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Zee MS, Pasman HR, Witkamp E, Goossensen A, Korfage IJ, Becqué YN, Nierop-van Baalen C, van der Heide A, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD. How end-of-life care was limited during the first 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal survey study among healthcare providers (the CO-LIVE study). BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:187. [PMID: 39060925 PMCID: PMC11282725 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01514-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, the way in which end-of-life care was provided, underwent a lot of changes and therefor different domains of end-of-life care were impacted. The aim of this study is to describe whether health care providers considered end-of-life care (in medical, nursing, psychosocial and spiritual care) limited by the pandemic through the first 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and examine associations with COVID-19 related circumstances of care (e.g. visit restrictions) and health care providers' characteristics. METHODS A longitudinal survey study among healthcare providers from different healthcare settings who provided end-of-life care during the pandemic's first 18 months. Data of four time periods were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Generalized Estimating Equation. RESULTS Of the respondents (n = 302) the majority had a nursing background (71.8%) and most worked in a hospital (30.3%). Especially in the first wave end-of-life care in all aspects was limited according to a substantial part of health care providers (between 29.7 and 57.7%). Psychosocial and spiritual care were more limited than medical and nursing care during all time periods. Care being limited according to health care providers was associated with visit restrictions, shortness of personal protective equipment or restrictions in caring for the deceased and decreased over time. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic impacted different aspects of end-of-life care throughout the pandemic's first 18 months. Over the course of the pandemic health care providers seemed to have invented ways to adjust their work in order to minimize the effect of limiting measures. More involvement of health care providers in decision-making may improve the prioritization of measures to deal with crisis situations in care. These reflections highlight priorities during crises and the role healthcare providers could play in maintaining good end-of-life care. This remains relevant in new health crises, where care may differ from what is considered good quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha S Zee
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Van Der Boechorststraat 7, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, the Netherlands.
| | - H Roeline Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Van Der Boechorststraat 7, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, the Netherlands
| | - Erica Witkamp
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ida J Korfage
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne N Becqué
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corine Nierop-van Baalen
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Van Der Boechorststraat 7, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, the Netherlands
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Glette MK, Kringeland T, Samal L, Bates DW, Wiig S. A qualitative study of leaders' experiences of handling challenges and changes induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in rural nursing homes and homecare services. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:442. [PMID: 38594669 PMCID: PMC11005178 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10935-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on healthcare services globally. In care settings such as small rural nursing homes and homes care services leaders were forced to confront, and adapt to, both new and ongoing challenges to protect their employees and patients and maintain their organization's operation. The aim of this study was to assess how healthcare leaders, working in rural primary healthcare services, led nursing homes and homecare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, the study sought to explore how adaptations to changes and challenges induced by the pandemic were handled by leaders in rural nursing homes and homecare services. METHODS The study employed a qualitative explorative design with individual interviews. Nine leaders at different levels, working in small, rural nursing homes and homecare services in western Norway were included. RESULTS Three main themes emerged from the thematic analysis: "Navigating the role of a leader during the pandemic," "The aftermath - management of COVID-19 in rural primary healthcare services", and "The benefits and drawbacks of being small and rural during the pandemic." CONCLUSIONS Leaders in rural nursing homes and homecare services handled a multitude of immediate challenges and used a variety of adaptive strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. While handling their own uncertainty and rapidly changing roles, they also coped with organizational challenges and adopted strategies to maintain good working conditions for their employees, as well as maintain sound healthcare management. The study results establish the intricate nature of resilient leadership, encompassing individual resilience, personality, governance, resource availability, and the capability to adjust to organizational and employee requirements, and how the rural context may affect these aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Knutsen Glette
- SHARE - Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway.
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway.
| | - Tone Kringeland
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Lipika Samal
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David W Bates
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Siri Wiig
- SHARE - Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
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Lourenço M, Gomes T, Araujo F, Ventura F, Silva R. Challenges for palliative care in times of COVID-19: a scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1330370. [PMID: 38596518 PMCID: PMC11002222 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1330370] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many of the essential practices in palliative care (PC) had to be adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic. This global spread of the infectious respiratory disease, caused by SARS-CoV-2, created unprecedented obstacles. The aim of this research was to comprehensively assess the experiences and perceptions of healthcare professionals, individuals, and families in palliative and end-of-life situations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A scoping review was conducted using the databases CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, Scopus, SciELO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, MEDIClatina, and Portugal's Open Access Scientific Repository. The review followed the JBI® methodological approach for scoping reviews. Results Out of the initially identified 999 articles, 22 studies were included for analysis. The deprivation of relationships due to the safety protocols required to control the spread of COVID-19 was a universally perceived experience by healthcare professionals, individuals in PC, and their families. Social isolation, with significant psychological impact, including depersonalization and despair, was among the most frequently reported experiences by individuals in palliative situation. Despite healthcare professionals' efforts to mitigate the lack of relationships, the families of these individuals emphasized the irreplaceability of in-person bedside contact. Systematic review registration https://osf.io/xmpf2/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Lourenço
- Nursing School of Porto, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Porto, Portugal
| | - Tânia Gomes
- Urology Department - Santo António University Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Araujo
- Nursing School of Porto, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Ventura
- The Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Silva
- Nursing School of Porto, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Evidence Based Practice: A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), Coimbra, Portugal
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Wikert J, Bausewein C, Hodiamont F. More than the sum of its parts-A constructivist grounded-theory study on specialist palliative care during crises like the COVID pandemic. Palliat Med 2024; 38:331-342. [PMID: 38226480 PMCID: PMC10955785 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231222771] [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: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID pandemic is an example of a crisis challenging healthcare systems worldwide. The impact of the pandemic on providing high-quality palliative care calls for a deeper understanding of specialist services during crises. This is essential in preparation for further crises. AIM To develop a conceptual understanding of the impact of the pandemic on specialist palliative care as an example for arising future crises. DESIGN Qualitative interview study across Germany, following a constructivist grounded theory methodology. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Eleven semi-structured interviews with experts with overarching knowledge of structures and processes in specialist palliative care between 05-07/2020 and between 02-06/2021, 23 semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals working in a specialist palliative care setting. RESULTS The complex system of palliative care provision during crises has properties that cannot be understood as separated parts of the care process. The pandemic led to unique structural and processual challenges characterized by interconnectedness, uncertainty, dynamic, underlying dilemmas, and unclear long-term goal. In response to the pandemic, teams experienced different phases, which enhanced adaption, innovation, and progress within complex care situations. Creative strategy approaches and dynamic responsiveness facilitated innovative development and could lead to long-lasting improvement within services. Availability of information, transparent communication, comprehensible instructions, participation in decision-making, and search for solutions contributed to teams' proactive development throughout the pandemic. CONCLUSION Addressing the complex problems in specialist palliative care caused by crises requires system thinking and a learning mindset. This can facilitate teams to overcome the crisis and move forward rather than bounce back to normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wikert
- Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Farina Hodiamont
- Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
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Iqbal J, Moineddin R, Fowler RA, Krzyzanowska MK, Booth CM, Downar J, Lau J, Le LW, Rodin G, Seow H, Tanuseputro P, Earle CC, Quinn KL, Hannon B, Zimmermann C. Socioeconomic Status, Palliative Care, and Death at Home Among Patients With Cancer Before and During COVID-19. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240503. [PMID: 38411960 PMCID: PMC10900963 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the delivery of cancer care, but less is known about its association with place of death and delivery of specialized palliative care (SPC) and potential disparities in these outcomes. Objective To evaluate the association of the COVID-19 pandemic with death at home and SPC delivery at the end of life and to examine whether disparities in socioeconomic status exist for these outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cohort study, an interrupted time series analysis was conducted using Ontario Cancer Registry data comprising adult patients aged 18 years or older who died with cancer between the pre-COVID-19 (March 16, 2015, to March 15, 2020) and COVID-19 (March 16, 2020, to March 15, 2021) periods. The data analysis was performed between March and November 2023. Exposure COVID-19-related hospital restrictions starting March 16, 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures Outcomes were death at home and SPC delivery at the end of life (last 30 days before death). Socioeconomic status was measured using Ontario Marginalization Index area-based material deprivation quintiles, with quintile 1 (Q1) indicating the least deprivation; Q3, intermediate deprivation; and Q5, the most deprivation. Segmented linear regression was used to estimate monthly trends in outcomes before, at the start of, and in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Of 173 915 patients in the study cohort (mean [SD] age, 72.1 [12.5] years; males, 54.1% [95% CI, 53.8%-54.3%]), 83.7% (95% CI, 83.6%-83.9%) died in the pre-COVID-19 period and 16.3% (95% CI, 16.1%-16.4%) died in the COVID-19 period, 54.5% (95% CI, 54.2%-54.7%) died at home during the entire study period, and 57.8% (95% CI, 57.5%-58.0%) received SPC at the end of life. In March 2020, home deaths increased by 8.3% (95% CI, 7.4%-9.1%); however, this increase was less marked in Q5 (6.1%; 95% CI, 4.4%-7.8%) than in Q1 (11.4%; 95% CI, 9.6%-13.2%) and Q3 (10.0%; 95% CI, 9.0%-11.1%). There was a simultaneous decrease of 5.3% (95% CI, -6.3% to -4.4%) in the rate of SPC at the end of life, with no significant difference among quintiles. Patients who received SPC at the end of life (vs no SPC) were more likely to die at home before and during the pandemic. However, there was a larger immediate increase in home deaths among those who received no SPC at the end of life vs those who received SPC (Q1, 17.5% [95% CI, 15.2%-19.8%] vs 7.6% [95% CI, 5.4%-9.7%]; Q3, 12.7% [95% CI, 10.8%-14.5%] vs 9.0% [95% CI, 7.2%-10.7%]). For Q5, the increase in home deaths was significant only for patients who did not receive SPC (13.9% [95% CI, 11.9%-15.8%] vs 1.2% [95% CI, -1.0% to 3.5%]). Conclusions and Relevance These findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with amplified socioeconomic disparities in death at home and SPC delivery at the end of life. Future research should focus on the mechanisms of these disparities and on developing interventions to ensure equitable and consistent SPC access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javaid Iqbal
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rahim Moineddin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert A Fowler
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monika K Krzyzanowska
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - James Downar
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Bruyere Research Institute, Bruyere Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenny Lau
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa W Le
- Department of Biostatistics, University Health Network, Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary Rodin
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hsien Seow
- Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Craig C Earle
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kieran L Quinn
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Breffni Hannon
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Glette MK, Bates DW, Dykes PC, Wiig S, Kringeland T. A resilience perspective on healthcare personnels' experiences of managing the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study in Norwegian nursing homes and come care services. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1177. [PMID: 37898762 PMCID: PMC10613357 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10187-2] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic led to new and unfamiliar changes in healthcare services globally. Most COVID-19 patients were cared for in primary healthcare services, demanding major adjustments and adaptations in care delivery. Research addressing how rural primary healthcare services coped during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the possible learning potential originating from the pandemic is limited. The aim of this study was to assess how primary healthcare personnel (PHCP) working in rural areas experienced the work situation during the COVID-19 outbreak, and how adaptations to changes induced by the pandemic were handled in nursing homes and home care services. METHOD This study was conducted as an explorative qualitative study. Four municipalities with affiliated nursing homes and homecare services were included in the study. We conducted focus group interviews with primary healthcare personnel working in rural nursing homes and homecare services in western Norway. The included PHCP were 16 nurses, 7 assistant nurses and 2 assistants. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The analysis resulted in three main themes and 16 subthemes describing PHCP experience of the work situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they adapted to the changes and challenges induced by the pandemic. The main themes were: "PHCP demonstrated high adaptive capacity while being put to the test", "Adapting to organizational measures, with varying degree of success" and "Safeguarding the patient's safety and quality of care, but at certain costs". CONCLUSION This study demonstrated PHCPs major adaptive capacity in response to the challenges and changes induced by the covid-19 pandemic, while working under varying organizational conditions. Many adaptations where long-term solutions improving healthcare delivery, others where short-term solutions forced by inadequate management, governance, or a lack of leadership. Overall, the findings demonstrated the need for all parts of the system to engage in building resilient healthcare services. More research investigating this learning potential, particularly in primary healthcare services, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Knutsen Glette
- SHARE - Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway.
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway.
| | - David W Bates
- SHARE - Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patricia C Dykes
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Siri Wiig
- SHARE - Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Tone Kringeland
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway
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Bailey C, Guo P, MacArtney J, Finucane A, Meade R, Swan S, Wagstaff E. "Palliative care is so much more than that": a qualitative study exploring experiences of hospice staff and bereaved carers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1139313. [PMID: 38026434 PMCID: PMC10662348 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1139313] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The way in which end-of-life care was provided changed significantly during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. The national lockdown restrictions reduced formal care support services and increased the burden on many carers taking on the caring role for the first time. We aimed to explore decision-making about the place of care during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on experience from the perspectives of carers and hospice staff caring for people at the end-of-life. Methods A qualitative study using virtual interviews was conducted between October 2020 and April 2021. Data were analyzed thematically using framework analysis, an analytical framework that enables qualitative research to be organized into defined themes derived from the research question. Findings were presented to stakeholders in policy roundtables between March 2022 and March 2023 and discussed collaboratively with staff, stakeholders, and the public to inform policy and practice change. Findings A total of 37 participants (15 bereaved carers and 22 staff) were recruited via hospice services in England and Scotland. Four key themes were identified: (1) changing preferences relating to decision-making about the place of care and the impact at the time of death and into bereavement; (2) missed opportunities related to not being there, not having others around, and being robbed of memory-making; (3) the lone carer during a period of high intensity and reduced home support; (4) process vs. person-centered care resulting from changing rules and restrictions and prioritization of regulations over essential palliative care. Conclusion The study provides valuable global implications for all involved in end-of-life care. Despite great efforts to provide dignified, quality care, palliative care during the pandemic changed, focusing on essential 'physical care'. The psychological suffering experienced by staff and carers may need longer-term support mechanisms put in place, which will benefit from a public health approach. Policymakers should consider improving carer identification and resources for wider end-of-life care education to support the needs of carers, health and social care staff, and citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Bailey
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ping Guo
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - John MacArtney
- Unit of Primary Care, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Finucane
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Marie Curie Hospice, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Meade
- Clinical Psychology, Carers UK, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Swan
- Maggie's Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Knutsen Glette M, Ludlow K, Wiig S, Bates DW, Austin EE. Resilience perspective on healthcare professionals' adaptations to changes and challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic: a meta-synthesis. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071828. [PMID: 37730402 PMCID: PMC10514639 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-071828] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify, review and synthesise qualitative literature on healthcare professionals' adaptations to changes and challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Systematic review with meta-synthesis. DATA SOURCES Academic Search Elite, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Qualitative or mixed-methods studies published between 2019 and 2021 investigating healthcare professionals' adaptations to changes and challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data were extracted using a predesigned data extraction form that included details about publication (eg, authors, setting, participants, adaptations and outcomes). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Forty-seven studies were included. A range of adaptations crucial to maintaining healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic were found, including taking on new roles, conducting self and peer education and reorganising workspaces. Triggers for adaptations included unclear workflows, lack of guidelines, increased workload and transition to digital solutions. As challenges arose, many health professionals reported increased collaboration across wards, healthcare teams, hierarchies and healthcare services. CONCLUSION Healthcare professionals demonstrated significant adaptive capacity when faced with challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Several adaptations were identified as beneficial for future organisational healthcare service changes, while others exposed weaknesses in healthcare system designs and capacity, leading to dysfunctional adaptations. Healthcare professionals' experiences working during the COVID-19 pandemic present a unique opportunity to learn how healthcare systems rapidly respond to changes, and how resilient healthcare services can be built globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Knutsen Glette
- SHARE-Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Kristiana Ludlow
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland School of Psychology, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Siri Wiig
- SHARE-Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
| | - David Westfall Bates
- SHARE-Center for Resilience in Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Austin
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Centre for Healthcare Resilience and Implementation Science, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Zhao DY, Hu SQ, Hu FH, Du W, Tang W, Zhang WQ, Chen HL, Shen WQ. Palliative care for cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative synthesis from 36 studies of 16 countries. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:6120-6135. [PMID: 37212652 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16742] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 epidemic, palliative care has become even more indispensable for cancer patients. AIM To identify the changes in palliative care for cancer patients and improvements in palliative care quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN A systematic review and narrative synthesis was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. An evaluation tool using mixed methods was used to assess the quality of the study. The main relevant themes identified were used to group qualitative and quantitative findings. RESULTS A total of 36 studies were identified, primarily from different countries, with a total of 14,427 patients, 238 caregivers and 354 health care providers. Cancer palliative care has been experiencing several difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased mortality and infection rates as well as delays in patient treatment that have resulted in poorer prognoses. Treatment providers are seeking solutions such as electronic management of patients and integration of resources to care for the mental health of patients and staff. Telemedicine plays an important role in many ways but cannot completely replace traditional treatment. Clinicians strive to meet patients' palliative care needs during special times and improve their quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Palliative care faces unique challenges during the COVID-19 epidemic. With adequate support to alleviate care-related challenges, patients in the home versus hospital setting will be able to receive better palliative care. In addition, this review highlights the importance of multiparty collaboration to achieve personal and societal benefits of palliative care. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No Patient or Public Contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Yan Zhao
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Shi-Qi Hu
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Fei-Hong Hu
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wei Du
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wen Tang
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wan-Qing Zhang
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Hong-Lin Chen
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wang-Qin Shen
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, PR China
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Plagg B, Ballmann J, Ewers M. Hospice and Palliative Care during Disasters: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2382. [PMID: 37685416 PMCID: PMC10486474 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172382] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Providing and maintaining hospice and palliative care during disasters poses significant challenges. To understand the impact of disasters on the provision of hospice and palliative care and the disaster preparedness initiatives in the field, a systematic review was undertaken. Eligibility criteria for the selection of studies were: peer-reviewed original research papers addressing HPC during disasters published between January 2001 and February 2023 in English. The databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, APA PsycArticles, and SocINDEX were searched with textword and MeSh-terms between October 2022 and February 2023. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the quality of the studies. Content analysis was performed. The results are presented in the form of a narrative synthesis. Of 2581 studies identified, 57 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were published recently on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Four main themes were identified in the literature: disruption of the system, setting-specific differences, emotional challenges, and system adaptation. Overall, strategies to tackle hospice and palliative care needs have been poorly integrated in disaster preparedness planning. Our findings highlight the need to strengthen the resilience of hospice and palliative care providers to all types of disasters to maintain care standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Plagg
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, 13353 Berlin, Germany (M.E.)
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, College of Health Care Professions–Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Straße 13, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Julia Ballmann
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, 13353 Berlin, Germany (M.E.)
| | - Michael Ewers
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, 13353 Berlin, Germany (M.E.)
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Frey R, Balmer D. The challenges for health professionals delivering palliative care in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic: An integrative review. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-13. [DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The growing demand for palliative care has been accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, providing community-based palliative care was also more difficult to do safely and faced several challenges. The goal of this integrative review was to identify, describe, and synthesize previous studies on the challenges for health professionals delivering palliative care in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
Searches were carried out on the Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Social Care Online, PubMed, Embase, and Expanded Academic databases. Journals typically reporting palliative care and community health studies were also searched (Palliative Medicine, Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, and Health & Social Care in the Community). All articles were peer-reviewed and published in English between December 2019 and September 2022.
Results
Database and hand searches identified 1231 articles. After duplicates were removed and the exclusion criteria applied, 27 articles were included in the final review. Themes in the research findings centered on 6 interconnected categories. The challenges imposed by the pandemic (lack of resources, communication difficulties, access to education and training, and interprofessional coordination), as well as the varying levels of success of the health-care responses, impacted the well-being of health professionals and, in turn, the well-being and care of patients and families.
Significance of results
The pandemic has provided the impetus for rethinking flexible and innovative approaches to overcome the challenges of delivering community palliative care. However, existing governmental and organizational policies require revision to improve communication and effective interprofessional collaboration, and additional resources are needed. A blended model of virtual and in-person palliative care delivery may provide the best solution to community palliative care delivery moving forward.
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12
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Kelly M, Mitchell I, Walker I, Mears J, Scholz B. "I can't make all this work." End of life care provision in natural disasters: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:21. [PMID: 36899357 PMCID: PMC9999053 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01137-0] [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: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe and profoundly impact the end-of-life care experience, including service provision. There is a paucity of research examining healthcare workers' experiences in responding to care demands when disasters strike. This research aimed to fill this gap by exploring end-of-life care providers' perceptions of the impact of natural disasters on end-of-life care. METHODS Between Feb 2021-June 2021 ten in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals providing end-of-life care during recent natural disasters, COVID-19, and/or fires and floods. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a hybrid inductive and deductive thematic approach. RESULTS The overarching theme from the healthcare workers' accounts was of being unable to provide effective compassionate and quality care - "I can't make all this work." They spoke of the considerable burdens the system imposed on them, of being overextended and overwhelmed, having their roles overturned, and losing the human element of care for those at end-of-life. CONCLUSION There is urgent need to pioneer effective solutions to minimise the distress of healthcare professionals in delivering end-of-life care in disaster contexts, and to improve the experience of those dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite Kelly
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, 54 Mills Road, 2601, Acton, ACT, Australia.
| | - Imogen Mitchell
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, 54 Mills Road, 2601, Acton, ACT, Australia
| | - Iain Walker
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jane Mears
- School of Social Sciences, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Scholz
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, 54 Mills Road, 2601, Acton, ACT, Australia
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13
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Ostan R, Varani S, Giannelli A, Malavasi I, Pannuti F, Pannuti R, Biasco G, Mattioli AV. Distance Monitoring of Advanced Cancer Patients with Impaired Cardiac and Respiratory Function Assisted at Home: A Study Protocol in Italy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051922. [PMID: 36902706 PMCID: PMC10004121 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051922] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
During the pandemic, telemedicine and telehealth interventions have been leading in maintaining the continuity of care independently of patients' physical location. However, the evidence available about the effectiveness of the telehealth approach for advanced cancer patients with chronic disease is limited. This interventional randomized pilot study aims to evaluate the acceptability of a daily telemonitoring of five vital parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygenation, blood pressure, and body temperature) using a medical device in advanced cancer patients with relevant cardiovascular and respiratory comorbidities assisted at home. The purpose of the current paper is to describe the design of the telemonitoring intervention in a home palliative and supportive care setting with the objective of optimizing the management of patients, improving both their quality of life and psychological status and the caregiver's perceived care burden. This study may improve scientific knowledge regarding the impact of telemonitoring. Moreover, this intervention could foster continuous healthcare delivery and closer communication among the physician, patient and family, enabling the physician to have an updated overview of the clinical trajectory of the disease. Finally, the study may help family caregivers to maintain their habits and professional position and to limit financial consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Ostan
- Training and Research Department, National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Via Jacopo di Paolo, 36, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Varani
- Training and Research Department, National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Via Jacopo di Paolo, 36, 40128 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.V.); (A.V.M.)
| | - Andrea Giannelli
- Training and Research Department, National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Via Jacopo di Paolo, 36, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Italo Malavasi
- Training and Research Department, National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Via Jacopo di Paolo, 36, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Pannuti
- Training and Research Department, National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Via Jacopo di Paolo, 36, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Guido Biasco
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti, 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Vittoria Mattioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.V.); (A.V.M.)
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14
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Kim Y, Shin JM, Yoo SH, Keam B. Challenges in Care for Non-COVID-19 Patients with Severe Chronic Illnesses during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of Healthcare Providers Working around Acute Care Hospitals in South Korea. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11040611. [PMID: 36833145 PMCID: PMC9957023 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040611] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 epidemic has afflicted patients with severe chronic illnesses who need continuous care between home and hospitals. This qualitative study examines the experiences and challenges of healthcare providers around acute care hospitals who have cared for patients with severe chronic illness in non-COVID-19 situations during the pandemic. METHODS Eight healthcare providers, who work in various healthcare settings around acute care hospitals and frequently care for non-COVID-19 patients with severe chronic illnesses, were recruited using purposive sampling from September to October 2021 in South Korea. The interviews were subjected to thematic analysis. RESULTS Four overarching themes were identified: (1) deterioration in the quality of care at various settings; (2) new emerging systemic problems; (3) healthcare providers holding on but reaching their limit; and (4) a decline in the quality of life of patients at the end of their lives, and their caregivers. CONCLUSION Healthcare providers of non-COVID-19 patients with severe chronic illnesses reported that the quality of care was declining due to the structural problems of the healthcare system and policies centered solely on the prevention and control of COVID-19. Systematic solutions are needed for appropriate and seamless care for non-infected patients with severe chronic illness in the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yejin Kim
- Center for Palliative Care and Clinical Ethics, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Mi Shin
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Hye Yoo
- Center for Palliative Care and Clinical Ethics, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (S.H.Y.); (B.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2072-1589 (S.H.Y.); +82-2-2072-7215 (B.K.); Fax: +82-2-2072-0754 (S.H.Y.); +82-2-2072-7379 (B.K.)
| | - Bhumsuk Keam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (S.H.Y.); (B.K.); Tel.: +82-2-2072-1589 (S.H.Y.); +82-2-2072-7215 (B.K.); Fax: +82-2-2072-0754 (S.H.Y.); +82-2-2072-7379 (B.K.)
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15
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Abstract
Palliative care (PC), which improves the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, can be offered in multiple settings, such as the hospital, community, and home. The trend toward delivering PC at home has been recently accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has created challenges for patients with serious illnesses who have been proven to be susceptible to serious COVID-19 illnesses. This review of the literature presents research studies on home PC (HPC) during the pandemic. Databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection) were searched. Twelve research/case studies were found to be relevant. These articles gathered information either through qualitative (surveys/interviews) methods or medical records. Most qualitative articles focused on perceived challenges and opportunities from HPC professionals' perspectives. Adopting telehealth was frequently discussed as a key tool to adjust to the pandemic. In general, HPC professionals and patients had a positive attitude toward telehealth, and this attitude was much more pronounced among professionals than patients. Among HPC professionals, some reports indicated that their burnout rates reduced, and job satisfaction increased during the pandemic. Regarding clinical and cost outcomes, there is a gap in the literature on HPC during the pandemic. In conclusion, despite challenges, it seems that the pandemic has gifted some long-term opportunities for promoting HPC in combination with telehealth. COVID-19 will not be the last pandemic, and we should be prepared for the next one by updating policies and building concrete infrastructure for HPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Mojtahedi
- Department of Healthcare
Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Jay J Shen
- Department of Healthcare
Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA,Jay J Shen, PhD, Department of Healthcare
Administration and Policy School of Public Health University of Nevada, Las
Vegas, NV 89119, USA.
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16
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Wind G, Vedsegaard HW, Marsaa K, True TS, Konradsen H. The significance of the COVID-19 pandemic for family caregivers of non-COVID-19 patients in need of specialized palliative care at home: a qualitative study. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2022; 17:2113021. [PMID: 35979626 PMCID: PMC9397423 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2022.2113021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose It is well known that being a family caregiver of a palliative patient in general is rewarding as well as burdensome. The COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated this situation. We therefore explored the significance of the COVID-19 pandemic for family caregivers of non-COVID-19 patients in need of specialized palliative care at home. Methods Open-ended, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 15 family caregivers of patients treated by a specialized palliative outpatient unit in a Danish hospital. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Four themes concerning the significance of the COVID-19 pandemic were identified: 1) being a family caregiver of a patient whose lifespan is already limited, 2) dealing with the risk of passing on COVID-19 oneself, 3) dealing with the risk of others passing on COVID-19 to the patient at home, and 4) living with modified specialized palliative care. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic had a radical impact on some family caregivers causing emotional despair. They feared not only infecting the patient with SARS-CoV-2 to cause an untimely death but also being unable to be there for the patient during hospitalization, especially in the patient’s final days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitte Wind
- Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Hanne Konradsen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
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17
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The Experiences and Views on Palliative Care of Older People with Multimorbidities, Their Family Caregivers and Professionals in a Spanish Hospital. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122489. [PMID: 36554013 PMCID: PMC9778218 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122489] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of complex chronic diseases in the population over 65 years of age is causing a major impact on health systems. This study aims to explore the needs and preferences of the multimorbid patient and carers to improve the palliative care received. The perspective of professionals who work with this profile of patients was also taken into account. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. Separate topic guides were developed for patients, careers and health professionals. We included 12 patients, 11 caregivers and 16 health professionals in Spain. The results showed multiple unmet needs of patients and families/caregivers, including feelings of uncertainty, a sense of fear, low awareness and knowledge about palliative care in non-malignant settings, and a desire to improve physical, psychosocial and financial status. A consistent lack of specialized psychosocial care for both patients and caregivers was expressed and professionals highlighted the need for holistic needs assessment and effective and early referral pathways to palliative care. There is a lack of institutional support for multimorbid older patients in need of palliative care and important barriers need to be addressed by health systems to face the significant increase in these patients.
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18
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Gebel C, Kloppenburg L, Jansky MK, Nauck F, Schade F, Wedding U. ["Creativity and a Mindset Shift were Essential." Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Specialized Palliative Home: A Nationwide Online Survey]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2022; 84:1127-1135. [PMID: 35098500 PMCID: PMC11248520 DOI: 10.1055/a-1714-8336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the efforts taken to contain it on specialized palliative homecare (SPHC) practice from the perspective of SPHC team leaders.Methods In this cross-sectional study, an online questionnaire with quantitative and qualitative questions was developed and used, focusing on the experience of SAPV in the first and second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. In a structured recruitment process, all German SPHC teams (n=357) were invited to participate. Results From 10/10/2020 to 07/01/2021, 154 SPHC teams participated (response rate 43%). They described clear effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on their activities. Despite pandemic-related problems with staff availability (78.5%), patient care was ensured without major problems. The number of patients to be cared for remained stable for most teams, was increasing for some, and decreasing only for a few. A central factor was the switch from direct contact with patients and their relatives to telephone contact. Additional complicating factors were the general avoidance of contacts, compliance with hygiene regulations for necessary personal contacts, and pandemic-related uncertainties and fears, both among the team itself and among relatives and patients. The procurement of protective equipment was a challenge during the first wave. Problems in collaboration with network partners (e. g., nursing homes and volunteer hospice services) had decreased over the course of the pandemic, but were greater than before in all areas. Many measures to cope with the pandemic challenges were implemented, others were assessed as useful but not implemented, and others as not useful or feasible. Conclusions SPHC teams report that despite the need to adapt many processes to the pandemic situation, they have managed to maintain patient care, although under more difficult conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordula Gebel
- Abteilung Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Lars Kloppenburg
- Abteilung Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Friedemann Nauck
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Franziska Schade
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wedding
- Abteilung Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
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19
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Scacchi A, Conti A, Politano G, Dalmasso M, Ostellino S, Gianino MM. Impact of COVID-19 on emergency department visits among palliative home care recipients: a retrospective population-based cohort study in the Piedmont region, Italy. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221136880. [PMID: 36405349 PMCID: PMC9666412 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221136880] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrated palliative home care (IHPC) is delivered to patients with progressive end-stage diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, IHPC needed to provide high-quality home care services for patients who were treated at home, with the goal of avoiding unnecessary care, hospital admissions, and emergency department (ED) visits. This study aimed to compare the ED visits of IHPC recipients in a large Italian region before and during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic and to find sociodemographic or clinical characteristics associated with changes in ED visits during the first two waves of COVID-19 pandemic, compared with the period before. METHODS Administrative databases were used to identify sociodemographic and clinical variables of IHPC recipients admitted before and during the pandemic. The obtained data were balanced by applying a propensity score. The average number of ED visits before and during the pandemic was calculated by using the Welch's t test and stratified by all the variables. RESULTS Before and during the pandemic, 5155 and 3177 recipients were admitted to IHPC, respectively. These individuals were primarily affected by neoplasms. ED visits of IHPC recipients reduced from 1346 to 467 before and during the pandemic, respectively. A reduced mortality among IHCP patients who had at least one ED visit during the pandemic (8% during the pandemic versus 15% before the pandemic) was found. The average number of ED visits decreased during the pandemic [0.143, confidence interval (CI) = (0.128-0.158) versus 0.264, CI = (0.242-0.286) before the pandemic; p < 0.001] for all ages and IHPC duration classes. The presence of a formal caregiver led to a significant decrease in ED use. Medium and high emergency ED admissions showed no difference, whereas a decrease in low-level emergency ED admissions during the pandemic [1.27, CI = (1.194-1.345) versus 1.439, CI = (1.3-1.579) before the pandemic; p = 0.036] was found. CONCLUSION ED visits among IHPC recipients were significantly decreased during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in those individuals characterized by a low level of emergency. This did not result in an increase in mortality among IHPC recipients. These findings could inform the reorganization of home care services after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Scacchi
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric
Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessio Conti
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric
Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena, 5 bis, Turin 10126, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Politano
- Department of Control and Computer Engineering,
Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Dalmasso
- Epidemiology Unit, Local Health Unit TO3,
Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Sofia Ostellino
- Department of Control and Computer Engineering,
Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Michela Gianino
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric
Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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20
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Mostafaei A, Sadeghi-Ghyassi F, Kabiri N, Hajebrahimi S. Experiences of patients and providers while using telemedicine in cancer care during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative literature. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:10483-10494. [PMID: 36322247 PMCID: PMC9628519 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07415-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this meta-synthesis was to identify, appraise, and synthesize patients and provider’s experiences while using telemedicine in cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The databases Medline, Embase, Cinahl, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and other related databases were searched. Reviewers followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) meta-aggregation method to identify categories and synthesized findings and to assign a level of confidence to synthesized findings. The listed quotations and the original author interpretations were synthesized using MAXQDA software. Results Nineteen studies were included in the meta-synthesis. Three synthesized findings emerged from 243 primary findings: telemedicine assists but cannot be a substitute for face-to-face appointments in a health care crisis and in the provision of routine care to stable patients with cancer, infrastructural drivers and healthcare provider’s support and attention affect patients’ experiences and feelings about telemedicine, and patients who use telemedicine expect their health care providers to devote enough time and consider emotional needs, the lack of which can develop a negative response. The methodological quality of the studies ranged between 4 and 10, and the overall level of confidence of the synthesized findings was determined to be low and medium. Conclusion The findings from this meta-synthesis gave a new insight to promoting the safe and evidence-based use of telemedicine during the current pandemic and future emergencies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-022-07415-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mostafaei
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadeghi-Ghyassi
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran ,grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Department of Health Information Technology, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Neda Kabiri
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran ,grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sakineh Hajebrahimi
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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21
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Okyere J, Mensah ABB, Kissah-Korsah K. Covid-19 Front-Liners: Experiences of Palliative Care Providers in a Tertiary Hospital. SAGE Open Nurs 2022; 8:23779608221132172. [PMID: 36267052 PMCID: PMC9577064 DOI: 10.1177/23779608221132172] [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: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In “normal” times, palliative care (PC) service delivery is confronted with
many challenges thereby making access to care difficult. Now, we are in the
era of COVID-19 where the healthcare ecology is radically changed. During
this process of radical transformation, there are some ramification of
COVID-19 on PC service delivery. Yet, there is a paucity of empirical
evidence to support this claim. Objective We explored PC providers’ perspectives on delivering PC services in the era
of COVID-19. Methods Using an exploratory descriptive qualitative approach, we conducted
face-to-face and telephone interviews with seven PC service providers at
Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Haase's adaptation of Colaizzi's method
was employed as the analysis strategy. Results Two main themes emerged: ramifications and adaptations. The ramifications of
COVID-19 on PC service delivery included changes in care relationship,
perceived increased responsibilities, psychological distress, shortage of
medicines, and treatment delays. In an attempt to mitigate the challenges
posed by COVID-19 on PC service delivery, the following mechanisms
adaptations were made: halting of service provision, resorting to
tele-consultation, adopting shift system and reducing number of
appointments, and adoption of infection prevention and control
strategies. Conclusions Our results indicate that COVID-19 has substantial ramification of PC service
delivery. In conclusion, priority should be given to the training of
healthcare workers on emergency preparedness for future pandemics. Also,
continuous professional development would be needed in order build PC
service providers’ skills and capacity to effectively utilize
tele-consultation in PC service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Okyere
- Department of Population and Health,
University of
Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana,Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences,
Kwame Nkrumah
University of Science and Technology,
Kumasi, Ghana,Joshua Okyere, Department of Population and
Health, University of Cape Coast, University Post Office, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Adwoa Bemah Boamah Mensah
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences,
Kwame Nkrumah
University of Science and Technology,
Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwaku Kissah-Korsah
- Department of Population and Health,
University of
Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
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22
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Vincent D, Peixoto C, Quinn KL, Kyeremanteng K, Lalumiere G, Kurahashi AM, Gilbert N, Isenberg SR. Virtual home-based palliative care during COVID-19: A qualitative exploration of the patient, caregiver, and healthcare provider experience. Palliat Med 2022; 36:1374-1388. [PMID: 36071621 PMCID: PMC9596681 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221116251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many community palliative healthcare providers shifted from providing care in a patient's home to providing almost exclusively virtual palliative care, or a combination of in-person and virtual care. Research on virtual palliative care is thus needed to provide evidence-based recommendations aiming to enhance the delivery of palliative care during and beyond the pandemic. AIM To explore the experiences and perceptions of community palliative care providers, patients and caregivers who delivered or received virtual palliative care as a component of home-based palliative care during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Qualitative study using phone and video-based semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS A total of 37 participants, including community palliative care patients/caregivers (n = 19) and healthcare providers (n = 18) recruited from sites in Ottawa and Toronto, Ontario, Canada. RESULTS Overall, participants preferred in-person palliative care compared to virtual care, but suggested virtual care could be a useful supplement to in-person care. The findings are presented in three main themes: (1) Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on community palliative care services; (2) Factors influencing transition from exclusively virtual model of care back to a blended model of care; and (3) Recommended uses and implementation of virtual palliative care. CONCLUSIONS Incorporating virtual palliative care into healthcare provider practice models (blended care models) may be the ideal model of care and standard practice moving forward beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, which has important implications toward organization and delivery of community palliative care services and funding of healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Vincent
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI), Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Kieran L Quinn
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Genevieve Lalumiere
- Regional Palliative Consultation Team, Elizabeth Bruyère Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Allison M Kurahashi
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathalie Gilbert
- Home and Community Care Support Services Champlain, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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23
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Levoy K, Foxwell A, Rosa WE. Palliative care delivery changes during COVID-19 and enduring implications in oncology nursing: a rapid review. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2022; 16:94-101. [PMID: 35929556 PMCID: PMC9364779 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW A rapid review was conducted to synthesize evidence of palliative care delivery changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes were synthesized according to the eight domains of high-quality palliative care and enduring implications for oncology nurses beyond the pandemic discussed. RECENT FINDINGS The most significant changes occurred in the structure and processes of palliative care (Domain 1), where increased utilization of telehealth was critical in circumventing barriers imposed by COVID-19 mitigation. The suboptimal availability of community-based psychosocial supports for patients and caregivers and inadequate health system-based psychosocial supports for healthcare providers were highlighted (Domains 3-5). The pandemic also ushered in an increased emphasis on the need for advance care planning (ACP), where integrating its delivery earlier in the outpatient setting and shifting policy to promote subsequent virtual documentation (Domain 8) were essential to ensure care preferences were clarified and accessible before health crises occurred. SUMMARY Continuing to embrace and sustain systems-level changes with respect to telehealth, psychosocial supports, and ACP are critical to bridging gaps in palliative care delivery underscored by the pandemic. Oncology nurses are well positioned to fill these gaps in care beyond the pandemic by providing evidence-based, palliative care throughout the cancer continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Levoy
- Department of Community and Health Systems, Indiana University School of Nursing
- Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Anessa Foxwell
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - William E. Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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24
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Moynan E, Lavelle C, Robinson K, Boland P, Meskell P, Galvin R, Fitzgerald C. The experiences of homecare workers in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic: a protocol for a qualitative study. HRB Open Res 2022; 5:43. [PMID: 37621759 PMCID: PMC10444994 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13561.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Globally, there have been over 400 million confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), including over 6 million deaths, reported to the World Health Organization. Older adults have been disproportionally affected by COVID-19 in terms of morbidity and mortality. Homecare workers continue to play a key role in supporting vulnerable people to live in their own homes. Unlike other health professionals, whose interactions with patients are relatively brief, homecare workers sometimes spend hours with clients assisting with caregiving and functional tasks. In addition, these workers frequently provide companionship and emotional support. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many challenges to this caregiving role given the risk of virus transmission to both clients and homecare workers in the community. Despite the vital role homecare workers have played, qualitative research exploring perspectives of homecare workers experiences' of providing help and care to older adults during the pandemic is sparse. This study aims to explore the experiences of homecare workers in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A qualitative interpretative approach will be applied in this study through the facilitation of focus groups with homecare workers. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) guidelines will be used to standardise the conduct and reporting of the research. Homecare workers will be recruited from a provider of homecare services in the Mid-West of Ireland (Clarecare) by a gatekeeper. Focus groups will be transcribed and analysed using a reflexive thematic approach supported by the use of NVIVO software package (Version 12). Conclusion: This study represents a necessary first step in the development of an evidence base for clinical, education, and support needs of homecare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Moynan
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Katie Robinson
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Pauline Boland
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Pauline Meskell
- Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Rose Galvin
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Christine Fitzgerald
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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25
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Ercolani G, Varani S, Ostan R, Franchini L, Yaaqovy AD, Pannuti R, Biasco G, Bruera E. Tackling the Pandemic a Year Later: Burnout Among Home Palliative Care Clinicians. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:e349-e356. [PMID: 34973353 PMCID: PMC8730739 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The COVID-19 pandemic strongly challenged healthcare workers, disrupting their work routine and impacting on their professional life. A previous investigation explored levels of burnout and psychological morbidity among palliative care professionals (PCPs) during COVID-19 first wave. OBJECTIVE To update data about burnout and psychological morbidity among PCPs after a year of COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The same questionnaires on burnout (Maslach Burnout Inventory, MBI) and psychological morbidity (General Health Questionnaire 12 items, GHQ-12) were administered a year after. Differences in MBI and GHQ-12 scores obtained in the two studies (COVID2020 and COVID2021), as well as distributions of PCPs showing burnout symptoms and psychological morbidity were analyzed and compared. We also explored the association between the three dimensions of burnout and socio-demographic and professional characteristics. RESULTS The sample consisted of 145 PCPs (59% physicians and 41% nurses). Response rate (70.4%) was quite similar to the previous study (73.2%). No differences were observed in the frequency of burnout between COVID2021 and COVID2020; the PCPs in COVID2021 reported marginally higher level of EE (P = .049) and this result is confirmed in physicians (P = .010) while no difference was observed in nurses (P = .326). In addition, the percentage of cases showing psychological morbidity significantly decreased. CONCLUSION Our findings show stable levels of burnout and decreasing levels of psychological morbidity among PCPs one year after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, more research is needed to detail the significance of emotional exhaustion dimension, a variable influenced by the survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Ercolani
- Training and Research Department (G.E., S.V., R.O., L.F., R.P.), National Tumor Assistance (ANT), Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Varani
- Training and Research Department (G.E., S.V., R.O., L.F., R.P.), National Tumor Assistance (ANT), Bologna, Italy.
| | - Rita Ostan
- Training and Research Department (G.E., S.V., R.O., L.F., R.P.), National Tumor Assistance (ANT), Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Franchini
- Training and Research Department (G.E., S.V., R.O., L.F., R.P.), National Tumor Assistance (ANT), Bologna, Italy
| | - Ahikam David Yaaqovy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna (A.D.Y., G.B.), Bologna, Italy
| | - Raffaella Pannuti
- Training and Research Department (G.E., S.V., R.O., L.F., R.P.), National Tumor Assistance (ANT), Bologna, Italy
| | - Guido Biasco
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna (A.D.Y., G.B.), Bologna, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care (E.B.), Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Huston, Texas
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26
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Barriers and facilitators to providing home-based care in a pandemic: policy and practice implications. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:234. [PMID: 35313830 PMCID: PMC8936035 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-02907-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study is to describe the experiences of home-based care providers (HBCP) in providing care to older adults during the pandemic in order to inform future disaster planning, including during pandemics. Design Qualitative inquiry using an abductive analytic approach. Setting and participants Home-based care providers in COVID-19 hotspots. Methods Telephone interviews were conducted with 27 participants (administrators, registered nurses and other members of the allied healthcare team), who provided in-home care during the pandemic in Medicare-certified home health agencies. Interviews focused on eliciting experiences from HBCP on challenges and successes in providing home-based care to older adults, including barriers to care and strategies employed to keep patients, and providers, safe in their homes during the pandemic. Results Data was distilled into four major themes that have potential policy and practice impact. These included disrupted aging-in-place resources, preparedness actions contributing to readiness for the pandemic, limited adaptability in administrative needs during the pandemic and challenges with unclear messaging from public health officials. Conclusions Home-based care plays an essential role in maintaining the health of older adults in disaster contexts, including pandemics. Innovative solutions, informed by policy that generate evidence-based best practices to support HBCP are needed to reduce barriers and increase protective factors, in order to maintain continuity of care for this vulnerable population during disruptive events.
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27
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Malmgren Fänge A, Christensen J, Backhouse T, Kenkmann A, Killett A, Fisher O, Chiatti C, Lethin C. Care Home and Home Care Staff’s Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beliefs about Subsequent Changes in the Future: A Survey Study in Sweden, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10020306. [PMID: 35206920 PMCID: PMC8872186 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare perceptions of learning from the COVID-19 pandemic and beliefs in subsequent changes for the future, among care home and home care staff, in four European countries. A 29-item on-line questionnaire was designed in English and later translated into Swedish, Italian, and German on the impact of the pandemic on stress and anxiety. Anonymous data from care staff respondents was collected in four countries between 7 October 2020 and 17 December 2010: Sweden (n = 212), Italy (n = 103), Germany (n = 120), and the United Kingdom (n = 167). While care staff in all countries reported learning in multiple areas of care practice, Italy reported the highest levels of learning and the most agreement that changes will occur in the future due to the pandemic. Conversely, care staff in Germany reported low levels of learning and reported the least agreement for change in the future. While the pandemic has strained care home and home care staff practices, our study indicates that much learning of new skills and knowledge has taken place within the workforce. Our study has demonstrated the potential of cross-border collaborations and experiences for enhancing knowledge acquisition in relation to societal challenges and needs. The results could be built upon to improve future health care and care service practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agneta Malmgren Fänge
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden; (A.M.F.); (C.L.)
| | - Jonas Christensen
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, 205 06 Malmö, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Tamara Backhouse
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK; (T.B.); (A.K.)
| | - Andrea Kenkmann
- Center for Aging, Catholic University of Applied Sciences Munich, 836 71 Benediktbeuern, Germany;
| | - Anne Killett
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK; (T.B.); (A.K.)
| | - Oliver Fisher
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy;
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Ageing, IRCCS INRCA—National Institute of Health and Science on Ageing, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Connie Lethin
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden; (A.M.F.); (C.L.)
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28
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Cross SH, Ramkalawan JR, Ring JF, Boucher NA. “That little bit of time”: Transition-to-Hospice Perspectives from Hospice Staff and Bereaved Family. Innov Aging 2022; 6:igab057. [PMID: 35155835 PMCID: PMC8827325 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Many patients lack understanding of hospice services and their preparation for the transition to hospice at home may be insufficient. This study explored how hospice admissions staff and caregivers of hospice patients perceive the hospice admission process and the transition to hospice at home. Research Design and Methods We conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 2 subgroups: hospice admissions staff (n = 15) and bereaved caregivers of former hospice patients (n = 20). We performed a 3-coder descriptive content analysis. Results There were 4 overall themes: (a) issues relating to the referring/prehospice provider, (b) issues relating to hospital discharge/care transition home, (c) issues relating to the first touch of hospice, and (d) the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on hospice admissions. Patients are often referred to hospice without clear prognostic understanding, at times placing staff in the uncomfortable position of breaking difficult news. Stigma may make patients and families fearful of enrolling in hospice, and misconceptions about hospice are common. Caregivers emphasize the need for increased attention to their emotional needs. Staff revealed the emotional challenges they experience conducting admissions. Both staff and caregivers indicate that the transition to hospice is often emotionally and logistically burdensome, especially when discharging home from the hospital. Both subgroups report insufficient caregiver preparation for taking care of a dying patient at home, particularly regarding medication management. COVID-19 created challenges yet prompted innovative changes to hospice admission processes. Discussion and Implications Findings demonstrate a need to improve the hospice admissions process, better supporting terminally ill patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Cross
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Janel R Ramkalawan
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Nathan A Boucher
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham VA Health System HSR&D, Durham, NC, USA
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29
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Porter B, Zile A, Peryer G, Farquhar M, Sanderson K. The impact of providing end-of-life care during a pandemic on the mental health and wellbeing of health and social care staff: Systematic review and meta-synthesis. Soc Sci Med 2021; 287:114397. [PMID: 34537656 PMCID: PMC8445829 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Disease outbreaks and disasters can result in excess deaths and severe disruption of usual end-of-life care processes. We aimed to: i) synthesise evidence describing the experiences of health and social care staff providing end-of-life care during a disease outbreak or humanitarian disaster, ii) understand the impact on their mental health and wellbeing and, iii) identify means of support. Methods A systematic review with meta-synthesis was conducted including studies of health and social care staff providing end-of-life care during disease outbreaks (Ebola, COVID-19, SARs, MERs) or humanitarian disasters (2001–2020). MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and grey literature databases were searched systematically, with forward and backward citation searching of included studies. Any research study designs, in any care settings, were included. Study quality was assessed using an appraisal tool relevant to each study design. Qualitative meta-synthesis was used to analyse the findings, which were then reported narratively. PROSPERO registration: CRD42020181444. Results Nineteen studies were included, including 10 Ebola studies and two COVID-19 studies. The analysis generated two superordinate themes: individual experience and organisational responsibilities. Individual experience comprised four themes: dignity in death, positive experiences, negative experience and support for staff. Organisational responsibilities comprised four themes: preparation, adaption, resources, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Discussion No studies quantitively measured the impact of providing end-of-life care on staff mental health and wellbeing, however qualitative studies described experiences in varied settings. Serious disease outbreaks and disasters can expose care staff to abnormally high levels of mortality and suffering. Health and social care systems need to proactively prepare for future events and enable peer support mechanisms that may help mitigate experiences of psychological distress in humanitarian crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryony Porter
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Amy Zile
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Guy Peryer
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Morag Farquhar
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Kristy Sanderson
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
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30
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Nestor S, O' Tuathaigh C, O' Brien T. Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare staff at a combined elderly care and specialist palliative care facility: A cross-sectional study. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1492-1501. [PMID: 34296637 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211028065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the pre-COVID-19 era, healthcare professionals experienced stress and burnout. The international literature confirms that COVID-19 placed significant additional burdens on healthcare workers. AIM To describe and characterise the magnitude and variety of ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic affected the personal, social and professional lives of healthcare workers representing several multidisciplinary specialties in a fully-integrated palliative and elderly care service. DESIGN All staff were invited to complete an anonymised standardised questionnaire evaluating the impact of COVID-19 across a diverse range of domains. The study was conducted over a 6-week period commencing 11 September 2020. SETTING The setting incorporates two distinct but integrated services operating under a single management structure in Ireland: (i) Specialist palliative care across hospice (44 beds), community and hospitals and (ii) Elderly Care Service (long-term and respite care) delivered in a 63-bed inpatient unit. RESULTS 250 respondents (69.8%) completed the questionnaire. Nurses and healthcare assistants comprised the majority of respondents (60%) and other disciplines were represented proportionately. 230 participants (92%) agreed that their personal workload had changed significantly in response to COVID-19 and 182 (72.8%) agreed that their responsibilities had increased. 196 (78.4%) reported greater work-related stress. Highest-rated sources of stress included fear of contracting COVID-19 or transmitting it to friends/family, interacting with isolated frail/dying patients, changes to workplace protocols and reduced social interaction with colleagues. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the profound impact of COVID-19 on personal and professional wellbeing of staff. The greatest burden was carried by those providing prolonged, direct and intimate patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nestor
- Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Curraheen, Cork, Ireland
| | - Colm O' Tuathaigh
- Medical Education Unit, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Tony O' Brien
- Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Curraheen, Cork, Ireland.,Medical Education Unit, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
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