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Deschenes S, Scott SD, Kunyk D. Mitigating Moral Distress: Pediatric Critical Care Nurses' Recommendations. HEC Forum 2024; 36:341-361. [PMID: 37140806 PMCID: PMC10158695 DOI: 10.1007/s10730-023-09506-1] [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] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In pediatric critical care, nurses are the primary caregivers for critically ill children and are particularly vulnerable to moral distress. There is limited evidence on what approaches are effective to minimize moral distress among these nurses. To identify intervention attributes that critical care nurses with moral distress histories deem important to develop a moral distress intervention. We used a qualitative description approach. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling between October 2020 to May 2021 from pediatric critical care units in a western Canadian province. We conducted individual semi-structured interviews via Zoom. A total of 10 registered nurses participated in the study. Four main themes were identified: (1) "I'm sorry, there's nothing else": increasing supports for patients and families; (2) "someone will commit suicide": improving supports for nurses: (3) "Everyone needs to be heard": improving patient care communication; and (4) "I didn't see it coming": providing education to mitigate moral distress. Most participants stated they wanted an intervention to improve communication among the healthcare team and noted changes to unit practices that could decrease moral distress. This is the first study that asks nurses what is needed to minimize their moral distress. Although there are multiple strategies in place to help nurses with difficult aspects of their work, additional strategies are needed to help nurses experiencing moral distress. Moving the research focus from identifying moral distress towards developing effective interventions is needed. Identifying what nurses need is critical to develop effective moral distress interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadie Deschenes
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Level 3, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405-87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Shannon D Scott
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Level 3, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405-87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Diane Kunyk
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Level 3, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405-87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
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2
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Zinner SE. Moral Distress and its Impact on Healthcare Workers in a European NICU. New Bioeth 2024:1-15. [PMID: 39030729 DOI: 10.1080/20502877.2024.2370084] [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: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
In a qualitative study of 15 NICU workers in a large European NICU, the author asks the subjects to consider what sorts of work environments are likely to result in moral distress and whether support by colleagues, administrators, the institution itself and even perceived societal support may reduce some kinds of moral distress. The majority of providers felt that the support of colleagues was essential; there was some disagreement about whether the larger community was aware of the nature of the work done in NICUs by health workers. These healthcare providers were also asked about memorable patient encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Zinner
- School of Public & Environmental Affairs, Indiana University Northwest, Gary, IN, USA
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Miranda ACR, Fernandes SD, Ramos S, Nunes E, Fabri J, Caldeira S. Moral Distress of Nurses Working in Paediatric Healthcare Settings. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1364. [PMID: 38998898 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This scoping review aims to map the evidence on moral distress of nurses working in paediatric healthcare settings from homecare to hospital. It was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute. International databases were searched according to the specific thesaurus and free search terms. Independent screening and analysis were conducted using Rayyan QCRI. This review considered a total of 54 studies, including quantitative and qualitative studies, systematic reviews, and grey literature; English and Portuguese languages were included. Moral distress is a phenomenon discussed in nursing literature and in the paediatric context but is considered absent from discussion in clinical practice. It is caused by disproportionate care associated with overtreatment. Nurses can present a variety of symptoms, characterising moral distress as a highly subjective experience. The paediatric contexts of practice should promote a healthy ethical climate and work towards a moral community built with peer support, education, communication, leadership, and management involvement. Moral distress is still a complex and challenging multidimensional concept, and the aim should be to promote a culture of prevention of the devastating consequences of moral distress and work towards moral resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sílvia Ramos
- Nursing School Lisbon, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Nunes
- Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Lisboa, 1600-190 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Janaína Fabri
- Faculty of Nursing, Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20551-030, Brazil
| | - Sílvia Caldeira
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal
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Adams SY, Redford K, Li R, Malfa A, Tucker R, Lechner BE. Utility of do-not-resuscitate orders for critically ill infants in the NICU. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03367-1. [PMID: 38969816 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03367-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better understand the value of DNR orders for critically ill infants in the NICU. METHODS A prospective mixed-methods approach was utilized including chart review of infants who died in a regional NICU over a twenty-six-month period and surveys of their neonatologists, neonatal fellows, and nurses. RESULTS 40 infants died during the study period and 120 staff surveys were completed. Infants with DNR orders were of a higher gestational age at birth and a higher chronological age at death. Nurses were more likely to perceive benefit from DNR orders than physicians. Medical staff recollection of the existence of DNR orders was not always accurate. Time and fear of adding unnecessary emotional burden to parents were identified as barriers to DNR order implementation. An advanced care planning model built on open communication instead of DNR order documentation was deemed the best approach. CONCLUSION Though DNR orders are beneficial for a subset of infants, DNR orders are likely not applicable for all infants who die in the NICU. More important is supportive, individualized communication between families and the medical team to ensure quality end-of-life care. IMPACT In the adult and pediatric ICU literature, DNR orders are associated with improved qualitative "good death" assessments and decreased familial decision regret. In the NICU, rates of DNR usage aren't well reported and their overall utility is unclear. Though DNR orders can help guide clinical decision making in the NICU and may be associated with higher quality ethical discussion, our data suggest that they are not applicable in all patient cases. We hope that this work will help guide approaches to end-of-life care in the NICU and underscore the importance of frequent, open communication between families and their medical team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Y Adams
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Katherine Redford
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Randall Li
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ana Malfa
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Richard Tucker
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Beatrice E Lechner
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Barr P. Moral foundations, moral emotions, and moral distress in NICU nurses. Nurs Ethics 2024:9697330241262468. [PMID: 38910344 DOI: 10.1177/09697330241262468] [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: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Background: Moral distress is common in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationships between NICU nurses' moral foundations, moral emotions, and moral distress. Research design and method: This is an observational cross-sectional self-report questionnaire study. Participants and research context: One hundred and forty-two (24%) of 585 Level 3-4 NICU nurses completed pen-and-paper self-report measures of moral foundations (harm, fairness, ingroup, authority, and purity) (Moral Foundations Questionnaire-20), proneness to self-conscious moral emotions (guilt and shame) (modified Personal Feelings Questionnaire-2), and moral distress (futile care, compromised care, and untruthful care) (modified Revised Moral Distress Scale). Ethical considerations: Participation was voluntary and anonymous. The ethics committees of the participating hospitals approved the study protocol (HREC Reference: LNR/18/SCHN/316). Results: Non-parametric statistical analyses showed medium to large correlations between moral foundations and moral emotions. Moral foundations and moral emotions had trivial to small correlations with moral distress. Using a liberal p-value of <.10 for statistical significance because of the small sample size, harm (rs = 0.22) and fairness (rs = 0.16) predicted futile care, ingroup predicted compromised care (rs = 0.19) and untruthful care (rs = 0.15), and purity predicted untruthful care (rs = 0.15). Guilt-proneness predicted futile care (rs = 0.15). Shame-proneness did not predict moral distress. Conclusion: The correlations between moral foundations and moral emotions were significant. Moral foundations and guilt-proneness predicted one or more dimensions of moral distress. The smaller than expected effect sizes may have been owing to how moral foundations, moral emotions, and moral distress were conceptualized and measured, or to moral disengagement, including NICU nurses' possible reluctance to countenance aversive but morally warranted feelings of guilt and especially shame. Understanding the nature of these relationships may complement the efforts of NICU administrators, educators, counsellors, and nurses themselves to mitigate moral distress.
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Mellides González M, Losa Iglesias ME, Corral-Liria I, Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo R, Martinez-Jimenez EM, Fares-Medina S, González-Martín S, San-Antolín M, Jiménez-Fernández R. Moral Distress Healthcare Providers in Spain: Observational Study. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2024; 17:1493-1501. [PMID: 38863953 PMCID: PMC11166161 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s460360] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the moral distress (MD)in health professionals of pediatric and adult units to show how the complexity of care in the pediatric field causes the professionals who carry out their activity in these units to present a higher level of moral distress and a worse climate ethical. Design Observational study with health professionals who currently work in Spanish Hospitals. Methods A 58-item questionnaire was electronically distributed which included sociodemographic and employment characteristics, the Spanish version of the Measure of Moral Unrest for Healthcare Professionals (MMD-HP-SPA) and the Hospital Ethical Climate Survey (HECS). Results A total of 169 health professionals completed the questionnaire. The moral distress was significantly higher among nurses than among physicians and nursing assistant care technicians. Focusing on the type of unit, moral distress it was only significantly higher for those physicians treating adult patients compared to those treating pediatric patients. Regarding the total score of the HECS survey, the medical group shows higher scores compared to the nursing group. Conclusion Statistically significant differences have been found only in the medical group that treats adult patients, presenting a higher level of moral unrests than the pediatrician group. The MMD-HP-SPA questionnaire is a valid and useful instrument to detect MD in our hospital units in order to be able to implement strategies/interventions that improve the ethical climate and other factors that can mitigate and prevent this MD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eva Maria Martinez-Jimenez
- Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Sandra Fares-Medina
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcon, 28922, Spain
| | | | - Marta San-Antolín
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, 47002, Spain
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Pyle A, Adams SY, Cortezzo DE, Fry JT, Henner N, Laventhal N, Lin M, Sullivan K, Wraight CL. Navigating the post-Dobbs landscape: ethical considerations from a perinatal perspective. J Perinatol 2024; 44:628-634. [PMID: 38287137 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-024-01884-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Restrictive abortion laws have impacts reaching far beyond the immediate sphere of reproductive health, with cascading effects on clinical and ethical aspects of neonatal care, as well as perinatal palliative care. These laws have the potential to alter how families and clinicians navigate prenatal and postnatal medical decisions after a complex fetal diagnosis is made. We present a hypothetical case to explore the nexus of abortion care and perinatal care of fetuses and infants with life-limiting conditions. We will highlight the potential impacts of limited abortion access on families anticipating the birth of these infants. We will also examine the legally and morally fraught gray zone of gestational viability where both abortion and resuscitation of live-born infants can potentially occur, per parental discretion. These scenarios are inexorably impacted by the rapidly changing legal landscape in the U.S., and highlight difficult ethical dilemmas which clinicians may increasingly need to navigate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina Pyle
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT, USA.
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Shannon Y Adams
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - DonnaMaria E Cortezzo
- Division of Neonatal and Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pain and Palliative Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jessica T Fry
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Palliative Care, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Natalia Henner
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Palliative Care, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Naomi Laventhal
- Department of Pediatrics, Michigan Medicine-University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Matthew Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Palliative Care Team, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kevin Sullivan
- Division of Neonatology, Nemours Children's Hospital - Delaware, Wilmington, DE, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C Lydia Wraight
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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Mack C, Mailo J, Ofosu D, Hinai AA, Keto-Lambert D, Soril LJJ, van Manen M, Castro-Codesal M. Tracheostomy and long-term invasive ventilation decision-making in children: A scoping review. Pediatr Pulmonol 2024; 59:1153-1164. [PMID: 38289099 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
An increasing number of children are surviving critical illnesses requiring tracheostomy/long-term ventilation (LTV). This scoping review seeks to collate the available evidence on decision-making for tracheostomy/LTV in children. Systematic searches of electronic databases and websites were conducted for articles and reports. Inclusion criteria included: (1) children 0-18 years old; (2) described use of tracheostomy or tracheostomy/LTV; and (3) information on recommendations for tracheostomy decision-making or decision-making experiences of family-caregivers or health care providers. Articles not written in English were excluded. Of the 4463 records identified through database search and other methods, a total of 84 articles, 2 dissertations, 1 book chapter, 3 consensus statement/society guidelines, and 8 pieces of grey literature were included. Main thematic domains identified were: (1) legal and moral standards for decision-making; (2) decision-making models, roles of decision-makers, and decisional aids towards a shared decision-making model; (3) experiences and perspectives of decision-makers; (4) health system and society considerations; and (5) conflict resolution and legal considerations. A high degree of uncertainty and complexity is involved in tracheostomy/LTV decision-making. There is a need for a standardized decision-support process that is consistent with a child's best interests and shared decision-making. Strategies for optimizing communication and mechanism for managing disputes are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Mack
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Janette Mailo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel Ofosu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alreem A Hinai
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Diana Keto-Lambert
- Cummings School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lesley J J Soril
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Medicine Strategic Clinical Network, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael van Manen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Guttmann KF, Puoplo N, Richter F, Weintraub AS. Trends in length of stay for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit patients who die before hospital discharge. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:700-705. [PMID: 34861703 DOI: 10.1055/a-1712-5313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were to establish days between birth and death for neonates over a 14-year period, determine if days between birth and death have changed over time across gestational age cohorts, and identify diagnoses which may put infants at high risk of prolonged hospitalization leading to death. STUDY DESIGN This was a single-site, retrospective chart review of inborn infants who died prior to hospital discharge. RESULTS Two hundred and thirty-nine patients born between 1/1/2006 and 12/31/2020 met inclusion criteria. Days until death ranged from 0 to 300 with a median of 6 days (interquartile range = 23). Median days until death increased over time, with a statistically significant increase between epoch 1 and epoch 2 (p = 0.016) but not between epoch 2 and epoch 3 (p = 0.618). Extremely premature infants died earlier than more mature infants (p < 0.001). In addition, infants with complex congenital heart disease or a gastrointestinal (GI) catastrophe died later (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) than newborns without cardiac or GI issues. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate an increase in time to death for newborns who did not survive to hospital discharge over a 14-year period. This trend suggests that the dynamics informing Meadows' assertion that "doomed infants die early" may be shifting, with some seriously ill infants who die before hospital discharge surviving longer than previously described. More research is needed to understand how best to care for babies who will not survive to discharge and to explore when supports such as palliative care consultation may be beneficial. KEY POINTS As per W. Meadow, "Doomed infants die early" · Pre-death length of stay varies with diagnosis.. · Some seriously ill infants who die before hospital discharge are no longer dying early.. · These infants and families may need supports..
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine F Guttmann
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Nicholas Puoplo
- Department of Pediatrics, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Felix Richter
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Andrea S Weintraub
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
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Al-Harrasi S, Sabei SA, Omari OA, Abrawi UA. Nurses' Job Burnout and Resilience in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2024; 38:201-211. [PMID: 38758275 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the relationship between job burnout and resilience among nurses working in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Oman. BACKGROUND NICUs induce a significant amount of stress that predisposes nurses to a substantial degree of burnout. Resilience can play a role in reducing the effects of job burnout. A limited number of studies have examined job burnout and resilience among NICU nurses. METHODS A cross-sectional survey design was utilized. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was used to assess burnout, and the Brief Resilience Scale was used to assess perceptions of resilience. Pearson correlation was used to assess the relationship between job burnout and resilience. RESULTS A total of 173 staff nurses participated. Participants reported low levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization but moderate levels on the personal accomplishment subscale. Nurses reported moderate levels of resilience. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization were negatively correlated with resilience, while personal accomplishment was positively correlated with resilience. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that enhancing resilience can reduce the effect of burnout among NICU nurses. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH Enhancing levels of resilience among NICU nurses, in addition to providing adequate managerial support and good collegial relations, is essential to reduce their perceived job burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samhaa Al-Harrasi
- Author Affiliations: Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Sultanate of Oman, Al-Khodh, Oman (Ms Al-Harrasi); Department of Fundamentals and Nursing Administration, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Sultanate of Oman, Al-Khodh, Oman (Drs Al Sabei and Al Sabei); and Royal Hospital, Sultanate of Oman, Muscat, Oman (Ms Abrawi)
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Deschenes S, Kunyk D, Scott SD. Developing an evidence-and ethics-informed intervention for moral distress. Nurs Ethics 2024:9697330241241772. [PMID: 38518739 DOI: 10.1177/09697330241241772] [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: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
The global pandemic has intensified the risk of moral distress due to increased demands on already limited human resources and uncertainty of the pandemic's trajectory. Nurses commonly experience moral distress: a conflict between the morally correct action and what they are required or capable of doing. Effective moral distress interventions are rare. For this reason, our team conducted a multi-phase research study to develop a moral distress intervention for pediatric critical care nurses. In this article, we discuss our multi-phase approach to develop a moral distress intervention-proactive, interdisciplinary meeting. Our proposed intervention is a sequential compilation of empirical work couched within a relational ethics lens thus should point to enhanced potential for intervention effectiveness.
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12
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Peters R, Rogge A, Dunst J, Freitag-Wolf S, Schmalz C. Moral Distress in Radiation Oncology: Insights From Residents in Germany. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101378. [PMID: 38405316 PMCID: PMC10885585 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2023.101378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Being challenged by circumstances that force one to act in discordance with one's moral compass can lead to moral distress. The phenomenon has been widely investigated among nurses. This study was designed to shed some light on the situation of resident physicians in radiation oncology. Methods and Materials To gain insight into moral distress among residents in radiation oncology, a web-based questionnaire was developed and distributed throughout Germany. Participants were asked to evaluate possible burdensome situations and different options for relief. To outline the main issues of moral distress, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted. Relief options were examined by frequencies. Results The factor analysis yielded lack of time, contradiction between patient request and indication, nonmedical interests, and decisions between curative treatment and best supportive care as main issues for the 84 participants. Support from supervisors and senior physicians, as well as exchanges with resident colleagues were indicated as forms of relief. Professional support, such as ethics consultations, structured conversation groups (Balint), or psychological case supervisions, were rated as less helpful, although most participants reported a lack of experience with these. Conclusions The results are in accordance with existing assumptions that moral distress among physicians is mainly due to uncertainty. Regarding radiation oncology residents in particular, moral distress seems to be related to uncertainty in decisions and conflicts about treatment options. Although senior physicians and supervisors present important role models in dealing with moral distress, professional services such as ethics consultations offer an opportunity for relief that can still be expanded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricarda Peters
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Annette Rogge
- Paracelsus Nordseeklinik Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Jürgen Dunst
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sandra Freitag-Wolf
- Institut für Medizinische Informatik und Statistik, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claudia Schmalz
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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13
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Sarpal A, Miller MR, Martin CM, Sibbald RW, Speechley KN. Perceived potentially inappropriate treatment in the PICU: frequency, contributing factors and the distress it triggers. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1272648. [PMID: 38304746 PMCID: PMC10830678 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1272648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Potentially inappropriate treatment in critically ill adults is associated with healthcare provider distress and burnout. Knowledge regarding perceived potentially inappropriate treatment amongst pediatric healthcare providers is limited. Objectives Determine the frequency and factors associated with potentially inappropriate treatment in critically ill children as perceived by providers, and describe the factors that providers report contribute to the distress they experience when providing treatment perceived as potentially inappropriate. Methods Prospective observational mixed-methods study in a single tertiary level PICU conducted between March 2 and September 14, 2018. Patients 0-17 years inclusive with: (1) ≥1 organ system dysfunction (2) moderate to severe mental and physical disabilities, or (3) baseline dependence on medical technology were enrolled if they remained admitted to the PICU for ≥48 h, and were not medically fit for transfer/discharge. The frequency of perceived potentially inappropriate treatment was stratified into three groups based on degree of consensus (1, 2 or 3 providers) regarding the appropriateness of ongoing active treatment per enrolled patient. Distress was self-reported using a 100-point scale. Results Of 374 patients admitted during the study, 133 satisfied the inclusion-exclusion criteria. Eighteen patients (unanimous - 3 patients, 2 providers - 7 patients; single provider - 8 patients) were perceived as receiving potentially inappropriate treatment; unanimous consensus was associated with 100% mortality on 3-month follow up post PICU discharge. Fifty-three percent of providers experienced distress secondary to providing treatment perceived as potentially inappropriate. Qualitative thematic analysis revealed five themes regarding factors associated with provider distress: (1) suffering including a sense of causing harm, (2) conflict, (3) quality of life, (4) resource utilization, and (5) uncertainty. Conclusions While treatment perceived as potentially inappropriate was infrequent, provider distress was commonly observed. By identifying specific factor(s) contributing to perceived potentially inappropriate treatment and any associated provider distress, organizations can design, implement and assess targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Sarpal
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michael R. Miller
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Claudio M. Martin
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Robert W. Sibbald
- Department of Ethics, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kathy N. Speechley
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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14
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Redmann AJ, Hart CK, Smith MM, Martin C, Borschuk AP, Cortezzo DE, Benscoter D. Provider moral distress in caring for tracheostomy and ventilator dependent children: A single institution cross-sectional evaluation. Pediatr Pulmonol 2024. [PMID: 38165151 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine levels of moral distress in a pediatric unit caring for patients with tracheostomy/ventilator dependence. HYPOTHESIS Moral distress will be significant in a dedicated pediatric trach/vent unit. METHODS The Moral Distress Survey-Revised (MDS-R) is a 21-question survey measuring moral distress in pediatrics. The MDS-R was anonymously distributed to medical degree/doctor of osteopathy (MD/DOs), advanced practice practitioners (APPs), registered nurses (RNs), and respiratory therapists (RTs) in a unit caring for tracheostomy/ventilator dependent patients. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate analysis were performed. RESULTS Response rate was 48% (61/127). Mean MDS-R score was 83 (range 43-119), which is comparable to reported levels in the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU). APPs had the highest median rate of moral distress (112, interquartile range [IQR], 72-138), while MD/DOs had the lowest median score (49, IQR, 43-77). RNs and RTs had MDS-R scores between these two groups (medians of 91 and 84, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Moral distress levels in a unit caring for long term tracheostomy and ventilator dependent patients are high, comparable to levels in pediatric ICUs. APPs. APPs had higher levels of distress compared to other groups. This may be attributable to the constant stressors of being the primary provider for complex patients, especially in a high-volume inpatient setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Redmann
- Children's Minnesota, Pediatric ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Catherine K Hart
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Matthew M Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Carrie Martin
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Adrienne P Borschuk
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - DonnaMaria E Cortezzo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Division of Neonatal and Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Division of Pain and Palliative Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Pain and Palliative Care, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
- Fetal Care Program, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dan Benscoter
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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15
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Usset TJ, Stratton RG, Knapp S, Schwartzman G, Yadav SK, Schaefer BJ, Harris JI, Fitchett G. Factors Associated With Healthcare Clinician Stress and Resilience: A Scoping Review. J Healthc Manag 2024; 69:12-28. [PMID: 38175533 DOI: 10.1097/jhm-d-23-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
GOAL Clinician stress and resilience have been the subjects of significant research and interest in the past several decades. We aimed to understand the factors that contribute to clinician stress and resilience in order to appropriately guide potential interventions. METHODS We conducted a scoping review (n = 42) of published reviews of research on clinician distress and resilience using the methodology of Peters and colleagues (2020). Our team examined these reviews using the National Academy of Medicine's framework for clinician well-being and resilience. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We found that organizational factors, learning/practice environment, and healthcare responsibilities were three of the top four factors identified in the reviews as contributing to clinician distress. Learning/practice environment and organizational factors were two of the top four factors identified in the reviews as contributing to their resilience. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Clinicians continue to face numerous external challenges that complicate their work. Further research, practice, and policy changes are indicated to improve practice environments for healthcare clinicians. Healthcare leaders need to promote resources for organizational and system-level changes to improve clinician well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Usset
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and VA Maine Health Care System, Augusta, Maine
| | | | - Sarah Knapp
- Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Gabrielle Schwartzman
- The School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | | | | | - J Irene Harris
- VA Maine Health Care System, Augusta, Maine, and Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, Maine
| | - George Fitchett
- Department of Religion, Health and Human Values, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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16
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Vemuri S, Prentice TM. Seeking alignment of end-of-life goals within the Australian pediatric context. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2024; 54:101454. [PMID: 37977910 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2023.101454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we highlight the Australian pediatric palliative care context. We describe the way in which pediatricians may adopt 'directive' shared decision-making to align care plans with their perceptions of harm avoidance for the child. The degree to which 'directive alignment' is ethically appropriate or proportionate in the context of the clinical and social context of the child must be considered. Shared decision-making within palliative care continues to be a challenging dynamic to navigate for pediatricians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sid Vemuri
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Trisha M Prentice
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Neonatal Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
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17
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Metallinou D, Bardo S, Kitsonidou I, Sotiropoulou N. Attitudes and Experiences Towards Death of Healthcare Professionals Working in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 88:570-590. [PMID: 34632880 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211048667] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Death is an integral part of neonatal intensive care units' (NICUs) environment and little it is known about NICU's staff death concepts. AIM To investigate attitudes and experiences towards death of healthcare professionals (HPs) working in NICUs. DESIGN Totally 131 participants from six hospitals were included in the study. Research instruments were a questionnaire designed by the authors and the scale Death Attitude Profile-Revised. RESULTS Gender, marital and educational status, frequent contact with end of life neonates and provision of neonatal end of life care during the research period correlated significantly with dimensions of DAP-R. Impact of NICU neonatal deaths on personal life correlated negatively with fear of death and positively with escape acceptance. CONCLUSION Evaluating the interrelationships among personal characteristics, attitudes and experiences towards death among NICU HPs may increase our understanding concerning working with dying neonates and provide direction for educational intervention and continuing professional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Metallinou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Bardo
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Iliana Kitsonidou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Niki Sotiropoulou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
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18
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Kingsley J, Clark J, Lewis-Newby M, Dudzinski DM, Diekema D. Navigating parental requests: considering the relational potential standard in paediatric end-of-life care in the paediatric intensive care unit. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2023:jme-2023-108912. [PMID: 37968108 DOI: 10.1136/jme-2023-108912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Families and clinicians approaching a child's death in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) frequently encounter questions surrounding medical decision-making at the end of life (EOL), including defining what is in the child's best interest, finding an optimal balance of benefit over harm, and sometimes addressing potential futility and moral distress. The best interest standard (BIS) is often marshalled by clinicians to help navigate these dilemmas and focuses on a clinician's primary ethical duty to the paediatric patient. This approach does not consider a clinician's potential duty to the patient's family. This paper argues that when a child is dying in the PICU, the physician has a duty to serve both the patient and the family, and that in some circumstances, the duty to serve the family becomes as important as that owed to the child. We detail the limitations of the BIS in paediatric EOL care and propose the relational potential standard as an additional ethical framework to guide our decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Kingsley
- Center for Bioethics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Pediatrics, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jonna Clark
- Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mithya Lewis-Newby
- Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Denise Marie Dudzinski
- Bioethics & Humanities, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Douglas Diekema
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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19
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Abstract
AIMS The study aims to test the Turkish validity and reliability of the Rushton Moral Resilience Scale (RMRS) and examine the effect of moral resilience on moral distress. BACKGROUND Moral distress is a phenomenon that negatively affects health workers, health institutions, and the person receiving care. In order to eliminate or minimize the negative effects of moral distress, it is necessary to increase the moral resilience of nurses. Moral resilience involves developing systems that support a culture of ethical practice in healthcare and aim to increase an individual's capacity to cope with moral challenges. METHODS A methodological and descriptive-predictive study design was adopted. Sociodemographic Information Form, Measure of Moral Distress - Healthcare Professionals (MMD-HP), and Rushton Moral Resilience Scale were used to collect data from the nurses. A total of 255 clinical nurses were recruited. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS Hacettepe University's non-interventional ethics committee approved the study's protocol and informed consent was obtained from the participants. RESULTS The original four-factor structure of the scale was tested with confirmatory factor analysis, and the index values were evaluated and found at an acceptable level. The Cronbach Alpha coefficient of the scale was found to be 0.826. Moral resilience predicted moral distress total, intensity, and frequency levels. A moderate and weak relationship was found in the negative between all sub-dimensions of moral distress and moral resilience. CONCLUSIONS The Rushton Moral Resilience Scale Turkish version showed good psychometric properties. Moral resilience has a reducing effect on moral distress. Young nurses who have less experience are at risk because they have lower moral resilience levels, while nurses working in intensive care units are at risk because of their high moral distress levels. A healthy workplace can be created by developing specific approaches to improve moral resilience in reducing the impact of moral distress in the healthcare environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Sabri Kovanci
- Faculty of Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing Department, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Azize Atli Özbaş
- Faculty of Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing Department, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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20
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Wong JQH, Charles JS, Mok HT, Tan TSZ, Amin Z, Ng YPM. Experiences of healthcare personnel with death in the neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review of qualitative studies. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2023; 108:617-622. [PMID: 37197908 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-325566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesise evidence from qualitative studies on the experiences of healthcare personnel (HCP) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) caring for dying neonates. METHODS We conducted a systematic search, in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42021250015), of four databases (PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) from date of inception of the databases to 31 December 2021 using MeSH terms and related keywords. Data were analysed using three-step inductive thematic synthesis. Quality assessment of included studies was performed. RESULTS Thirty-two articles were included. There were 775 participants, majority (92.6%) of whom were nurses and doctors. Quality of studies was variable. The narratives of HCP coalesced into three themes: sources of distress, coping methods and the way forward. Sources of distress encompassed HCP's discomfort with neonatal deaths; poor communication among HCP and with patient's family; lack of support (from organisations, peers and HCP's family) and emotional responses (guilt, helplessness and compassion fatigue). Methods of coping included setting emotional boundaries, support from colleagues, clear communication and compassionate care and well-designed end-of-life workflows. Steps taken by HCP to move forward and overcome the emotionally turbulent effects of NICU deaths included finding meaning in death, building deeper relationship with patients' families and the NICU team and embracing purpose and pride in work. CONCLUSION HCP face several challenges when a death occurs in the NICU. HCP can provide better end-of-life care if their undesirable experiences with death are mitigated by better understanding and overcoming factors causing distress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hao Ting Mok
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Teresa Shu Zhen Tan
- Paediatrics, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Zubair Amin
- Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore
- Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yvonne Peng Mei Ng
- Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore
- Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
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21
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses frequently face situations in their daily practice that are ethically difficult to handle and can lead to moral distress. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the phenomenon of moral distress and describe its work-related predictors and individual consequences for home-care nurses in Germany. RESEARCH DESIGN A cross-sectional design was employed. The moral distress scale and the COPSOQ III-questionnaire were used within the framework of an online survey conducted among home-care nurses in Germany. Frequency analyses, multiple linear and logistic regressions, and Rasch analyses were performed. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT The invitation to participate was sent to every German home-care service (n = 16,608). ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The study was approved by the Data Protection Office and Ethics Committee of the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. RESULTS A total of 976 home-care nurses participated in this study. Job characteristics, such as high emotional demands, frequent work-life-conflicts, low influence at work, and low social support, were associated with higher disturbance caused by moral distress in home-care nurses. Organizational characteristics of home-care services, such as time margin with patients, predicted moral distress. High disturbance levels due to moral distress predicted higher burnout, worse state of health, and the intention to leave the job and the profession, but did not predict sickness absence. CONCLUSIONS To prevent home-care nurses from experiencing severe consequences of moral distress, adequate interventions should be developed. Home-care services ought to consider family friendly shifts, provide social support, such as opportunities for exchange within the team, and facilitate coping with emotional demands. Sufficient time for patient care must be scheduled and short-term takeover of unknown tours should be prevented. There is a need to develop and evaluate additional interventions aimed at reducing moral distress, specifically in the home-care nursing sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petersen
- Julia Petersen, Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Dresden, Fabricestrasse 8, D-01099, Dresden,
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22
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Beltrão JR, Beltrão MR, Bernardelli RS, Franco RS, Epstein EG, Corradi-Perini C. Adaptation and validation of the Brazilian version of the Measure of Moral Distress for Healthcare Professionals (MMD-HP BR) in the context of palliative care. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:154. [PMID: 37821873 PMCID: PMC10566136 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01277-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Measure of Moral Distress for Health Care Professionals (MMD-HP) scale corresponds to the update of the globally recognized Moral Distress Scale-Revised (MDS-R). Its purpose is to measure moral distress, which is a type of suffering caused in a professional prevented from acting according to one's moral convictions due to external or internal barriers. Thus, this study has the objective to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Brazilian version of the MMD-HP BR in the context of Palliative Care (PC). METHODS The study had the following steps: translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation. The MMD-HP BR is composed of 27 Likert-rated items for frequency and intensity of moral distress. In total, 332 health professionals who work in PC participated in the study, 10 in the pre-test stage, and 322 in the validation stage. RESULTS It was possible to identify six factors, which together explain 64.75% of the model variation. The reliability of Cronbach's alpha was 0.942. In addition, the score was higher in those who are considering or have already left their positions due to moral distress, compared to those who do not or have never had such an intention. CONCLUSIONS MMD-HP BR is a reliable and valid instrument to assess moral distress in the PC context. It is suggested that the scale be standardized in other healthcare contexts, such as clinical settings. In addition, further research on moral distress is encouraged to identify and reduce the phenomenon and its consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Renato Soleiman Franco
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Rua Imaculada Conceição, Curitiba, 80215-901, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Carla Corradi-Perini
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Rua Imaculada Conceição, Curitiba, 80215-901, PR, Brazil.
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23
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Mathews N, Alodan K, Kuehne N, Widger K, Locke M, Fung K, Gandhi S, McLean J, Hossain A, Alexander S. Prevalence and Risk Factors for Moral Distress in Pediatric Oncology Health Care Professionals. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:917-924. [PMID: 37625100 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Moral distress (MoD) is prevalent among health care professionals (HCPs) in oncology and is associated with burnout. The objectives of this study were to quantify MoD among pediatric oncology healthcare professionals (HCPs) at a Canadian quaternary care hospital, identify root causes, and evaluate change over time. METHODS Eligible pediatric oncology HCPs were identified, and consenting participants completed the Measure of Moral Distress-Healthcare Professionals (MMD-HP) and MoD Thermometer (MDT) at baseline, followed by biweekly MDTs over 12 weeks. RESULTS A total of 139 HCPs participated. The mean MMD-HP score was 123 ± 57.0, range 9-288. Demographic risk factors identified for elevated MMD-HP scores were female sex (female 127.1 and male 83.6, P = .01) and nursing role (nurse 136.3 and most responsible physician 85.3, P = .02). Higher MMD-HP scores were found in HCPs who were currently considering resigning because of MoD compared with those who were not (169.9 v 115.4, P < .001). Situations involving administration of treatment to children with poor prognosis cancers that was perceived to be overly aggressive were ranked as the greatest environmental contributor to MoD. Baseline and mean MDT scores over time strongly correlated with MMD-HP scores (P < .0001 and P = .0003, respectively), with mean MDT scores showing no significant fluctuation over the 12-week period. CONCLUSION MoD was common among pediatric oncology HCPs. Risk factors for elevated levels of MoD included both demographic and environmental factors. Implementation of systems to improve team communication and decision making, especially in the care of patients with poor prognosis cancers, may affect HCP MoD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Mathews
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Khalid Alodan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan Kuehne
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kimberley Widger
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Lawrence S Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maria Locke
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Fung
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sheila Gandhi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer McLean
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alomgir Hossain
- Clinical Research Services, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Alexander
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Foster JR, Lee LA, Seabrook JA, Ryan M, Slumkoski C, Walls M, Betts LJ, Burgess SA, Moghadam N, Garros D. A survey of pediatric intensive care unit clinician experience with restricted family presence during COVID-19. Can J Anaesth 2023; 70:1669-1681. [PMID: 37610552 PMCID: PMC10600297 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-023-02547-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Limiting family presence runs counter to the family-centred values of Canadian pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). This study explores how implementing and enforcing COVID-19-related restricted family presence (RFP) policies impacted PICU clinicians nationally. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional, online, self-administered survey of Canadian PICU clinicians to assess experience and opinions of restrictions, moral distress (Moral Distress Thermometer, range 0-10), and mental health impacts (Impact of Event Scale [IES], range 0-75 and attributable stress [five-point Likert scale]). For analysis, we used descriptive statistics, multivariate regression modelling, and a general inductive approach for free text. RESULTS Representing 17/19 Canadian PICUs, 368 of 388 respondents (94%) experienced RFP policies and were predominantly female (333/368, 91%), English speaking (338/368, 92%), and nurses (240/368, 65%). The mean (standard deviation [SD]) reported moral distress score was 4.5 (2.4) and was associated with perceived differential impact on families. The mean (SD) total IES score was 29.7 (10.5), suggesting moderate traumatic stress with 56% (176/317) reporting increased/significantly increased stress from restrictions related to separating families, denying access, and concern for family impacts. Incongruence between RFP policies/practices and PICU values was perceived by 66% of respondents (217/330). Most respondents (235/330, 71%) felt their opinions were not valued when implementing policies. Though respondents perceived that restrictions were implemented for the benefit of clinicians (252/332, 76%) and to protect families (236/315, 75%), 57% (188/332) disagreed that their RFP experience was mainly positive. CONCLUSION Pediatric intensive care unit-based RFP rules, largely designed and implemented without bedside clinician input, caused increased psychological burden for clinicians, characterized as moderate moral distress and trauma triggered by perceived impacts on families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Foster
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, 5850/5980 University Ave., PO Box 9700, Halifax, NS, B3K 6R8, Canada.
- Department of Critical Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute and Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Laurie A Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Critical Care, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute and Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Molly Ryan
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Corey Slumkoski
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Martha Walls
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Laura J Betts
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Stacy A Burgess
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Children's Health Program, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Neda Moghadam
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Daniel Garros
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Crowe L, Young J, Smith AC, Haydon HM. Factors that may threaten or protect the wellbeing of staff working in paediatric intensive care environments. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2023; 78:103476. [PMID: 37379677 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2023.103476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored the risk and protective factors for wellbeing from the perspectives of multidisciplinary paediatric intensive care unit staff. DESIGN Using a qualitative, descriptive study design we purposively recruited a sample of nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals to participate in semi-structured interviews which explored staff perceptions of risk and protective factors relating to their daily paediatric intensive care roles. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. SETTING Four paediatric intensive care units in Australia. FINDINGS Twenty staff were recruited. Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis approach identified perceived risks for wellbeing included a lack of preparation for the role, and clinical situations that contributed to psychological distress, including perceived worst shift, moral distress, non-accidental injuries, and isolation. Themes perceived as protective to wellbeing included: finding the work stimulating and meaningful, belonging to the team, and using humour. CONCLUSION Staff perceptions of wellbeing in the paediatric intensive care unit suggested that risk factors often co-existed simultaneously with protective factors. These results are not consistent with the notion that wellbeing as a phenomenon can be considered on a risk-protection continuum. Strategies that enhance this work as meaningful and stimulating, promote a sense of belonging to the team, and support the use of humour, may assist health professionals to achieve a balance between risk and protective factors for wellbeing. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE Education and training on end-of-life care, and how to have difficult conversations and manage the consistent psychological distress of intensive care work, is essential at orientation and requires regular formal interventions. Experiencing the work as stimulating highlights the need for advanced scope of practice work. Opportunities for individual and team reflection about the meaning and purpose of their work, and ensuring staff feel valued and experience a sense of belonging to the team, are critical to the intensive care context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Crowe
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Jeanine Young
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia.
| | - Anthony C Smith
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia; Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Helen M Haydon
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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Zhong Y, Cavolo A, Labarque V, Gastmans C. Physicians' attitudes and experiences about withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatments in pediatrics: a systematic review of quantitative evidence. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:145. [PMID: 37773128 PMCID: PMC10540364 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01260-y] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most important and ethically challenging decisions made for children with life-limiting conditions is withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatments (LST). As important (co-)decision-makers in this process, physicians are expected to have deeply and broadly developed views. However, their attitudes and experiences in this area remain difficult to understand because of the diversity of the studies. Hence, the aim of this paper is to describe physicians' attitudes and experiences about withholding/withdrawing LST in pediatrics and to identify the influencing factors. METHODS We systematically searched Pubmed, Cinahl®, Embase®, Scopus®, and Web of Science™ in early 2021 and updated the search results in late 2021. Eligible articles were published in English, reported on investigations of physicians' attitudes and experiences about withholding/withdrawing LST for children, and were quantitative. RESULTS In 23 included articles, overall, physicians stated that withholding/withdrawing LST can be ethically legitimate for children with life-limiting conditions. Physicians tended to follow parents' and parents-patient's wishes about withholding/withdrawing or continuing LST when they specified treatment preferences. Although most physicians agreed to share decision-making with parents and/or children, they nonetheless reported experiencing both negative and positive feelings during the decision-making process. Moderating factors were identified, including barriers to and facilitators of withholding/withdrawing LST. In general, there was only a limited number of quantitative studies to support the hypothesis that some factors can influence physicians' attitudes and experiences toward LST. CONCLUSION Overall, physicians agreed to withhold/withdraw LST in dying patients, followed parent-patients' wishes, and involved them in decision-making. Barriers and facilitators relevant to the decision-making regarding withholding/withdrawing LST were identified. Future studies should explore children's involvement in decision-making and consider barriers that hinder implementation of decisions about withholding/withdrawing LST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Zhong
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, Block D, box 7001, Leuven, 3000, Belgium.
| | - Alice Cavolo
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, Block D, box 7001, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Veerle Labarque
- Centre for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven/UZ Leuven, Herestraat 49, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, Block D, box 7001, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
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Kovancı MS, Atlı Ozbas A. Turkish Adaptation of the Moral Distress Scale-Revised for Pediatric Nurses: A Validity and Reliability Study. J Nurs Meas 2023; 31:336-346. [PMID: 37558249 DOI: 10.1891/jnm-2021-0056] [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: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Recent studies have demonstrated the adverse effects that moral distress experienced by nurses has on nurses, patients, and the healthcare system. This study aims to analyze the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Moral Distress Scale-Revised (MDS-R, pediatric). Methods: This study was conducted with 210 pediatric nurses. Results: Explanatory factor analysis was conducted, and a five-factor structure emerged. The Cronbach's α value of the scale was found to be 0.865, and the correlation-based item analysis showed that the values were within the acceptable range, and the discrimination of the items was adequate. Conclusions: Analyses conducted revealed that the Turkish version of the MDS-R (pediatric), consisting of 21 items and five subdimensions, is a valid and reliable measurement tool for the Turkish culture and language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Sabri Kovancı
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Nursing, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Azize Atlı Ozbas
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Nursing, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey
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Bell CE, Dittborn M, Brierley J. What is the impact of high-profile end-of-life disputes on paediatric intensive care trainees? Arch Dis Child 2023; 108:719-724. [PMID: 37365006 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-325048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study explores UK paediatric intensive care (PIC) trainees' thoughts and feelings about high-profile end-of-life cases recently featured in the press and social media and the impact on their career intentions. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine PIC-GRID trainees (April to August 2021). Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Six main themes were identified: (1) All participants wished to do what was best for the child, feeling conflicted if this meant disagreeing with parents. (2) Interviewees felt unprepared and expressed deep concern about the effect of high-profile cases on their future career; all had reconsidered their training in PIC due to concerns about future high-profile end-of-life disputes, despite this all were still in training. (3) Specific training on the ethical and legal nuances of such cases is required, alongside targeted communication skills. (4).All cases are unique. (5) All had purposefully minimised their social media presence. (6) Working in a supportive environment is crucial, underscoring the importance of clear and unified team communication. CONCLUSION UK PIC trainees feel unprepared and anxious about future high-profile cases. A parallel can be drawn to child protection improvements following significant educational investment after government reports into preventable child abuse deaths. Models for supporting trainees and establishing formal PIC training are required to improve trainees' confidence and skills in managing high-profile cases. Further research with other professional groups, the families involved and other stakeholders would provide a more rounded picture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Emily Bell
- Stoke Manderville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Aylesbury, UK
| | - Mariana Dittborn
- Paediatric Bioethics Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Joe Brierley
- Paediatric Bioethics Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Trust, London, UK
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Salant JA, Gangopadhyay M, Jia H, Wocial LD, Edwards JD. Distress and the Long-Stay Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Admission: A Longitudinal Study of Parents and the Medical Team. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2023; 12:188-195. [PMID: 37565013 PMCID: PMC10411061 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged critical illness in children has emotional consequences for both parents and providers. In this observational cohort study, we longitudinally surveyed anxiety and depression in parents and moral distress in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) providers (attendings, fellows, and bedside registered nurses) and explored their trajectories and relationships. Anxiety/depression and provider moral distress were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Moral Distress Thermometer, respectively. The relationships of parental and provider distress were evaluated using Spearman's correlations, and their trajectories and potentially associated variables were explored using quadratic random slope and intercept models. Predetermined associated factors included demographic and clinical factors, including parent psychosocial risk and intubation status. We found parental anxiety and depression decreased over their child's admission, and parental psychosocial risk was significantly associated with anxiety (coefficient = 4.43, p < 0.001). Clinicians in different roles had different mean levels and trajectories of moral distress, with fellows reporting greater distress early in admissions and nurses later in admissions. Parental anxiety/depression and provider distress were significantly, though moderately, correlated. We conclude that anxiety and depression in parents of children with prolonged PICU admissions and the moral distress of their clinicians correlate and vary over time and by provider role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Salant
- Division of Critical Care and Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, New York, United States
- Department of Medicine, Supportive Care Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States
| | - Maalobeeka Gangopadhyay
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, United States
| | - Haomiao Jia
- School of Nursing, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Lucia D. Wocial
- Charles Warren Fairbanks Center for Medical Ethics, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Department of Community and Health Systems, Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Jeffrey D. Edwards
- Division of Critical Care and Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, New York, United States
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Schulz I, O'Neill J, Gillam P, Gillam L. The scope of ethical dilemmas in paediatric nursing: a survey of nurses from a tertiary paediatric centre in Australia. Nurs Ethics 2023; 30:526-541. [PMID: 36877536 DOI: 10.1177/09697330231153916] [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: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No previous study has provided evidence for the scope and frequency of ethical dilemmas for paediatric nurses. It is essential to understand this to optimise patient care and tailor ethics support for nurses. RESEARCH AIM The aim of this study was to explore the scope of nurses' ethical dilemmas in a paediatric hospital and their engagement with the hospital clinical ethics service. RESEARCH DESIGN This study used a cross-sectional survey design. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT Paediatric nursing staff in a tertiary paediatric centre in Australia completed an online survey asking about their exposure to a range of ethical dilemmas and their knowledge of the clinical ethics service. Analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS Ethical approval was granted from the hospital research committee. The survey was anonymous, and no identifying details of participants were collected. RESULTS Paediatric nurses experienced a wide range of ethical dilemmas frequently, both in the intensive care and general areas. Knowledge and use of the clinical ethics service was poor and the most frequent challenge for nurses in managing dilemmas was feeling powerless. CONCLUSION There is a need to recognise the moral burden of ethical dilemmas for paediatric nurses in order to foster ethical sensitivity, and to provide adequate support to improve care and mitigate nursing moral distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Schulz
- The Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jenny O'Neill
- The Department of Nursing Research, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Melbourne School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; The Children's Bioethics Centre, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Gillam
- Department of Psychology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lynn Gillam
- The Children's Bioethics Centre, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Prentice TM. Moral Distress Tools: Not Just a Question of What but Why Are We Measuring? THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2023; 23:59-61. [PMID: 37011353 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2023.2186531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Trisha M Prentice
- Royal Children's Hospital
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute
- University of Melbourne
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Omidi Z, Khanjari S, Salehi T, Haghani S. Association between burnout and nurses' quality of life in neonatal intensive care units: During the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF NEONATAL NURSING : JNN 2023; 29:144-148. [PMID: 35475268 PMCID: PMC9021044 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2022.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal intensive care unit (NICUs) nurses could suffer from job stress and burnout, which could cause increased turnover rates and decreased Quality of Life (QoL) among nurses. PURPOSE To determine the association between burnout and nurses' QoL in NICUs. STUDY DESIGN This correlational study was performed in 2020 on 140 nurses working in NICUs. The Maslach burnout and WHO Quality of Life-BREF was used to collect data. RESULTS There is a positive association between personal accomplishment and all dimensions of QoL (r = 0.40 to 0.56) and a negative association between emotional exhaustion, depersonalization of burnout and all dimensions of QoL (r = -0.47 to -0.79). CONCLUSION It is suggested that several interventions must be taken to prevent burnout and increased QoL in NICU nurses. The findings could provide scientific evidence for managers and encourage evidence-based decision-making to reduce burnout and improve the QoL of nurses especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Omidi
- Student of Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Khanjari
- Dept. of Pediatrics. Nursing Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahmineh Salehi
- Nursing Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Haghani
- Biostatistics Nursing Care Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Alimoradi Z, Jafari E, Lin CY, Rajabi R, Marznaki ZH, Soodmand M, Potenza MN, Pakpour AH. Estimation of moral distress among nurses: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nurs Ethics 2023; 30:334-357. [PMID: 36704986 PMCID: PMC9902807 DOI: 10.1177/09697330221135212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral distress is a common challenge among professional nurses when caring for their patients, especially when they need to make rapid decisions. Therefore, leaving moral distress unconsidered may jeopardize patient quality of care, safety, and satisfaction. AIM To estimate moral distress among nurses. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis conducted systematic search in Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, ISI Web of Knowledge, and PsycInfo up to end of February 2022. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa checklist. Data from included studies were pooled by meta-analysis with random effect model in STATA software version 14. The selected key measure was mean score of moral distress total score with its' 95% Confidence Interval was reported. Subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were conducted to identify possible sources of heterogeneity and potentially influencing variables on moral distress. Funnel plots and Begg's Tests were used to assess publication bias. The Jackknife method was used for sensitivity analysis. ETHICAL CONSIDERATION The protocol of this project was registered in the PROSPERO database under decree code of CRD42021267773. RESULTS Eighty-six manuscripts with 19,537 participants from 21 countries were included. The pooled estimated mean score of moral distress was 2.55 on a 0-10 scale [95% Confidence Interval: 2.27-2.84, I2: 98.4%, Tau2:0.94]. Publication bias and small study effect was ruled out. Moral distress significantly decreased in the COVID-19 pandemic versus before. Nurses working in developing countries experienced higher level of moral distress compared to their counterparts in developed countries. Nurses' workplace (e.g., hospital ward) was not linked to severity of moral disturbance. CONCLUSION The results of the study showed a low level of pooled estimated score for moral distress. Although the score of moral distress was not high, nurses working in developing countries reported higher levels of moral distress than those working in developed countries. Therefore, it is necessary that future studies focus on creating a supportive environment in hospitals and medical centers for nurses to reduce moral distress and improve healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elahe Jafari
- 113106Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | - Marc N Potenza
- Yale University, USA; Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, USA; Connecticut Mental Health Center, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, USA
| | - Amir H Pakpour
- Jönköping University, Sweden; Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Wood SJ, Coughlin K, Cheng A. Extremely low gestational age neonates and resuscitation: survey on perspectives of Canadian neonatologists. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:1256-1263. [PMID: 35822724 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Resuscitation care planning for extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) is complex and ethically charged. Increasing survival at lower gestational ages has had a significant impact on this complexity. It also has an impact on healthcare resource utilization and policy development in Canada. This study sought to determine the current attitudes and practices of neonatologists in Canada, and to assess moral distress associated with resuscitation decisions in the ELGAN population. It also aimed to explore the perspectives of adopting a shared decision-making approach where further data with regard to best interests and prognosis are gathered in an individualized manner after birth. METHODS Neonatologists in Canadian level III NICUs were surveyed in 2020. RESULTS Amongst the 65 responses, 78% expressed moral distress when parents request non-resuscitation at 24 weeks. Uncertainty around long-term outcomes in an era with improved chances of morbidity-free survival was the most prominent factor contributing to moral distress. 70% felt less moral distress deciding goals of care after the baby's initial resuscitation and preferred an individualized approach to palliation decisions based on postnatal course and assessment. CONCLUSIONS While most current guidelines still support the option of non-resuscitation for infants born at less than 25 weeks, we show evidence of moral distress among Canadian neonatologists that suggests the consideration of routine resuscitation from 24 weeks and above is a more ethical approach in the current era of improved outcomes. Canadian neonatologists identified less moral distress when goals of care are developed postnatally, with availability of more evidence for prognostication, instead of antenatally based primarily on gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie J Wood
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Coughlin
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Anita Cheng
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
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Kamala SR, Julius Z, Kosia EM, Manzi F. Availability and functionality of neonatal care units in healthcare facilities in Mtwara region, Tanzania: The quest for quality of in-patient care for small and sick newborns. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269151. [PMID: 36409741 PMCID: PMC9678323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence shows that delivery of prompt and appropriate in-patient newborn care (IPNC) through health facility (HF)-based neonatal care and stabilization units (NCU/NSUs) reduce preventable newborn mortalities (NMs). This study investigated the HFs for availability and performance of NCU/NSUs in providing quality IPNC, and explored factors influencing the observed performance outcomes in Mtwara region, Tanzania. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using a follow-up explanatory mixed-methods approach. HF-based records and characteristics allowing for delivery of quality IPNC were reviewed first to establish the overall HF performance. The review findings were clarified by healthcare staff and managers through in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). RESULTS About 70.6% (12/17) of surveyed HFs had at least one NCU/NSU room dedicated for delivery of IPNC but none had a fully established NCUs/NSU, and 74.7% (3,600/4,819) of needy newborns were admitted/transferred in for management. Essential medicines such as tetracycline eye ointment were unavailable in 75% (3/4) of the district hospitals (DHs). A disparity existed between the availability and functioning of equipment including infant radiant warmers (92% vs 73%). Governance, support from implementing patterns (IPs), and access to healthcare commodities were identified from qualitative inquiries as factors influencing the establishment and running of NCUs/NSUs at the HFs in Mtwara region, Tanzania. CONCLUSION Despite the positive progress, the establishment and performance of NCUs/NSUs in providing quality IPNC in HFs in Mtwara region is lagging behind the Tanzania neonatal care guideline requirements, particularly after the IPs of newborn health interventions completed their terms in 2016. This study suggests additional improvement plans for Mtwara region and other comparable settings to optimize the provision of quality IPNC and lower avoidable NMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serveus Ruyobya Kamala
- Department of Health Systems, Policy, Economic Evaluations, Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Global Health and Bio-Medical Sciences (GHBM), School of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania
- Department of Health, Mtwara Regional Secretariat, Mtwara, Tanzania
- * E-mail:
| | - Zamoyoni Julius
- Department of Health Systems, Policy, Economic Evaluations, Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Efraim M. Kosia
- Department of Global Health and Bio-Medical Sciences (GHBM), School of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Fatuma Manzi
- Department of Health Systems, Policy, Economic Evaluations, Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Global Health and Bio-Medical Sciences (GHBM), School of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania
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What outcomes of moral case deliberations are perceived important for healthcare professionals to handle moral challenges? A national cross-sectional study in paediatric oncology. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:108. [DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00851-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In paediatric oncology, healthcare professionals face moral challenges. Clinical ethics support services, such as moral case deliberation (MCD), aim to assist them in dealing with these challenges. Yet, healthcare professionals can have different expectations and goals related to clinical ethics support services.
Methods
In this study, the perceptions held by healthcare professionals (nursing assistants, registered nurses, physicians, and others) regarding the importance of possible outcomes of MCDs, prior to implementation of MCDs, were investigated. A multisite, cross-sectional, quantitative study was performed at all six Paediatric Oncology Centres in Sweden. Healthcare professionals answered the Euro-MCD instrument with 26 potential MCD outcomes using a scale from Not important (1) to Very important (4). Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were carried out.
Results
All outcomes were rated high, i.e., between 3.12 and 3.78. More open communication, developing skills to analyse ethically difficult situations, better mutual understanding, and deciding on concrete actions were rated as most important. Understanding of ethical theories and critical examination of policies were rated less important. Most often nursing assistants rated higher and physicians lower than the other professions did. Women and participants without previous experience of MCDs perceived outcomes as more important. There were differences between centres as one centre had significantly higher, and one centre had significantly lower ratings compared to the others.
Conclusion
It is clear that healthcare professionals want MCDs to improve teamwork and skills in order to analyse and manage ethically difficult situations. When comparing to previous research about important MCD outcomes, there were similarities in what healthcare professionals consider to be important when handling moral challenges regardless of country and potential differences in healthcare settings and systems, such as paediatric vs. adult care.
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Madrigal VN, Feltman DM, Leuthner SR, Kirsch R, Hamilton R, Dokken D, Needle J, Boss R, Lelkes E, Carter B, Macias E, Bhombal S. Bioethics for Neonatal Cardiac Care. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189885. [PMID: 36317974 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-056415n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians caring for neonates with congenital heart disease encounter challenges with ethical implications in daily practice and must have some basic fluency in ethical principles and practical applications. METHODS Good ethical practice begins with a thorough understanding of the details and narrative of each individual case, examination via classic principles of bioethics, and further framing of that translation into practice. RESULTS We explore some of these issues and expand awareness through the lens of a case presentation beginning with fetal considerations through end-of-life discussions. CONCLUSIONS We include specific sections that bring attention to shared decision-making, research ethics, and outcomes reporting. We review empirical evidence and highlight recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa N Madrigal
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Critical Care Medicine and Pediatric Ethics Program, Children's National Hospital, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- NorthShore University HealthSystem Evanston Hospital, University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Steven R Leuthner
- Departments of Pediatrics and Bioethics, Division of Neonatology, Children's Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Roxanne Kirsch
- Department of Critical Care, Division Cardiac Critical Care Medicine; Department of Bioethics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rekha Hamilton
- Mednax Inc. Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Deborah Dokken
- Family Leader and Staff Member, Institute for Patient and Family-Centered Care, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jennifer Needle
- Department of Pediatrics and the Center for Bioethics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Renee Boss
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Efrat Lelkes
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Critical Care Medicine and Palliative Medicine, Bioethics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Brian Carter
- Departments of Humanities and Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology and Bioethics Center, Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Eduardo Macias
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Cardiology. University Hospital, University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Shazia Bhombal
- Department of Pediatrics, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Stanford, Palo Alto, California
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Showalter B. Commentary: Moral distress experienced by neonatal intensive and paediatric care nurses in Northern Ghana: a qualitative study. J Res Nurs 2022; 27:530-531. [PMID: 36338930 PMCID: PMC9634236 DOI: 10.1177/17449871221122798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Brandi Showalter
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Cizik School of Nursing at
the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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40
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Afoko V, Hewison A, Neilson S, Newham R. Moral distress experienced by neonatal intensive and
paediatric care nurses in Northern Ghana: a qualitative
study. J Res Nurs 2022; 27:519-529. [PMCID: PMC9634244 DOI: 10.1177/17449871221122022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Moral distress has been studied widely in nursing but not in
developing economies. Aim: To investigate how moral distress is experienced by nurses working
in neonatal intensive care and paediatric wards in Northern
Ghana and to determine support measures offered by nurse
managers. Method: Qualitative descriptive method. Forty nurses and fourteen nurse
managers working with children in four hospitals in Northern
Ghana were interviewed. Thematic data analysis was carried
out. Results: Six themes were identified: nurses experience morally distressing
situations due to a variety of causes; the impact of morally
distressing situations on nurses; coping mechanisms of nurses
who experienced morally distressing situations; recommendations
made by the nurses to reduce the incidence of moral distress;
inadequate support measures available to nurse managers and
nurse managers experience moral distress too. Conclusion: The causes of moral distress in developed and developing economies
are similar. The frequency and intensity of moral distress is
high in Northern Ghana. Consistent with other studies conducted
in Africa, nurses and nurse managers relied on their religious
faith as a form of resilience. No support measures are available
to nurse managers to support nurses who experience moral
distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Afoko
- PhD Candidate, Nursing, University of
Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alistair Hewison
- Reader Nursing, Nursing, University
of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Susan Neilson
- Associate Professor Nursing, Nursing,
University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Roger Newham
- Roger Newham, College of Medical
and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham
B15 2TT UK.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the interplay between individual and organizational factors on moral distress in PICUs. DESIGN Cross-sectional, article-based survey administered between June and August 2017. SETTING Twenty-three Italian PICUs. SUBJECTS Of 874 eligible clinicians, 635 responded to the survey (75% response rate), and 612 correctly completed the survey. Clinicians were 74% female; 66% nurses and 34% physicians; and 51% had between 6 and 20 years of experience from graduation. INTERVENTION None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Clinicians completed the "Italian Moral Distress Scale-Revised," the "Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale," and a sociodemographic questionnaire inquiring about sex, profession, years of experience, and spiritual/religious belief. PICU organizational characteristics were also collected (e.g., number of admissions, mortality rate, nurse-patient ratio, presence of parents in PICU, presence of parents during physical examination). To identify individual predictors of moral distress, we used stepwise linear regression. To determine the impact of organizational factors on moral distress, we used analysis of covariance, controlling for those individual factors that emerged as significant in the regression model. Moral distress was associated with being a nurse (B = -0.094; p < 0.05) and not having spiritual/religious belief (B = 0.130; p < 0.01), but not with resilience. Clinicians working in PICUs with a medium number of admissions per year (between 264 and 468), a lower nurse:patient ratio (1:3), and where parents' presence during physical examination were never allowed experienced higher moral distress even controlling for profession and spiritual/religious belief. CONCLUSIONS Organizational factors (medium number of admissions, lower nurse:patient ratio, and parental exclusion from physical examination) played a stronger role than individual factors in increasing moral distress. To decrease moral distress, attention should be paid also to organizational aspects.
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Prentice TM, Imbulana DI, Gillam L, Davis PG, Janvier A. Addressing Moral Distress: lessons Learnt from a Non-Interventional Longitudinal Study on Moral Distress. AJOB Empir Bioeth 2022; 13:226-236. [PMID: 35856901 DOI: 10.1080/23294515.2022.2093422] [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: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral distress is prevalent within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and can negatively affect clinicians. Studies have evaluated the causes of moral distress and interventions to mitigate its harmful effects. However, the effects of participating in moral distress studies have not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of participation in a longitudinal, non-intervention research project on moral distress in the NICU. DESIGN Clinicians who previously participated in an 18-month longitudinal research study on moral distress at two NICUs were invited to complete a questionnaire on the impact of participation. The original study required regular completion of surveys that sought predictions of death, disability and the intensity/nature of moral distress experienced by clinicians caring for extremely preterm babies. Individual and unit-wide effects were explored. Free-text responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS A total of 249/463 (53%) eligible clinicians participated. Participation in the original 18-month study was perceived as having a positive impact by 58% of respondents. Clinicians found articulating their views therapeutic (76%) and useful in clarifying personal opinions about the babies (85%). Free-text responses revealed the research stimulated increased reflection, validated feelings and increased dialogue amongst clinicians. Respondents generally did not find participation distressing (70%). However, a small number of physicians felt the focus of discussion shifted from the baby to the clinicians. Intensity and prevalence of moral distress did not significantly change over the 18-month period. CONCLUSIONS Participating in moral distress research prompted regular reflection regarding attitudes toward fragile patients, improving ethical awareness. This is useful in clarifying personal views that may influence patient care. Participation also enhanced communication around difficult clinical scenarios and improved provider satisfaction. These factors are insufficient to significantly reduce moral distress in isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha M Prentice
- Neonatal Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dilini I Imbulana
- Newborn Research, Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lynn Gillam
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Children's Bioethics Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter G Davis
- Newborn Research, Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Annie Janvier
- Departement of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Clinical Ethics Unit, Palliative Care Unit, Unité de Recherche en Éthique Clinique et Partenariat Famille, CHU Ste-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Bogetz JF, Trowbridge A, Jonas D, Root MC, Mullin J, Hauer J. The Impact of Caring for Children With Severe Neurological Impairment on Clinicians. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2022; 61:707-716. [PMID: 35610773 DOI: 10.1177/00099228221099135] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians face many challenges in caring for children with severe neurological impairment (SNI). This study aimed to understand expert clinician perspectives on the personal impact of caring for children with SNI to highlight the challenges and potential solutions by underscoring the aspects of care that can be sustaining. Twenty-five clinicians participated including physicians (n = 8, 32%), social workers (n = 5, 20%), nurses/nurse practitioners (n = 5, 20%), case managers (n = 3, 12%), developmental therapists (n = 2, 8%), and other psychosocial clinicians (n = 2, 8%). Clinicians represented a variety of specialties including complex care/hospitalists (n = 10, 19%), palliative care (n = 7, 13%), and critical care (n = 6, 12%). Thematic content analysis revealed 3 major themes: (1) worries and challenges; (2) positive impact from being present; and (3) personal growth and meaning-making. Many clinicians described the ways listening, examining biases, learning about family perspectives, and normalizing the need for emotional processing helped them to understand their patients, families, and themselves more deeply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jori F Bogetz
- Division of Bioethics and Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Palliative Care and Resilience Lab, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Amy Trowbridge
- Division of Bioethics and Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Palliative Care and Resilience Lab, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Danielle Jonas
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maggie C Root
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jonathan Mullin
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Julie Hauer
- Seven Hills Pediatric Center, Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Cetin K, Worku D, Demtse A, Melberg A, Miljeteig I. "Death audit is a fight" - provider perspectives on the ethics of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system in Ethiopia. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1214. [PMID: 36175949 PMCID: PMC9524002 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08568-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal and neonatal health are regarded as important indicators of health in most countries. Death auditing through, for example, the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) is viewed as key to preventing maternal and newborn mortality. However, little is known about the implications of implementing perinatal auditing for healthcare professionals in low-income contexts. This study aimed to explore the ethical and practical consequences clinicians experience concerning MPDSR reporting practices in Ethiopia. METHODS: Qualitative semi-structured in-depth individual interviews were conducted with 16 healthcare workers across professions at selected facilities in Ethiopia. The interview questions were related to clinicians' experiences with, and perceptions of, death auditing. Their strategies for coping with newborn losses and the related reporting practices were also explored. The material was analyzed following systematic text condensation, and the NVivo11 software was used for organizing and coding the data material. RESULTS Participants experienced fear of punishment and blame in relation to the perinatal death auditing process. They found that auditing did not contribute to reducing perinatal deaths and that their motivation to stick to the obligation was negatively affected by this. Performing audits without available resources to provide optimal care or support in the current system was perceived as unfair. Some hid information or misreported information in order to avoid accusations of misconduct when they felt they were not to blame for the baby's death. Coping strategies such as engaging in exceedingly larger work efforts, overtreating patients, or avoiding complicated medical cases were described. CONCLUSIONS Experiencing perinatal death and death reporting constitutes a double burden for the involved healthcare workers. The preventability of perinatal death is perceived as context-dependent, and both clinicians and the healthcare system would benefit from a safe and blame-free reporting environment. To support these healthcare workers in a challenging clinical reality, guidelines and action plans that are specific to the Ethiopian context are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaya Cetin
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Dawit Worku
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Demtse
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Andrea Melberg
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Miljeteig
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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45
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Quek CWN, Ong RRS, Wong RSM, Chan SWK, Chok AKL, Shen GS, Teo AYT, Panda A, Burla N, Wong YA, Chee RCH, Loh CYL, Lee KW, Tan GHN, Leong REJ, Koh NSY, Ong YT, Chin AMC, Chiam M, Lim C, Zhou XJ, Ong SYK, Ong EK, Krishna LKR. Systematic scoping review on moral distress among physicians. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064029. [PMID: 36691160 PMCID: PMC9442489 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concepts of moral distress (MD) among physicians have evolved and extend beyond the notion of psychological distress caused by being in a situation in which one is constrained from acting on what one knows to be right. With many accounts involving complex personal, professional, legal, ethical and moral issues, we propose a review of current understanding of MD among physicians. METHODS A systematic evidence-based approach guided systematic scoping review is proposed to map the current concepts of MD among physicians published in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, SCOPUS, ERIC and Google Scholar databases. Concurrent and independent thematic and direct content analysis (split approach) was conducted on included articles to enhance the reliability and transparency of the process. The themes and categories identified were combined using the jigsaw perspective to create domains that form the framework of the discussion that follows. RESULTS A total of 30 156 abstracts were identified, 2473 full-text articles were reviewed and 128 articles were included. The five domains identified were as follows: (1) current concepts, (2) risk factors, (3) impact, (4) tools and (5) interventions. CONCLUSIONS Initial reviews suggest that MD involves conflicts within a physician's personal beliefs, values and principles (personal constructs) caused by personal, ethical, moral, contextual, professional and sociocultural factors. How these experiences are processed and reflected on and then integrated into the physician's personal constructs impacts their self-concepts of personhood and identity and can result in MD. The ring theory of personhood facilitates an appreciation of how new experiences create dissonance and resonance within personal constructs. These insights allow the forwarding of a new broader concept of MD and a personalised approach to assessing and treating MD. While further studies are required to test these findings, they offer a personalised means of supporting a physician's MD and preventing burn-out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrystie Wan Ning Quek
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ryan Rui Song Ong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ruth Si Man Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sarah Wye Kit Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Amanda Kay-Lyn Chok
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Grace Shen Shen
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrea York Tiang Teo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aiswarya Panda
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Neha Burla
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu An Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ryan Choon Hoe Chee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caitlin Yuen Ling Loh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kun Woo Lee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gabrielle Hui Ning Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ryan Emmanuel Jian Leong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Natalie Song Yi Koh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yun Ting Ong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Min Chiam
- Division of Cancer Education, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Crystal Lim
- Medical Social Services, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Xuelian Jamie Zhou
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Simon Yew Kuang Ong
- Division of Cancer Education, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Eng Koon Ong
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Lalit Kumar Radha Krishna
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Cancer Education, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Centre of Biomedical Ethics, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- The Palliative Care Centre for Excellence in Research and Education, Singapore
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Carletto S, Ariotti MC, Garelli G, Di Noto L, Berchialla P, Malandrone F, Guardione R, Boarino F, Campagnoli MF, Savant Levet P, Bertino E, Ostacoli L, Coscia A. Moral Distress and Burnout in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Healthcare Providers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148526. [PMID: 35886379 PMCID: PMC9323986 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Moral distress (MD) in healthcare providers is widely recognized as a serious issue in critical care contexts. It has the potential to have negative impacts on both personal and professional wellbeing, the quality of care provided and staff turnover. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between MD and burnout among neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) healthcare professionals and identify the possible factors associated with its occurrence. Participants were asked to complete an online survey, which covered sociodemographic and professional information and included two self-report questionnaires (Italian Moral Distress Scale-Revised and Maslach Burnout Inventory). The sample comprised 115 healthcare providers (nurses and physiotherapists: 66.1%; physicians: 30.4%; healthcare assistants: 3.5%) working in four NICUs located within the province of Turin, Italy. The results revealed overall low levels of MD, with no significant differences between nurses/physiotherapists and physicians. Nurses/physiotherapists showed a statistically significant higher percentage of personal accomplishment burnout (32.9%) compared with physicians (8.6%; p = 0.012). MD was associated with the emotional exhaustion dimension of burnout. Spirituality and/or religiousness was shown to be a moderating variable. Further research is needed to deepen our understanding of the correlation between MD and burnout and the role of spirituality and/or religiousness as moderators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Carletto
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy;
- Clinical Psychology Unit, A.O.U. City of Health and Science of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (G.G.); (L.O.)
| | - Maria Chiara Ariotti
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of University of Torino, Sant’Anna Hospital, City of Health and Science, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (M.C.A.); (E.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Giulia Garelli
- Clinical Psychology Unit, A.O.U. City of Health and Science of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (G.G.); (L.O.)
| | - Ludovica Di Noto
- Formerly at the School of Medicine, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy;
| | - Paola Berchialla
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Turin, TO, Italy;
| | - Francesca Malandrone
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Turin, TO, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Roberta Guardione
- Neonatal Care Unit, City of Health and Science University Hospital of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (R.G.); (M.F.C.)
| | - Floriana Boarino
- Neonatal Care Unit, Santa Croce Hospital ASL TO5, 10024 Moncalieri, TO, Italy;
| | - Maria Francesca Campagnoli
- Neonatal Care Unit, City of Health and Science University Hospital of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (R.G.); (M.F.C.)
| | - Patrizia Savant Levet
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Maria Vittoria Hospital, ASL Città di Torino, 10144 Turin, TO, Italy;
| | - Enrico Bertino
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of University of Torino, Sant’Anna Hospital, City of Health and Science, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (M.C.A.); (E.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Luca Ostacoli
- Clinical Psychology Unit, A.O.U. City of Health and Science of Torino, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (G.G.); (L.O.)
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Turin, TO, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Coscia
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of University of Torino, Sant’Anna Hospital, City of Health and Science, 10126 Turin, TO, Italy; (M.C.A.); (E.B.); (A.C.)
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Zhong Y, Cavolo A, Labarque V, Gastmans C. Physician decision-making process about withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatments in paediatric patients: a systematic review of qualitative evidence. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:113. [PMID: 35751075 PMCID: PMC9229823 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With paediatric patients, deciding whether to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatments (LST) at the end of life is difficult and ethically sensitive. Little is understood about how and why physicians decide on withholding/withdrawing LST at the end of life in paediatric patients. In this study, we aimed to synthesise results from the literature on physicians’ perceptions about decision-making when dealing with withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatments in paediatric patients. Methods We conducted a systematic review of empirical qualitative studies. Five electronic databases (Pubmed, Cinahl®, Embase®, Scopus®, Web of Science™) were exhaustively searched in order to identify articles published in English from inception through March 17, 2021. Analysis and synthesis were guided by the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven. Results Thirty publications met our criteria and were included for analysis. Overall, we found that physicians agreed to involve parents, and to a lesser extent, children in the decision-making process about withholding/withdrawing LST. Our analysis to identify conceptual schemes revealed that physicians divided their decision-making into three stages: (1) early preparation via advance care planning, (2) information giving and receiving, and (3) arriving at the final decision. Physicians considered advocating for the best interests of the child and of the parents as their major focus. We also identified moderating factors of decision-making, such as facilitators and barriers, specifically those related to physicians and parents that influenced physicians’ decision-making. Conclusions By focusing on stakeholders, structure of the decision-making process, ethical values, and influencing factors, our analysis showed that physicians generally agreed to share the decision-making with parents and the child, especially for adolescents. Further research is required to better understand how to minimise the negative impact of barriers on the decision-making process (e.g., difficult involvement of children, lack of paediatric palliative care expertise, conflict with parents). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01003-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Zhong
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, block D, box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Alice Cavolo
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, block D, box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Labarque
- Centre for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven/UZ Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, block D, box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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48
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Ong RSR, Wong RSM, Chee RCH, Quek CWN, Burla N, Loh CYL, Wong YA, Chok AKL, Teo AYT, Panda A, Chan SWK, Shen GS, Teoh N, Chin AMC, Krishna LKR. A systematic scoping review moral distress amongst medical students. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:466. [PMID: 35710490 PMCID: PMC9203147 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterised by feelings of helplessness in the face of clinical, organization and societal demands, medical students are especially prone to moral distress (MD). Despite risks of disillusionment and burnout, efforts to support them have been limited by a dearth of data and understanding of MD in medical students. Yet, new data on how healthcare professionals confront difficult care situations suggest that MD could be better understood through the lens of the Ring Theory of Personhood (RToP). A systematic scoping review (SSR) guided by the RToP is proposed to evaluate the present understanding of MD amongst medical students. METHODS The Systematic Evidence-Based Approach (SEBA) is adopted to map prevailing accounts of MD in medical students. To enhance the transparency and reproducibility, the SEBA methodology employs a structured search approach, concurrent and independent thematic analysis and directed content analysis (Split Approach), the Jigsaw Perspective that combines complementary themes and categories, and the Funnelling Process that compares the results of the Jigsaw Perspective with tabulated summaries to ensure the accountability of these findings. The domains created guide the discussion. RESULTS Two thousand six hundred seventy-one abstracts were identified from eight databases, 316 articles were reviewed, and 20 articles were included. The four domains identified include definitions, sources, recognition and, interventions for MD. CONCLUSIONS MD in medical students may be explained as conflicts between the values, duties, and principles contained within the different aspects of their identity. These conflicts which are characterised as disharmony (within) and dyssynchrony (between) the rings of RToP underline the need for personalised and longitudinal evaluations and support of medical students throughout their training. This longitudinal oversight and support should be supported by the host organization that must also ensure access to trained faculty, a nurturing and safe environment for medical students to facilitate speak-up culture, anonymous reporting, feedback opportunities and supplementing positive role modelling and mentoring within the training program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Song Ryan Ong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ruth Si Man Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ryan Choon Hoe Chee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chrystie Wan Ning Quek
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Neha Burla
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caitlin Yuen Ling Loh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu An Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Amanda Kay-Lyn Chok
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrea York Tiang Teo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aiswarya Panda
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sarah Wye Kit Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Grace Shen Shen
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ning Teoh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Annelissa Mien Chew Chin
- Medical Library, National University of Singapore libraries, Singapore Blk MD6, Centre, 14 Medical Dr, #05-01 for Translational Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lalit Kumar Radha Krishna
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 11, 119228, Singapore, Singapore.
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, 169610, Singapore, Singapore.
- Division of Cancer Education, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, Singapore, 169610, Singapore.
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 8 College Rd,, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
- Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, Academic Palliative and End of Life Care Centre, Cancer Research Centre, University of Liverpool, 200 London Rd, Liverpool, L3 9TA, UK.
- Centre of Biomedical Ethics, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore, 119077, Singapore.
- PalC, The Palliative Care Centre for Excellence in Research and Education, PalC c/o Dover Park Hospice, 10 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308436, Singapore.
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Barr P. Moral Distress and Burnout in NICU Nurses. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:441-449. [PMID: 35661651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2022.04.007] [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] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to factor analyze the Moral Distress Scale-Revised (MDS-R) in NICU nurses and to evaluate the relationships among dimensions of the MDS-R and the demoralization, exhaustion, and loss of motive dimensions of the Burnout Measure (BM). A total of 142 NICU nurses completed modified pen-and-paper versions of the MDS-R and BM. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses showed that the MDS-R-14 was a relatively good fit for the data. The compromised care dimension predicted BM demoralization (β = 0.24) and exhaustion (β = 0.22), the futile care dimension predicted BM exhaustion (β = 0.18), and the untruthful care dimension predicted BM demoralization (β = .25). Strategies to mitigate moral distress and resulting burnout in NICU nurses should address futile care, compromised care, and untruthful care.
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Assessment of Occupational Burnout among Intensive Care Unit Staff in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, Using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Crit Care Res Pract 2022; 2022:1298887. [PMID: 35469166 PMCID: PMC9034942 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1298887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective. ICU workers are among the healthcare staff exposed to high occupational burnout in their daily interactions with patients, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of burnout among ICU staff in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which was distributed to ICU staff between August 1 and November 30, 2021. A total of 150 ICU workers were invited to participate in the study. Results. A total of 104 ICU staff responded to the survey (69% response rate), including 62 nurses, 30 physicians, and 12 respiratory therapists. Among the respondents, 63 (61%) were female and 41 (39%) were male. The mean scores for emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment were 22.44 ± 14.92, 9.18 ± 7.44, and 29.58 ± 12.53, respectively. The ICU staff at high risk of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment were 36%, 28%, and 47%, respectively. The leading cause of burnout among ICU staff in the study was workload, and taking a vacation was the most cited coping mechanism for occupational burnout. Conclusion. ICU staff are at high risk of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and lack of personal accomplishment. Policymakers should implement regulations that ensure hospitals have adequate employees to reduce the workload that leads to occupational burnout.
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