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Linse K, Weber C, Reilich P, Schöberl F, Boentert M, Petri S, Rödiger A, Posa A, Otto M, Wolf J, Zeller D, Brunkhorst R, Koch J, Hermann A, Großkreutz J, Schröter C, Groß M, Lingor P, Machetanz G, Semmler L, Dorst J, Lulé D, Ludolph A, Meyer T, Maier A, Metelmann M, Regensburger M, Winkler J, Schrank B, Kohl Z, Hagenacker T, Brakemeier S, Weyen U, Weiler M, Lorenzl S, Bublitz S, Weydt P, Grehl T, Kotterba S, Lapp HS, Freigang M, Vidovic M, Aust E, Günther R. Patients' and caregivers' perception of multidimensional and palliative care in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - protocol of a German multicentre study. Neurol Res Pract 2024; 6:34. [PMID: 38961496 PMCID: PMC11223310 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-024-00328-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an inevitably fatal condition that leads to a progressive loss of physical functioning, which results in a high psychosocial burden and organizational challenges related to medical care. Multidimensional and multiprofessional care is advised to meet the complex needs of patients and their families. Many healthcare systems, including Germany, may not be able to meet these needs because non-medical services such as psychological support or social counselling are not regularly included in the care of patients with ALS (pwALS). Specialised neuropalliative care is not routinely implemented nor widely available. Caregivers of pwALS are also highly burdened, but there is still a lack of support services for them. METHODS This project aims to assess the perceptions and satisfaction with ALS care in Germany in pwALS and their caregivers. This will be achieved by means of a cross-sectional, multicentre survey. The examination will assess, to which extend the patients' needs in the six domains of physical, psychological, social, spiritual, practical and informational are being met by current care structures. This assessment will be linked to mental well-being, subjective quality of life, attitudes toward life-sustaining measures and physician-assisted suicide, and caregiver burden. The study aims to recruit 500 participants from nationwide ALS centres in order to draw comprehensive conclusions for Germany. A total of 29 centres, mostly acquired via the clinical and scientific German Network for Motor Neuron Diseases (MND-NET), will take part in the project, 25 of which have already started recruitment. PERSPECTIVE It is intended to provide data-based starting points on how current practice of care in Germany is perceived pwALS and their caregivers and how it can be improved according to their needs. Planning and initiation of the study has been completed. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study is registered at ClinicalTrails.gov; NCT06418646.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Linse
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Dresden, Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Constanze Weber
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Peter Reilich
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, München, Germany
| | - Florian Schöberl
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, München, Germany
| | - Matthias Boentert
- University Hospital Münster (UKM), Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
- Department of Medicine, UKM-Marienhospital Steinfurt, Mauritiusstr. 5, 48565, Steinfurt, Germany
| | - Susanne Petri
- Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Posa
- University Hospital Halle, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Markus Otto
- University Hospital Halle, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Joachim Wolf
- Deaconess Hospital Mannheim, Speyerer Strasse 91-93, 68163, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniel Zeller
- University Hospital Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Robert Brunkhorst
- University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Koch
- University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- University Medical Center Rostock, Translational Neurodegeneration Section "Albrecht Kossel", Gehlsheimer Strasse 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Rostock/Greifswald, Gehlsheimer Strasse 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Carsten Schröter
- Hospital Hoher Meißner, Hardtstrasse 36, 37242, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany
| | - Martin Groß
- Evangelic Hospital Oldenburg, Steinweg 13-17, 26122, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Paul Lingor
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Munich, Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerrit Machetanz
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Luisa Semmler
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Johannes Dorst
- University Hospital Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dorothée Lulé
- University Hospital Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Albert Ludolph
- University Hospital Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Meyer
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - André Maier
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Moritz Metelmann
- University Hospital Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 20, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Winkler
- University Hospital Erlangen, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Berthold Schrank
- DKD Helios Clinic Wiesbaden, Aukammallee 33, 65191, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Zacharias Kohl
- University Hospital Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tim Hagenacker
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Svenja Brakemeier
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Ute Weyen
- BG University Hospital Bochum, Bürkle de la Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - Markus Weiler
- Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Lorenzl
- Hospital Agatharied, Norbert-Kerkel-Platz, 83734, Hausham, Germany
- Institute of Palliative Care and Institute of Nursing Science, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, München, Germany
| | - Sarah Bublitz
- Hospital Agatharied, Norbert-Kerkel-Platz, 83734, Hausham, Germany
- Institute of Palliative Care and Institute of Nursing Science, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Patrick Weydt
- University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Torsten Grehl
- Alfried-Krupp-Hospital Essen, Alfried-Krupp-Strasse 21, 45131, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Hanna-Sophie Lapp
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maren Freigang
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maximilian Vidovic
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Elisa Aust
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - René Günther
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Dresden, Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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Trucco AP, Backhouse T, Mioshi E, Kishita N. Factors associated with grief in informal carers of people living with Motor Neuron Disease: A mixed methods systematic review. DEATH STUDIES 2024; 48:103-117. [PMID: 36995270 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2191351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this mixed methods systematic review was to identify factors associated with anticipatory grief, post-death grief, and prolonged grief in informal carers of people living with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) to inform future research and practice. Six electronic databases were searched and two quantitative and eight qualitative studies were identified. Five overarching themes were generated through thematic synthesis. The findings suggest that there are factors that may affect different grieving processes. It might be particularly important to target some factors prior and after the death of the person living with MND such as the knowledge about the progression of the disease, changes in relationships, anxiety and depressive symptoms of carers, and planning for death of the care recipient. Factors that may affect all three grieving processes were also identified such as negative experiences of caregiving, experiences of losses, end of life and psychological support, and emotional avoidance coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Trucco
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Tamara Backhouse
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Eneida Mioshi
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Naoko Kishita
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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Palazzo L, Pizzolato L, Rigo M, Bondì G. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Its Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study with Thematic Analysis of Patients and Caregivers Who Participated in Self-Help Groups. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:822. [PMID: 37887472 PMCID: PMC10604104 DOI: 10.3390/bs13100822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study employs a qualitative methodology to explore the effects of the pandemic on the lives of ALS patients and their caregivers. It aims to understand whether and how online self-help groups have assisted families dealing with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. ALS is a neurodegenerative disease with both physical and psychosocial implications. Consequently, it significantly affects the lives of patients' caregivers. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this situation. The results show that the pandemic has had a negative impact on the well-being of ALS caregivers and patients. Furthermore, bereavement and death were dealt with in different ways by the families involved. The pandemic aggravated the health of ALS patients and increased the workload of their caregivers; however, online psychological support was appreciated for its role in providing emotional help and diminishing social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Palazzo
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (M.R.); (G.B.)
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Velaga VC, Cook A, Auret K, Jenkins T, Thomas G, Aoun SM. Palliative and End-of-Life Care for People Living with Motor Neurone Disease: Ongoing Challenges and Necessity for Shifting Directions. Brain Sci 2023; 13:920. [PMID: 37371398 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the progressive clinical trajectory of motor neurone disease (MND) is widely understood, multiple challenges remain preventing optimal end-of-life care for this population with unique needs from the patient, carer and service provider perspectives. This paper reports on the experiences, gaps in service and unmet needs of MND patients and family carers and explores public health palliative care approaches that would facilitate coordinated and integrated care to respond to their changing needs. This is a qualitative study of responses to questions in an online consumer survey (353 respondents) in Western Australia (2020), focusing on a subset of 29 current and bereaved carers of people with MND who have used health services in the last five years. The analysis identified themes, highlighting the insufficient integration of services across health and social care; poor and unequal access to coordinated palliative care; significant gaps in the knowledge base of the workforce and a failure to meet the consumer expectations of person-centred care. For palliative care to be accessible to those living with MND and other under-served conditions, there needs to be a shift to more comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable options, such as the public health approach to palliative/end-of-life care that engages the assets of local communities in partnership with health services, one example being the "Compassionate Communities Connectors" model of care. Further considerations include advocacy for policy changes, fostering partnerships and developing indicators for evaluating the impact of the proposed models of care. The end result is not only better care but substantial savings for the health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek C Velaga
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Clifton Street Building, Clifton Street, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Kirsten Auret
- Rural Clinical School of Western Australia, University of Western Australia, Building M701/31 Stirling Terrace, Albany, WA 6330, Australia
| | - Tom Jenkins
- St John of God Midland Hospital, 1 Clayton Street, Midland, WA 6056, Australia
| | - Geoff Thomas
- Thomas MND Research Group, 48 Grevillea Way, Blackwood, SA 5051, Australia
| | - Samar M Aoun
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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Daneau S, Bourbonnais A, Allard É, Asri M, Ummel D, Bolduc E. 'Intensive palliative care': a qualitative study of issues related to nurses' care of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at end-of-life. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231170881. [PMID: 37151782 PMCID: PMC10155001 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231170881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is currently an incurable and fatal disease, which often comes with a high symptom burden at the end-of-life stage. Little is known about nurses' experiences in this context. Objective To explore the experience of nurses caring for people with ALS at end-of-life. Design A qualitative multiple-case study design. Method Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted between February and August 2022 with nurses from Quebec, Canada, who had provided care to at least one person living with ALS at the end-of-life in the past 12 months. The content analysis method was used for data analysis and within-case and cross-case analyses were conducted, as well as comparative analyses according to the type of position held by the participants that determined the cases: (1) home care, (2) hospital and (3) palliative care home. Results Participating in the study were 24 nurses: 9 were from home care, 8 from hospitals and 7 from palliative care homes. Five main themes were identified: (1) identifying the end-of-life period, (2) communication issues, (3) supporting the need for control, (4) accompanying in the fight culture and (5) the extent of the need for care. A sixth theme was also added in order to report the need expressed by nurses to improve their care of patients living with ALS at end-of-life. Conclusions Although nurses' experiences varied among the different settings, the study identifies the pressing need for better education and, above all, more resources when caring for a person living with ALS at end-of-life. Future research should explore the experiences of other members of the healthcare team and test interventions designed to improve the quality of life and end-of-life of people living with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Bourbonnais
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal,
Montréal, QC, Canada
- Research Chair in Nursing Care for Older People
and their Families, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Canada Research Chair in Care for Older People,
Montréal, QC, Canada
- Research Centre of the Institut universitaire
de gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Émilie Allard
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal,
Montréal, QC, Canada
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins
Palliatifs et de Fin de Vie (RQSPAL), Quebec, QC, Canada
- Centre for Research and Intervention on
Suicide, Ethical Issues, and End-of-life Practices (CRISE), Montreal, QC,
Canada
| | - Myriam Asri
- Department of Nursing, Université du Québec à
Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Deborah Ummel
- Department of Psychoeducation, Université de
Sherbrooke, Longueuil, QC, Canada
- Réseau Québécois de Recherche en Soins
Palliatifs et de Fin de Vie (RQSPAL), Quebec, QC, Canada
- Centre for Research and Intervention on
Suicide, Ethical Issues, and End-of-life Practices (CRISE), Montreal, QC,
Canada
- Centre de Recherche Charles-Le Moyne (CRCLM),
Longueuil, QC, Canada
| | - Elliot Bolduc
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec
à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
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Ando H, Cousins R, Young CA. Flexibility to manage and enhance quality of life among people with motor neurone disease. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 44:2752-2762. [PMID: 33226867 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1846797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify influential factors for quality of life (QoL) among individuals with motor neurone disease (MND) and explore how regulatory flexibility and psychological flexibility may contribute towards maintaining and improving QoL. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 individuals with MND. Thematic analysis, using both inductive and deductive analyses, was employed to examine subjective QoL in view of previous understanding of QoL. RESULTS Four factors were important for the QoL of participants: perceived illness prognosis, sense of self, concerns for significant others, and life to enjoy. These factors reflected psychological stress caused by MND, the participant's value system, and their beliefs about life. In optimising QoL, both regulatory flexibility and psychological flexibility were essential to maintain and enhance QoL. Often, regulatory flexibility was perceived among those employing a mindful approach, and psychological flexibility was found to involve savouring positive experiences. CONCLUSIONS People with MND reported that seeking ways to both maintain and enhance their QoL is crucial, and that this may be accomplished by increasing flexibility through mindfulness and savouring. (171/200 words)Implications for rehabilitationPeople with motor neurone disease (MND) seek to maintain quality of life (QoL) following changes caused by the condition, whilst attempting to enhance QoL by maximising their positive experiences.Regulatory flexibility is essential to maintain QoL and it was closely associated with mindful approach so that MND is not perceived as an inevitable threat to QoL.Psychological flexibility was found to enhance QoL and it involves savouring positive experiences, while abandoning fault-finding of the current situation.Positive inter-personal interactions can encourage people with MND to engage with mindfulness and savouring for favourable outcomes in terms of QoL; current support services should orient towards both mindfulness and savouring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Ando
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rosanna Cousins
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
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Erdmann A, Spoden C, Hirschberg I, Neitzke G. Talking about the end of life: communication patterns in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – a scoping review. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221083676. [PMID: 35309870 PMCID: PMC8928370 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221083676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) leads to death on average 2–4 years after the onset of symptoms. Although many people with the disease decide in favour of life-sustaining measures, some consider hastening death. The objectives of this review are to provide an insight into the following questions: (1) How do people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (PALS), their families and health care professionals (HCPs) communicate about life-sustaining and life-shortening options? (2) What are the challenges for all involved in decision making and communication about this topic? To answer these questions, we searched eight databases for publications in English and German on end-of-life issues of PALS. We included texts published between 2008 and 2018, and updated our search to May 2020. Sources were analysed in MAXQDA using deductively and inductively generated codes. After the final analysis, 123 full texts were included in this review. We identified a wide range of communicative challenges and six different and, in part, opposite communication patterns: avoiding or delaying communication on end-of-life issues, openly considering dying and actively seeking assistance, ignoring or disregarding patients’ wishes, discussing and respecting the patients’ wishes, engaging in advance care planning and avoiding or delaying advance care planning. The literature reveals a very heterogeneous response to end-of-life issues in ALS, despite several good-practice suggestions, examples and guidelines. We derive a strong need for harmonization and quality assurance concerning communication with PALS. Avoiding or delaying communication, decision making and planning, as well as ignoring or disregarding the patient’s will by HCP can be judged as a violation of the ethical principles of autonomy and non-maleficence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Erdmann
- Institute for Experimental Medicine, Medical Ethics Working Group, Kiel University, 24105 Kiel, Germany
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Celia Spoden
- German Institute for Japanese Studies, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Irene Hirschberg
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerald Neitzke
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Knox L, McDermott C, Hobson E. Telehealth in long-term neurological conditions: the potential, the challenges and the key recommendations. J Med Eng Technol 2022; 46:506-517. [PMID: 35212580 DOI: 10.1080/03091902.2022.2040625] [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: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Long-term neurological conditions (LTNCs) cause physical and psychological symptoms that have a significant impact on activities of daily living and quality of life. Multidisciplinary teams are effective at providing treatment for people with LTNCs; however, access to such services by people with disabilities can be difficult and as a result, good quality care is not universal. One potential solution is telehealth. This review describes the potential of telehealth to support people with LTNCs, the challenges of designing and implementing these systems, and the key recommendations for those involved in telehealth to facilitate connected services that can benefit patients, carers and healthcare professionals. These recommendations include understanding the problems posed by LTNCs and the needs of the end-user through a person-centred approach. We discuss how to work collaboratively and use shared learning, and consider how to effectively evaluate the intervention at every stage of the development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Knox
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Christopher McDermott
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
| | - Esther Hobson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
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Caregivers' View of Socio-Medical Care in the Terminal Phase of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-How Can We Improve Holistic Care in ALS? J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11010254. [PMID: 35011995 PMCID: PMC8745628 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11010254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidimensional socio-medical care with an early integration of palliative principles is strongly recommended in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but provided inconsistently. We conducted telephone interviews with 49 former caregivers of deceased ALS patients to examine their experience of care in the terminal phase including caregiver burden. Patients who received specialized palliative care (45% of patients) were more likely to die at home (p = 0.004) and without burdening symptoms (p = 0.021). The majority of caregivers (86%) reported deficits in socio-medical care. Most frequently mentioned were problems receiving medical aids (45%) and a lack of caregiver support (35%). A higher level of deficits experienced by caregivers was associated with negative health outcomes on the side of the caregivers (reported by 57% of them; p = 0.002) and stronger caregiver burden (p = 0.004). To provide good quality of dying to patients and reduce the burden on caregivers, multidimensional—including palliative—care in ALS urgently needs to be strengthened in the healthcare structures.
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Skantharajah N, Barrie C, Baxter S, Carolina Borja M, Butters A, Dudgeon D, Haque A, Mahmood I, Mirhosseini M, Mirza RM, Ankita A, Thrower C, Vadeboncoeur C, Wan A, Klinger CA. The Grief and Bereavement Experiences of Informal Caregivers: A Scoping Review of the North American Literature. J Palliat Care 2021; 37:242-258. [PMID: 34860618 PMCID: PMC9109594 DOI: 10.1177/08258597211052269] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: Informal caregivers are a significant part of the
hospice and palliative care landscape as members of the interdisciplinary care
team. Despite this, little is known about the impact this responsibility has on
informal caregivers’ experiences of grief and bereavement.
Objective: To address this, a scoping review of the literature
was conducted to explore the current state of knowledge toward grief and
bereavement of informal caregivers of adult/geriatric patients in the hospice
and palliative/end-of-life care realm within North America.
Methods: Using Arksey and O’Malley's 5-step framework, key
electronic health care and social sciences databases (eg, CINAHL, MEDLINE,
ProQuest Sociological Abstracts, PsycINFO) alongside gray literature sources
were searched and screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria. A thematic
content analysis was used to identify key themes. Results: 29
articles met the final inclusion criteria with 3 central themes emerging: (1)
mediators of grief, (2) grief experiences, and (3) types of grief.
Discussion: Informal caregivers encounter unique grief and
bereavement experiences: The range of psychosocial outcomes, both negative and
positive, can be affected by various mediators such as caregiver burden,
demographics, disease type of the patient being cared for, etc. Bereavement
interventions must be designed with the mediators of grief in mind.
Conclusions: Understanding the nuances of informal caregivers’
experiences with grief and bereavement will inform and advance practice, policy,
and research. Practitioners/clinicians should be further educated on how to
properly acknowledge the complexity of grief and bereavement for informal
caregivers, specifically paying attention to mediators. Further research needs
to consider the role of culture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carol Barrie
- Canadian Frailty Network (CFN), Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon Baxter
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Deborah Dudgeon
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Mehrnoush Mirhosseini
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.,University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Raza M Mirza
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Christina Vadeboncoeur
- Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Network of Palliative Care for Children (CNPCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Wan
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Klinger
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Pallium Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Erdmann A, Spoden C, Hirschberg I, Neitzke G. The wish to die and hastening death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021; 11:271-287. [PMID: 33397660 PMCID: PMC8380909 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) develops into a life-threatening condition 2 to 4 years after the onset of symptoms. Although many people with the disease decide in favour of life-sustaining measures, thoughts about hastening death are not uncommon. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to examine the scope of literature on the wish to die in ALS and provide an insight into determinants and motives for different end-of-life options. METHODS We searched eight databases for English and German publications on death wishes in ALS for the period from 2008 to 2018 and updated the search up to May 2020. After the screening process, 213 full texts were included for the final analysis. We analysed the texts in MAXQDA, using deductively and inductively generated codes. RESULTS We identified end-of-life considerations, ranging from wishes to die without hastening death, to options with the possibility or intention of hastening death. Besides physical impairment, especially psychosocial factors, socio-demographic status and socio-cultural context have a great impact on decisions for life-shortening options. There is huge variation in the motives and determinants for end-of-life considerations between individuals, different societies, healthcare and legal systems. CONCLUSIONS For a variety of reasons, the information and counselling provided on different options for sustaining life or hastening death is often incomplete and insufficient. Since the motives and determinants for the wish to hasten death are extremely diverse, healthcare professionals should investigate the reasons, meaning and strength of the desire to die to detect unmet needs and examine which interventions are appropriate in each individual case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Erdmann
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Medicine, Medical Ethics Working Group, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Celia Spoden
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Irene Hirschberg
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerald Neitzke
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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12
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Interpreting end-of-life experiences of the person with motor neurone disease. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:300-301. [PMID: 34167614 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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13
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Chapman C, Bayes S, Sim M. Communication surrounding initiation and withdrawal of non-invasive ventilation in adults with Motor Neuron(e) Disease: clinicians’ and family members’ perspectives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CARE COORDINATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/20534345211010132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction International guidelines recommend that health care clinicians communicate with people with MND and their family members about non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and percutaneous gastrostomy tube (PEG) prior to or at the onset of respiratory symptoms. This study sought to discover the degree to which these recommendations are followed in practice. Methods Interpretive Description methodology was employed. Nineteen clinicians experienced in caring for people with MND, six relatives of recently deceased people with MND and one person with MND participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Clinicians’ accounts of NIV and PEG related communications were compared to family member participants’ recollections of their own discussions with clinicians. Data were analysed thematically. Results Six major themes emerged that together capture the factors that impact practitioner-patient-family communications about NIV and PEG. Some clinicians were unaware of MND guidelines particularly communicating the burdens or possible withdrawal of NIV or found them challenging to implement. Consequently, family participants reported that they and their relatives with MND found clinicians’ communication on these topics inadequate. This led to them ‘topping up’ their knowledge from less authoritative sources, predominantly the internet. Discussion Clinicians’ lack of awareness of the international guidelines and discomfort about discussing the benefits and burdens of NIV and PEGs means some people with MND and their families may be unprepared for the consequences of using and ceasing NIV.
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14
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Family Caregiver Suffering in Caring for Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094937. [PMID: 34066364 PMCID: PMC8125242 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094937] [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: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the meaning of the suffering experience of Korean ALS family caregivers. This is a descriptive phenomenological study that included ten participants using convenience sampling with maximum variation in a tertiary hospital in Seoul, South Korea. Colaizzi's data analysis method was used to inductively determine themes and formulate meanings. The three main themes derived from analysis were: "frustration with seeing a patient suffering", "burnout at the cost of a life of dedication", and "desperate need for help". Caregivers experience high levels of suffering, which can come in various forms depending on the circumstances of the particular patient and family. Especially, distress from seeing a loved one suffering was another aspect of suffering in Korean ALS caregivers, reflecting strong family ties. At the same time, patients are in desperate need of help and support from their families. Thus, it is essential to provide care to lessen the causes of distress and meet the needs of not only patients, but also caregivers through family-centered care to improve overall quality of life for all involved.
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15
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Toze M, Ray M, George T, Sisson K, Nelson D. End of life care for long-term neurological conditions: A meta-ethnographic review of the experiences of informal carers. Palliat Med 2021; 35:335-354. [PMID: 33238811 PMCID: PMC7897797 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320974262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family and friends are key providers of care for people living with a long-term neurological condition. Neurological conditions are a significant global contributor to disability and premature death. However, previous research suggests carers often struggle to access appropriate support at end of life. AIMS This review sought to synthesise qualitative studies discussing end-of-life and palliative issues for informal carers supporting people living with neurological conditions. DESIGN This was a meta-ethnographic synthesis of 38 qualitative studies discussing end-of-life and palliative issues for informal carers supporting people living with long-term neurological conditions. DATA SOURCES Qualitative articles published after January 2010 in English, addressing carers of people with long-term neurological conditions with regard to palliative care, end of life and/or bereavement. Papers were excluded if it was not possible to separately assess the views of carers. Quality appraisal was not undertaken, but consideration was given to research context. RESULTS Across the papers, five key themes were identified: the future (un)certainties in the progression of life-limiting neurological conditions; an information paradox of not receiving the right information at the right time; access to support; carers' roles in decision making around end of life; and maintaining continuity while facing change and disruption in day-to-day living. CONCLUSIONS Given the broad agreement on the challenges faced by carers of people living with long-term neurological conditions, future research should consider opportunities to improve information and support for this group, and the development and evaluation of practical models of service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Toze
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Mo Ray
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Thomas George
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Kelly Sisson
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - David Nelson
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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