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Helinck S, Verhofstadt M, Chambaere K, Pardon K. Understanding the Experiences and Support Needs of Close Relatives in Psychiatric Euthanasia Trajectories: A Qualitative Exploration. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:10497323241237459. [PMID: 39092519 DOI: 10.1177/10497323241237459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
In Belgium, adults with psychiatric disorders can opt for euthanasia under strict conditions. The impact of these euthanasia trajectories on close relatives remains insufficiently studied. This research is the first in Belgium to explore the concrete experiences and support needs of relatives involved in psychiatric-based euthanasia trajectories by means of an in-depth interview study. The interviews with 18 relatives were conducted from March to May 2023 and analyzed using inductive thematic coding. The results reveal the complex and ambivalent emotional and cognitive experiences among relatives. Experiences with euthanasia trajectories varied from positive to negative, marked by shared feelings of surrealism and unreality. This included the farewell process that relatives go through, regardless of whether euthanasia was carried out. While the desired level of involvement varied, everyone sought some degree of recognition and understanding for their complex position during the euthanasia procedure, aiding in a better comprehension and contextualization of the request. The level of actual involvement and support depended on the stage of the euthanasia request, their social network, and the reasons behind the request. There was a demand for transparent communication, more emotional and practical support, and assistance in coping with the emotionally charged process. Specific attention is needed for the emotional and cognitive rollercoaster, even if euthanasia is not ultimately pursued. Future research should employ a longitudinal design to gain deeper insights into relatives' fluctuating experiences and support needs throughout euthanasia trajectories. Seeking greater context diversity and combining perspectives in cluster research can improve understanding of interconnected needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica Verhofstadt
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kenneth Chambaere
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Koen Pardon
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
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Scheeres-Feitsma TM, Schaafsma P, van der Steen JT. A family affair: Repeated interviews with people with dementia and a euthanasia wish and their families. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-11. [PMID: 39052438 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2376819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
This study examines the reasons of people with dementia request euthanasia and how these reasons change over time with a special focus on reasons related to family. In addition, it examines how family relates to their loved one's euthanasia wish. Seven people with dementia and a euthanasia wish in the Netherlands were interviewed, and three years later, two of them and five family members were interviewed again. Four themes were identified using thematic analyses: (1) Protecting the relationship from the impact of dementia; (2) Private domain as the primary setting to discuss euthanasia; (3) Implicit expectation to respect and agree with the euthanasia wish; (4) Experienced responsibilities of family regarding the euthanasia wish. Professionals should be aware of the position of family and the interrelatedness of the person's concern for family happiness and families' moral commitment to agree and support the wish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trijntje M Scheeres-Feitsma
- Protestant Theological University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jenny T van der Steen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Verhofstadt M, Moureau L, Pardon K, Liégeois A. Ethical perspectives regarding Euthanasia, including in the context of adult psychiatry: a qualitative interview study among healthcare workers in Belgium. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:60. [PMID: 38773465 PMCID: PMC11107029 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-024-01063-7] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous research has explored euthanasia's ethical dimensions, primarily focusing on general practice and, to a lesser extent, psychiatry, mainly from the viewpoints of physicians and nurses. However, a gap exists in understanding the comprehensive value-based perspectives of other professionals involved in both somatic and psychiatric euthanasia. This paper aims to analyze the interplay among legal, medical, and ethical factors to clarify how foundational values shape the ethical discourse surrounding euthanasia in both somatic and psychiatric contexts. It seeks to explore these dynamics among all healthcare professionals and volunteers in Belgium. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 Dutch-speaking healthcare workers who had encountered patients requesting euthanasia for psychiatric conditions, in Belgium, from August 2019 to August 2020. Qualitative thematic analysis was applied to the interview transcripts. FINDINGS Participants identified three pivotal values and virtues: religious values, professional values, and fundamental medical values encompassing autonomy, beneficence, and non-maleficence, linked to compassion, quality care, and justice. These values interwove across four tiers: the patient, the patient's inner circle, the medical realm, and society at large. Irrespective of their euthanasia stance, participants generally displayed a blend of ethical values across these tiers. Their euthanasia perspective was primarily shaped by value interpretation, significance allocation to key components, and tier weighting. Explicit mention of varying ethical values, potentially indicating distinct stances in favor of or against euthanasia, was infrequent. CONCLUSION The study underscores ethical discourse's central role in navigating euthanasia's intricate landscape. Fostering inclusive dialogue, bridging diverse values, supports informed decision-making, nurturing justice, and empathy. Tailored end-of-life healthcare in psychiatry is essential, acknowledging all involved actors' needs. The study calls for interdisciplinary research to comprehensively grasp euthanasia's multifaceted dimensions, and guiding policy evolution. While contextualized in Belgium, the implications extend to the broader euthanasia discourse, suggesting avenues for further inquiry and cross-cultural exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Verhofstadt
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, 1090, Belgium.
| | - Loïc Moureau
- Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Koen Pardon
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, 1090, Belgium
| | - Axel Liégeois
- Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Organisation Brothers of Charity, Ghent, Belgium
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Renckens SC, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, van der Heide A, Pasman HR. Physicians' views on the role of relatives in euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide decision-making: a mixed-methods study among physicians in the Netherlands. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:43. [PMID: 38580964 PMCID: PMC10996154 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-024-01031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relatives have no formal position in the practice of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (EAS) according to Dutch legislation. However, research shows that physicians often involve relatives in EAS decision-making. It remains unclear why physicians do (not) want to involve relatives. Therefore, we examined how many physicians in the Netherlands involve relatives in EAS decision-making and explored reasons for (not) involving relatives and what involvement entails. METHODS In a mixed-methods study, 746 physicians (33% response rate) completed a questionnaire, and 20 were interviewed. The questionnaire included two statements on relatives' involvement in EAS decision-making. Descriptive statistics were used, and multivariable logistic regression analyses to explore characteristics associated with involving relatives. In subsequent interviews, we explored physicians' views on involving relatives in EAS decision-making. Interviews were thematically analysed. RESULTS The majority of physicians want to know relatives' opinions about an EAS request (80%); a smaller group also takes these opinions into account in EAS decision-making (35%). Physicians who had ever received an explicit EAS request were more likely to want to know opinions and clinical specialists and elderly care physicians were more likely to take these opinions into account. In interviews, physicians mentioned several reasons for involving relatives: e.g. to give relatives space and help them in their acceptance, to tailor support, to be able to perform EAS in harmony, and to mediate in case of conflicting views. Furthermore, physicians explained that relatives' opinions can influence the decision-making process but cannot be a decisive factor. If relatives oppose the EAS request, physicians find the process more difficult and try to mediate between patients and relatives by investigating relatives' objections and providing appropriate information. Reasons for not taking relatives' opinions into account include not wanting to undermine patient autonomy and protecting relatives from a potential burdensome decision. CONCLUSIONS Although physicians know that relatives have no formal role, involving relatives in EAS decision-making is common practice in the Netherlands. Physicians consider this important as relatives need to continue with their lives and may need bereavement support. Additionally, physicians want to perform EAS in harmony with everyone involved. However, relatives' opinions are not decisive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C Renckens
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Expertise Center for Palliative Care Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Expertise Center for Palliative Care Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - H Roeline Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Expertise Center for Palliative Care Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Rahimian Z, Rahimian L, Lopez‐Castroman J, Ostovarfar J, Fallahi MJ, Nayeri MA, Vardanjani HM. What medical conditions lead to a request for euthanasia? A rapid scoping review. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1978. [PMID: 38515545 PMCID: PMC10955044 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1978] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Euthanasia is a controversial issue related to the right to die. Although euthanasia is mostly requested by terminally sick individuals, even in societies where it is legal, it is unclear what medical conditions lead to euthanasia requests. In this scoping review, we aimed to compile medical conditions for which euthanasia has been requested or performed around the world. Methods The review was preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Retrieved search results were screened and unrelated documents were excluded. Data on reasons for conducting or requesting euthanasia along with the study type, setting, and publication year were extracted from documents. Human development index and euthanasia legality were also extracted. Major medical fields were used to categorize reported reasons. Group discussions were conducted if needed for this categorization. An electronic search was undertaken in MEDLINE through PubMed for published documents covering the years January 2000 to September 2022. Results Out of 3323 records, a total of 197 papers were included. The most common medical conditions in euthanasia requests are cancer in a terminal phase (45.4%), Alzheimer's disease and dementia (19.8%), constant unbearable physical or mental suffering (19.8%), treatment-resistant mood disorders (12.2%), and advanced cardiovascular disorders (12.2%). Conclusion Reasons for euthanasia are mostly linked to chronic or terminal physical conditions. Psychiatric disorders also lead to a substantial proportion of euthanasia requests. This review can help to identify the features shared by conditions that lead to performing or requesting euthanasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Rahimian
- Student Research CommitteeShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Leila Rahimian
- School of DentistryShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Jorge Lopez‐Castroman
- Department of Psychiatry, CHU Nîmes & IGFCNRS‐INSERMUniversity of MontpellierMontpellierFrance
- CIBERSAMMadridSpain
| | - Jeyran Ostovarfar
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Mohammad J. Fallahi
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Mohammad A. Nayeri
- Student Research CommitteeShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Hossein M. Vardanjani
- MD‐MPH Department, School of Medicine, Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
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Stergiopoulos V, Bastidas-Bilbao H, Gupta M, Buchman DZ, Stewart DE, Rajji T, Simpson AIF, van Kesteren MR, Cappe V, Castle D, Shields R, Hawke LD. Care considerations in medical assistance in dying for persons with mental illness as the sole underlying medical condition: a qualitative study of patient and family perspectives. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:120. [PMID: 38355467 PMCID: PMC10865571 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05541-5] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with mental illness as their sole underlying medical condition are eligible to access medical assistance in dying (MAiD) in a small number of countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxemburg and Switzerland. In Canada, it is anticipated that people experiencing mental illness as their sole underlying medical condition (MI-SUMC) will be eligible to request MAiD as of March 17th 2024. To date, few studies have addressed patient and family perspectives on MAiD MI-SUMC care processes. This study aimed to address this gap and qualitatively explore the perspectives of persons with lived experience of mental illness and family members on care considerations during MI-SUMC implementation. METHODS Thirty adults with lived experience of mental illness and 25 adult family members residing in Ontario participated in this study. To facilitate participant engagement, the semi-structured interview used a persona-scenario exercise to discuss perspectives on MAiD MI-SUMC acceptability and care considerations. Framework analysis was used to inductively analyze data using NVivo 12 Pro. Steps, processes, or other care considerations suggested by the participants were charted in a framework matrix after familiarization with the narratives. Key themes were further identified. A lived-experience advisory group participated in every aspect of this study. RESULTS Six themes were developed from the patient and family narratives: (1) Raising MAiD MI-SUMC awareness; (2) Sensitive Introduction of MAiD MI-SUMC in goals of care discussions; (3) Asking for MAiD MI-SUMC: a person-focused response; (4) A comprehensive circle of MAiD MI-SUMC care; (5) A holistic, person-centered assessment process; and (6) Need for support in the aftermath of the decision. These themes highlighted a congruence of views between patient and family members and described key desired process ingredients, including a person-centred non-judgmental stance by care providers, inter-professional holistic care, shared decision making, and the primacy of patient autonomy in healthcare decision making. CONCLUSIONS Family and patient perspectives on the implementation of MAiD MI-SUMC offer important considerations for service planning that could complement existing and emerging professional practice standards. These stakeholders' perspectives will continue to be essential in MAiD MI-SUMC implementation efforts, to better address the needs of diverse communities and inform improvement efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Stergiopoulos
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Mona Gupta
- Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel Z Buchman
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Donna E Stewart
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tarek Rajji
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexander I F Simpson
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Vivien Cappe
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Castle
- University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Statewide Mental Health Service, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Roslyn Shields
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa D Hawke
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Spitale G, Schneider G, Germani F, Biller-Andorno N. Exploring the role of AI in classifying, analyzing, and generating case reports on assisted suicide cases: feasibility and ethical implications. Front Artif Intell 2023; 6:1328865. [PMID: 38164497 PMCID: PMC10757918 DOI: 10.3389/frai.2023.1328865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper presents a study on the use of AI models for the classification of case reports on assisted suicide procedures. The database of the five Dutch regional bioethics committees was scraped to collect the 72 case reports available in English. We trained several AI models for classification according to the categories defined by the Dutch Termination of Life on Request and Assisted Suicide (Review Procedures) Act. We also conducted a related project to fine-tune an OpenAI GPT-3.5-turbo large language model for generating new fictional but plausible cases. As AI is increasingly being used for judgement, it is possible to imagine an application in decision-making regarding assisted suicide. Here we explore two arising questions: feasibility and ethics, with the aim of contributing to a critical assessment of the potential role of AI in decision-making in highly sensitive areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Spitale
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gerold Schneider
- Department of Computational Linguistics, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Federico Germani
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Nikola Biller-Andorno
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
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Mulcahy Symmons S, Ryan K, Aoun SM, Selman LE, Davies AN, Cornally N, Lombard J, McQuilllan R, Guerin S, O'Leary N, Connolly M, Rabbitte M, Mockler D, Foley G. Decision-making in palliative care: patient and family caregiver concordance and discordance-systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:374-385. [PMID: 35318213 PMCID: PMC10804031 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2022-003525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decision-making in palliative care usually involves both patients and family caregivers. However, how concordance and discordance in decision-making manifest and function between patients and family caregivers in palliative care is not well understood. OBJECTIVES To identify key factors and/or processes which underpin concordance and/or discordance between patients and family caregivers with respect to their preferences for and decisions about palliative care; and ascertain how patients and family caregivers manage discordance in decision-making in palliative care. METHODS A systematic review and narrative synthesis of original studies published in full between January 2000 and June 2021 was conducted using the following databases: Embase; Medline; CINAHL; AMED; Web of Science; PsycINFO; PsycARTICLES; and Social Sciences Full Text. RESULTS After full-text review, 39 studies were included in the synthesis. Studies focused primarily on end-of-life care and on patient and family caregiver preferences for patient care. We found that discordance between patients and family caregivers in palliative care can manifest in relational conflict and can result from a lack of awareness of and communication about each other's preferences for care. Patients' advancing illness and impending death together with open dialogue about future care including advance care planning can foster consensus between patients and family caregivers. CONCLUSIONS Patients and family caregivers in palliative care can accommodate each other's preferences for care. Further research is needed to fully understand how patients and family caregivers move towards consensus in the context of advancing illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Mulcahy Symmons
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karen Ryan
- St Francis Hospice Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Samar M Aoun
- Palliative Care Unit, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lucy E Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew Neil Davies
- Academic Department of Palliative Medicine, Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicola Cornally
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John Lombard
- School of Law, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Regina McQuilllan
- St Francis Hospice Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Palliative Care, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Suzanne Guerin
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Norma O'Leary
- Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Palliative Care, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Connolly
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Rabbitte
- All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Mockler
- John Stearne Medical Library, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Geraldine Foley
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Serota K, Hubert M, Joolaee S, Ho A. Palliative care providers' roles in medical assistance in dying decision-making triads with patients and families: A qualitative analysis. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37817326 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001311] [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: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research on medical assistance in dying (MAiD) decision-making indicates that family members and close friends are often involved in making decisions with patients and their care providers. This decision-making model comprising patients, family members, and palliative care providers (PCPs) has been described as a triad. The objective of this study is to understand PCPs' experiences engaging in MAiD-related decision-making triads with patients and their families in Canada. METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews were analyzed using interpretive description. RESULTS We interviewed 48 specialist PCPs in Vancouver (26) and Toronto (22). Interviews were audio-recorded, professionally transcribed, and coded using a coding framework. PCPs take on 5 notable roles in their work with family members around MAiD. They provide emotional support and counseling, balance confidentiality between patients and families, provide education, coordinate support, and mediate family dynamics. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS PCPs take on multiple roles in working with patients and families to make decisions about MAiD. As patients and families may require different forms of support throughout the MAiD pathway, PCPs can benefit from institutional and interprofessional resources to enhance their ability to support patients and families in decision-making and bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Serota
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Matthieu Hubert
- Division of Palliative Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Soodabeh Joolaee
- Department of Evaluation and Research Services (DERS) Fraser Health, Fraiser Health Authority, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Nursing Care Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anita Ho
- Centre for Applied Ethics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Bioethics Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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10
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White BP, Jeanneret R, Close E, Willmott L. Access to voluntary assisted dying in Victoria: a qualitative study of family caregivers' perceptions of barriers and facilitators. Med J Aust 2023; 219:211-217. [PMID: 37308309 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate barriers to and facilitators of access to voluntary assisted dying in Victoria under the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017 (Vic). DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS Qualitative study; semi-structured interviews with people who had applied for voluntary assisted dying or their family caregivers, recruited via social media and interested advocacy groups; interviews conducted 17 August - 26 November 2021. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Barriers to and facilitators of access to voluntary assisted dying. RESULTS We interviewed 33 participants about 28 people who had applied for voluntary assisted dying; all but one of the interviews were with family caregivers after their relatives' deaths, and all but three were conducted via Zoom. The major barriers to access identified by participants were finding trained and willing doctors to assess eligibility for voluntary assisted dying; the time required for the application process (especially given how ill the applicants were); the prohibition of telehealth consultations; institutional objections to voluntary assisted dying; and the prohibition of health practitioners raising voluntary assisted dying with their patients. The major facilitators mentioned were care navigators (both the Statewide service and local navigators); finding a supportive coordinating practitioner; the Statewide Pharmacy Service; and system flow once the process had been initiated (although not during the early days of voluntary assisted dying in Victoria). Access was particularly difficult for people in regional areas or with neurodegenerative conditions. CONCLUSIONS Access to voluntary assisted dying has improved in Victoria, and people generally felt supported while navigating the application process once they found a coordinating practitioner or a navigator. But this step, and other barriers, often still made patient access difficult. Adequate support for doctors, navigators and other facilitators of access is vital for the effective functioning of the overall process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben P White
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Ruthie Jeanneret
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Eliana Close
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Lindy Willmott
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD
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11
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Gerson SM, Gamondi C, Wiebe E, Deliens L. Should Palliative Care Teams be Involved in Medical Assisted Dying? J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:e233-e237. [PMID: 37072103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.04.004] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Palliative care teams offer holistic care for patients experiencing serious illness and related suffering, nevertheless, there are times when clinicians are asked by patients for help to obtain assisted dying. Patients in a growing number of areas may be eligible to request medically administered or self-administered lethal medications to control the timing of death and palliative care practices, established to neither hasten nor postpone death, may be challenged when caring for patients asking for assisted dying. In this "Controversies in Palliative Care" article, we invite three experts to provide a synopsis of the key studies that inform their thought processes, share practical advice on their clinical approach, and highlight the opportunities for future research. These experts suggest palliative care teams should be and are involved in medical assisted dying, but how palliative care teams are involved may depend on type of assisted dying requested, team members' scope of practice, legal regulations, and institutional guidelines. Research is needed on many aspects of assisted dying and palliative care including improving evidence-based clinical guidelines, addressing the needs of families, and coping strategies for all involved. An international study comparing assisted dying practices within, and outside palliative care may inform policy helping to clarify whether the integration of palliative care in assisted dying improves end-of-life care. In addition to research, it is recommended that researchers and clinicians collaborate on the development of a clinical textbook on assisted dying and palliative care to support all palliative care team members, offering guidelines and recommendations for practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri Mila Gerson
- Compassionate Care Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, (S.M.G.), Olympia, Washington, USA.
| | - Claudia Gamondi
- Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic (C.G.), Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland; Palliative and Supportive Care Service (C.G.), Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ellen Wiebe
- Faculty of Medicine (E.W.), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of Life Care Research Group (L.D.), Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Kammeraat M, van Rooijen G, Kuijper L, Kiverstein JD, Denys DAJP. Patients requesting and receiving euthanasia for psychiatric disorders in the Netherlands. BMJ MENTAL HEALTH 2023; 26:e300729. [PMID: 37423642 PMCID: PMC10335461 DOI: 10.1136/bmjment-2023-300729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Euthanasia and assisted suicide (EAS) for patients with psychiatric disorders occupies a prominent place in the public debate, but little is known about the psychiatric patients requesting and receiving EAS. OBJECTIVE To compare the social demographic and psychiatric profile of the patients who make a request for EAS and those who receive it. METHOD We carried out a review of records from 1122 patients with psychiatric disorders who have filed a potentially eligible request for EAS at Expertise Centrum for Euthanasia (EE) in the period 2012-2018. FINDINGS The majority of the patients requesting EAS were single females, living independently with a comorbid diagnosis of depression with a history of undergoing psychiatric treatment for more than 10 years. From the small number of patients who went on to receive EAS in our sample, the majority were also single women, with a diagnosis of depressive disorder. A small subgroup of patients whose diagnoses included somatic disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders and neurocognitive disorders were over-represented in the group of patients receiving EAS compared with the applicant group. CONCLUSION The average demographic and psychiatric profile of patients requesting and receiving EAS were found to be broadly similar. The majority of patients requesting EAS had received a comorbid diagnosis, making this a difficult-to-treat patient group. Only a small number of patients requesting had their requests granted. Patients from different diagnostic groups showed patterns in why their requests were not granted. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Many of the patients who withdrew their requests for EAS benefited from being able to discuss dying with end of life experts at EE. Health professionals can make a difference to a vulnerable group of patients, if they are trained to discuss end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Kammeraat
- Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Expertisecentrum Euthanasia, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Geeske van Rooijen
- Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dijklander Ziekenhuis, Hoorn, Netherlands
| | - Lisette Kuijper
- Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Crumley ET, LeBlanc J, Henderson B, Jackson-Tarlton CS, Leck E. Canadian family members' experiences with guilt, judgment and secrecy during medical assistance in dying: a qualitative descriptive study. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E782-E789. [PMID: 37607750 PMCID: PMC10449018 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20220140] [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] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although research briefly mentions that family members have encountered unexpected experiences during the medical assistance in dying (MAiD) process, from keeping MAiD a secret, to being judged and feeling guilty, the potential implications of these are less understood. This study's aim was to examine guilt, judgment and secrecy as part of the MAiD experiences of family members in Canada. METHODS We conducted a qualitative descriptive study with 1-hour semistructured interviews by telephone or video from December 2020 to December 2021. Through local and national organizations, we recruited Canadian family members with MAiD experience. A subset analysis of unexpected experiences was conducted, which identified 3 categories: guilt, judgment and secrecy. Similar codes were grouped together within each category into themes. Participants were sent the draft manuscript and their suggestions were integrated. RESULTS A total of 45 family members from 6 provinces who experienced MAiD from 2016 to 2021 participated. Many people who had MAiD were diagnosed with cancer, comorbidities or neurologic disease. Some participants unexpectedly found themselves managing guilt, judgment and/or secrecy, which may complicate their grieving and bereavement. Numerous participants experienced judgment from relatives, friends, religious people and/or health care professionals. Many kept MAiD secret because they were not allowed to tell or for religious reasons, and/or selectively told others. INTERPRETATION Family members said they were ill-prepared to manage their experiences of guilt, judgment and secrecy during the MAiD process. MAiD programs and assessors/providers could provide family-specific information to help lessen these burdens and better prepare relatives for common, yet unexpected, experiences they may encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen T Crumley
- Faculties of Management (Crumley) and Medicine (Leck, Henderson, Jackson-Tarlton), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Health Program (LeBlanc), St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS
| | - Jocelyne LeBlanc
- Faculties of Management (Crumley) and Medicine (Leck, Henderson, Jackson-Tarlton), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Health Program (LeBlanc), St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS
| | - Brett Henderson
- Faculties of Management (Crumley) and Medicine (Leck, Henderson, Jackson-Tarlton), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Health Program (LeBlanc), St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS
| | - Caitlin S Jackson-Tarlton
- Faculties of Management (Crumley) and Medicine (Leck, Henderson, Jackson-Tarlton), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Health Program (LeBlanc), St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS
| | - Erika Leck
- Faculties of Management (Crumley) and Medicine (Leck, Henderson, Jackson-Tarlton), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Health Program (LeBlanc), St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS
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14
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Xu H, Stjernswärd S, Glasdam S, Fu C. Circumstances affecting patients' euthanasia or medically assisted suicide decisions from the perspectives of patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals: A qualitative systematic review. DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:326-351. [PMID: 37390123 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2228730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to explore circumstances affecting patients' euthanasia and medically assisted suicide (MAS) decisions from the perspectives of patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals. A qualitative systematic review was performed following PRISMA recommendations. The review protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022303034). Literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, Eric, PsycInfo, and citation pearl search in Scopus from 2012 to 2022. In total, 6840 publications were initially retrieved. The analysis included a descriptive numerical summary analysis and a qualitative thematic analysis of 27 publications, resulting in two main themes-Contexts and factors influencing actions and interactions, and Finding support while dealing with resistance in euthanasia and MAS decisions-and related sub-themes. The results illuminated the dynamics in (inter)actions between patients and involved parties that might both impede and facilitate patients' decisions related to euthanasia/MAS, potentially influencing patients' decision-making experiences, and the roles and experiences of involved parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxuan Xu
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stinne Glasdam
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Cong Fu
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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15
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Martin T, Freeman S, Lalani N, Banner D. Qualities of the dying experience of persons who access medical assistance in dying: A scoping review. DEATH STUDIES 2022:1-11. [PMID: 36579696 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2160033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Defining a "good death" is complex and grounded in diverse cultural, social, and personal factors. Although there is a significant body of literature exploring the broad concepts of death and dying, there is a dearth in literature that has explored what constitutes a good death for persons undergoing assisted dying such as Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). In this scoping review of 19 articles, we explore dying experiences and what a good death entails for people accessing MAiD. Understanding personal values and ideas about positive dying experiences can guide patients, care partners, and clinicians in their preparation toward, and facilitation of, a good death experience particularly among persons who access MAiD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Martin
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Shannon Freeman
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada
| | - Nasreen Lalani
- School of Nursing, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Davina Banner
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada
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16
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Gómez-Vírseda C, Gastmans C. Euthanasia in persons with advanced dementia: a dignity-enhancing care approach. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2022; 48:907-914. [PMID: 34016647 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2021-107308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In current Western societies, increasing numbers of people express their desire to choose when to die. Allowing people to choose the moment of their death is an ethical issue that should be embedded in sound clinical and legal frameworks. In the case of persons with dementia, it raises further ethical questions such as: Does the person have the capacity to make the choice? Is the person being coerced? Who should be involved in the decision? Is the person's suffering untreatable? The use of Advance Euthanasia Directives (AED) is suggested as a way to deal with end-of-life wishes of persons with dementia. However, in the Netherlands-the only country in which this practice is legal-the experiences of patients, doctors, and relatives have been far from satisfactory.Our paper analyses this complex ethical challenge from a Dignity-Enhancing Care approach, starting from the Dutch experiences with AED as a case. We first consider the lived experiences of the different stakeholders, seeking out a dialogical-interpretative understanding of care. We aim to promote human dignity as a normative standard for end-of-life care practices. Three concrete proposals are then presented in which this approach can be operationalised in order to deal respectfully with the end-of-life choices of persons with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Gómez-Vírseda
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
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17
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Byrnes E, Ross AI, Murphy M. A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing Assisted Dying: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis of Professionals' Perspectives. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221116697. [PMID: 35929771 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221116697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Assisted dying is a divisive topic and draws both lamenting and approving commentary from political, medical, legal, and philosophical domains. This systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis aims to identify the factors that healthcare professionals experience when working within assisted dying frameworks. PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. Search results yielded 15,426 papers with 39 papers meeting inclusion criteria for this review. Remaining papers were subjected to critical appraisal and a thematic synthesis. Eight themes fell under the domain of 'barrier' and represented different personal and professional factors that hinder professionals from delivering assisted dying healthcare. Five themes came under the domain of 'facilitators' and represent factors that contribute to the smooth implementation and delivery of assisted dying services. Health professionals experience a range of factors that both impede and propel delivery of assisted dying frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Byrnes
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Clare, Ireland
- Cork Mental Health Services, Cork/Kerry Community Healthcare, Health Service Executive, Cork, Ireland
| | - Alasdair Iain Ross
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Clare, Ireland
- Cork Mental Health Services, Cork/Kerry Community Healthcare, Health Service Executive, Cork, Ireland
| | - Mike Murphy
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Clare, Ireland
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18
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Dholakia SY, Bagheri A, Simpson A. Emotional impact on healthcare providers involved in medical assistance in dying (MAiD): a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058523. [PMID: 35840304 PMCID: PMC9295670 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical assistance in dying (MAiD) traverses challenging and emotionally overwhelming territories: healthcare providers (HCPs) across jurisdictions experience myriad of affective responses secondary to possible tensions between normative and interwoven values, such as sanctity of life, dignity in death and dying and duty to care. OBJECTIVE To determine the emotional impact on HCPs involved in MAiD. METHODS Inclusion restricted to English language qualitative research studies from four databases (OVID Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and Scopus), from beginning until 30 April 2021, and grey literature up to August 2021 were searched. Key author, citation and reference searches were undertaken. We excluded studies without rigorous qualitative research methodology. Included studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool. Analysis was conducted using thematic meta-synthesis. The cumulative evidence was assessed for confidence using the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research approach. RESULTS The search identified 4522 papers. Data from 35 studies (393 physicians, 169 nurses, 53 social workers, 22 allied healthcare professionals) employing diverse qualitative research methodologies from five countries were coded and analysed. The thematic meta-synthesis showed three descriptive emotional themes: (1) polarised emotions including moral distress (n=153), (2) reflective emotions with MAiD as a 'sense-making process' (n=251), and (3) professional value-driven emotions (n=352). DISCUSSION This research attempts to answer the question, 'what it means at an emotional level', for a MAiD practitioner. Legislation allowing MAiD for terminal illness only influences the emotional impact: MAiD practitioners under this essential criterion experience more polarised emotions, whereas those practising in jurisdictions with greater emphasis on allaying intolerable suffering experience more reflective emotions. MAiD practitioner's professional values and their degree of engagement influence the emotional impact, which may help structure future support networks. English language literature restriction and absence of subgroup analyses limit the generalisability of results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alireza Bagheri
- Research affiliate Center for Healthcare Ethics, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexander Simpson
- Forensic Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Verhofstadt M, Chambaere K, Pardon K, Mortier F, Liégeois A, Deliens L, Audenaert K. The impact of the euthanasia assessment procedure: a qualitative interview study among adults with psychiatric conditions. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:435. [PMID: 35761195 PMCID: PMC9235145 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted dying for adults with psychiatric conditions (APC) is highly controversial but legally possible in a few countries, including Belgium. Previous research has suggested that the complex euthanasia assessment procedure may cause additional suffering in APC but may also induce positive experiences. This study reports on the impact of the euthanasia assessment procedure as experienced by APC on three counts: 1) their mental state, including death ideation; 2) their treatment trajectory; 3) their social relationships. METHODS We performed an in-depth qualitative interview study with 16 APC in Flanders, Belgium, who had voiced a euthanasia request between 2016-2020. Thematic coding was used. FINDINGS We interviewed 16 APC. Euthanasia assessment procedures brought out a plethora of experiences in APC, both favourable and unfavourable. Whereas thoughts of suicide remain present to a certain extent, being in the assessment procedure allows some APC to reconsider alternatives towards life, and also to attempt new treatment options. However, many APC experience ambivalence about the supposedly inherent desirability and dignity in euthanasia. Worries also surfaced about the rationale behind and effects of involvement of APCs' social circle, and about the impact it could have on them. CONCLUSION Further research, including other stakeholder perspectives, is recommended with a view to maximising favourable and minimising unfavourable impacts for all involved. In clinical practice attention to these impacts is paramount, and clear communication and management of expectations between physician and patient, seems appropriate to address the many ambivalent experiences that accompany APC during the euthanasia assessment procedure. Policy attention could in this regard go to clarifying certain sources of ambivalence and issues that are insufficiently addressed, such as modalities of relatives' involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Verhofstadt
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Department Public Health and Primary Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Kenneth Chambaere
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069End-of-Life Care Research Group, Department Public Health and Primary Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3 Ghent, Brussels Belgium
| | - Koen Pardon
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069End-of-Life Care Research Group, Department Public Health and Primary Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3 Ghent, Brussels Belgium
| | - Freddy Mortier
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069End-of-Life Care Research Group, Department Public Health and Primary Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3 Ghent, Brussels Belgium ,grid.5342.00000 0001 2069 7798Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Axel Liégeois
- grid.5596.f0000 0001 0668 7884Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium ,Organisation Brothers of Charity, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- grid.8767.e0000 0001 2290 8069End-of-Life Care Research Group, Department Public Health and Primary Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3 Ghent, Brussels Belgium
| | - Kurt Audenaert
- grid.410566.00000 0004 0626 3303Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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20
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Roest B, Leget C. A multidisciplinary perspective on physician-assisted dying in primary care in The Netherlands: A narrative interview study. DEATH STUDIES 2022; 47:315-327. [PMID: 35521997 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2065554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Most research on physician-assisted dying (PAD) in the Netherlands focuses on general practitioners (GPs). Less is known about the perspectives of other professionals. We performed narrative interviews with 10 professionals other than GPs to explore their perspectives on PAD in primary care. The results provide insight into PAD as an enacted practice involving many different actors, considerations, and expectations and into the intertwinement between PAD and palliative sedation. The study shows how a multidisciplinary perspective to PAD provides new avenues for practice, research, and ethics. It poses the question whether PAD can and should be considered merely a physicians' concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Roest
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C Leget
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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21
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Marina S, Wainwright T, Pereira HP, Ricou M. Trends in hastened death decision criteria: A review of official reports. Health Policy 2022; 126:643-651. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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22
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Leboul D, Bousquet A, Chassagne A, Mathieu-Nicot F, Ridley A, Cretin E, Guirimand F, Aubry R. Understanding why patients request euthanasia when it is illegal: a qualitative study in palliative care units on the personal and practical impact of euthanasia requests. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524211066925. [PMID: 35036915 PMCID: PMC8755925 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211066925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Some patients in palliative care units request euthanasia regardless of legislation. Although studies have explored the reasons for these requests, little is known about the subjective, relational, and contextual repercussions for the patient. Objectives The aim of this study is to understand the purpose of euthanasia requests from the patient's viewpoint and their personal and practical impact. Methods We conducted in-depth interviews with patients requesting euthanasia, their family members, and health care providers in 11 French palliative care units. A thematic analysis of the data was performed. Results In total, 18 patients were interviewed within 48 h of the request being made; 1 week later, 9 patients were interviewed again. Five main themes emerged: assuming the possibility of transgressing the forbidden, a call for unbearable suffering to be recognized, encouragement to change clinical practice, reclaiming a sense of freedom over medical constraints, and imagining a desirable future for oneself. Conclusions A request for euthanasia appears to be a willful means to remove oneself from the impasse of an existence paralyzed by suffering. It creates a space for discussion, which promotes negotiation with patients on care practices and therapeutics, and strengthens patients' sense of autonomy. Investigating the relationship between the evolution of euthanasia requests within the palliative care setting could be beneficial. It is important to encourage health care professionals to adopt a readiness to listen by interacting with patients in a way that is not momentarily action-oriented but rather focused on proactive discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danièle Leboul
- Pôle recherche et enseignement universitaire 'Soins palliatifs en société' (SPES), Maison Médicale Jeanne Garnier, Paris, France
| | - Anne Bousquet
- Pôle recherche et enseignement universitaire 'Soins palliatifs en société' (SPES), Maison Médicale Jeanne Garnier, Paris, France
| | - Aline Chassagne
- Clinical Investigation Center (Inserm U1431), University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Florence Mathieu-Nicot
- Clinical Investigation Center (Inserm U1431), University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Ashley Ridley
- University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Elodie Cretin
- Clinical Investigation Center (Inserm U1431), University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Guirimand
- Pôle recherche et enseignement universitaire 'Soins palliatifs en société' (SPES), Maison Médicale Jeanne Garnier, Paris 75015, France
| | - Régis Aubry
- Clinical Investigation Center (Inserm U1431), University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France
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23
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Sinnarajah A, Feldstain A, Wasylenko E. Responding to requests for hastened death in patients living with advanced neurologic disease. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 190:217-237. [PMID: 36055717 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-85029-2.00002-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A request for hastened death can mean many things, from an emotional plea for help with unmet needs to a request for legal provision of chemically induced hastened death. Regardless of whether the clinician supports legally available hastened death, knowing how to respond to requests for hastened death is important. Responding in an empathic and open manner will strengthen the therapeutic relationship between the patient and clinician. Suggested scripts on how to respond are provided. A framework for assessing the patient's preparation at various stages in the decisional journey is suggested. Additional factors including caring for the family and involving other healthcare providers are discussed. Last, there is some exploration of ethics considerations and a summary of legal chemically induced hastened death availability internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aynharan Sinnarajah
- Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Andrea Feldstain
- Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Psychosocial Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Eric Wasylenko
- Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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24
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Pronk R, Willems DL, van de Vathorst S. What About Us? Experiences of Relatives Regarding Physician-Assisted Death for Patients Suffering from Mental Illness: A Qualitative Study. Cult Med Psychiatry 2021; 47:237-251. [PMID: 34914019 PMCID: PMC8674522 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-021-09762-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Physician-assisted death (PAD) for patients suffering from mental illness is legally permitted in the Netherlands. Although patients' relatives are not entrusted with a legal role, former research revealed that physicians take into account the patient's social context and their well-being, in deciding whether or not to grant the request. However, these studies focussed on relatives' experiences in the context of PAD concerning patients with somatic illness. To date, nothing is known on their experiences in the context of PAD concerning the mentally ill. We studied the experiences of relatives with regard to a PAD request by patients suffering from mental illness. The data for this study were collected through 12 interviews with relatives of patients who have or had a PAD request because of a mental illness. We show that relatives are ambivalent regarding the patient's request for PAD and the following trajectory. Their ambivalence is characterised by their understanding of the wish to die and at the same time hoping that the patient would make another choice. Respondents' experiences regarding the process of the PAD request varied, from positive ('intimate') to negative ('extremely hard'). Some indicated that they wished to be more involved as they believe the road towards PAD should be a joint trajectory. To leave them out during such an important event is not only painful, but also harmful to the relative as it could potentially complicate their grieving process. Professional support during or after the PAD process was wanted by some, but not by all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalie Pronk
- Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Centre, Room J2-126, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - D. L. Willems
- Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Centre, Room J2-126, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S. van de Vathorst
- Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Centre, Room J2-126, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Department of Medical Ethics and Philosophy, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Ward V, Freeman S, Callander T, Xiong B. Professional experiences of formal healthcare providers in the provision of medical assistance in dying (MAiD): A scoping review. Palliat Support Care 2021; 19:744-758. [PMID: 33781368 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This scoping review describes the existing literature which examines the breadth of healthcare providers' (HCP's) experiences with the provision of medical assistance in dying (MAiD). METHOD This study employed a scoping review methodology: (1) identify research articles, (2) identify relevant studies, (3) select studies based on inclusion/exclusion criteria, (4) chart the data, and (5) summarize the results. RESULTS In total, 30 papers were identified pertaining to HCP's experiences of providing MAiD. Fifty-three percent of the papers were from Europe (n = 16) and 40% of studies were from the USA or Canada (n = 12). The most common participant populations were physicians (n = 17) and nurses (n = 12). This scoping review found that HCPs experienced a variety of emotional responses to providing or providing support to MAiD. Some HCPs experienced positive emotions through helping patients at the end of the patient's life. Still other HCPs experienced very intense and negative emotions such as immense internal moral conflict. HCPs from various professions were involved in various aspects of MAiD provision such as responding to initial requests for MAiD, supporting patients and families, nursing support during MAiD, and the administration of medications to end of life. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This review consolidates many of the experiences of HCPs in relation to the provision of MAiD. Specifically, this review elucidates many of the emotions that HCPs experience through participation in MAiD. In addition to describing the emotional experiences, this review highlights some of the roles that HCPs participate in with relation to MAiD. Finally, this review accentuates the importance of team supports and self-care for all team members in the provision of MAiD regardless of their degree of involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Ward
- Northern Medical Program, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Shannon Freeman
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Taylor Callander
- Northern Medical Program, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Beibei Xiong
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
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Rodríguez-Prat A, Wilson DM, Agulles R. Autonomy and control in the wish to die in terminally ill patients: A systematic integrative review. Palliat Support Care 2021; 19:759-766. [PMID: 34231452 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Personal autonomy and control are major concepts for people with life-limiting conditions. Patients who express a wish to die (WTD) are often thought of wanting it because of loss of autonomy or control. The research conducted so far has not focused on personal beliefs and perspectives; and little is known about patients' understanding of autonomy and control in this context. The aim of this review was to analyze what role autonomy and control may play in relation to the WTD expressed by people with life-limiting conditions. METHODS A systematic integrative review was conducted. The search strategy used MeSH terms in combination with free-text searching of the EBSCO Discovery Service (which provides access to multiple academic library literature databases, including PubMed and CINAHL), as well as the large PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science library literature databases from their inception until February 2019. The search was updated to January 2021. RESULTS After the screening process, 85 full texts were included for the final analysis. Twenty-seven studies, recording the experiences of 1,824 participants, were identified. The studies were conducted in Australia (n = 5), Canada (n = 5), USA (n = 5), The Netherlands (n = 3), Spain (n = 2), Sweden (n = 2), Switzerland (n = 2), Finland (n = 1), Germany (n = 1), and the UK (n = 1). Three themes were identified: (1) the presence of autonomy for the WTD, (2) the different ways in which autonomy is conceptualized, and (3) the socio-cultural context of research participants. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Despite the importance given to the concept of autonomy in the WTD discourse, only a few empirical studies have focused on personal interests. Comprehending the context is crucial because personal understandings of autonomy are shaped by socio-cultural-ethical backgrounds and these impact personal WTD attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Rodríguez-Prat
- Faculty of Humanities, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Donna M Wilson
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, CanadaT6G 1C9
| | - Remei Agulles
- Faculty of Humanities, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
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Ho A, Norman JS, Joolaee S, Serota K, Twells L, William L. How does Medical Assistance in Dying affect end-of-life care planning discussions? Experiences of Canadian multidisciplinary palliative care providers. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2021; 15:26323524211045996. [PMID: 34568826 PMCID: PMC8458666 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211045996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More than a dozen countries have now legalized some form of assisted dying, and additional jurisdictions are considering similar legislations or expanding eligibility criteria. Despite the persistent controversies about the relationship between medicine, palliative care, and assisted dying, many people are interested in assisted dying. Understanding how end-of-life care discussions between patients and specialist palliative care providers may be affected by such legislation can inform end-of-life care delivery in the evolving socio-cultural and legal environment. Aim To explore how the Canadian Medical Assistance in Dying legislation affects end-of-life care discussions between patients and multidisciplinary specialist palliative care providers. Design Qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. Participants Forty-eight specialist palliative care providers from Vancouver (n = 26) and Toronto (n = 22) were interviewed in person or by phone. Participants included physicians (n = 22), nurses (n = 15), social workers (n = 7), and allied health professionals (n = 4). Results Qualitative thematic analysis identified five notable considerations associated with Medical Assistance in Dying affecting end-of-life care discussions: (1) concerns over having proactive conversations about the desire to hasten death, (2) uncertainties regarding wish-to-die statements, (3) conversation complexities around procedural matters, (4) shifting discussions about suffering and quality of life, and (5) the need and challenges of promoting open-ended discussions. Conclusion Medical Assistance in Dying challenges end-of-life care discussions and requires education and support for all concerned to enable compassionate health professional communication. It remains essential to address psychosocial and existential suffering in medicine, but also to provide timely palliative care to ensure suffering is addressed before it is deemed irremediable. Hence, clarification is required regarding assisted dying as an intervention of last resort. Furthermore, professional and institutional guidance needs to better support palliative care providers in maintaining their holistic standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Ho
- Centre for Applied Ethics, The University of British Columbia, 227 - 6356 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
| | - Joshua S Norman
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Soodabeh Joolaee
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Nursing Care Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kristie Serota
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Louise Twells
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Leeroy William
- Supportive & Palliative Care Unit, Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Lowers J, Scardaville M, Hughes S, Preston NJ. Comparison of the experience of caregiving at end of life or in hastened death: a narrative synthesis review. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:154. [PMID: 33032574 PMCID: PMC7545566 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background End-of-life caregiving frequently is managed by friends and family. Studies on hastened death, including aid in dying or assisted suicide, indicate friends and family also play essential roles before, during, and after death. No studies have compared the experiences of caregivers in hastened and non-hastened death. The study aim is to compare end-of-life and hastened death caregiving experience using Hudson’s modified stress-coping model for palliative caregiving. Method Narrative synthesis of qualitative studies for caregivers at end of life and in hastened death, with 9946 end-of life and 1414 hastened death qualitative, peer-reviewed research articles extracted from MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, published between January 1998 and April 2020. Results Forty-two end-of-life caregiving and 12 hastened death caregiving articles met inclusion criteria. In both end-of-life and hastened death contexts, caregivers are motivated to ease patient suffering and may put their own needs or feelings aside to focus on that priority. Hastened death caregivers’ expectation of impending death and the short duration of caregiving may result in less caregiver burden. Acceptance of the patient’s condition, social support, and support from healthcare professionals all appear to improve caregiver experience. However, data on hastened death are limited. Conclusion Caregivers in both groups sought closeness with the patient and reported satisfaction at having done their best to care for the patient in a critical time. Awareness of anticipated death and support from healthcare professionals appear to reduce caregiver stress. The modified stress-coping framework is an effective lens for interpreting caregivers’ experiences at end of life and in the context of hastened death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Lowers
- Emory University, Palliative Care Center, 1821 Clifton Road, Suite 1016, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
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Verhofstadt M, Audenaert K, Van den Broeck K, Deliens L, Mortier F, Titeca K, Pardon K, De Bacquer D, Chambaere K. The engagement of psychiatrists in the assessment of euthanasia requests from psychiatric patients in Belgium: a survey study. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:400. [PMID: 32770966 PMCID: PMC7414658 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02792-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since its legalisation in 2002, the number of times euthanasia has been carried out in response to requests from adults with psychiatric conditions (APC) has continued to increase. However, little is known about why and how psychiatrists become engaged in the assessment of such euthanasia requests. METHODS A cross-sectional survey study was conducted between November 2018 and April 2019 of 499 psychiatrists affiliated with the Flemish Psychiatry Association. Chi square/Fisher's exact tests were performed to examine if, and to what extent, psychiatrists' backgrounds relate to their concrete experiences. The answers to the open question regarding motives for (non-) engagement were thematically coded. RESULTS Two hundred one psychiatrists participated, a response rate of 40%. During their careers, 80% of those responding have been confronted with at least one euthanasia request from an APC patient and 73% have become involved in the assessment procedure. Their engagement was limited to the roles of: referring physician (in 44% of the psychiatrists), attending physician (30%), legally required 'advising physician' (22%), and physician participating in the actual administration of the lethal drugs (5%). Within the most recent 12 months of practice, 61% of the respondents have been actively engaged in a euthanasia assessment procedure and 9% have refused at least once to be actively engaged due to their own conscientious objections and/or the complexity of the assessment. The main motive for psychiatrists to engage in euthanasia is the patient's fundamental right in Belgian law to ask for euthanasia and the psychiatrist's duty to respect that. The perception that they were sufficiently competent to engage in a euthanasia procedure was greater in psychiatrists who have already had concrete experience in the procedure. CONCLUSIONS Although the majority of psychiatrists have been confronted with euthanasia requests from their APC patients, their engagement is often limited to referring the request to a colleague physician for further assessment. More research is needed to identify the determinants of a psychiatrist's engagement in euthanasia for their APC patients and to discover the consequences of their non-, or their restricted or full engagement, on both the psychotherapeutic relationship and the course of the euthanasia request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Verhofstadt
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Kurt Audenaert
- Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kris Van den Broeck
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Freddy Mortier
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Titeca
- Department of Psychiatry, General Hospital Groeninge, Courtrai, Belgium
- ULteam, end-of-life consultation centre, Wemmel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Koen Pardon
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk De Bacquer
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kenneth Chambaere
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 6K3, Ghent, Belgium
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Patel T, Christy K, Grierson L, Shadd J, Farag A, O'Toole D, Lawson J, Vanstone M. Clinician responses to legal requests for hastened death: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative research. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2020; 11:59-67. [PMID: 32601150 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2019-002018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The legalisation of medical assistance in dying in numerous countries over the last 20 years represents a significant shift in practice and scope for many clinicians who have had little-to-no training to prepare them to sensitively respond to patient requests for hastened death. AIMS Our objective was to review the existing qualitative literature on the experiences of healthcare providers responding to requests for hastened death with the aim of answering the question: how do clinicians make sense of, and respond to patients' expressed wishes for hastened death? METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-synthesis of primary qualitative research articles that described the experiences and perspectives of healthcare professionals who have responded to requests for hastened death in jurisdictions where MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying) was legal or depenalised. A staged coding process was used to identify and analyse core themes. RESULTS Although the response to requests for hastened death varied case-by-case, clinicians formulated their responses by considering seven distinct domains. These include: policies, professional identity, commitment to patient autonomy, personal values and beliefs, the patient-clinician relationship, the request for hastened death and the clinician's emotional and psychological response. CONCLUSION Responding to a request for hastened death can be an overwhelming task for clinicians. An approach that takes into consideration the legal, personal, professional and patient perspectives is required to provide a response that encompasses all the complexities associated with such a monumental request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejal Patel
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kayonne Christy
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lawrence Grierson
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joshua Shadd
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandra Farag
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Danielle O'Toole
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Lawson
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Variath C, Peter E, Cranley L, Godkin D, Just D. Relational influences on experiences with assisted dying: A scoping review. Nurs Ethics 2020; 27:1501-1516. [PMID: 32436431 DOI: 10.1177/0969733020921493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family members and healthcare providers play an integral role in a person's assisted dying journey. Their own needs during the assisted dying journey are often, however, unrecognized and underrepresented in policies and guidelines. Circumstances under which people choose assisted dying, and relational contexts such as the sociopolitical environment, may influence the experiences of family members and healthcare providers. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS Ethics approval was not required to conduct this review. AIM This scoping review aims to identify the relational influences on the experiences of family members and healthcare providers of adults who underwent assisted dying and of those unable to access assisted dying due to the loss of capacity to consent. METHODS A literature search was conducted in four databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PsycINFO. The search retrieved 12,074 articles, a number narrowed down to 172 articles for full-text screening. Thirty-six articles met the established inclusion criteria. A feminist relational framework guided the data analysis. RESULTS Five key themes on the influences of family members' and healthcare providers' experiences throughout the assisted dying process were synthesized from the data. They include (1) relationships as central to beginning the process, (2) social and political influences on decision making, (3) complex roles and responsibilities of family members and healthcare providers, (4) a unique experience of death, and (5) varying experiences following death. CONCLUSION The feminist relational lens, used to guide analysis, shed light on the effect of the sociopolitical influences and the relationships among patients, families, and healthcare providers on each other's experiences. Addressing the needs of the family members and healthcare providers is vital to improving the assisted dying process. Including families' and healthcare providers' needs within institutional policies and enhancing collaboration and communication among those involved could improve the overall experience.
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Roest B. Old problems in need of new (narrative) approaches? A young physician-bioethicist's search for ethical guidance in the practice of physician-assisted dying in the Netherlands. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2020; 47:medethics-2019-106016. [PMID: 32376718 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2019-106016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current empirical research and normative arguments on physician-assisted dying (PAD) in the Netherlands seem insufficient to provide ethical guidance to general practitioners in the practice of PAD, due to a gap between the evidence and arguments on the one hand and the uncertainties and complexities as found in everyday practice on the other. This paper addresses the problems of current ethical arguments and empirical research and how both seem to be profoundly influenced by the Dutch legislative framework on PAD and a certain view on ethics. Furthermore, the paper elaborates on how other approaches to empirical research in bioethics, such as found in the broad field of narrative research, could supplement the empirical and ethical evaluation of PAD in the Netherlands. This paper also addresses the challenging question of how empirical data-in this case narratives-relate to normativity. The paper is written in the form of a personal narrative of the author, a young Dutch general practitioner and researcher in bioethics. This style is intentionally chosen, to illustrate how work context and professional background influence the observations one makes and the questions one may ask about the topic of PAD. In addition, by using this style, this paper not only gives a different perspective on a much-contested bioethical issue, but also on the challenges faced when a physician-bioethicist has to navigate different disciplinary fields and (moral) epistemological paradigms, especially since the 'empirical turn' in bioethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Roest
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Abstract
End-of-life decision-making in patients with dementia is a complex topic. Belgium and the Netherlands have been at the forefront of legislative advancement and progressive societal changes concerning the perspectives toward physician-assisted death (PAD). Careful consideration of clinical and social aspects is essential during the end-of-life decision-making process in patients with dementia. Geriatric assent provides the physician, the patient and his family the opportunity to end life with dignity. Unbearable suffering, decisional competence, and awareness of memory deficits are among the clinical considerations that physicians should incorporate during the end-of-life decision-making process. However, as other societies introduce legislature granting the right of PAD, new social determinants should be considered; Mexico City is an example. Current perspectives regarding advance euthanasia directives (AED) and PAD in patients with dementia are evolving. A new perspective that hinges on the role of the family and geriatric assent should help culturally heterogeneous societies in the transition of their public health care policies regarding end-of-life choices.
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Abstract
In June 2016, Bill C-14 or Medical Assistance in Dying legislation became law in Canada. With this law came changes to nurses' (ie, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, registered practical nurse) scopes of practice, roles, and responsibilities. While federal law, regulatory, and organizational policies are developed to inform nurses about the practice of medical assistance in dying, there is little evidence examining how nurses' roles and responsibilities are enacted in practice. Therefore, a scoping review was conducted to synthesize the evidence on nurses' roles and responsibilities in relation to medical assistance in dying and to identify gaps in the literature. A secondary aim was to identify organizational supports for nurses to effectively and ethically engage in medical assistance in dying. Using a recognized and rigorous scoping review methodology, the findings from 24 research studies were synthesized in this article. The analysis highlights the importance of effective health care professional engagement with the individual in the decision-making process and of the need to educate, support, and include nurses in providing medical assistance in dying. Overall, the current research on medical assistance in dying is limited in Canada, and more attention is needed on the role of the nurse.
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Gamondi C, Pott M, Preston N, Payne S. Swiss Families' Experiences of Interactions with Providers during Assisted Suicide: A Secondary Data Analysis of an Interview Study. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:506-512. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gamondi
- Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Murielle Pott
- HESAV, HES-SO//University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nancy Preston
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Salas SP, Salinas RA, Besio M, Micolich C, Arriagada A, Misseroni Raddatz A, Valenzuela CY, Novoa F, BÓrquez EstefÓ G. [Ethical arguments for and against the participation of the medical profession in assisted death: analysis of the Ethics Department of the Chilean Medical Association]. Rev Med Chil 2020; 148:542-547. [PMID: 32730464 DOI: 10.4067/s0034-98872020000400542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- SofÍa P Salas
- Departamento de Ética, Colegio Médico de Chile A.G, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Mauricio Besio
- Departamento de Ética, Colegio Médico de Chile A.G, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | | | | | - Fernando Novoa
- Departamento de Ética, Colegio Médico de Chile A.G, Santiago, Chile
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Pesut B, Thorne S, Schiller C, Greig M, Roussel J, Tishelman C. Constructing Good Nursing Practice for Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada: An Interpretive Descriptive Study. Glob Qual Nurs Res 2020; 7:2333393620938686. [PMID: 32743024 PMCID: PMC7377599 DOI: 10.1177/2333393620938686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nurses play a central role in Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada. However, we know little about nurses' experiences with this new end-of-life option. The purpose of this study was to explore how nurses construct good nursing practice in the context of MAiD. This was a qualitative interview study using Interpretive Description. Fifty-nine nurses participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Data were analyzed inductively. The findings illustrated the ways in which nurses constructed artful practice to humanize what was otherwise a medicalized event. Registered nurses and nurse practitioners described creating a person-centered MAiD process that included establishing relationship, planning meticulously, orchestrating the MAiD death, and supporting the family. Nurses in this study illustrated how a nursing gaze focused on relationality crosses the moral divides that characterize MAiD. These findings provide an in-depth look at what constitutes good nursing practice in MAiD that can support the development of best practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Pesut
- The University of British Columbia,
Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sally Thorne
- The University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Catharine Schiller
- University of Northern British Columbia,
Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Madeleine Greig
- The University of British Columbia,
Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Carol Tishelman
- Karolinska Institute, Stockholm,
Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services,
Stockholm, Sweden
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38
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Stoll J, Ryan CJ, Trachsel M. Perceived Burdensomeness and the Wish for Hastened Death in Persons With Severe and Persistent Mental Illness. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:532817. [PMID: 33510652 PMCID: PMC7835407 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.532817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In several European countries, medical assistance in dying (MAID) is no longer confined to persons with a terminal prognosis but is also available to those suffering from persistent and unbearable mental illness. To date, scholarly discourse on MAID in this population has been dominated by issues such as decision-making capacity, uncertainty as to when a disease is incurable, stigmatization, isolation, and loneliness. However, the issue of perceived burdensomeness has received little attention. Objective: The study explores the possible impact of perceived burdensomeness on requests for MAID among persons with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI). Method: Using the method of ethical argumentation, we discuss the issue of access to MAID for persons with SPMI and perceived burdensomeness. Conclusion: Perceived burdensomeness may be a contributing factor in the wish for hastened death among persons with SPMI. MAID is ethically unsupportable if SPMI causes the individual to make an unrealistic assessment of burdensomeness, indicating a lack of decision-making capacity in the context of that request. However, the possibility that some individuals with SPMI may perceive burdensomeness does not mean that they should be routinely excluded from MAID. For SPMI patients with intact decision-making capacity who feel their life is not worth living, perceived burdensomeness as a component of this intolerable suffering is not a sufficient reason to deny access to MAID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Stoll
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christopher James Ryan
- Discipline of Psychiatry, Westmead Clinical School and Sydney Health Ethics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Manuel Trachsel
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Clinical Ethics Unit, University Hospital Basel and University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Phillips G, Lifford K, Edwards A, Poolman M, Joseph-Williams N. Do published patient decision aids for end-of-life care address patients' decision-making needs? A systematic review and critical appraisal. Palliat Med 2019; 33:985-1002. [PMID: 31199197 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319854186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many decisions are made by patients in their last months of life, creating complex decision-making needs for these individuals. Identifying whether currently existing patient decision aids address the full range of these patient decision-making needs will better inform end-of-life decision support in clinical practice. AIMS AND DESIGN This systematic review aimed to (a) identify the range of patients' decision-making needs and (b) assess the extent to which patient decision aids address these needs. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, PsycINFO and CINAHL electronic literature databases were searched (January 1990-January 2017), supplemented by hand-searching strategies. Eligible literature reported patient decision-making needs throughout end-of-life decision-making or were evaluations of patient decision aids. Identified decision aid content was mapped onto and assessed against all patient decision-making needs that were deemed 'addressable'. RESULTS Twenty-two studies described patient needs, and seven end-of-life patient decision aids were identified. Patient needs were categorised, resulting in 48 'addressable' needs. Mapping needs to patient decision aid content showed that 17 patient needs were insufficiently addressed by current patient decision aids. The most substantial gaps included inconsistent acknowledgement, elicitation and documentation of how patient needs varied individually for the level of information provided, the extent patients wanted to participate in decision-making, and the extent they wanted their families and associated healthcare professionals to participate. CONCLUSION Patient decision-making needs are broad and varied. Currently developed patient decision aids are insufficiently addressing patient decision-making needs. Improving future end-of-life patient decision aid content through five key suggestions could improve patient-focused decision-making support at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Phillips
- 1 Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kate Lifford
- 1 Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Adrian Edwards
- 1 Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Marlise Poolman
- 2 Bangor Institute for Health & Medical Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
- 3 Department of Palliative Medicine, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, UK
| | - Natalie Joseph-Williams
- 1 Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Gamondi C, Fusi-Schmidhauser T, Oriani A, Payne S, Preston N. Family members' experiences of assisted dying: A systematic literature review with thematic synthesis. Palliat Med 2019; 33:1091-1105. [PMID: 31244384 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319857630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Families' experiences of assisted dying are under-investigated and families are rarely considered in clinical guidelines concerning assisted dying. AIM To systematically review family experiences of assisted dying. DESIGN A systematic literature review using thematic synthesis. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED (Allied and Complementary Medicine) and PsycINFO databases (January 1992 to February 2019). Studies investigating families' experiences on the practice of legalised assisted dying were included. We excluded studies prior to legalisation within the jurisdiction, secondary data analysis and opinion papers. RESULTS Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Publications were derived from four countries: The Netherlands, United States (Oregon, Washington and Vermont), Canada and Switzerland. Dutch studies predominately investigated family involvement in euthanasia, while Swiss and American studies only reported on assisted suicide. Eleven studies had a qualitative design, using predominately in-depth interviews; seven were retrospective surveys. Five analytical themes represented families' experiences in assisted dying: (1) context of the decision, (2) grounding the decision, (3) cognitive and emotional work, (4) experiencing the final farewell and (5) grief and bereavement. The results showed that families can be very involved in supporting patients seeking assisted dying, where open communication is maintained. Family involvement appeared to be influenced by the type of legislation in their country and the families' perception of the social acceptability of assisted dying. CONCLUSION Our data confirm that families across all jurisdictions are involved in assisted suicide decision and enactment. Family needs are under-researched, and clinical guidelines should incorporate recommendations about how to consider family needs and how to provide them with evidence-based tailored interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gamondi
- 1 Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.,2 Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Fusi-Schmidhauser
- 2 Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Anna Oriani
- 2 Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Sheila Payne
- 3 International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Nancy Preston
- 3 International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Gerson SM, Bingley A, Preston N, Grinyer A. When is hastened death considered suicide? A systematically conducted literature review about palliative care professionals' experiences where assisted dying is legal. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:75. [PMID: 31472690 PMCID: PMC6717643 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0451-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Laws allowing assisted suicide and euthanasia have been implemented in many locations around the world but some individuals suffering with terminal illness receiving palliative care services are hastening death or die by suicide without assistance. This systematic review aims to summarise evidence of palliative care professionals’ experiences of patients who died by suicide or hastened death in areas where assisted dying is legal and to understand when hastened death is considered to be a suicide. Methods AMED, CINAHL Complete, PsycINFO, PubMED, and Academic Search Ultimate were searched for articles from inception through June 2018. Quality assessment used the Hawker framework. Results A total of 1518 titles were screened resulting in thirty studies meeting eligibility criteria for this review. Published studies about professionals’ experiences from areas with legalised assisted dying includes limited information about patients who hasten death outside legal guidelines, die by suicide without assistance, or if the law impacts suicide among palliative care patients. Conclusion There are a range of experiences and emotions professionals’ experience with patients who die by euthanasia, assisted suicide, or hasten death without assistance. The included literature suggests improved communication among professionals is needed but does not explicitly identify when a hastened death is deemed a suicide in areas where assisted dying is practiced. More research is needed to help clarify what hastened death means in a palliative care context and identify how and if assisted dying impacts issues of suicide in palliative care settings. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12904-019-0451-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri Mila Gerson
- School of Interdisciplinary Studies, Dumfries Campus, University of Glasgow, Dumfries, Scotland, DG1 4ZL, UK. .,Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK.
| | - Amanda Bingley
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YG, UK
| | - Nancy Preston
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YG, UK
| | - Anne Grinyer
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YG, UK
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Mondragón JD, Salame L, Kraus A, De Deyn PP. Clinical Considerations in Physician-Assisted Death for Probable Alzheimer's Disease: Decision-Making Capacity, Anosognosia, and Suffering. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2019; 9:217-226. [PMID: 31275347 PMCID: PMC6600029 DOI: 10.1159/000500183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Requests for physician-assisted death (PAD) in patients with cognitive impairment are complex and require careful consideration. Of particular difficulty is determination of whether the request is voluntary and well considered. Results Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (PAS) are both legal in The Netherlands, Luxemburg, Colombia, and Canada. Euthanasia is legal in Belgium, while PAS is legal in Switzerland and Oregon, Washington, Montana, Vermont, and California (USA). Upon a PAD request, evaluation of the capacity to consent medical treatment is relevant for the decision-making process, while evaluation of testamentary capacity is appropriate before an advance euthanasia directive is written. Anosognosia assessment throughout the Alzheimer's disease continuum provides essential and relevant information regarding the voluntary and well-considered nature of the PAD request; meanwhile, early assessment of hypernosognosia or subjective cognitive decline assists in formulation of a clinical prognosis. Furthermore, the assessment of physical and psychological suffering should incorporate verbal and nonverbal cues as well as consideration of the psychosocial factors that might affect due care criteria. Conclusion The clinical approach to a PAD request should consider the legal framework and the decision-making capacity, assess memory deficit awareness and the perception of suffering, and evaluate mental competency when considered pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime D Mondragón
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Research Center Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Latife Salame
- Unidad de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, The American British Cowdray Medical Center, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arnoldo Kraus
- Unidad de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, The American British Cowdray Medical Center, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Peter Paul De Deyn
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Research Center Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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de Boer ME, Depla MFIA, den Breejen M, Slottje P, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, Hertogh CMPM. Pressure in dealing with requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide. Experiences of general practitioners. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2019; 45:425-429. [PMID: 31092632 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2018-105120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The majority of Dutch physicians feel pressure when dealing with a request for euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS). This study aimed to explore the content of this pressure as experienced by general practitioners (GP). We conducted semistructured in-depth interviews with 15 Dutch GPs, focusing on actual cases. The interviews were transcribed and analysed with use of the framework method. Six categories of pressure GPs experienced in dealing with EAS requests were revealed: (1) emotional blackmail, (2) control and direction by others, (3) doubts about fulfilling the criteria, (4) counterpressure by patient's relatives, (5) time pressure around referred patients and (6) organisational pressure. We conclude that the pressure can be attributable to the patient-physician relationship and/or the relationship between the physician and the patient's relative(s), the inherent complexity of the decision itself and the circumstances under which the decision has to be made. To prevent physicians to cross their personal boundaries in dealing with EAS request all these different sources of pressure will have to be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marike E de Boer
- Department of General Practice and Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marja F I A Depla
- Department of General Practice and Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein den Breejen
- Department of General Practice and Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pauline Slottje
- Department of General Practice and Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cees M P M Hertogh
- Department of General Practice and Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Abstract. Voluntary euthanasia has been legalized in several countries and associated with this development there has been much discussion concerning the relationship between the ethical principle of autonomy and the respect for human life. Psychological science should make a significant contribution to understanding how polarizing positions may be taken in such debates. However, little has been written concerning the implications of this research for the euthanasia debate and about the contributions of psychology. In the same way, very little is written about the psychologist’s role in countries where voluntary euthanasia or assisted suicide is legalized. We take as a starting assumption that there are no solutions that will meet everyone’s wishes or needs, but that an understanding of psychological ideas, can assist in developing strategies that may help people with opposing views come to some agreement. In our view, it is fundamental to a fruitful analysis, to leave aside a polarized approach and to understand that an eventual answer to the question of how we approach voluntary euthanasia will only be achieved after the hard process of carefully considering the consequences of having either legalized voluntary euthanasia or its prohibition, in the context of a psychological understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Ricou
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Psychology and Education, Portucalense University, Porto, Portugal
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Verhofstadt M, Chambaere K, Leontjevas R, Peters GJY. Towards an assessment instrument for suffering in patients with psychiatric conditions: assessing cognitive validity. BJPsych Open 2019; 5:e35. [PMID: 31530306 PMCID: PMC6469232 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2019.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unbearable suffering is a key criterion in legally granting patients' euthanasia requests in Belgium yet a generally accepted definition of unbearable suffering remains elusive. The ability to understand and assess unbearable suffering is essential, particularly in patients with psychiatric conditions, as the underlying causes of these conditions are not always apparent. To enable research into when and why suffering experiences incite patients with psychiatric conditions to request euthanasia, and to help explore preventive and curative perspectives, the development of an assessment instrument is needed. AIMS To improve the cognitive validity of a large initial item pool used to assess the nature and extent of suffering in patients with psychiatric conditions. METHOD Cognitive validity was established via two rounds of cognitive interviews with patients with psychiatric conditions with (n = 9) and without (n = 5) euthanasia requests. RESULTS During the first round of cognitive interviews, a variety of issues relating to content, form and language were reported and aspects that were missing were identified. During the second round, the items that had been amended were perceived as sufficiently easily to understand, sensitive to delicate nuances, comprehensive and easy to answer accurately. Neither research topic nor method were perceived as emotionally strenuous, but instead as positive, relevant, comforting and valuable. CONCLUSIONS This research resulted in an item pool that covers the concept of suffering more adequately and comprehensively. Further research endeavours should examine potential differences in suffering experiences over time and in patients with psychiatric conditions with and without euthanasia requests. The appreciation patients demonstrated regarding their ability to speak extensively and openly about their suffering and wish to die further supports the need to allow patients to speak freely and honestly during consultations. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Verhofstadt
- Junior Researcher, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Kenneth Chambaere
- Senior Researcher and Assistant Professor, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Roeslan Leontjevas
- Senior Researcher and Professor, Department of Methodology and Statistics, Faculty of Psychology and Education Science, Open University; and Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University, Medical Centre Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Gjalt-Jorn Ygram Peters
- Senior Researcher and Assistant Professor, Department of Methodology and Statistics, Faculty of Psychology and Education Science, Open University; and Department of Work and Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
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Roest B, Trappenburg M, Leget C. The involvement of family in the Dutch practice of euthanasia and physician assisted suicide: a systematic mixed studies review. BMC Med Ethics 2019; 20:23. [PMID: 30953490 PMCID: PMC6451224 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-019-0361-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family members do not have an official position in the practice of euthanasia and physician assisted suicide (EAS) in the Netherlands according to statutory regulations and related guidelines. However, recent empirical findings on the influence of family members on EAS decision-making raise practical and ethical questions. Therefore, the aim of this review is to explore how family members are involved in the Dutch practice of EAS according to empirical research, and to map out themes that could serve as a starting point for further empirical and ethical inquiry. METHODS A systematic mixed studies review was performed. The databases Pubmed, Embase, PsycInfo, and Emcare were searched to identify empirical studies describing any aspect of the involvement of family members before, during and after EAS in the Netherlands from 1980 till 2018. Thematic analysis was chosen as method to synthesize the quantitative and qualitative studies. RESULTS Sixty-six studies were identified. Only 14 studies had family members themselves as study participants. Four themes emerged from the thematic analysis. 1) Family-related reasons (not) to request EAS. 2) Roles and responsibilities of family members during EAS decision-making and performance. 3) Families' experiences and grief after EAS. 4) Family and 'the good euthanasia death' according to Dutch physicians. CONCLUSION Family members seem to be active participants in EAS decision-making, which goes hand in hand with ambivalent feelings and experiences. Considerations about family members and the social context appear to be very important for patients and physicians when they request or grant a request for EAS. Although further empirical research is needed to assess the depth and generalizability of the results, this review provides a new perspective on EAS decision-making and challenges the Dutch ethical-legal framework of EAS. Euthanasia decision-making is typically framed in the patient-physician dyad, while a patient-physician-family triad seems more appropriate to describe what happens in clinical practice. This perspective raises questions about the interpretation of autonomy, the origins of suffering underlying requests for EAS, and the responsibilities of physicians during EAS decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Roest
- University of Humanistic Studies, Kromme Nieuwegracht 29, 3512HD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Margo Trappenburg
- University of Humanistic Studies, Kromme Nieuwegracht 29, 3512HD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carlo Leget
- University of Humanistic Studies, Kromme Nieuwegracht 29, 3512HD Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Badarau DO, De Clercq E, Elger BS. Continuous Deep Sedation and Euthanasia in Pediatrics: Does One Really Exclude the Other for Terminally Ill Patients? THE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND PHILOSOPHY 2019; 44:50-70. [PMID: 30649451 DOI: 10.1093/jmp/jhy033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Debates on morally acceptable and lawful end-of-life (EOL) practices in pediatrics were reignited by the recent amendment in Belgian law to allow euthanasia for minors of any age who meet the criteria for capacity. Euthanasia and its legalization in pediatrics are often opposed based on the availability of aggressive palliative sedation. For terminally ill patients, this type of sedation is often identified as continuous and deep sedation until death (CDS). We demonstrate that this reasoning is based on flawed assumptions: (1) CDS is a morally preferable alternative to euthanasia; (2) CDS can meet the same patient needs as euthanasia; (3) children lack the capacity and experience to make EOL decisions; (4) unlike euthanasia, CDS does not raise capacity issues. Our aim is not to reject CDS as a valid option at the EOL, nor to offer a clear-cut defense of euthanasia for minors, but to emphasize the ethical issues with both practices.
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Monforte-Royo C, Crespo I, Rodríguez-Prat A, Marimon F, Porta-Sales J, Balaguer A. The role of perceived dignity and control in the wish to hasten death among advanced cancer patients: A mediation model. Psychooncology 2018; 27:2840-2846. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Monforte-Royo
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | - Iris Crespo
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | | | - Frederic Marimon
- Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | - Josep Porta-Sales
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
- Palliative Care Service; Hospital Universitari de Girona Dr. Josep Trueta; Girona Spain
| | - Albert Balaguer
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences; Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
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Gamondi C, Pott M, Preston N, Payne S. Family Caregivers' Reflections on Experiences of Assisted Suicide in Switzerland: A Qualitative Interview Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 55:1085-1094. [PMID: 29288877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2017.12.482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Thousands of family members worldwide are annually involved in assisted dying. Family participation in assisted dying has rarely been investigated and families' needs typically are not considered in assisted dying legislation and clinical guidelines. OBJECTIVES To explore family caregivers' reflections on experiences of assisted suicide in Switzerland. METHODS A cross-sectional qualitative interview study conducted in the Italian- and French-speaking regions of Switzerland. Interpretation and analysis were performed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Twenty-eight close relatives and family carers of 18 patients who died by assisted suicide in Switzerland were interviewed. Family members perceived their involvement in assisted suicide as characterized by five phases; 1) contemplation, 2) gaining acceptance, 3) gaining permission, 4) organization, and 5) aftermath. Families can participate in these phases at diverse levels and with varying degrees of involvement. Important triggers for families and patients for transition between phases include patients' experiences of their life-threatening illnesses and related treatments, their increasing awareness of approaching death, and family member recognition of their loved one's unbearable suffering. Participating in assisted suicide created further demanding tasks for families in addition to their role of caregivers. CONCLUSION Families appeared to be involved in the preparation of assisted suicide along with patients, irrespective of their personal values regarding assisted dying. Support for family members is essential if they are involved in tasks preparatory to assisted suicide. Clinical guidelines and policies concerning assisted dying should acknowledge and address family needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gamondi
- Service de Soins Palliatifs et de Support, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland; Palliative and Supportive Care Clinic, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
| | - Murielle Pott
- School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nancy Preston
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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50
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Verhofstadt M, Thienpont L, Peters GJY. When unbearable suffering incites psychiatric patients to request euthanasia: qualitative study. Br J Psychiatry 2017; 211:238-245. [PMID: 28970302 PMCID: PMC5623879 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.117.199331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundThe concept of 'unbearable suffering' is central to legislation governing whether euthanasia requests may be granted, but remains insufficiently understood, especially in relation to psychiatric patients.AimsTo provide insights into the suffering experiences of psychiatric patients who have made a request for euthanasia.MethodTestimonials from 26 psychiatric patients who requested euthanasia were analysed using QualiCoder software.ResultsFive domains of suffering were identified: medical, intrapersonal, interpersonal, societal and existential. Hopelessness was confirmed to be an important contributor. The lengthy process of applying for euthanasia was a cause of suffering and added to experienced hopelessness, whereas encountering physicians who took requests seriously could offer new perspectives on treatment.ConclusionsThe development of measurement instruments to assess the nature and extent of suffering as experienced by psychiatric patients could help both patients and physicians to better navigate the complicated and sensitive process of evaluating requests in a humane and competent way. Some correlates of suffering (such as low income) indicate the need for a broad medical, societal and political debate on how to reduce the burden of financial and socioeconomic difficulties and inequalities in order to reduce patients' desire for euthanasia. Euthanasia should never be seen (or used) as a means of resolving societal failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Verhofstadt
- Monica Verhofstadt, BSc, Faculty Of Psychology and Education Science, Open University of The Netherlands, Heerlen, The Netherlands; Lieve Thienpont, MD, Vonkel, LEIFpunt-Gent (Life End Information Forum, consultation team Ghent), Ghent, Belgium; Gjalt-Jorn Ygram Peters, PhD, Faculty Of Psychology and Education Science, Open University of the Netherlands, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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