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Robbins-Welty GA, Chammas D, Silverman EJ, Lowry MF, Hale E, Martinez C, Nakatani MM, Shalev D, Noufi P, Riordan PA, Brenner KO, Rosa WE, Jones CA. Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Diagnosing, Categorizing, and Addressing Fatigue. J Palliat Med 2024. [PMID: 39052494 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2024.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is a multifactorial symptom that is commonly faced by patients with cancer, chronic disease, and other serious illnesses. Fatigue causes suffering across biopsychosocial domains and affects patients and their loved ones. In this article, a consortium of professionals across cancer care, physical therapy, exercise, pharmacy, psychiatry, and palliative medicine offers tips and insights on evaluating, categorizing, and addressing fatigue in the setting of serious illness. The comprehensive approach to managing fatigue underscores the importance of collaborative efforts characteristic of interdisciplinary palliative care. Prioritizing screening, diagnosing, and treating fatigue is crucial for enhancing patients' and families' overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregg A Robbins-Welty
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Danielle Chammas
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ethan J Silverman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria Felton Lowry
- School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hale
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Corina Martinez
- Department of Physical Therapy, Duke University School of Physical Therapy, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Morgan M Nakatani
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel Shalev
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Paul Noufi
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, MedStar Health, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul A Riordan
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Keri O Brenner
- Section of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - William E Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christopher A Jones
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Ogundunmade BG, John DO, Chigbo NN. Ensuring quality of life in palliative care physiotherapy in developing countries. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 5:1331885. [PMID: 38463610 PMCID: PMC10920222 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1331885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Palliative care (PC) focuses on the body, mind, and spirit and can also provide pain and symptom relief, clarifying and focusing the provision of care on the patient's desires and goals, and helping them understand their disease and its treatment plans. Although PC is widely recognized for its applicability near the end of life or during terminal illness, it is also applicable and beneficial for patients with diseases in their earlier stages. Near the end of life, palliative care often focuses on providing continual symptom management and supportive care. Although palliative care has been noted to improve some life expectancy, its primary aim is to improve quality of life via focusing on the comfort of the patient, maintaining dignity, reducing intensive care utilization, and avoidance of expensive hospitalizations. One major challenge to quality of life for patients in PC is the physical and functional decline that occurs with disease progression. These issues can be addressed by specialized PC physiotherapy. Uniform provision of high-quality PC services (and physiotherapy in palliative care) faces substantial challenges in resource-challenged settings, including low- and middle-income countries. When properly integrated into PC teams and adequately supported, physiotherapy within PC can address common symptoms (pain, breathlessness, weakness) and assist patients to remain in an adapted home setting to optimize their quality of life, safety, and dignity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Davidson Okwudili John
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, David Umahi Federal University of Health Science, Uburu, Nigeria
| | - Nnenna Nina Chigbo
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
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Alzhrani AA, Alsuhail AI, Rababah AA. Fatigue Prevalence Among Palliative Care Cancer Patients in Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Palliat Care 2023; 38:424-431. [PMID: 37501537 DOI: 10.1177/08258597231191615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The aims of the current study are to assess the prevalence of cancer-related fatigue, to examine the difference in cancer-related fatigue severity in relation to patients' characteristics (age, gender, type of cancer, and palliative performance status), and to explore the correlation between cancer-related fatigue and pain, dyspnea, insomnia, and depression among palliative care patients. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive observational study conducted at Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study included cancer patients who received palliative care services from January 2016 to December 2021. Clinical data of study participants were retrospectively collected from Palliative Care department patient registry. Symptoms were assessed and scored using Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software. Results: A total of 2616 patients were included in the study, 52.3% were females and 47.7% were males. The median age of study participants was 56 years (range: 2-101 years). Among all study population, the highest reported cancer type was gastrointestinal malignancy (33.5%), while the least was unknown primary malignancy (1.4%). With regards to Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale, pain (86.4%) and fatigue (83%) were the highest reported symptom in comparison to constipation (17.3%) and insomnia (7.1%). Conclusion: Cancer-related fatigue is a prevalent and concerning issue among palliative care patients. It is essential that healthcare providers recognize the prevalence of fatigue among patients with life-limiting illnesses, assess patients for fatigue routinely, incorporate strategies for managing fatigue, work closely with affected individuals and their families in order to guide the establishment of a personalized care plan that addresses the patient's unique needs and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A Alzhrani
- Department of Palliative Care, Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah I Alsuhail
- Department of Palliative Care, Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad A Rababah
- Department of Palliative Care, Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Mücke M. Waking up from fatigue: The hidden burden of fatigue. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1044-1046. [PMID: 37706469 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231196200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Mücke
- Institute for Digitalization and General Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
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Stone P, Candelmi DE, Kandola K, Montero L, Smetham D, Suleman S, Fernando A, Rojí R. Management of Fatigue in Patients with Advanced Cancer. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2023; 24:93-107. [PMID: 36656503 PMCID: PMC9883329 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-022-01045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Fatigue is a common and distressing symptom experienced by patients with cancer. It is most common in patients with locally advanced or metastatic incurable disease. It can have profound effects on quality-of-life and physical functioning. In addition to general supportive measures (directed at tackling contributory conditions and comorbidities), a variety of specific interventions have been developed which can be broadly categorised as physical therapies, psychological therapies or medication. There is some evidence that each of these approaches can have benefits in patients with earlier stage disease, those undergoing active treatment and in cancer survivors. The best evidence is for aerobic exercise, yoga, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and psycho-educational interventions. Less strong evidence supports the use of medications such as methylphenidate or ginseng. In patients with advanced disease, it is likely that the mechanisms of fatigue or the factors contributing to fatigue maintenance may be different. Relatively fewer studies have been undertaken in this group and the evidence is correspondingly weaker. The authors recommend the cautious use of aerobic exercise (e.g. walking) in those who are still mobile. The authors advise considering the use of psycho-educational approaches or CBT in those patients who are able to engage in such forms of therapy. In patients near the end-of-life, the authors advise use of dexamethasone (short-term use) and other pharmacological treatments only on the basis of a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London (UCL), 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, UK
| | | | - Kerran Kandola
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London (UCL), 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, UK
| | - Ligia Montero
- departametno de Oncología de la Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Dom Smetham
- Cancer Psychological Support Team, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sahil Suleman
- Cancer Psychological Support Team, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Asanga Fernando
- Cancer Psychological Support Team, Department of Medical Oncology and Department of Liaison Psychiatry, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rocío Rojí
- Paliative Medicine Department, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarra, Spain
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Connolly M, Ryder M. Consideration of Symptom Management in Advanced Heart Failure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15160. [PMID: 36429877 PMCID: PMC9690631 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This work provides an opinion on palliative care for people with heart disease. The work focuses on the management of key symptoms associated with both end stage heart disease, applying a palliative approach and suggesting treatment options. The work also indicates the potential for greater collaboration of specialist teams including specialist palliative care in the assessment and management of patients with complex needs as they progress through their disease trajectory. The practical application of evidence-based guidelines and recommendations is key to the successful individualised management of complex symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Connolly
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- Education & Research Centre, Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services, Harold’s Cross, D6W RY72 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Ryder
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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Schmidt TJ, Sellin J, Molderings GJ, Conrad R, Mücke M. Health-related quality of life and health literacy in patients with systemic mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:295. [PMID: 35906626 PMCID: PMC9336039 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02439-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic mastocytosis is a rare genetic disease characterized by aberrant proliferation and/or activation of mast cells, resulting in multi-organ, allergy-like symptoms. Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is a clinically similar, but more prevalent disease with unclear etiology. In this study, the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and health literacy of people suffering from SM and MCAS were assessed. RESULTS Two validated questionnaires (QLQ-C30/QLQ-INFO25) from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) were used to analyze HRQOL and level of information of SM and MCAS patients. In addition, a control group without any health issues was included. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and linear regression to detect significant differences. Questionnaire data from 66 patients with MCAS (83% female, mean 44 years), 32 patients with SM (78% female, mean 53 years) and 52 healthy participants (67% female, mean 48 years) resident in Germany were analyzed. HRQOL as measured by the Global health status was significantly worse in patients suffering from MCAS or SM compared to control group. Individuals with MCAS showed a slightly, but insignificantly lower score on Global health status, and a significantly lower score with respect to role function and fatigue. Patients with the rare disease SM felt significantly better informed on their disease compared to MCAS patients. Linear regression performed separately for both groups showed a direct influence of the level of information on patients' HRQOL. CONCLUSION Overall, our study showed a significant negative impact on the HRQOL of both diseases, but only a small difference in quality of life and severity of symptoms between patients with MCAS and the supposedly more severe form, the rare disease SM. Our results demonstrate that the level of information patients receive impacts HRQOL, and that this is not only an issue in rare diseases, but also diseases with unclear etiology and pathology. Our data shows that even slight improvements in the patient's level of information can have a positive effect on their quality of life, further highlighting the importance of gaining more knowledge on rare and incompletely understood diseases and communicating these insights to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Jürgen Schmidt
- grid.15090.3d0000 0000 8786 803XCenter for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia Sellin
- grid.412301.50000 0000 8653 1507Institute for Digitalization and General Practice, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany ,grid.412301.50000 0000 8653 1507Center for Rare Diseases Aachen (ZSEA), University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gerhard J. Molderings
- grid.15090.3d0000 0000 8786 803XInstitute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rupert Conrad
- grid.15090.3d0000 0000 8786 803XDepartment of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Mücke
- Institute for Digitalization and General Practice, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany. .,Center for Rare Diseases Aachen (ZSEA), University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
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Montagut-Martínez P, Pérez-Cruzado D, Gutiérrez-Sánchez D. Cancer-related fatigue measures in palliative care: A psychometric systematic review. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13642. [PMID: 35822246 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In palliative care, the prevention and relief of fatigue are regarded as crucial goals in patients with cancer. METHODS A systematic review was carried out according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments methodology. Searches were conducted in Medline (through PubMed), Web of Science, Open Gray, Scielo, Cochrane, CINAHL and EMBASE. All instruments found in each study were assessed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments checklist and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. RESULTS A total of 5598 articles were identified in the different databases. In total, 57 studies describing 19 instruments were included in this study. The main properties evaluated were internal consistency, cross-cultural validity, hypotheses testing and responsiveness. All studies were evaluated with the Strobe scale with a score greater than 6 points. CONCLUSIONS According to the quality methodological results, Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, Problems and Needs in Palliative Care Questionnaire, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life 15-item Questionnaire for Palliative Care and Palliative Care Quality of Life Instrument are the recommended instruments used for assessing cancer-related fatigue in palliative care. PROPESRO registration number: CRD42020206783.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Pérez-Cruzado
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Universidad Catolica de Murcia UCAM, Murcia, Spain.,Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Daniel Gutiérrez-Sánchez
- Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain.,Department of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
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Kean T. Efficacy of non-pharmacological treatments of fatigue in individuals with end-stage disease. Evid Based Nurs 2021; 25:52. [PMID: 34362725 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2021-103443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Terri Kean
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada
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