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Driller B, Talseth-Palmer B, Hole T, Strømskag KE, Brenne AT. Cancer patients have a reduced likelihood of dying in hospital with advance care planning in primary health care and a summarizing palliative plan: a prospective controlled non-randomized intervention trial. Scand J Prim Health Care 2024; 42:471-482. [PMID: 38662520 PMCID: PMC11332305 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2024.2346131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planning (ACP) allows patients to define their goals and preferences. Spending more time at home and less time in the hospital, along with avoiding death in the hospital, are often considered desirable outcomes of palliative care (PC). In 2015, 36% of cancer patients died in the hospital and 13% died at home in Norway. METHOD From 2015 to 2022, this prospective controlled non-randomized intervention trial observed 144 cancer patients with or without an organized ACP conversation in primary health care and a summarizing palliative plan (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02170168, 23 June 2014). The patients were identified through contact with the local cancer outpatient clinic or hospital-based PC team. RESULTS A total of 128 patients died during the observation period. Of these, 67 patients had an organized ACP conversation and summarizing palliative plan (intervention (I) group) and 61 had not (control (C) group). Dying in the hospital was significantly less common for patients in the I group compared to the C group (17.9% vs. 34.4%; X2 (1, n = 128) = 4.55, p = 0.033). There were no differences between the groups in terms of where they spent their time in the last 90 days of life (home, nursing home, or hospital). Most patients (62%) preferred to die at home. The observed differences between the groups regarding preferred and actual places of death did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION With organized ACP conversations in primary health care and a summarizing palliative plan, cancer patients died less often in the hospital in our observational study. A structured ACP approach integrating palliative care for cancer patients into primary health care can support patients´ preferences at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardo Driller
- Department of Oncology, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim Norway
| | - Bente Talseth-Palmer
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund Norway
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Torstein Hole
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund Norway
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kjell Erik Strømskag
- Department of Surgery and Emergency Medicine Molde Hospital, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Molde, Norway
| | - Anne-Tove Brenne
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim Norway
- Cancer Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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White Makinde K, Silverstein A, Peckham-Gregory E, Kim E, Casas J. Exploring Pediatric Code Status, Advance Care Planning, and Mode of Death Disparities at End of Life. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00860-1. [PMID: 39032676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Children from marginalized groups are at risk for worse medical outcomes, yet little is known about their end of life experiences. OBJECTIVE We examine the characteristics of deceased children with a focus on race, ethnicity, and preferred language. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients who died at Texas Children's Hospital from 2018 to 2019. Demographics, date of death, and final code status were extracted. Medical complexity prior to admission and mode of death were obtained from chart review. RESULTS We included 433 patients. Over one-third were Hispanic (39.3%) with 42.3% preferring Spanish. The majority were White (61.4%) or Black (21.0%). Most patients had significant medical complexity (52.0%) or were infants in their birth admission (29.4%). Half (52.4%) received palliative care; patients with increased medical complexity were more likely to have palliative care involved (P<0.001). There were no differences in palliative care, code status, or mode of death by race. Hispanic patients were less likely to have a full code status (OR 0.42, 95% CI: 0.25-0.73). Spanish-speaking patients were more likely to have palliative care involvement (OR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.21-3.46) and less likely full code orders (OR 0.24, 95% CI: 0.1-0.63). CONCLUSION Palliative care services are engaged with most children at end of life and is accessible to marginalized patient groups. Spanish-speaking patients have different code status orders and modes of death at end of life. Further studies are needed to elucidate explanatory factors for differences revealed and multicenter studies are needed to characterize more widespread experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisha White Makinde
- Department of Pediatrics (K.W.M.), Division of Newborn Medicine,Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
| | - Allison Silverstein
- Department of Pediatrics (A.S.), Section of Palliative Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Erin Peckham-Gregory
- Department of Pediatrics (E.P.G.), Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Erin Kim
- McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston (E.K.), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica Casas
- Department of Pediatrics (J.S.), Division of Palliative Care, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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Driller B, Maienborn C, Aasen EM, Kolstrøm A, Talseth-Palmer B, Hole T, Strømskag KE, Brenne AT. Normality and compassionate care: experiences from advanced cancer patients in their last time at home. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:245. [PMID: 38971730 PMCID: PMC11227155 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02499-x] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many cancer patients prefer to receive palliative treatment at home, as it allows them to be in a familiar and comfortable environment. Integrating Advance Care Planning (ACP) into routine practice in primary healthcare helps patients and their relatives prepare for end-of-life (EoL) care in accordance with patients' preferences. This includes the option to spend their final days at home if desired. The aim of this study was to gain insights from experiences of advanced seriously ill cancer patients at home while receiving palliative treatment and being engaged in ACP within primary healthcare settings. METHOD This study employed a qualitative design, utilizing individual, semi-structured interviews that were analysed through reflexive thematic analysis, employing an abductive approach with a latent-level focus. The study included interviews with 12 participants with cancer who were receiving palliative care, had an estimated lifetime under 3 months, and had undergone an organized ACP approach in primary healthcare, documented with a palliative plan. RESULTS Participants emphasized the importance of (1) Preserving normality at home, maintaining a sense of routine, comfort, and familiarity in the face of present and future challenges. The top obstacles for success identified by participants included (1a) The challenge of deterioration and the dual aspects of (1b) The value and burden of family caregivers. Cancer treatment placed a significant demand on patients due to side effects. Family caregivers played a crucial role for participants, providing support in daily life and serving as a key factor in the overall decision to which extend they are able to involve in support and care at home in the future. (2) Compassionate health care personnel (HCP) made a difference by fostering a culture of understanding participants' concerns, fears, and preferences, which was a key element that built and maintained trust for the participants. (3) Preparing for the future, especially EoL discussions initiated by healthcare personnel, was deemed important but, at times, uncomfortable for participants as it confronted them with reality. Guidance from ACP provided them with a sense of certainty and control. CONCLUSION Preserving normality at home, along with the desire to stay at home for as long as possible, is a crucial goal for advanced cancer patients. Consistent professional communication and care in primary healthcare play a key role in building and maintaining trust, as well as fostering a sense of certainty and control for the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardo Driller
- Department of Oncology, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway.
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway.
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Carolin Maienborn
- School of natural sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elin Margrethe Aasen
- Department of Health Sciences Ålesund, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Ålesund, Norway
| | - Adriana Kolstrøm
- Home care department, Kristiansund municipality, Kristiansund N, Norway
| | - Bente Talseth-Palmer
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Torstein Hole
- Department for Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kjell Erik Strømskag
- Department of Surgery and Emergency Medicine Molde Hospital, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Molde, Norway
| | - Anne-Tove Brenne
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- St. Olav's Hospital, Cancer Clinic, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Seifart C, Koch M, Herzog S, Leppin N, Nagelschmidt K, Riera Knorrenschild J, Timmesfeld N, Denz R, Seifart U, Rief W, Von Blanckenburg P. Collaborative advance care planning in palliative care: a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024:spcare-2023-004175. [PMID: 38960600 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An effective tool for establishing concordant end-of-life (EOL) care in patients with cancer is advance care planning (ACP). However, various barriers, including psychological obstacles, hamper the access to ACP. Therefore, a new conceptual model combining a psycho-oncological approach with structured ACP was developed. The effectiveness and efficiency of this new concept of collaborative ACP (col-ACP) is evaluated in the present randomised controlled trial in patients with palliative cancer. METHODS 277 patients with palliative cancer and their relatives were randomised into three groups (1) collaborative ACP (col-ACP) consisting of a psycho-oncological approach addressing barriers to EOL conversations followed by a standardised ACP procedure, (2) supportive intervention (active control) and (3) standard medical care. RESULTS Patients in the col-ACP group completed advance directives (p<0.01) and healthcare proxies (p<0.01) significantly more often. Additionally, they felt better planned ahead for their future treatment (p<0.01) and were significantly more confident that their relatives were aware of their treatment wishes (p=0.03). In fact, their goals of care were known and highly fulfilled. However, patients' and caregivers' quality of life, patients' stress, depression and peace did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSIONS The new, well-received, concept of col-ACP improves readiness and access to ACP and results in more consistent EOL care. Further, even if no direct influence on quality of life could be proven, it supports patients in planning their treatment, making autonomous decisions and regaining self-efficacy in the face of life-limiting cancer. Therefore, a closer interlocking and information exchange between psycho-oncological and ACP services seems to be reasonable. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03387436.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Seifart
- Faculty of Medicine; Deans Office, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Martin Koch
- Faculty of Medicine, Department Haematology and Oncology, Dresden University Hospital, Dresden, Germany
| | - Svenja Herzog
- Central Hospital of the Detention Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nico Leppin
- Faculty of Psychology, Department Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Nagelschmidt
- Faculty of Psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-Universitat Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jorge Riera Knorrenschild
- Faculty od Medicine; Department of Internal Medicine, Div. Haematology and Oncology, Philipps-Universitat Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nina Timmesfeld
- Department of Medical Computer Science, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Robin Denz
- Department of Medical Computer Science, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Winfried Rief
- Faculty od Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia Von Blanckenburg
- Faculty of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psycohtherapy, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Umezurike I, Dittborn M, Whitelaw J, Bedford H, Brierley J. Barriers to initiating and implementing palliative and end-of-life care for children with life-limiting conditions: a mixed-methods study in a UK children's hospital. Arch Dis Child 2024:archdischild-2023-326776. [PMID: 38906681 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-326776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To ensure that children with life-limiting conditions (LLC) and their families have access to a palliative care pathway from diagnosis to death and bereavement, a better understanding of the challenges experienced by paediatric healthcare professionals caring for children with LLC is needed. AIM To explore the barriers paediatricians face in initiating and implementing palliative and end-of-life care for children with LLC. METHODS Due to the challenges of COVID-19, the study was performed as a service evaluation using semi-structured interviews and an online questionnaire with consultant paediatricians in general paediatrics, community paediatrics and multiple subspecialties at a UK children's hospital between December 2020 and August 2021. Twelve interviews and 18 online questionnaires were completed. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, and descriptive statistics were used for questionnaire responses. RESULTS Recurring themes from both data sets were further analysed and five themes were developed: (1) Problems with the leadership of palliative and end-of-life care; (2) Problems with preparing advanced care plans; (3) Lack of training in paediatric palliative care and advanced communication; (4) Problems communicating with families; and (5) Lack of recognition of children with LLC and high-profile cases. CONCLUSIONS We found that the barriers to effective palliative and end-of-life planning are multifaceted and pervasive, so healthcare professionals must establish clearer pathways to overcome them. Approaches suggested included (1) discussing palliative care for children with LLC at professional encounters, for example, departmental meetings, peer-review meetings and morbidity and mortality meetings and (2) advanced communication training in palliative and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indira Umezurike
- Paediatric Bioethics Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- Population, Policy and Practice, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Mariana Dittborn
- Paediatric Bioethics Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Helen Bedford
- Population, Policy and Practice, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Joe Brierley
- Paediatric Bioethics Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
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Zhang P, Clem S, Rose R, Cagle JG. Exposure to a Loved One's Death and Advance Care Planning: Moderating Effects of Age. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:739-746. [PMID: 37403753 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231188689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite documented benefits of Advance Care Planning (ACP), it is still under-utilized in the U.S. Our study aimed to examine whether experiencing a loved one's death is associated with one's own ACP behavior among adults in the U.S. and the potential moderating effect of age. Method: Using a nationwide cross-sectional survey design with probability sampling weights, our study included 1006 adults in the U.S. who participated in and completed the Survey on Aging and End-of-Life Medical Care. Three binary logistic regression models were established to investigate the relationship between death exposure and different aspects of ACP (i.e., informal conversations with family members and doctors and formal advance directives completion). The moderation analysis was subsequently conducted to examine moderating effects of age. Results: The exposure to a loved one's death was significantly associated with higher odds of having conversations with family about end-of-life medical care preferences among the 3 indicators of ACP (OR = 2.03, P < .001). Age significantly moderated the association between death exposure and ACP conversations with doctors (OR = .98, P = .017). The facilitation effect of death exposure on informal ACP engagement in discussing end-of-life medical wishes with doctors is stronger among younger adults than older adults. Conclusions: Exploring an individual's previous experience with a loved one's death might be an effective way to broach the concept of ACP among adults of all ages. This strategy may be particularly useful in facilitating discussions of end-of-life medical wishes with doctors among younger adults than older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Zhang
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Clem
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Roderick Rose
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John G Cagle
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Suen MHP, Chow AYM, Woo RKW, Yuen SK. What makes advance care planning discussion so difficult? A systematic review of the factors of advance care planning in healthcare settings. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38766704 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Existing systematic reviews related to advance care planning (ACP) largely focus on specific groups and intervention efficacy or are limited to contextual factors. This research aims to identify the modifiable factors perceived by different users of ACP in healthcare settings and inform healthcare professionals about the factors affecting ACP practice. METHODS Five English-language databases (ProQuest, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, and Medline) and two Chinese-language databases (CNKI and NCL) were searched up to November 2022. Empirical research identifying factors related to ACP in healthcare settings was included. ACP is defined as a discussion process on future end-of-life care. Thematic synthesis was performed on all included studies. RESULTS A total of 1871 unique articles were screened; the full texts of 193 were assessed by 4 reviewers, and 45 articles were included for analysis. Twenty-two (54%) studies were qualitative, 15 (33%) were quantitative, and 6 (13%) used mixed methods. Foci varied from 28 (62%) studies on a single subject group (either patient, family, or physician), 11 (25%) on 2 subject groups (either patient and family or patient and healthcare professional), and 6 (13%) covered 3 subject groups (patient, family, and healthcare professional). Among the 17 studies involving more than 1 subject group, only 2 adopted a dyadic lens in analysis. Complex interwoven factors were categorized into (1) intrapersonal factors, (2) interpersonal factors, and (3) socio-environmental factors, with a total of 11 themes: personal belief, emotions, the burden on others, timing, responsiveness, relationship, family dynamics, experience, person taking the lead, culture, and support. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Patients, families, and healthcare professionals are the essential stakeholders of ACP in healthcare settings. Factors are interweaved among the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and socio-environmental dimensions. Research is warranted to examine the dynamic interactions of the 3 essential stakeholders from a multidimensional perspective, and the mechanism of the interweaving of factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Hay Ping Suen
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Amy Yin Man Chow
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Sze Kit Yuen
- Caritas Medical Centre, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
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Wu YL, Lin TW, Yang CY, Wang SSC, Huang SJ. Urban people's preferences for life-sustaining treatment or artificial nutrition and hydration in advance decisions. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:59. [PMID: 38762493 PMCID: PMC11102251 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-024-01060-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Patient Right to Autonomy Act (PRAA), implemented in Taiwan in 2019, enables the creation of advance decisions (AD) through advance care planning (ACP). This legal framework allows for the withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment (LST) or artificial nutrition and hydration (ANH) in situations like irreversible coma, vegetative state, severe dementia, or unbearable pain. This study aims to investigate preferences for LST or ANH across various clinical conditions, variations in participant preferences, and factors influencing these preferences among urban residents. METHODS Employing a survey of legally structured AD documents and convenience sampling for data collection, individuals were enlisted from Taipei City Hospital, serving as the primary trial and demonstration facility for ACP in Taiwan since the commencement of the PRAA in its inaugural year. The study examined ADs and ACP consultation records, documenting gender, age, welfare entitlement, disease conditions, family caregiving experience, location of ACP consultation, participation of second-degree relatives, and the intention to participate in ACP. RESULTS Data from 2337 participants were extracted from electronic records. There was high consistency in the willingness to refuse LST and ANH, with significant differences noted between terminal diseases and extremely severe dementia. Additionally, ANH was widely accepted as a time-limited treatment, and there was a prevalent trend of authorizing a health care agent (HCA) to make decisions on behalf of participants. Gender differences were observed, with females more inclined to decline LST and ANH, while males tended towards accepting full or time-limited treatment. Age also played a role, with younger participants more open to treatment and authorizing HCA, and older participants more prone to refusal. CONCLUSION Diverse preferences in LST and ANH were shaped by the public's current understanding of different clinical states, gender, age, and cultural factors. Our study reveals nuanced end-of-life preferences, evolving ADs, and socio-demographic influences. Further research could explore evolving preferences over time and healthcare professionals' perspectives on LST and ANH decisions for neurological patients..
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ling Wu
- Master's Program of Transition and Leisure Education for Individuals With Disabilities, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Wen Lin
- National Academy Educational Research, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yi Yang
- Department of Social Work, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Health and Welfare, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Sheng-Jean Huang
- Department of Surgery, Medical College, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Wilson E, Palmer J, Armstrong A, Messer B, Presswood E, Faull C. End of life decision making when home mechanical ventilation is used to sustain breathing in Motor Neurone Disease: patient and family perspectives. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:115. [PMID: 38698397 PMCID: PMC11064348 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01443-1] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor Neurone Disease (MND) leads to muscle weakening, affecting movement, speech, and breathing. Home mechanical ventilation, particularly non-invasive ventilation (NIV), is used to alleviate symptoms and support breathing in people living with MND. While home mechanical ventilation can alleviate symptoms and improve survival, it does not slow the progression of MND. This study addresses gaps in understanding end-of-life decision-making in those dependent on home mechanical ventilation, considering the perspectives of patients, family members, and bereaved families. METHODS A UK-wide qualitative study using flexible interviews to explore the experiences of people living with MND (n = 16), their family members (n = 10), and bereaved family members (n = 36) about the use of home mechanical ventilation at the end of life. RESULTS Some participants expressed a reluctance to discuss end-of-life decisions, often framed as a desire to "live for the day" due to the considerable uncertainty faced by those with MND. Participants who avoided end-of-life discussions often engaged in 'selective decision-making' related to personal planning, involving practical and emotional preparations. Many faced challenges in hypothesising about future decisions given the unpredictability of the disease, opting to make 'timely decisions' as and when needed. For those who became dependent on ventilation and did not want to discuss end of life, decisions were often 'defaulted' to others, especially once capacity was lost. 'Proactive decisions', including advance care planning and withdrawal of treatment, were found to empower some patients, providing a sense of control over the timing of their death. A significant proportion lacked a clear understanding of the dying process and available options. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the complexity and evolution of decision-making, often influenced by the dynamic and uncertain nature of MND. The study emphasises the need for a nuanced understanding of decision-making in the context of MND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Wilson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Jonathan Palmer
- University Hospitals, University Hospitals NHS Trust Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Alison Armstrong
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ben Messer
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Yunus RM, Duivenbode R, Padela AI. American Muslim Engagement With Advance Care Planning: Insights From a Community Survey. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:405-413. [PMID: 37641456 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231198216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a critical tool in advancing patient self-determination in health care delivery. Despite increasing research into racial/ethnic minorities' engagement with ACP in the US, studies on Muslim Americans are relatively scarce. We aimed to examine levels of ACP engagement among Muslim adults and measure associations between socio-demographic and religiosity characteristics and ACP engagement. Methodology: This was a survey study among Muslims attending mosque seminars in Chicago and Washington DC. Religiosity characteristics were assessed using a modified version of the Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) and the Psychological Measure of Islamic Religiousness (PMIR). ACP engagement was measured by the 4-item ACP Engagement Survey (4-ACPES) and 2 additional items covering ACP religious dimensions. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 28.0. Results: Out of 152 respondents, 56.2% to 72.6% were in the pre-contemplation stage of ACP across the 6 ACP items. Bivariate analyses showed that ACP engagement was correlated with participant age, ethnicity, duration of stay in the US and country of birth. Multivariable analyses demonstrated no association between religiosity characteristics and ACP engagement; independent predictors of ACP engagement were race/ethnicity (being South Asian), country of birth (born outside the US) and duration of stay in the US (longer years). Discussion/Conclusion: Our study suggests that American Muslims are largely unprepared to engage with ACP. Moreover, religiosity does not predict ACP engagement. We call for greater community outreach and educational programs that instill awareness and knowledge on the importance of ACP, and provide resources for tailored religiously-oriented conversations that assist individuals with ACP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raudah M Yunus
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
| | - Rosie Duivenbode
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Wilkin K, Fang ML, Sixsmith J. Implementing advance care planning in palliative and end of life care: a scoping review of community nursing perspectives. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:294. [PMID: 38549045 PMCID: PMC10976700 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04888-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planninganning (ACP) is a priority within palliative care service provision. Nurses working in the community occupy an opportune role to engage with families and patients in ACP. Carers and family members of palliative patients often find ACP discussions difficult to initiate. However, community nurses caring for palliative patients can encourage these discussions, utilising the rapport and relationships they have already built with patients and families. Despite this potential, implementation barriers and facilitators continue to exist. To date, no research synthesis has captured the challenges community nurses face when implementing ACP, nor the facilitators of community nurse-led ACP. Considering this, the review question of: 'What factors contribute to or hinder ACP discussion for nurses when providing care to palliative patients?' was explored. METHOD To capture challenges and facilitators, a global qualitative scoping review was undertaken in June 2023. The Arksey and O'Malley framework for scoping reviews guided the review methodology. Six databases were searched identifying 333 records: CINAHL (16), MEDLINE (45), PUBMED (195), EMBASE (30), BJOCN (15), IJOPN (32). After de-duplication and title and abstract screening, 108 records remained. These were downloaded, hand searched (adding 5 articles) and subject to a full read. 98 were rejected, leaving a selected dataset of 15 articles. Data extracted into a data extraction chart were thematically analysed. RESULTS Three key themes were generated: 'Barriers to ACP', 'Facilitators of ACP' and 'Understanding of professional role and duty'. Key barriers were - lack of confidence, competence, role ambiguity and prognostic uncertainty. Key facilitators concerned the pertinence of the patient-practitioner relationship enabling ACP amongst nurses who had both competence and experience in ACP and/or palliative care (e.g., palliative care training). Lastly, nurses understood ACP to be part of their role, however, met challenges understanding the law surrounding this and its application processes. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that community nurses' experience and competence are associated with the effective implementation of ACP with palliative patients. Future research is needed to develop interventions to promote ACP uptake in community settings, enable confidence building for community nurses and support higher standards of palliative care via the implementation of ACP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mei Lan Fang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland
- Urban Studies and Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Judith Sixsmith
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland.
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Zhang P, Cagle JG. Previous Experience in Medical Decision Making and Advance Care Planning Conversations: Findings From a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:281-287. [PMID: 37167438 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231174621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite the extensive literature on facilitating advance care planning (ACP) with patients with serious illnesses, opportunities to include surrogates or family caregivers are overlooked. The research objective was to examine whether previous medical decision-making involvement for a loved one is associated with one's own ACP conversations with family and the potential mediating effect of knowledge of a loved one's end-of-life treatment preferences. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design using data from the 2016 Kaiser Family Foundation/The Economist Four-Country Survey on Aging and End-of-Life Medical Care. The sample included 627 US adults who completed the survey and were involved in making medical decisions for a loved one in the past. Multiple binary logistic regression and linear regression models were established for mediation analyses. Results: Participants in our nationally derived sample were largely confident in their knowledge of a deceased loved one's end-of-life treatment preferences. 66.8% of the sample had ACP conversations with family. The involvement in a loved one's medical decision making was significantly associated with higher odds of having ACP conversations with family (OR = 1.93, P = .01), but this relationship was significantly mediated by knowledge of one's end-of-life treatment preferences (b = .31, Boot CI = .12-.49). Conclusions: Previous experience in making medical decisions for a loved one may facilitate one's own ACP behavior through knowing a loved one's end-of-life treatment preferences. Clinicians in end-of-life settings are uniquely positioned to engage family members who were involved in medical decision-making for others before in ACP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John G Cagle
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Pei Y, Qi X, Zhu Z, Zhang W, Tsay RM, Wu B. The informal discussion of advance care planning among Chinese older adults: Do education and social media use matter? Geriatr Nurs 2024; 55:1-5. [PMID: 37956600 PMCID: PMC10917644 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine and compare the associations between education, social media use, and advance care planning (ACP) discussion among Chinese older adults in mainland China (Wuhan), Taiwan (Taichung), and the United States (Honolulu). Community-dwelling older adults (≥ 55) were recruited from 2017 to 2018. The ACP discussion rate in Wuhan, Taichung, and Honolulu were 15.2 %, 19.2 %, and 31.3 %, respectively. Logistic regression models revealed that education was positively associated with ACP discussion in Taichung and Honolulu. Social media use was positively associated with ACP discussions in Wuhan and Honolulu, and it attenuated the association between education and ACP discussion in Honolulu. The present study contributes to previous studies by comparing the associations between education, social media use, and ACP discussion in different settings within the same ethnicity. Policy and practice implications were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaolin Pei
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, USA
| | - Xiang Qi
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, USA
| | - Zheng Zhu
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Sociology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
| | | | - Bei Wu
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, USA.
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14
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Pedrosa AJ, Demel L, Riera Knorrenschild J, Seifart C, von Blanckenburg P. Cancer patients' expectations of advance care planning: A typological content analysis of qualitative interviews. Psychooncology 2023; 32:1867-1875. [PMID: 37905904 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6234] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planning (ACP) can help to elicit cancer patients' preferences in a discussion process to promote person-centred medical decision-making. Expectations are known to be highly relevant determinants of decisional processes. So far, however, little is known about cancer patients' expectations of ACP that lead to acceptance or refusal of the programme. The presented study, therefore, aims to explore cancer patients' expectations of ACP. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 27 cancer patients consenting to or refusing a newly implemented ACP programme in a German university hospital. Data were analysed using typological content analysis. RESULTS We identified five different expectation clusters in relation to ACP. Consenting participants held expectations about the impact of ACP that were either 'ego-centred' or 'family-centred'. Refusers had expectations based on ignorance and misinformation, or-if they had already completed an advance directive-expectations to avoid unpleasant redundancy, perceiving no additional benefit but a burden from ACP. Finally, refusers in particular expressed expectations of delegated responsibility at the end of life, including anticipation of proxy decision-making. CONCLUSION Our study results suggest that expectation-modifying measures could be taken to positively influence cancer patients' expectations and thus the acceptance of ACP. In this respect, reducing ignorance and misguided expectations plays a decisive role. Especially in family constellations with expected delegation of responsibility and dependence at the end of life, it might be important to promote ACP as a family-intervention to improve family outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna J Pedrosa
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lara Demel
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jorge Riera Knorrenschild
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Immunology, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Carola Seifart
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia von Blanckenburg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Berlin P, Göggelmann L, Herzog S, Pedrosa Carrasco AJ, Hauck J, Timmesfeld N, Kruse J, Rief W, Riera Knorrenschild J, von Blanckenburg P, Seifart C. Cancer advance care planning: development of a screening tool. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2022-003965. [PMID: 37979957 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Advance care discussions are a useful communication tools for medical preferences and beneficial for shared decision-making processes in hospital settings. The present study developed the first screening tool for need for advance care planning (ACP). METHODS In phase 1 (n=92), items were evaluated using feasibility analysis and item reduction. In phase 2 (n=201), reduced screening items were analysed for predictive value of need for ACP. Statistical analysis included receiver-operating characteristics analysis (area under the curve>0.80), optimal cut-off based on sensitivity and specificity, interpretation of OR and construct validity using correlation with death anxiety, communication avoidance within families and trust based on the relationship with the treating physician. RESULTS Participants in both phases were approximately 60 years old with non-curative prognosis. After item reduction, predictive values of four possible items with good item difficulty and discrimination were compared for mild, moderate and great levels of death anxiety. A two-item combination of I am burdened by thoughts of an unfavourable course of the disease and I am burdened by the feeling of being ill-prepared for the end of life showed best prediction of death anxiety and communication avoidance. Clinical cut-off at sum-score ≥6 was of high sensitivity (95%) and specificity (81%). Previous use of social support and readiness for ACP was related to higher chance of interest in ACP. CONCLUSION Screening for need of ACP is possible with two objective items and one subjective item. Positive screening therefore indicates when to offer ACP discussions and provides routine estimation of ACP need in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Berlin
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lena Göggelmann
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Svenja Herzog
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Anna J Pedrosa Carrasco
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Hauck
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nina Timmesfeld
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johannes Kruse
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Giessen, Germany
| | - Winfried Rief
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jorge Riera Knorrenschild
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Immunology, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia von Blanckenburg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Carola Seifart
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Kishino M, Koffman J, Nagatomi H, Yuasa M, Ellis-Smith C. Complexity and function of family involvement in advance care planning: A qualitative study of perspectives from people living with advanced cancer, family members and healthcare professionals. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1434-1446. [PMID: 37723885 PMCID: PMC10548778 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231194202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family members can support advance care planning conversations. However, how family involvement in advance care planning operates to achieve goal-concordant care remains unclear. AIM To explore how family involvement impacts the process of advance care planning for advanced cancer patients and their family members to achieve goal-concordant care in Japan. DESIGN Qualitative study incorporating semi-structured in-depth interviews with thematic analysis informed by Family Systems Theory. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Medical oncology departments at two tertiary hospitals in Japan. A purposive sample of 13 advanced cancer patients, 10 family members and 9 healthcare professionals who cared for them. RESULTS Twenty-five interviews were conducted, comprising 7 dyads of patients and their family members and 18 individual interviews. Four themes were identified: characteristics of patients and family members and their views on illness and advance care planning; family context and communication; interactions with healthcare professionals and societal and cultural influences; and family members' acceptance, preparation and confidence. Family involvement was observed as being variable at an individual level and also across generations. Family members provided patients with the instrumental and emotional support that facilitated the advance care planning process. Family involvement enabled family members to better prepare for realising patients' wishes. It increased family members' confidence in surrogate decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Two mechanisms of how family involvement may enable goal-concordant care were identified: family members' support provision and their preparation for realising patients' wishes. Healthcare professionals should assess family's readiness to engage in advance care planning, and the time required to prepare them for the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Kishino
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Koffman
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK
| | - Hiroaki Nagatomi
- Department of Nursing, Kakogawa Central City Hospital, Kakogawa, Japan
| | - Misuzu Yuasa
- Hospice Division, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Clare Ellis-Smith
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, UK
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17
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Bergman TD, van der Plas AGM, Pasman HRW, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD. Awareness and Actual Knowledge of Palliative Care Among Older People: A Dutch National Survey. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:193-202.e2. [PMID: 37207787 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Lack of public knowledge of palliative care may be a barrier to timely use of palliative care and hinder engagement in advance care planning (ACP). Little research has been conducted on (the relationship between) awareness and actual knowledge of palliative care. OBJECTIVES To determine awareness and actual knowledge of palliative care and explore factors that contribute to knowledge of palliative care among older people. METHODS A cross-sectional study in a representative sample of 1242 Dutch people (≥ 65 years; response 93.2%) on whether they had heard of palliative care and knowledge statements about palliative care. RESULTS The majority had heard of the term palliative care (90.1%), and 47.1% reported to know (quite) exactly what it means. Most knew palliative care is not only for people with cancer (73.9%) and is not only provided in hospice facilities (60.6%). A minority knew palliative care can be provided alongside life-prolonging treatment (29.8%) and is not only for people who have a few weeks left to live (23.5%). Experience with palliative care through family, friends and/or acquaintances (range ORs: 1.35-3.39 for the four statements), higher education (ORs: 2.09-4.81), being female (ORs: 1.56-1.91), and higher income (OR: 1.93) were positively associated with one or more statements, while increasing age (ORs: 0.52-0.66) was negatively associated. CONCLUSION Knowledge of palliative care is limited, stressing the need for population-wide interventions, including information meetings. Attention should be paid to timely attention for palliative care needs. This might stimulate ACP and raise public knowledge of (im) possibilities of palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa D Bergman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health (T.D.B., A.G.M.V.D.P, H.R.W.P, B.D.O.P), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Annicka G M van der Plas
- Department of Public and Occupational Health (T.D.B., A.G.M.V.D.P, H.R.W.P, B.D.O.P), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H Roeline W Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health (T.D.B., A.G.M.V.D.P, H.R.W.P, B.D.O.P), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health (T.D.B., A.G.M.V.D.P, H.R.W.P, B.D.O.P), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Wang YH, Enguidanos S. The Relationship Between Multiple Chronic Conditions and Physician Visits in Advance Care Planning Activities. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:965-970. [PMID: 36307974 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221136854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hsuan Wang
- Leonard Davis School, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susan Enguidanos
- Leonard Davis School, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Guma S, Namisango E, Ddungu H. Advance Care Planning and palliative care for patients with advanced cancer in Uganda. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EVIDENZ, FORTBILDUNG UND QUALITAT IM GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2023; 180:29-35. [PMID: 37550121 DOI: 10.1016/j.zefq.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
The study sought to identify the extent to which Advance Care Planning (ACP) is practised by palliative care health professionals providing care to patients with advanced cancer and their families in Uganda. A mixed methods study design using qualitative and quantitative methods was used for the assessment. In-depth interviews with a group of nine highly experienced health professionals were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Quantitative data were retrieved and analysed from a survey administered to 124 health professionals of whom only 57 (45.9%) responded. The qualitative data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis and descriptive analysis was used for the quantitative data. Of the 57 health professionals who participated in the survey, 87% were aware of ACP and 55% reported regular practice. Fifty-five (55%) percent reported regular provision of ACP for their patients and 46% reported engaging in informal ACP practices. However, 58.5% resp. 37.5% reported that they routinely provide ACP to more than 50% resp. 75% of their patients. A group of nine highly experienced palliative care professionals had a pooled ACP prevalence of only 1.2%. There was a generally good attitude towards ACP with 98.2% acknowledging that patients should be able to determine their future care. However, 32% reported being uncomfortable withholding or withdrawing life sustaining treatment. There are a number of socio-cultural beliefs and barriers, for instance that discussing death and dying is a "taboo", as well as witchcraft, family influence in decision-making, religious beliefs that do not agree with palliative care practices and a preference to use aggressive treatment like chemotherapy for terminally ill, etc. Institutional barriers like lack of a legal framework for ACP, limited time for health professionals to engage in ACP and other patient factors such as denial of diagnosis and collusion to withhold information from patients were reported by 78.2% resp. 84% of the respondents. Despite the good awareness and attitude to ACP, there is a range of barriers that are affecting the implementation of ACP in Uganda. There is need for development of a legal framework for ACP, more research to understand the contextual barriers and develop appropriate education and public sensitisation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eve Namisango
- African Palliative Care Association, Kampala, Uganda
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20
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Boele FW, Butler S, Nicklin E, Bulbeck H, Pointon L, Short SC, Murray L. Communication in the context of glioblastoma treatment: A qualitative study of what matters most to patients, caregivers and health care professionals. Palliat Med 2023; 37:834-843. [PMID: 36734532 PMCID: PMC10227096 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231152525] [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] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with glioblastoma have a poor prognosis and treatment is palliative in nature from diagnosis. It is therefore critical that the benefits and burdens of treatments are clearly discussed with patients and caregivers. AIM To explore experiences and preferences around glioblastoma treatment communication in patients, family caregivers and healthcare professionals. DESIGN Qualitative design. A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS A total of 15 adult patients with glioblastoma, 13 caregivers and 5 healthcare professionals were recruited from Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. RESULTS Four themes were identified: (1) Communication practice and preferences. Risks and side-effects of anti-tumour treatments were explained clearly, with information layered and repeated. Treatment was often understood to be 'the only option'. Understanding the impact of side-effects could be enhanced, alongside information about support services. (2) What matters most. Patients/caregivers valued being well-supported by a trusted treatment team, feeling involved, having control and quality of life. Healthcare professionals similarly highlighted trust, maintaining independence and emotional support as key. (3) Decision-making. With limited treatment options, trust and control are crucial in decision-making. Patients ultimately prefer to follow healthcare professional advice but want to be involved, consider alternatives and voice what matters to them. (4) Impact of COVID-19. During the pandemic, greater efforts to maintain good communication were necessary. Negative impacts of COVID-19 were limited, caregivers appeared most disadvantaged by pandemic-related restrictions. CONCLUSIONS In glioblastoma treatment communication, where prognosis is poor and treatmentwill not result in cure, building trusting relationships, maintaining a sense of control and being well-informed are identified as critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florien W Boele
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St James’s Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Sean Butler
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St James’s Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Emma Nicklin
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St James’s Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Lucy Pointon
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Susan C Short
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St James’s Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Louise Murray
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St James’s Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Levoy K, Sullivan SS, Chittams J, Myers RL, Hickman SE, Meghani SH. Don't Throw the Baby Out With the Bathwater: Meta-Analysis of Advance Care Planning and End-of-life Cancer Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:e715-e743. [PMID: 36764411 PMCID: PMC10192153 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is ongoing discourse about the impact of advance care planning (ACP) on end-of-life (EOL) care. No meta-analysis exists to clarify ACP's impact on patients with cancer. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between, and moderators of, ACP and aggressive vs. comfort-focused EOL care outcomes among patients with cancer. METHODS Five databases were searched for peer-reviewed observational/experimental ACP-specific studies that were published between 1990-2022 that focused on samples of patients with cancer. Odds ratios were pooled to estimate overall effects using inverse variance weighting. RESULTS Of 8,673 articles, 21 met criteria, representing 33,541 participants and 68 effect sizes (54 aggressive, 14 comfort-focused). ACP was associated with significantly lower odds of chemotherapy, intensive care, hospital admissions, hospice use fewer than seven days, hospital death, and aggressive care composite measures. ACP was associated with 1.51 times greater odds of do-not-resuscitate orders. Other outcomes-cardiopulmonary resuscitation, emergency department admissions, mechanical ventilation, and hospice use-were not impacted. Tests of moderation revealed that the communication components of ACP produced greater reductions in the odds of hospital admissions compared to other components of ACP (e.g., documents); and, observational studies, not experimental, produced greater odds of hospice use. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis demonstrated mixed evidence of the association between ACP and EOL cancer care, where tests of moderation suggested that the communication components of ACP carry more weight in influencing outcomes. Further disease-specific efforts to clarify models and components of ACP that work and matter to patients and caregivers will advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Levoy
- Department of Community and Health Systems (K.L., R.L.M., S.E.H.), Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana; Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute (K.L., S.E.H.), Indianapolis, Indiana; Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center (K.L., S.E.H.), Indianapolis, Indiana.
| | - Suzanne S Sullivan
- School of Nursing (S.S.S.), University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Jesse Chittams
- BECCA (Biostatistics, Evaluation, Collaboration, Consultation & Analysis) Lab, Office of Nursing Research (J.C.), University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ruth L Myers
- Department of Community and Health Systems (K.L., R.L.M., S.E.H.), Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Susan E Hickman
- Department of Community and Health Systems (K.L., R.L.M., S.E.H.), Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana; Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute (K.L., S.E.H.), Indianapolis, Indiana; Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center (K.L., S.E.H.), Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Salimah H Meghani
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences (S.H.M.), University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics (S.H.M.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Kim H, Flieger SP. Barriers to Effective Communication about Advance Care Planning and Palliative Care: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2023; 26:42-50. [PMID: 37753510 PMCID: PMC10519725 DOI: 10.14475/jhpc.2023.26.2.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to effective conversations about advance care planning (ACP) and palliative care reported by health care and community-based service providers in Massachusetts, USA. Methods This qualitative research analyzed open-ended responses to two survey questions, inquiring about perceived barriers to having conversations about ACP and palliative care with patients and consumers. Data were collected between November 2017 and June 2019 from nine organizations in Massachusetts, including health care provider organizations, health insurers, community-based organizations, and a nursing education institution. Two researchers reviewed and coded the responses and identified common themes inductively. Results Across 142 responses, primary barriers to ACP included hesitation and lack of understanding and knowledge, discomfort and resistance among service providers, lack of staff knowledge, difficulties with follow-up, and differences in ACP policies across regions. Common barriers to palliative care were misconceptions about palliative care and lack of knowledge, service providers' lack of preparedness, and limited policy support and availability. Challenges relevant to both ACP and palliative care were fear and discomfort around serious illness discussions, lack of knowledge and awareness, discussions that occur too late, and cultural and language barriers. Conclusion Health care practitioners and community-based professionals reported consumer-, service provider-, and system-level barriers to facilitating conversations about ACP and palliative care with patients experiencing serious illness. There is a need for more tools and support to strengthen service providers' ACP and palliative care competencies and to promote a structured approach to health care planning conversations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyosin Kim
- College of Public Health & Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Boston, USA
- Tufts Center for Health Systems and Policy Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Signe Peterson Flieger
- Tufts Center for Health Systems and Policy Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
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Crooks J, Trotter S, Clarke G. How does ethnicity affect presence of advance care planning in care records for individuals with advanced disease? A mixed-methods systematic review. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:43. [PMID: 37062841 PMCID: PMC10106323 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01168-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planning (ACP) is the process supporting individuals with life-limiting illness to make informed decisions about their future healthcare. Ethnic disparities in ACP have been widely highlighted, but interpretation is challenging due to methodological heterogeneity. This review aims to examine differences in the presence of documented ACP in individuals' care records for people with advanced disease by ethnic group, and identify patient and clinician related factors contributing to this. METHODS Mixed-methods systematic review. Keyword searches on six electronic databases were conducted (01/2000-04/2022). The primary outcome measure was statistically significant differences in the presence of ACP in patients' care records by ethnicity: quantitative data was summarised and tabulated. The secondary outcome measures were patient and clinician-based factors affecting ACP. Data was analysed qualitatively through thematic analysis; themes were developed and presented in a narrative synthesis. Feedback on themes was gained from Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) representatives. Study quality was assessed through Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools and Gough's Weight of Evidence. RESULTS N=35 papers were included in total; all had Medium/High Weight of Evidence. Fifteen papers (comparing two or more ethnic groups) addressed the primary outcome measure. Twelve of the fifteen papers reported White patients had statistically higher rates of formally documented ACP in their care records than patients from other ethnic groups. There were no significant differences in the presence of informal ACP between ethnic groups. Nineteen papers addressed the secondary outcome measure; thirteen discussed patient-based factors impacting ACP presence with four key themes: poor awareness and understanding of ACP; financial constraints; faith and religion; and family involvement. Eight papers discussed clinician-based factors with three key themes: poor clinician confidence around cultural values and ideals; exacerbation of institutional constraints; and pre-conceived ideas of patients' wishes. CONCLUSIONS This review found differences in the presence of legal ACP across ethnic groups despite similar presence of informal end of life conversations. Factors including low clinician confidence to deliver culturally sensitive, individualised conversations around ACP, and patients reasons for not wishing to engage in ACP (including, faith, religion or family preferences) may begin to explain some documented differences. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO-CRD42022315252.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophie Trotter
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Gemma Clarke
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Gensheimer MF, Gupta D, Patel MI, Fardeen T, Hildebrand R, Teuteberg W, Seevaratnam B, Asuncion MK, Alves N, Rogers B, Hansen J, DeNofrio J, Shah NH, Parikh D, Neal J, Fan AC, Moore K, Ruiz S, Li C, Khaki AR, Pagtama J, Chien J, Brown T, Tisch AH, Das M, Srinivas S, Roy M, Wakelee H, Myall NJ, Huang J, Shah S, Lee H, Ramchandran K. Use of Machine Learning and Lay Care Coaches to Increase Advance Care Planning Conversations for Patients With Metastatic Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e176-e184. [PMID: 36395436 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with metastatic cancer benefit from advance care planning (ACP) conversations. We aimed to improve ACP using a computer model to select high-risk patients, with shorter predicted survival, for conversations with providers and lay care coaches. Outcomes included ACP documentation frequency and end-of-life quality measures. METHODS In this study of a quality improvement initiative, providers in four medical oncology clinics received Serious Illness Care Program training. Two clinics (thoracic/genitourinary) participated in an intervention, and two (cutaneous/sarcoma) served as controls. ACP conversations were documented in a centralized form in the electronic medical record. In the intervention, providers and care coaches received weekly e-mails highlighting upcoming clinic patients with < 2 year computer-predicted survival and no prior prognosis documentation. Care coaches contacted these patients for an ACP conversation (excluding prognosis). Providers were asked to discuss and document prognosis. RESULTS In the four clinics, 4,968 clinic visits by 1,251 patients met inclusion criteria (metastatic cancer with no prognosis previously documented). In their first visit, 28% of patients were high-risk (< 2 year predicted survival). Preintervention, 3% of both intervention and control clinic patients had ACP documentation during a visit. By intervention end (February 2021), 35% of intervention clinic patients had ACP documentation compared with 3% of control clinic patients. Providers' prognosis documentation rate also increased in intervention clinics after the intervention (2%-27% in intervention clinics, P < .0001; 0%-1% in control clinics). End-of-life care intensity was similar in intervention versus control clinics, but patients with ≥ 1 provider ACP edit met fewer high-intensity care measures (P = .04). CONCLUSION Combining a computer prognosis model with care coaches increased ACP documentation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Divya Gupta
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Manali I Patel
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA.,VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nina Alves
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Brian Rogers
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Jan DeNofrio
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Nigam H Shah
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Divya Parikh
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Joel Neal
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Alice C Fan
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Kaidi Moore
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Shann Ruiz
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Connie Li
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Judy Pagtama
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Joanne Chien
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | | | - Millie Das
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Mohana Roy
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | | | - Jane Huang
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Sumit Shah
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Howard Lee
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
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Challenges of Agitation in Dementia: A Plea for Early Discussion. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2023; 31:22-27. [PMID: 36608080 PMCID: PMC9855747 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) occur frequently among people with dementia and are known precipitants for placement in care facilities. Despite the social, financial, and psychological impact on dementia care, education and discussions on BPSD have not been routinely included in advance care planning (ACP). As a result, families can face great challenges in making complex medical decisions when their loved ones are admitted to the geriatric psychiatric inpatient unit with refractory BPSD. We present the case of an 83-year-old gentleman with BPSD to illustrate universal struggles in dementia care experienced by many families, which could have been alleviated by education and discussions around BPSD earlier in the patient's dementia course. A literature search did not yield any articles that mention discussions of BPSD in ACP. The lack of literature referencing BPSD in ACP supports our clinical experiences with the case and highlights the need for improvement in current dementia care. We propose a guideline for providers to facilitate conversations around BPSD as an integral part of ACP, including discussions of four key points related to the progressive nature of dementia, the commonality of BPSD, the lack of FDA-approved treatment for BPSD, and the difficulty in balancing agitation and sedation to allow safe placement. We firmly believe it is important to start discussion on BPSD as part of ACP as early as possible. Early education and discussion will help to facilitate meaningful care decisions as patients and families navigate the challenges associated with this progressive disease.
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Greenway MRF, Robinson MT. Palliative care approaches to acute stroke in the hospital setting. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 191:13-27. [PMID: 36599505 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824535-4.00010-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is a prevalent neurologic condition that portends a high risk of morbidity and mortality such that patients impacted by stroke and their caregivers can benefit from palliative care at the time of diagnosis and throughout the disease trajectory. Clinicians who care for stroke patients should be adept at establishing rapport with patients and caregivers, delivering serious news, responding to emotions, discussing prognosis, and establishing goals of care efficiently in an acute stroke setting. Aggressive stroke care can be integrated with a palliative approach to care that involves aligning the available treatment options with a patient's values and goals of care. Reassessing the goals throughout the hospitalization provides an opportunity for continued shared decision-making about the intensity of poststroke interventions. The palliative needs for stroke patients may increase over time depending on the severity of disease, poststroke complications, stroke-related symptoms, and treatment intensity preferences. If the decision is made to transition the focus of care to comfort, the support of an interdisciplinary palliative care or hospice team can be beneficial to the patient, family members, and surrogate decision makers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maisha T Robinson
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.
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Zhang P, Cagle JG. When Living Wills go Missing: Associations With Hospice Use and Hospital Death Using National Longitudinal Data. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 42:1108-1112. [PMID: 36547237 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221146774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite documented benefits of advance care planning (ACP), understandings about the impact of advance directives (AD)—critical steps in the ACP process—remain limited. As a type of AD, living wills (LWs) are often misplaced or forgotten about. This study explores the prevalence of missing LWs among older adults in the U.S. and its association with in-hospital death and hospice care use. Analyses are based on 692 participants who responded to LW completion questions in the 2016 Core and 2018 wave of the Health and Retirement Study Nearly a fifth of American older adults age 65+ had an LW that went missing. Stepwise logistic regression results show that completed LWs confirmed by both individuals and their proxies were associated with increased hospice use and fewer hospital deaths. Individuals whose LWs went missing still had better end-of-life care than those who did not have an LW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Zhang
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John G. Cagle
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Pedrosa Carrasco AJ, Berlin P, Betker L, Riera-Knorrenschild J, von Blanckenburg P, Seifart C. Developing a care pathway for hospital-based advance care planning for cancer patients: A modified Delphi study. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13756. [PMID: 36268891 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to develop a care pathway for a hospital-based advance care planning service for cancer patients. METHODS A web-based modified Delphi study consulted an expert panel consisting of a convenience sample of stakeholders including professionals with a special interest in advance care planning as well as a 'public and patient involvement group'. After generating ideas for core elements of a care pathway in the first round, numerical ratings and rankings informed the multi-professional research steering group's decision process eventually resulting in a final pathway. RESULTS The 41 participants in the Delphi study identified 177 potential core elements of the pathway in the first round. In two further rounds, consensus was reached on a final version of the pathway with 148 elements covering the 10 domains: prerequisites, organisation and coordination, identification and referral, provision of information, information sources, family involvement, advance care planning discussion, documentation, update and quality assurance. CONCLUSION We propose a care pathway for advance care planning for hospital patients with cancer based on the results of a Delphi study that reached consensus on an implementation strategy. Our study pioneers the standardisation of the process and provides input for further policy and research with the aim of aligning cancer patients' care with their preferences and values.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pia Berlin
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Liv Betker
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jorge Riera-Knorrenschild
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Immunology, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia von Blanckenburg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Carola Seifart
- Research Group Medical Ethics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Prevalence and predictors of advance directive among terminally ill patients in Taiwan before enactment of Patient Right to Autonomy Act: a nationwide population-based study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:178. [PMID: 36224654 PMCID: PMC9554959 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Signing advance directives (ADs) ensures that terminally ill patients receive end-of-life care, according to their wishes, thereby promoting human dignity and sparing them from unnecessary suffering. Despite the enactment of the Hospice Palliative Care Act in Taiwan in 2000, the completion rates of ADs have been found to be low among patients with chronic illness conditions. To date, limited existing research is available regarding the factors associated with AD completion in terminally ill patients in Taiwan. To explore signed AD characteristics, compare differences in signing ADs between patients with and without cancer, and examine the factors associated with signing ADs in terminally ill patients. METHODS A nationwide study was conducted using data collected via a retrospective review of medical death records from 18 randomly selected hospitals in the northern, central, and southern parts of Taiwan. We collected 200 records, including both cancer and non-cancer-related deaths, from each hospital. Univariate and multivariate logistics regressions were conducted to examine factors associated with signing advance directives among all patients- with and without cancer. RESULTS Among the 3004 reviewed medical records, 79% had signed ADs, with most (95%) being signed by patients' caregivers. A higher education level (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.10, 2.08, p = 0.010); cancer diagnosis (OR = 2.37, 95% CI = 1.79, 3.16, p < 0.001); having family members (OR = 5.62, 95% CI = 2.95, 10.69, p < 0.001), care homes (OR = 4.52, 95% CI = 1.97, 10.38, p < 0.001), friends, or maids (OR = 3.82, 95% CI = 1.76, 8.29, p = 0.001) as primary caregivers; and patients knowing about their poor prognosis (OR = 15.39, 95% CI = 5.66, 41.83, p < 0.001) were associated with a higher likelihood of signing ADs. CONCLUSIONS Patients with non-malignant chronic illnesses were less likely to have ADs signed by either patients or family caregivers than those with cancer, with the lowest likelihood observed in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Whenever possible, primary caregivers should be involved in discussing ADs with patients, and the importance of truth telling should be reinforced. Following these principles, each patient's end-of-life care preferences can be respected, thereby promoting quality of care before the patient's death.
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Khalid F, Ng Voon SI, Ong LC, Lim WK, Li L, Adnan A, Ganesan V, Teh CM, Fong CY. Advance care plan discussion among parents of children with cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:1025-1033. [PMID: 35213736 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate parental perception of advance care plan (ACP) discussions in families of Malaysian children with bilateral cerebral palsy (CP) classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV or V for (1) acceptance of the ACP discussion, (2) feedback on the usefulness of ACP discussion, and (3) exploration of possible factors related to parental acceptance of ACP. METHOD This was a prospective pre- and post-ACP discussion questionnaire study for parents of children with bilateral CP. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients were recruited to the study; 64 (93%) had at least one additional comorbidity. The median age was 8 years (interquartile range 5 years 1 month-11 years 6 months). Fifty-seven (82.6%) parents found the ACP discussion acceptable, and most reported positive feedback on various components of the discussion (88.4-97.1%). One-third of participants were not comfortable discussing end-of-life care plans. On multivariate analysis, parents who were comfortable discussing end-of-life care plans were more likely to find the ACP discussion acceptable (odds ratio 27.78, 95% confidence interval 2.9-265.1, p = 0.004). INTERPRETATION Most parents of Malaysian children with bilateral CP reported the ACP discussion as both acceptable and beneficial. Parents need to be comfortable about discussing end-of-life care plans for their child to enable the ACP discussion to be an acceptable experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Khalid
- Paediatric Pain and Palliative Care Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Swee Im Ng Voon
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Paediatric Department, Penang General Hospital, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Lai Choo Ong
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wei Kang Lim
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Limin Li
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Azirah Adnan
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Chee Ming Teh
- Paediatric Department, Penang General Hospital, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Choong Yi Fong
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Vellani S, Green E, Kulasegaram P, Sussman T, Wickson-Griffiths A, Kaasalainen S. Interdisciplinary staff perceptions of advance care planning in long-term care homes: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:127. [PMID: 35836164 PMCID: PMC9284816 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01014-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Residents living in long-term care homes (LTCH) have complex care needs, multiple chronic conditions, increasing frailty and cognitive impairment. A palliative approach that incorporates advance care planning (ACP) should be integrated with chronic disease management, yet it is not a norm in most LTCHs. Despite its growing need, there remains a lack of staff engagement in the ACP process. Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of interdisciplinary staff related to the practice of ACP in LTCHs. Methods This study is part of a larger Canadian project, iCAN ACP, that aims to increase uptake, and access to ACP for older Canadians living with frailty. An exploratory qualitative design using an interpretive descriptive approach was employed utilizing focus groups and semi-structured interviews with staff from four LTCHs in Ontario, Canada. Findings There were 98 participants, including nurses (n = 36), physicians (n = 4), personal support workers (n = 34), support staff (n = 23), and a public guardian (n = 1). Three common themes and nine subthemes were derived: a) ongoing nature of ACP; b) complexities around ACP conversations; and c) aspirations for ACP becoming a standard of care in LTCHs. Discussion The findings of this study provide important contributions to our understanding of the complexities surrounding ACP implementation as a standard of practice in LTCHs. One of the critical findings relates to a lack of ACP conversations prior to admission in the LTCHs, by which time many residents may have already lost cognitive abilities to engage in these discussions. The hierarchical nature of LTCH staffing also serves as a barrier to the interdisciplinary collaboration required for a successful implementation of ACP initiatives. Participants within our study expressed support for ACP communication and the need for open lines of formal and informal interdisciplinary communication. There is a need for revitalizing care in LTCHs through interdisciplinary care practices, clarification of role descriptions, optimized staffing, capacity building of each category of staff and commitment from the LTCH leadership for such care. Conclusion The findings build on a growing body of research illustrating the need to improve staff engagement in ACP communication in LTCHs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01014-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Vellani
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Green
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Pereya Kulasegaram
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- Faculty of Arts, School of Social Work, McGill University, 3506 University St, Montreal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada
| | - Abby Wickson-Griffiths
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S0A2, Canada
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 3Z1, Canada.
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van Lummel EVTJ, Savelkoul C, Stemerdink ELE, Tjan DHT, van Delden JJM. The development and feasibility study of Multidisciplinary Timely Undertaken Advance Care Planning conversations at the outpatient clinic: the MUTUAL intervention. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:119. [PMID: 35794617 PMCID: PMC9258045 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients still receive non-beneficial treatments when nearing the end of life. Advance care planning (ACP) interventions have shown to positively influence compliance with end of life wishes. Hospital physicians seem to miss opportunities to engage in ACP, whereas patients visiting the outpatient clinic usually have one or more chronic conditions and are at risk for medical emergencies. So far, implemented ACP interventions have had limited impact. Structural implementation of ACP may be beneficial. We hypothesize that having ACP conversations more towards the end of life and involving the treating physician in the ACP conversation may help patient wishes and goals to become more concrete and more often documented, thus facilitating goal-concordant care. Aim To facilitate timely shared decision making and increase patient autonomy we aim to develop an ACP intervention at the outpatient clinic for frail patients and determine the feasibility of the intervention. Methods The United Kingdom’s Medical Research Council framework was used to structure the development of the ACP intervention. Key elements of the ACP intervention were determined by reviewing existing literature and an iterative process with stakeholders. The feasibility of the developed intervention was evaluated by a feasibility study of 20 ACP conversations at the geriatrics and pulmonology department of a non-academic hospital. Feasibility was assessed by analysing evaluation forms by patients, nurses and physicians and by evaluating with stakeholders. A general inductive approach was used for analysing comments. The developed intervention was described using the template for intervention description and replication (TIDieR). Results We developed a multidisciplinary timely undertaken ACP intervention at the outpatient clinic. Key components of the developed intervention consist of 1) timely patient selection 2) preparation of patient and healthcare professional 3) a scripted ACP conversation in a multidisciplinary setting and 4) documentation. 94.7% of the patients, 60.0% of the nurses and 68.8% of the physicians agreed that the benefits of the ACP conversation outweighed the potential burdens. Conclusion This study showed that the developed ACP intervention is feasible and considered valuable by patients and healthcare professionals. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01005-3.
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Hart M, Stepita R, Berall A, Sokolowski M, Karuza J, Katz P. Development of an Advance Care Planning Policy within an Evidenced-Based Evaluation Framework. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022; 39:1389-1396. [PMID: 35414245 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221077057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: As the population is aging and medical advancements enable people to live longer, advance care planning (ACP) becomes increasingly important in guiding future care decisions; however, they are often incomplete or absent from the patient chart. This study describes the development and implementation of an ACP policy in a post-acute care and long-term care setting using a systematic implementation framework. Methods: A process evaluation that parallels the Replicating Effective Programs (REP) framework was used to understand stakeholder experiences with ACP and identify gaps in practice. Physicians, multidisciplinary staff, patients, and substitute decision makers engaged in focus groups and interviews, and completed surveys. A retrospective chart review determined Plan for Life Sustaining Treatment (PLST) form completion rates. Results: Stakeholder feedback identified barriers and facilitators to ACP including a need for staff training, user-friendly resources, and standardization of ACP practice. The PLST form was developed and embedded in the electronic medical record, and had a 92% and an 87% PLST completion rate on 2 pilot units. Conclusion: The study showed the usefulness of the REP model in guiding the evaluation as an effective tool to enhance implementation practices and inform ACP policy development that can be replicated in other organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anna Berall
- 7942Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, ONCanada
| | | | - Jurgis Karuza
- Department of Psychology, 12292Buffalo State University, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Paul Katz
- Department of Geriatrics, College of Medicine, Florida State University
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Starr LT, Bullock K, Washington K, Aryal S, Parker Oliver D, Demiris G. Anxiety, Depression, Quality of Life, Caregiver Burden, and Perceptions of Caregiver-Centered Communication among Black and White Hospice Family Caregivers. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:596-605. [PMID: 34793244 PMCID: PMC8982115 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life (QOL) are common problems for hospice family caregivers, but it is unknown if disparities in these experiences exist among Black and White caregivers. Objectives: To compare anxiety, depression, QOL, caregiver burden, and perceptions of caregiver-centered hospice team communication between Black and White hospice family caregivers. Design: Secondary analysis of baseline data from two randomized clinical trials. Setting/Subjects: Seven hundred twenty-two Black and White hospice family caregivers ages 18+ from Midwestern and Northeastern United States. Measurements: Measures included the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Caregiver Quality-of-Life Index-Revised (CQLI-R), Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-7), and Caregiver-Centered Communication Questionnaire (CCCQ). Results: Black and White caregivers differed across demographic and socioeconomic variables. Nearly one-third of hospice family caregivers reported moderate-to-severe anxiety (32.1%) and moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms (32.0%). White caregivers reported lower QOL than Black caregivers (p = 0.04), specifically in emotional (p = 0.02) and social (p = 0.0005) domains. In multiple regression analyses controlling for caregiver and patient factors, we found no racial differences in depression, anxiety, QOL, caregiver burden, or perceptions of caregiver-centered hospice communication. Conclusions: Despite demographic and socioeconomic differences, Black and White hospice family caregivers experience similarly high levels of anxiety, depression, burden, and perceptions of hospice communication. Interventions to support hospice family caregivers across racial groups and research that identifies factors that mediate social determinants of health in this population are needed. The development and validation of culture-concordant mental health screening tools in racially diverse populations is recommended. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02929108 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01444027.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren T. Starr
- Department of Biobehavioral and Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Karen Bullock
- Department of Social Work, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Karla Washington
- Division of Palliative Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Subhash Aryal
- BECCA (Biostatistics * Evaluation * Collaboration * Consultation * Analysis) Lab, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Debra Parker Oliver
- Division of Palliative Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - George Demiris
- Department of Biobehavioral and Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Ishikawa T, Fukui S, Fujita J, Fujikawa A, Iwahara Y, Takahashi K. Factors Related to End-of-Life Care Discussions Among Community-Dwelling People in Japan. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:539-547. [PMID: 34921937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT End-of-life discussions regarding healthcare preferences are important to ensure a dignified end of life. OBJECTIVES This study clarifies the factors associated with such discussions among community-dwelling people in Japan. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 2400 randomly selected community-dwelling adults over the age of 40 in one urban and rural area each, in Japan. The survey investigated whether the respondents had engaged in discussions about their end-of-life care preferences. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the physical, psychological, social, and demographic factors influencing end-of-life care discussions. RESULTS Of the final sample comprising 1172 respondents, 41.0% had engaged in end-of-life discussions. Of these, 95.2% had engaged in these discussions with family members, 11.0% with friends and acquaintances, and 4.4% with medical or long-term care personnel. Factors associated with end-of-life discussion engagement included requiring outpatient visits, long-term care requirements, availability of emotional support services, experience of the death of a relative within the past five years, living with a spouse, and being unemployed. CONCLUSION The results showed that roughly 41% of the surveyed community-dwelling respondents had engaged in end-of-life discussions. The findings suggest that providing emotional support to relieve anxiety regarding one's health and the awareness of death, and having the opportunity to interact with others to discuss end-of-life issues, promote the engagement in such discussions in Japan. This study suggests that it is necessary to create an environment that provides social support and engenders awareness of the importance of end-of-life discussions while the community-dwelling people are still healthy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takako Ishikawa
- Faculty of Nursing (T.I.), National Defense Medical College, Saitama, Japan
| | - Sakiko Fukui
- Department of Home Care Nursing (S.F.), Graduate School of Health Care Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Junko Fujita
- The National College of Nursing (J.F.), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aya Fujikawa
- Japanese Red Cross College of Nursing (A.F.), Faculty of Nursing at Saitama, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuka Iwahara
- Faculty of Global Nursing (Y.I.), Iryo Sosei University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Takahashi
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science Center (K.T.), Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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Cohen MG, Althouse AD, Arnold RM, Bulls HW, White DB, Chu E, Rosenzweig MQ, Smith KJ, Schenker Y. Hope and advance care planning in advanced cancer: Is there a relationship? Cancer 2022; 128:1339-1345. [PMID: 34787930 PMCID: PMC8882158 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians often cite a fear of giving up hope as a reason they defer advance care planning (ACP) among patients with advanced cancer. The objective of this study was to determine whether engagement in ACP affects hope in these patients. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of primary palliative care in advanced cancer. Patients who had not completed ACP at baseline were included in the analysis. ACP was assessed in the forms of an end-of-life (EOL) conversation with one's oncologist and completion of a living will or advance directive (AD). Measurements were obtained at baseline and at 3 months. Hope was measured using the Herth Hope Index (HHI) (range, 12-48; higher scores indicate higher hope). Multivariate regression was performed to assess associations between ACP and hope, controlling for baseline HHI score, study randomization, patient age, religious importance, education, marital status, socioeconomic status, time since cancer diagnosis, pain/symptom burden (Edmonton Symptom Assessment System), and anxiety/depression score (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale)-all variables known to be associated with ACP and/or hope. RESULTS In total, 672 patients with advanced cancer were enrolled in the overall study. The mean age was 69 ± 10 years, and the most common cancer types were lung cancer (36%), gastrointestinal cancer (20%) and breast/gynecologic cancers (16%). In this group, 378 patients (56%) had not had an EOL conversation at baseline, of whom 111 of 378 (29%) reported having an EOL conversation by 3 months. Hope was not different between patients who did or did not have an EOL conversation over the study period (mean ± standard deviation ∆HHI, 0.20 ± 5.32 vs -0.53 ± 3.80, respectively; P = .136). After multivariable adjustment, hope was significantly increased in patients who had engaged in an EOL conversation (adjusted mean difference in ∆HHI, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.08-1.82; P = .032). Similarly, of 216 patients (32%) without an AD at baseline, 67 (31%) had subsequently completed an AD. Unadjusted hope was not different between those who did and did not complete an AD (∆HHI, 0.20 ± 3.89 vs -0.91 ± 4.50, respectively; P = .085). After adjustment, hope was significantly higher in those who completed an AD (adjusted mean difference in ∆HHI, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.13-2.49; P = .030). CONCLUSIONS The current results demonstrate that hope is not decreased after engagement in ACP and indeed may be increased. These findings may provide reassurance to clinicians who are apprehensive about having these important and difficult conversations. LAY SUMMARY Many oncologists defer advance care planning (ACP) out of concern for giving up hope. This study demonstrates that hope is not decreased in patients who have engaged in ACP either as a conversation with their oncologists or by completing an advance directive. With this information, providers may feel more comfortable having these important conversations with their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Cohen
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew D Althouse
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert M Arnold
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Palliative Research Center and Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Hailey W Bulls
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Palliative Research Center and Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Douglas B White
- Program on Ethics and Decision Making in Critical Illness, Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Edward Chu
- Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | | | - Kenneth J Smith
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yael Schenker
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Palliative Research Center and Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Kishino M, Ellis-Smith C, Afolabi O, Koffman J. Family involvement in advance care planning for people living with advanced cancer: A systematic mixed-methods review. Palliat Med 2022; 36:462-477. [PMID: 34989274 PMCID: PMC8972955 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211068282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planning is important for people with advanced cancer. Family involvement in advance care planning may be instrumental to achieving goal-concordant care since they frequently become surrogate decision-makers. AIM To examine components, contexts, effects and linkages with intended outcomes of involving family members in advance care planning. DESIGN A mixed-methods systematic review, in which quantitative and qualitative data were extracted and synthesised using thematic synthesis leading to a logic model. Prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020208143). DATA SOURCES Primary quantitative and qualitative research regarding family-involved advance care planning for people with advanced cancer were identified using Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL from inception to September 2020. Quality appraisal was performed with 'QualSyst'. RESULTS Fourteen articles were included. The synthesis identified perceptions of individuals and family members concerning family involvement in advance care planning and presents components for family-integrated advance care planning intervention. The logic model includes (i) addressing family members' concerns and emotions and (ii) facilitating communication between individuals and family members which are distinctive when healthcare professionals engage with individuals as well as family members. CONCLUSIONS This review provides a comprehensive understanding of family involvement in advance care planning and could inform its assessment and implementation in clinical practice. The number of included articles was limited. Therefore future research must focus on family integration and exploration of stakeholders' perceptions to identify additional components and linkages between them within family-integrated advance care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Kishino
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Clare Ellis-Smith
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Oladayo Afolabi
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Koffman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
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Pennarola BW, Fry A, Prichett L, Beri AE, Shah NN, Wiener L. Mapping the Landscape of Advance Care Planning in Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A 5-Year Retrospective Review. Transplant Cell Ther 2022; 28:164.e1-164.e8. [PMID: 34936929 PMCID: PMC8923987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) carries significant risks of morbidity and mortality. Participation in advance care planning (ACP) is crucial to promote patient-centered care and has been shown to have positive impacts on patients, caregivers, and providers. Historically, both HSCT recipients and adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are significantly less likely to engage in ACP. We sought to characterize ACP utilization in AYAs undergoing HSCT by evaluating the frequency of different types of ACP documentation over time and identifying demographic and clinical factors associated with documentation of each type of ACP. We conducted a single-center retrospective review of the electronic health record (EHR) of AYAs (age 15 to 39 years) who underwent allogeneic HSCT between 2015 and 2020. EHR documents were screened for 3 predefined categories of ACP: (1) advance directives (ADs) or medical orders (MOs), which included proof of signed paper directives, expressions of preferred code status, and identification of a healthcare proxy; (2) goals of care (GOC) conversations, which included discussions of medical care in a specific situation informed by patients' priorities; and (3) other ACP conversations, which included more general discussions of patients' values regarding their care or legacy wishes. Documents were coded by 2 researchers, and discrepant categorizations were reviewed by a third researcher. Patients age <18 years on the day of transplantation were excluded in the analyses of AD/MO documentation. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to test for associations between patient factors and documentation of each type of ACP. For deceased patients, Kaplan-Meier curves were created to illustrate the time-to-event relationship between days before death and documentation of each type of ACP. Sixty-eight thousand documents associated with 219 patients were reviewed, and 666 ACP documents associated with 190 patients were identified. Few of the 219 patients had documented GOC (n = 29; 13%) or other ACP conversations (n = 81; 37%). A subset of patients (n = 28; 13%) had no documented ACP. Most of the 201 patients age ≥18 years had a documented AD/MO (n = 172; 86%). No tested factors were significantly associated with documentation of ADs/MOs. GOC and other ACP conversations were more likely to occur in patients with a palliative care consult, and patients with a malignant diagnosis were also more likely to engage in GOC conversations. More than 50% of the documentation occurred in the subset of 39 deceased patients, with one-half of AD/MO documentation in the last 67 days of life, one-half of other ACP documentation in the last 20 days of life, and one-half of GOC documentation in the final 2 days of life. Although the majority of AYA patients receiving HSCT did have documentation of ADs/MOs, few patients had documented GOC or other ACP conversations. The bulk of all ACP conversations occurred in patients that ultimately died and who were very close to the end of life. Our results support ongoing efforts to improve the implementation of ACP in this vulnerable population, particularly for those undergoing HSCT for nonmalignant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian W. Pennarola
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | - Abigail Fry
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Laura Prichett
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Data Management (BEAD) Core, Baltimore, MD
| | - Andrea E. Beri
- NIH Biomedical Translational Research Information System (BTRIS), Bethesda, MD
| | - Nirali N. Shah
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Lori Wiener
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
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Jones KF, Laury E, Sanders JJ, Starr LT, Rosa WE, Booker SQ, Wachterman M, Jones CA, Hickman S, Merlin JS, Meghani SH. Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Delivering Antiracist Care to Black Americans. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:479-487. [PMID: 34788577 PMCID: PMC9022452 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Racial disparities, including decreased hospice utilization, lower quality symptom management, and poor-quality end-of-life care have been well documented in Black Americans. Improving health equity and access to high-quality serious illness care is a national palliative care (PC) priority. Accomplishing these goals requires clinician reflection, engagement, and large-scale change in clinical practice and health-related policies. In this article, we provide an overview of key concepts that underpin racism in health care, discuss common serious illness disparities in Black Americans, and propose steps to promote the delivery of antiracist PC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esther Laury
- Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA.,Address correspondence to: Esther Laury, PhD, RN, Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., US Outcomes Research, 351 N. Sumneytown Pike, North Wales, PA 19454, USA
| | - Justin J. Sanders
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren T. Starr
- New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William E. Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Staja Q. Booker
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida College of Nursing, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Melissa Wachterman
- Section of General Internal Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher A. Jones
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Susan Hickman
- Department of Community and Health Systems, Indiana University School of Nursing, Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessica S. Merlin
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Salimah H. Meghani
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Lim MK, Lai PSM, Lim PS, Wong PS, Othman S, Mydin FHM. Knowledge, attitude and practice of community-dwelling adults regarding advance care planning in Malaysia: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e048314. [PMID: 35165104 PMCID: PMC8845205 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) among community-dwelling adults in Malaysia regarding advance care planning (ACP), and its associated factors. DESIGN This cross-sectional study was conducted from July-September 2018. SETTING This study was conducted at the University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. PARTICIPANTS We recruited community-dwelling adults (ambulatory care patients or their accompanying persons) who were ≥21 years old and able to understand English or Malay. A 1:10 systematic sampling procedure was used. Excluded were community-dwelling adults with intellectual disabilities or non-Malaysian accompanying persons. A trained researcher administered the validated English or Malay Advance Care Planning Questionnaire at baseline and 2 weeks later. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the KAP regarding ACP. The secondary outcomes were factors associated with KAP. RESULTS A total of 385/393 community-dwelling adults agreed to participate (response rate 98%). Only 3.1% of the community-dwelling adults have heard about ACP and 85.7% of them felt that discussion on ACP was necessary after explanation of the term. The desire to maintain their decision-making ability when seriously ill (94.9%) and reducing family burden (91.6%) were the main motivating factors for ACP. In contrast, resorting to fate (86.5%) and perceived healthy condition (77.0%) were the main reasons against ACP. Overall, 84.4% would consider discussing ACP in the future. Community-dwelling adults who were employed were less likely to know about ACP (OR=0.167, 95% CI 0.050 to 0.559, p=0.004) whereas those with comorbidities were more likely to favour ACP (OR=2.460, 95% CI 1.161 to 5.213, p=0.019). No factor was found to be associated with the practice of ACP. CONCLUSIONS Despite the lack of awareness regarding ACP, majority of community-dwelling adults in Malaysia had a positive attitude towards ACP and were willing to engage in a discussion regarding ACP after the term 'ACP' has been explained to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mun Kit Lim
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Pauline Siew Mei Lai
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Pei Shan Lim
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Pei Se Wong
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Sajaratulnisah Othman
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Fadzilah Hanum Mohd Mydin
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
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Walzl N, Sammy IA, Taylor PM, Smith JE, Lowe DJ. Systematic review of factors influencing decisions to limit treatment in the emergency department. Emerg Med J 2022; 39:147-156. [PMID: 33658272 DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2019-209398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency physicians are frequently faced with making decisions regarding how aggressive to be in caring for critically ill patients. We aimed to identify factors that influence decisions to limit treatment in the Emergency Department (ED) through a systematic search of the available literature. DESIGN Prospectively registered systematic review of studies employing any methodology to investigate factors influencing decisions to limit treatment in the ED. Medline and EMBASE were searched from their inception until January 2019. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, but no studies were excluded based on quality. Findings were summarised by narrative analysis. RESULTS 10 studies published between 1998 and 2016 were identified for inclusion in this review, including seven cross-sectional studies investigating factors associated with treatment-limiting decisions, two surveys of physicians making treatment-limiting decisions and one qualitative study of physicians making treatment-limiting decisions. There was significant heterogeneity in patient groups, outcome measures, methodology and quality. Only three studies received a methodology-specific rating of 'high quality'. Important limitations of the literature include the use of small single-centre retrospective cohorts often lacking a comparison group, and survey studies with low response rates employing closed-response questionnaires. Factors influencing treatment-limiting decisions were categorised into 'patient and disease factors' (age, chronic disease, functional limitation, patient and family wishes, comorbidity, quality of life, acute presenting disorder type, severity and reversibility), 'hospital factors' (colleague opinion, resource availability) and 'non-patient healthcare factors' (moral, ethical, social and cost factors). CONCLUSIONS Several factors influence decisions to limit treatment in the ED. Many factors are objective and quantifiable, but some are subjective and open to individual interpretation. This review highlights the complexity of the subject and the need for more robust research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Walzl
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ian A Sammy
- Emergency Department, Scarborough General Hospital, Lower Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
- Tobago Regional Health Authority, Lower Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Paul M Taylor
- The University of Sheffield School of Health and Related Research, Sheffield, UK
- St Luke's Hospice, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jason E Smith
- Emergency Department, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
- Academic Department of Military Emergency Medicine, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (Research and Academia), Birmingham, UK
| | - David J Lowe
- Emergency Department, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
- University of Glasgow College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
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Bowers B, Pollock K, Barclay S. Unwelcome memento mori or best clinical practice? Community end of life anticipatory medication prescribing practice: A mixed methods observational study. Palliat Med 2022; 36:95-104. [PMID: 34493122 PMCID: PMC8796157 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211043382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anticipatory medications are injectable drugs prescribed ahead of possible need for administration if distressing symptoms arise in the final days of life. Little is known about how they are prescribed in primary care. AIM To investigate the frequency, timing and recorded circumstances of anticipatory medications prescribing for patients living at home and in residential care. DESIGN Retrospective mixed methods observational study using General Practitioner and community nursing clinical records. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS 329 deceased adult patients registered with Eleven General Practitioner practices and two associated community nursing services in two English counties (30 most recent deaths per practice). Patients died from any cause except trauma, sudden death or suicide, between 4 March 2017 and 25 September 2019. RESULTS Anticipatory medications were prescribed for 167/329 (50.8%) of the deceased patients, between 0 and 1212 days before death (median 17 days). The likelihood of prescribing was significantly higher for patients with a recorded preferred place of death (odds ratio [OR] 34; 95% CI 15-77; p < 0.001) and specialist palliative care involvement (OR 7; 95% CI 3-19; p < 0.001). For 66.5% of patients (111/167) anticipatory medications were recorded as being prescribed as part of a single end-of-life planning intervention. CONCLUSION The variability in the timing of prescriptions highlights the challenges in diagnosing the end-of-life phase and the potential risks of prescribing far in advance of possible need. Patient and family views and experiences of anticipatory medication care, and their preferences for involvement in prescribing decision-making, warrant urgent investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Bowers
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kristian Pollock
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research into Supportive, Palliative and End of Life Care, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Stephen Barclay
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Macchi ZA, Lum HD. Advance care planning in neurologic illness. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 190:129-148. [PMID: 36055711 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-85029-2.00004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Advance care planning (ACP) is an essential element of neuropalliative care for persons living acquired brain injuries or progressive, neurodegenerative conditions like dementia. This includes early recognition of these conditions as needing timely ACP conversations to maximize patient autonomy and capacity in early disease, leading to discussions and documentation of patients' values and preferences for future care. ACP involves assessing patient readiness, evaluating decision-making capacity, initiating discussions early and iteratively in the disease course, identifying and preparing surrogate decision makers, and documenting patients' goals-of-care. However, this process presents unique challenges for clinicians and patients' families as individuals lose the ability to meaningfully engage in conversations due to multiple factors related to brain dysfunction. This includes evaluations of capacity for medical decision-making which consider the context in which discussions are held across multiple timepoints with repeated conversations. Research has shown that engaging in early ACP leads to greater goal-concordant care in advanced neurologic illness and affects end-of-life medical decision-making. Clinicians should be familiar with the significance of ACP in this context, understand ways for approaching these difficult discussions with patients and their families, and be aware of evidence-based tools which prepare and aid patients for these discussions. Here, we review ACP in the context of serious neurologic illness and discuss how clinicians can approach conversations with patients and families, ensure patients' values and preferences are documented and available, and explore tools which may enhance the ACP process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Macchi
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States; Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Hillary D Lum
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.
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Aaron SP, Gazaway SB, Harrell ER, Elk R. Disparities and Racism Experienced Among Older African Americans Nearing End of Life. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2021; 10:157-166. [PMID: 34956825 PMCID: PMC8685164 DOI: 10.1007/s13670-021-00366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The purpose of this review is to examine racism in healthcare as it relates to older African American adults. We focus on health disparities in old age and medical mismanagement throughout their lifespan. Recent Findings In the United States there have been extensive medical advances over the past several decades. Individuals are living longer, and illnesses that were deemed terminal in the past are now considered chronic illnesses. While most individuals living with chronic illness have experienced better quality of life, this is not the case for many African American older adults. Summary Older African American adults are less likely to have their chronic illness sufficiently managed and are more likely to die from chronic illnesses that are well controlled in Whites. African American older adults also continue to suffer from poorer healthcare outcomes throughout the lifespan to end-of-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan P Aaron
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, 10 2000 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 U.S.A
| | - Shena B Gazaway
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL U.S.A
| | - Erin R Harrell
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL U.S.A
| | - Ronit Elk
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL U.S.A
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Noh H, Lee HY, Lee LH, Luo Y. Awareness of Hospice Care Among Rural African-Americans: Findings From Social Determinants of Health Framework. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:822-830. [PMID: 34856830 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211057847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite the need for hospice care as our society ages, adults in the U.S.'s southern rural region have limited awareness of hospice care. Objective: This study aims to assess the rate of awareness of hospice care among rural residents living in Alabama's Black Belt region and examine social determinants of health (SDH) associated with the awareness. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a convenience sample living in Alabama's Black Belt region (N = 179, age = 18-91). Participants' awareness of hospice care, demographic characteristics (ie, age and gender), and SDH (ie, financial resources strain, food insecurity, education and health literacy, social isolation, and interpersonal safety) were assessed. Lastly, a binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between SDH and hospice awareness among participants while controlling for demographic characteristics. Results: The majority of participants had heard of hospice care (n = 150, 82.1%), and older participants (50 years old or older) were more likely to report having heard of hospice care (OR = 7.35, P < 0.05). Participants reporting worries about stable housing (OR = 0.05, P < 0.05) and higher social isolation were less likely to have heard of hospice care (OR = 0.53, P < 0.05), while participants with higher health literacy had a higher likelihood to have heard of it (OR = 2.60, P < 0.01). Conclusions: Our study is the first study assessing the status of hospice awareness among residents of Alabama's Black Belt region. This study highlighted that factors including age and certain SDH (ie, housing status, health literacy, and social isolation) might be considered in the intervention to improve hospice awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjin Noh
- The University of Alabama School of Social Work, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Hee Y Lee
- The University of Alabama School of Social Work, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Lewis H Lee
- The University of Alabama School of Social Work, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Yan Luo
- The University of Alabama School of Social Work, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
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Pedrosa Carrasco AJ, Koch M, Machacek T, Genz A, Herzog S, Riera Knorrenschild J, von Blanckenburg P, Seifart C. ' It was like taking an inner bath': A qualitative evaluation of a collaborative advance care planning-approach. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1897-1907. [PMID: 34479460 PMCID: PMC8637376 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211043209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impaired readiness may hinder purposeful advance care planning in cancer patients. To reduce barriers to participation in end-of-life decision-making, a collaborative intervention was developed combining a psycho-oncological approach of dignity-based and cognitive-behavioural interventions, followed by a standardised advance care planning-process. AIM To evaluate the novel collaborative advance care planning-approach by synthetising cancer patient and carer perspectives on communicational and relational effects. DESIGN As a sub-project of a mixed-methods evaluation study, we conducted an inductive content analysis of qualitative interviews with advanced cancer patients and caregivers to deeply explore the focused impact of a collaborative advance care planning-approach on communication and relationship dynamics. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Twelve patients with advanced cancer and 13 carers who participated in a collaborative advance care planning-intervention. RESULTS The collaborative advance care planning-approach was consistently evaluated positively by participants. Transcriptions of the semi-structured interviews were coded, analysed and merged under three main themes concerning communicational and relationship dynamics: action readiness, content readiness and impact on future communication and relationship. CONCLUSIONS The novel intervention served to foster individual readiness - including action and content readiness - for advance care planning-discussions by addressing highly individualised barriers to participation, as well as specific end-of-life issues. In addition, societal readiness could be promoted. Although the brief psycho-oncological intervention could not fully meet the needs of all participants, it can be used to develop individual psychotherapeutic strategies to improve different facets of readiness. The collaborative advance care planning-approach might require more time and human resources, but could pioneer successful advance care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Koch
- Study Group Ethics in Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Haematology Division, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Teresa Machacek
- Study Group Ethics in Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Anna Genz
- Study Group Ethics in Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Svenja Herzog
- Study Group Ethics in Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jorge Riera Knorrenschild
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Immunology, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia von Blanckenburg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Carola Seifart
- Study Group Ethics in Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Orlovic M, Warraich H, Wolf D, Mossialos E. End-of-Life Planning Depends on Socio-Economic and Racial Background: Evidence from the US Health and Retirement Study (HRS). J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:1198-1206. [PMID: 34062220 PMCID: PMC8628022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Americans express a strong preference for participating in decisions regarding their medical care, yet they are often unable to participate in decision-making regarding their end-of-life care. OBJECTIVE To examine determinants of end-of-life planning; including, the effect of an individual's ageing and dying process, health status and socio-economic and racial/ethnic background. METHODS US observational cohort study, using data from the Health and Retirement Study (1992 - 2014) including 37,494 individuals. Random-effects logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between the presence of a living will and a range of individual time-varying characteristics, including time to death, and several time-invariant characteristics. RESULTS End-of-life planning depends on several patient characteristics and circumstances, with socio-economic and racial/ethnic background having the largest effects. The probability of having a living will rises sharply late in life, as we would expect, and is further modified by the patient's proximity to death. The dying process, exerts a stronger influence on end-of-life planning than does the aging. CONCLUSIONS Understanding differences that increase end-of-life planning is important to incentivize patients' participation. Advance planning should be encouraged and accessible to people of all ages as it is inevitable for the provision of patient-centered and cost-effective care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Orlovic
- Imperial College London (M.O., E.M.), Department of Surgery and Cancer, London, UK.
| | - Haider Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School (H.W.), Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medicine, Cardiology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System (H.W.), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Douglas Wolf
- Department of Public Administration and International Affairs, Syracuse University (D.W.), Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Elias Mossialos
- Imperial College London (M.O., E.M.), Department of Surgery and Cancer, London, UK; London School of Economics and Political Science (E.M.), Department of Health Policy, London, UK
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Baughman KR, Ludwick R, Jarjoura D, Yeager M, Kropp D. Multi-Site Study of Provider Self-Efficacy and Beliefs in Explaining Judgments About Need and Responsibility for Advance Care Planning. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 38:1276-1281. [PMID: 33291962 PMCID: PMC8490652 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120979977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES We examined the impact of advance care planning (ACP) self-efficacy and beliefs in explaining skilled nursing facility (SNF) provider judgments about resident need and provider responsibility for initiating ACP conversations. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This observational multi-site study of 348 registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and social workers within 29 SNFs used an anonymous survey in which providers judged vignettes with assigned situational features of a typical SNF resident. Mixed modeling was used to analyze the vignette responses. RESULTS Providers who had more negative beliefs about ACP were less likely to judge residents in need of ACP and less likely to feel responsible for ensuring ACP took place. Self-efficacy did not have a significant impact on judgments of need, but did significantly increase judgments of responsibility for ensuring ACP conversations. Providers with the highest levels of ACP self-efficacy were most likely to feel responsible for ensuring ACP conversations. In an exploratory analysis, these relationships remained the same whether responding to high or low risk residents (i.e., based on risk of hospitalization, type of diagnosis, functional status, and rate of declining health). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Both negative beliefs about ACP and self-efficacy in one's ability to conduct ACP discussions were associated with professional judgments regarding ACP. The findings illustrate the importance of addressing negative beliefs about ACP and increasing provider ACP self-efficacy through education and policies that empower nurses and social workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin R. Baughman
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Ruth Ludwick
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
- Kent State University, OH, USA
| | | | - Mia Yeager
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Denise Kropp
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
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Brophy NS, Seiter CR, Zhao X. COVID-19 Risk Perceptions and Intentions to Engage in Familial Advance Care Planning: The Mediating Role of Death Anxiety. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 26:684-695. [PMID: 34779344 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2021.1998844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Advance care planning (ACP) is the process of communicating about end-of-life (EOL) care with loved ones. Due to the deadly nature of COVID-19, ACP is vital. Unfortunately, fewer than 30% of American patients engage in ACP. In addition to low motivation, people experiencing death anxiety (DA) similarly avoid ACP. This finding coincides with predictions from terror management theory (TMT) that people avoid DA-arousing behaviors. Guided by the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the health belief model (HBM), we posited COVID-19 risk perceptions would be positively associated with determinants of health behavior, including intention to share and ask loved ones about EOL wishes, as well as the associated attitudes, norms, and level of perceived behavioral control regarding ACP. Guided by TMT, we posited that DA negatively mediated relationships between COVID-19 risk perceptions and these behavioral determinants. An MTurk participant sample (N = 522) completed a survey about COVID-19 risk perceptions, DA, and health behavior determinants in the context of ACP. Results indicate COVID-19 risk perceptions were rarely directly related to these determinants. However, results of PROCESS mediation models examining the role of DA in these relationships reveal a different picture. While direct relationships were rarely significant, DA negatively mediated most relationships between COVID-19 risk perceptions and behavioral determinants. Our results indicate DA demotivates EOL communication during the COVID-19 pandemic; a concerning yet important finding due to the increased importance of ACP in the context of a deadly disease like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nate S Brophy
- Department of Communication, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
| | - Christian R Seiter
- Department of Human Communication Studies, California State University, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Xiaoquan Zhao
- Department of Communication, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
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Kozlov E, McDarby M, Duberstein P, Carpenter BD. The Feasibility and Acceptability of an Intergenerational, Web-Based Intervention to Enhance Later-Life Family Care Planning. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 61:1153-1163. [PMID: 32946554 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnaa137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Adult children collaborate with older parents on care needs, yet later-life families are often uncertain about how to approach these conversations. Using the McMaster Model of Family Functioning as a framework, we developed a web-based tool for later-life families to enhance communication, knowledge, and problem solving around parent preferences for care. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Participants were older adult parents aged 65+ and at least one of their adult children. Families answered questions about the parent's care preferences via a web-based survey. Responses were aggregated in a tailored PDF that was distributed to each participant. Descriptive statistics were calculated to examine recruitment, retention, and satisfaction with the program. Repeated measures analyses of variance were calculated to determine preliminary efficacy of the intervention. RESULTS This study included 142 participants across 49 families (n = 49 older adult parents, n = 93 adult children). Of them, 75.4% completed all three phases of the study while 18.3% completed two phases and 6.3% completed only one phase. Seventy-four percent of participants reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the intervention. At baseline, most families were modestly incongruent in their ratings of future care preferences. Participants reported increased conversations about care across the course of the study (F(1.71,179.32) = 42.18, p < .001). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS This study demonstrated that a web-based intervention to enhance intergenerational communication is feasible, acceptable, and has preliminary efficacy to improve intergenerational communication. Despite recruitment challenges, similarly designed web-based resources may improve accessibility and scalability of intergenerational communication-enhancing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa Kozlov
- Institute for Health, Health Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Meghan McDarby
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Paul Duberstein
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Brian D Carpenter
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri
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