting relationships with medical and non-medical staff at the hospital helped caregivers cope with the uncertainties associated with the treatment. Conclusion From the caregivers’ perspective, there was no alternative to participating in the EAP for nusinersen. All participants were positive regarding their decision to participate. However, this study suggests that developing procedures to increase speed and transparency and to ensure fairness could help to further improve the system of EAPs as a way to provide urgently needed care to highly vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Kiefer
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janbernd Kirschner
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Astrid Pechmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Langer
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
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Caregiver anticipatory grief: phenomenology, assessment and clinical interventions. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2019; 12:52-57. [PMID: 29206700 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to synthesize recent findings on anticipatory grief in caregivers, referring to its phenomenology, assessment and clinical interventions. RECENT FINDINGS Recent literature illustrates the wide scope of the current use of the term anticipatory grief, reflecting caregivers' experiences in different end-of-life trajectories. The anticipation of death is the distinctive aspect of anticipatory grief in the predeath grief continuum, encompassing several progressive losses, past and future. Recently developed assessment instruments capture key aspects of this experience, such as separation anxiety, anticipation of death and future absence of the person, denial and relational losses. Recent findings on prevalence of clinically significant predeath symptoms in caregivers range from 12.5 to 38.5%. Beyond personal and relational factors, difficult circumstances of end-of-life care significantly interfere in adjustment to anticipatory grief. Useful therapeutic interventions were identified, such as validation of grief feelings, increased coping and self-care, anticipation of future losses and reframing roles. However, rigorous interventional studies are needed to create guidelines and the manualization of specific therapeutic approaches to caregiver anticipatory grief. SUMMARY Findings suggest that anticipatory grief dynamics in different end-of-life trajectories should be recognized and adequately assessed. Clinical interventions considered useful to support anticipatory grief caregivers are presented, but further research is needed to verify effectiveness.
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Hjorth E, Kreicbergs U, Sejersen T, Jeppesen J, Werlauff U, Rahbek J, Lövgren M. Bereaved Parents More Satisfied With the Care Given to Their Child With Severe Spinal Muscular Atrophy Than Nonbereaved. J Child Neurol 2019; 34:104-112. [PMID: 30518279 DOI: 10.1177/0883073818811544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Children with severe spinal muscular atrophy have complex care needs due to progressive muscle weakness, eventually leading to respiratory failure. To design a care system adapted to families' needs, more knowledge about parents' experience of care and its coordination between settings is required. This study explores (1) whether parents felt that health professionals took every opportunity to help the child feel as good as possible, (2) parents' satisfaction with various care settings, and (3) parents' satisfaction with coordination between settings. METHODS Data derive from nationwide Swedish and Danish surveys of bereaved and nonbereaved parents of children with severe spinal muscular atrophy born between 2000 and 2010 in Sweden and 2003 and 2013 in Denmark (N = 95, response rate = 84%). Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used. RESULTS Although most of the parents reported that care professionals had taken every opportunity to help the child feel as good as possible, one-third reported the opposite. Bereaved parents were significantly more satisfied with care than nonbereaved (81% vs 29%). The children received care at many different locations, for all of which parents rated high satisfaction. However, some were dissatisfied with care coordination, describing lack of knowledge and communication among staff, and how they as parents had to take the initiative in care management. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of improving disease-specific competence, communication and knowledge exchange among staff. For optimal care for these children and families, parents should be included in dialogues on care and staff should be more proactive and take care management initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Hjorth
- 1 Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- 1 Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden.,2 The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Sejersen
- 3 The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Neurology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jørgen Jeppesen
- 4 National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases (RCFM), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ulla Werlauff
- 4 National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases (RCFM), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jes Rahbek
- 4 National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases (RCFM), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Malin Lövgren
- 1 Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden.,2 The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Wells M, Kartoz CR. Anticipatory loss in noncaregiving adult children: A hybrid concept analysis. Nurs Forum 2019; 54:16-22. [PMID: 30132909 DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this article is to describe the concept of anticipatory loss in adult children for independent aging parents. BACKGROUND The existing literature, with numerous definitions of anticipatory loss, is disease and event specific. The literature on anticipation of the normative losses experienced by adult children is sparse. DESIGN The Schwartz-Barcott and Kim hybrid concept analysis was used to examine anticipatory loss in adult noncaregiving children. This three-step approach, involving literature review, fieldwork, and final analysis, has been used successfully to compare, revise, and expand a number of existing definitions. DATA SOURCE Empirical and conceptual literature as well as qualitative fieldwork. RESULTS Defining attributes of anticipatory loss in healthy aging families are worry, sadness, and gratitude. Worry about future loss is tempered by gratitude for current parental good health. Anticipatory loss acts as an impetus for adult children to connect with parents and siblings. A conceptual definition of anticipatory loss is proposed based on the findings. CONCLUSIONS Anticipating the loss of a healthy aging parent is different from existing conceptualizations of anticipatory loss and related concepts. Future research is needed to validate this concept and explore connections with health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munira Wells
- Undergraduate Nursing Department, College of Nursing, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey
| | - Connie R Kartoz
- Department of Nursing, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, New Jersey
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Yang BH, Chung CY, Li YS. Partnership between families of children with muscular dystrophy and healthcare professionals: From parents' perspective. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2018; 12:S1976-1317(17)30584-4. [PMID: 29807201 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSES At present, there is still controversy between parents of children with muscular dystrophy (MD) and healthcare professionals on care issues. Partnerships can connect the affected children and their families to appropriate healthcare services, to jointly face the care environment together and thereby improve the quality of life of children with MD. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore partnerships between families and healthcare professionals from the perspectives of parents of children with MD. METHOD Husserl's phenomenological research was applied to explore the basic structures of parents' descriptions of MD. Through purposive sampling, we conducted in-depth interviews with parents, and analyzed the data according to the theory of Giorgi. Nineteen parents (10 mothers, nine fathers) participated in this study. The precision of the research results was tested by applying the four standards of Lincoln and Guba. RESULTS This study identified five constituents: feasible resources and detailed care information; the provision of an integrated medical care across systems; family and home as key elements in critical care; respect and care for family care demands; and finally; feedback and support from families. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that partnerships were established by healthcare professionals, enhancing the care capacity of the families, developing the preventive medicine of MD, and enhancing children's potential for self-care within the families. Hospital policies should include the promotion of family partnership care. The findings can help healthcare professionals recognize the life experiences of children with MD when providing medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Huan Yang
- School of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, No. 261, Wenhua 1st Road, Guishan District, Taoyuan 33303, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Chia-Ying Chung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital; School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, No. 259, Wenhua 1st Road, Guishan District, Taoyuan 33303, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Yuh-Shiow Li
- School of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, No. 261, Wenhua 1st Road, Guishan District, Taoyuan 33303, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Nursing Management, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
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Farrar MA, Carey KA, Paguinto SG, Chambers G, Kasparian NA. Financial, opportunity and psychosocial costs of spinal muscular atrophy: an exploratory qualitative analysis of Australian carer perspectives. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020907. [PMID: 29794098 PMCID: PMC5988080 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has profound implications for patients and families. The aim of the present study was to gain insights into the effects caring for a child with SMA has on the costs incurred by families caring for a child with SMA from carer perspectives to identify gaps in provision of care, inform public policy and cost-effectiveness analyses. DESIGN Interpretive phenomenological analysis guided the delivery and analysis of semi-structured interviews undertaken to explore the financial, opportunity and psychosocial costs associated with caring for children with SMA. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Parents of children with SMA types II and III from a single Australian paediatric neuromuscular clinic participated in this study. RESULTS A range of experiences were reported and information saturation (n=7) was reached endorsing themes, including: significant financial and caregiving burdens, adjusted career choices and limitations on career progression and a complex landscape of access to funding, equipment, support and resources. Opportunity costs of foregone employment, purchases and leisure activities were substantial, as were emotional and social impacts. Participants voiced determination and resilience, and called for continued efforts to improve supportive care services and resources. CONCLUSIONS The range and nature of costs met by families caring for a child with SMA were found to be expansive and not typically recognised. These include high direct costs associated with goods and services, indirect costs associated with voluntary care, substantial and long-term opportunities foregone in paid employment and career progression and unmeasured or hidden costs associated with mental health burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A Farrar
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate A Carey
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah-Grace Paguinto
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Georgina Chambers
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centre for Big Data Research in Health UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nadine A Kasparian
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Heart Centre for Children, The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (Westmead and Randwick), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hjorth E, Kreicbergs U, Sejersen T, Lövgren M. Parents' advice to healthcare professionals working with children who have spinal muscular atrophy. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:128-134. [PMID: 29146237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM To explore parents' advice to healthcare professionals working with children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). MATERIALS AND METHODS This study derives from a Swedish nationwide survey and uses content analysis to make inferences from answers to an open-ended question concerning parent's advice to healthcare professionals. Of eligible parents who had a child born in Sweden between 2000 and 2010, diagnosed with SMA type 1 or 2, and for whom respiratory support was considered in the first year of life, 61 participated in the study (response rate: 87%). Of these, 51 parents answered the question about advice to healthcare professionals working with children with SMA. RESULTS More than half of the advice from parents was related to professional-family relations. The second most frequent type of advice related to two aspects of knowledge about SMA: desire that healthcare professionals possess knowledge, and desire that they provide knowledge. The parents also had advice concerning support in daily life, both to the parents and to the affected child. Other pieces of advice were related to organization of care and the parents' desire to be involved in the child's care. CONCLUSIONS Parents advised healthcare professionals to increase their disease-specific knowledge, to treat the parents as experts on their child, and to treat the family with respect, particularly in situations where the child's case is used as an opportunity to improve healthcare professionals' competence. Increased practical support in daily life and a case coordinator is also among parents' advice to healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Hjorth
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Box 11189, 100 61 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Box 11189, 100 61 Stockholm, Sweden; The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, E-177 76 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Thomas Sejersen
- The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Neurology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, E-177 76 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Malin Lövgren
- Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Department of Health Care Sciences, Palliative Research Centre, Box 11189, 100 61 Stockholm, Sweden; The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, E-177 76 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Brown E, Coad J, Franklin A. The impact of a sibling's life-limiting genetic condition on adult brothers and sisters. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:1754-1762. [PMID: 28449223 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38213] [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: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that rare diseases affect the lives of over three million people in the United Kingdom. Of these, a significant proportion are children and young people with genetic life-limiting or life-shortening conditions. This study used a qualitative approach with in-depth semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences of 10 adult siblings of a baby diagnosed with Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) or Trisomy 18 (Edward syndrome). Findings illustrate that parental grief from the time of their child's diagnosis onward is also experienced by siblings. Although young adults may have conflicting feelings as a bereaved sibling, there is evidence that the experience impacts on their world views and their attitudes about prospective and expectant parenthood. The study highlights the importance of providing siblings with short-term and long-term support from the time of their brother's or their sister's diagnosis onward and provides new understanding about benefit of professional and peer support in helping young adults develop resilience and coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Brown
- Children and Family Research, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Coad
- Children and Family Research, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Anita Franklin
- Children and Family Research, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
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