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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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Braun V, Clarke V. Supporting best practice in reflexive thematic analysis reporting in Palliative Medicine: A review of published research and introduction to the Reflexive Thematic Analysis Reporting Guidelines (RTARG). Palliat Med 2024; 38:608-616. [PMID: 38469804 PMCID: PMC11157981 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241234800] [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] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reflexive thematic analysis is widely used in qualitative research published in Palliative Medicine, and in the broader field of health research. However, this approach is often not used well. Common problems in published reflexive thematic analysis in general include assuming thematic analysis is a singular approach, rather than a family of methods, confusing themes and topics, and treating and reporting reflexive thematic analysis as if it is atheoretical. PURPOSE We reviewed 20 papers published in Palliative Medicine between 2014 and 2022 that cited Braun and Clarke, identified using the search term 'thematic analysis' and the default 'relevance' setting on the journal webpage. The aim of the review was to identify common problems and instances of good practice. Problems centred around a lack of methodological coherence, and a lack of reflexive openness, clarity and detail in reporting. We considered contributors to these common problems, including the use of reporting checklists that are not coherent with the values of reflexive thematic analysis. To support qualitative researchers in producing coherent and reflexively open reports of reflexive thematic analysis we have developed the Reflexive Thematic Analysis Reporting Guidelines (the RTARG; in Supplemental Materials) informed by this review, other reviews we have done and our values and experience as qualitative researchers. The RTARG is also intended for use by peer reviewers to encourage methodologically coherent reviewing. KEY LEARNING POINTS Methodological incoherence and a lack of transparency are common problems in reflexive thematic analysis research published in Palliative Medicine. Coherence can be facilitated by researchers and reviewers striving to be knowing - thoughtful, deliberative, reflexive and theoretically aware - practitioners and appraisers of reflexive thematic analysis and developing an understanding of the diversity within the thematic analysis family of methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Braun
- Waipapa Taumata Rau, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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3
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Walker W, Jones J, Astley M. In-hospital end-of-life care: an appreciative analysis of bereaved family feedback. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2024; 33:126-131. [PMID: 38335107 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2024.33.3.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Experience feedback data is increasingly recognised as being helpful in improving healthcare services, and in meeting patient and family needs. This end-of-life care project, based on the principles of appreciative inquiry, sought to learn from the experiences of bereaved people whose relative had died in an acute hospital setting. Informal feedback, offered during a routine telephone call, was thematically analysed and interpreted in an appreciative manner. Confirmatory representations of caring practices and behaviours were identified, categorised and disseminated in a way that enabled staff to come to know and understand end-of-life care at its best, rather than as a set of problematised events. The findings served as a benchmark for individuals and teams to assess and progress their practice reflectively. The authors conclude that staff receptiveness to informal bereaved family feedback may be enhanced by focusing on the positive qualities of end-of-life care within existing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Walker
- Reader in Nursing (End-of-life Care and Bereavement), The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
| | - Jennifer Jones
- Specialist Nurse-Bereavement/Lead Medical Examiner Officer, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
| | - Melanie Astley
- Clinical Nurse Specialist-Palliative Care, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
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4
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Costeira C, Dixe MA, Querido A, Rocha A, Vitorino J, Santos C, Laranjeira C. Death Unpreparedness Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Concept Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:188. [PMID: 38255076 PMCID: PMC10815185 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic imposed changes upon the capacity of healthcare systems, with significant repercussions on healthcare provision, particularly at end-of-life. This study aims to analyze the concept map of death unpreparedness due to the COVID-19 pandemic, capturing the relationships among the attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical indicators. Walker and Avant's method was used to guide an analysis of this concept. A literature search was performed systematically, between May 2022 and August 2023, using the following electronic databases on the Elton Bryson Stephens Company (EBSCO) host platform: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Psychological Information Database (PsycINFO), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) Complete, Cochrane Library, and Nursing and Allied Health Collection. Thirty-four articles were retrieved. The unexpected and unpredictable impositions associated with inexperience and unskillfulness in dealing with COVID-19 configured challenges for healthcare professionals, family/caregivers, and even the dying person. Nine key attributes emerged in three main domains: (1) Individual: (a) disease-related conditions, (b) separation distress, and (c) scarcity of death and grief literacy; (2) Relational: (a) Dying alone, (b) poor communication, and (c) existential issues; and (3) Contextual: (a) disrupted collective mourning and grieving, (b) disrupted compassionate care and, (c) pandemic social stigma. This study contributed a full definition of death unpreparedness in a global pandemic scenario such as COVID-19. In this sense, feeling unprepared or unready for death brought new challenges to the bioecological resources of those affected. It is essential to embrace strategies capable of providing emotional and spiritual support in the dying process and to respect patient wishes. The lessons learned from COVID-19 should be applied to events with a comparable impact to minimize their consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Costeira
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- The Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA:E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Anjos Dixe
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
| | - Ana Querido
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), NursID, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Rocha
- Nursing School of Coimbra, Avenida Bissaya Barreto s/n, 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Joel Vitorino
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Palliative Care Unit, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cátia Santos
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-801 Évora, Portugal
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DeYoreo M, Anhang Price R, Haas A, Tolpadi A, Teno JM, Elliott MN. Changes in hospice care experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Am Geriatr Soc 2024; 72:300-302. [PMID: 37725395 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ann Haas
- RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Joan M Teno
- RAND Corporation, Arlington, Virginia, USA
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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6
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Hahn JS, Chua KC, Jones R, Henderson C. The Every Mind Matters campaign: changes in mental health literacy and its associations with campaign awareness. Eur J Public Health 2023; 33:1008-1013. [PMID: 37579223 PMCID: PMC10710357 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to investigate the effects on population level mental health literacy (MHL) of Every Mind Matters over 30 months following campaign launch. METHODS To observe changes in MHL over time, we conducted regression analyses on a nationally representative, repeated cross-sectional dataset of nine survey waves from September 2019 to March 2022 and an individual participant data meta-analysis with data from October 2019 to March 2021 to examine the association between campaign awareness and the outcomes. RESULTS There were small improvements in knowledge of management of stress, depression and anxiety, mental health vigilance, sleep literacy and psychological wellbeing self-efficacy from September 2019 to March 2020 and a deterioration in most MHL outcomes from March 2020 compared with September 2019. Campaign awareness was positively associated with symptom management of depression and anxiety, help seeking self-efficacy, stigma related to mental disorders and mental health vigilance. CONCLUSIONS There is little evidence that the campaign improved MHL in the general population beyond March 2020. Those who were aware of the campaign may have benefitted from its resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane S Hahn
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London UK
| | - Kia-Chong Chua
- Health Service and Population Research Department, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Jones
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London UK
| | - Claire Henderson
- Health Service and Population Research Department, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, London, UK
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7
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Mueller H, Corless IB, Bell JG, Smeding R, Anewalt P, Kerslake D, Lee GL, Cox G, Papadatou D, Penny A, Becker CB, Connor SR. Supporting the Bereaved in the COVID-19 Era: A Scoping Review of Interventions. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231215478. [PMID: 38000081 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231215478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
People whose family member(s) friend(s) have died from COVID-19 or other causes have been deeply affected by the physical and social restrictions imposed during the pandemic. These limitations have affected end-of-life care and support for the bereaved. The purpose of this review is to identify: the published studies of evaluated programs about interventions for people who have experienced bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to develop recommendations for researchers and policy makers. Using scoping review methodology, a literature review was undertaken for articles published from January 1, 2020 through February 28, 2023 to identify interventions shown to be beneficial to people who have experienced the death of loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. The search yielded 1588 articles of which three studies met the criteria of utilizing a pre and post-test design with only one of these, a randomized controlled trial. The interventions included in this review demonstrate preliminary efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Mueller
- Department for Medical Oncology and Palliative Care, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Ruthmarijke Smeding
- Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, UK and Lecturer Education Palliative Care, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Debbie Kerslake
- School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Geok Ling Lee
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gerry Cox
- Department of Sociology, University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, WI, USA
| | - Danai Papadatou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alison Penny
- National Children's Bureau, Childhood Bereavement Network, London, UK
| | - Carl B Becker
- Policy Science Unit, School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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8
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Kihara A, Kambayashi T, Shimonouchi Y, Mabuchi M, Nagai A, Kanzaki I, Fukagawa M. The Impact of Visitor Restrictions During COVID-19 Pandemic on Bereaved Family Members of Patients in Palliative Care Units. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:1279-1284. [PMID: 36803015 PMCID: PMC9941005 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231159522] [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] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the families of patients in Palliative Care Units because of the visitor restrictions which were introduced to reduce the risk of infection. This study investigates how the bereaved families of the patients who died in end-of-life care during the pandemic evaluate the visitor restrictions and how the lack of direct communication with the patient affected them. We conducted a quantitative survey using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Participants were the bereaved families of patients who died in a Palliative Care Unit from April 2020 to March 2021. Their perspectives on the negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on visitations, visitor restrictions, the quality of medical care in the month before the death of the patient, and online visitations were recorded in the survey. The results show that most participants experienced a negative impact on visitations. However, most respondents felt that the restrictions were unavoidable. According to visitor permissions in patients' last days, bereaved families were satisfied with the medical care provided for the patient and the amount of time spent with the patient in his/her last days. The importance of direct meetings during the last days of the patients' life for their family members was presented. We suggest further research to find measures which enable visitation in palliative care units, as caregiving from family and friends and maintaining COVID safety regulations are equally significant in end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Kihara
- Palliative Care Unit, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Makiko Mabuchi
- Palliative Care Unit, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ayumi Nagai
- Palliative Care Unit, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Iku Kanzaki
- Palliative Care Unit, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miyuki Fukagawa
- Palliative Care Unit, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
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Harrop E, Medeiros Mirra R, Goss S, Longo M, Byrne A, Farnell DJJ, Seddon K, Penny A, Machin L, Sivell S, Selman LE. Prolonged grief during and beyond the pandemic: factors associated with levels of grief in a four time-point longitudinal survey of people bereaved in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1215881. [PMID: 37794891 PMCID: PMC10546414 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1215881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been a devastating and enduring mass-bereavement event, with uniquely difficult sets of circumstances experienced by people bereaved at this time. However, little is known about the long-term consequences of these experiences, including the prevalence of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) and other conditions in pandemic-bereaved populations. Methods A longitudinal survey of people bereaved in the UK between 16 March 2020 and 2 January 2021, with data collected at baseline (n = 711), c. 8 (n = 383), 13 (n = 295), and 25 (n = 185) months post-bereavement. Using measures of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) (Traumatic Grief Inventory), grief vulnerability (Adult Attitude to Grief Scale), and social support (Inventory of Social Support), this analysis examines how participant characteristics, characteristics of the deceased and pandemic-related circumstances (e.g., restricted visiting, social isolation, social support) are associated with grief outcomes, with a focus on symptoms of PGD. Results At baseline, 628 (88.6%) of participants were female, with a mean age of 49.5 (SD 12.9). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. Sample demographics were relatively stable across time points. 34.6% of participants met the cut-off for indicated PGD at c. 13 months bereaved and 28.6% at final follow-up. Social isolation and loneliness in early bereavement and lack of social support over time strongly contributed to higher levels of prolonged grief symptoms, while feeling well supported by healthcare professionals following the death was associated with reduced levels of prolonged grief symptoms. Characteristics of the deceased most strongly associated with lower levels of prolonged grief symptoms, were a more distant relationship (e.g., death of a grandparent), an expected death and death occurring in a care-home. Participant characteristics associated with higher levels of prolonged grief symptoms included low level of formal education and existence of medical conditions. Conclusion Results suggest higher than expected levels of PGD compared with pre-pandemic times, with important implications for bereavement policy, provision and practice now (e.g., strengthening of social and specialist support) and in preparedness for future pandemics and mass-bereavement events (e.g., guidance on infection control measures and rapid support responses).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | - Silvia Goss
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mirella Longo
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kathy Seddon
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Penny
- National Bereavement Alliance, London, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Machin
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Sivell
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy E. Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Mergenova G, Rosenthal SL, Myrkassymova A, Bukharbayeva A, Iskakova B, Izekenova A, Izekenova A, Alekesheva L, Yerdenova M, Karibayev K, Zhussupov B, Alimbekova G, Davis A. The COVID-19 pandemic and mental health in Kazakhstan. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e52. [PMID: 37854418 PMCID: PMC10579662 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had significant impacts on mental health. We examined factors associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kazakhstan. We surveyed 991 adults in Kazakhstan in July 2021 using multistage stratified sampling. Depression and anxiety were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire-4. We conducted logistic regression to assess associations between depression and anxiety and sociobehavioral factors. Overall, 12.01% reported depressive symptoms and 8.38% anxiety. Higher likelihood of depression was associated with being female (AOR: 1.64; 95% CI [1.05, 2.55]), having experience with COVID-19 in the social environment (AOR: 1.85; 95% CI [1.1-3.14]), experiencing food insecurity (AOR: 1.80; 95% CI [1.11-2.89]), increased family conflict (AOR: 2.43; 95% CI [1.32-4.48]) and impaired healthcare access (AOR: 2.41; 95% CI [1.32-4.41]). Higher likelihood of anxiety was associated with being female (AOR: 3.43; 95% CI [1.91-6.15]), increased family conflict (AOR: 2.22; 95% CI [1.11-4.44]) and impaired healthcare access (AOR: 2.63; 95% CI [1.36-5.12]). Multiple factors were associated with mental health in Kazakhstan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which these factors and their associated mental health outcomes may persist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaukhar Mergenova
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Susan L. Rosenthal
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Balnur Iskakova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Assel Izekenova
- Kenzhegali Sagadiyev University of International Business, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Maral Yerdenova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | | | | | - Alissa Davis
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
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11
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Morgan T, Gott M, Williams L, Naden J, Wang Y, Smith B, Fanueli E, Budi Setyawati M, Morgan K, Robinson J, Anderson N, Carey M, Moeke-Maxwell T. A bad time to die? Exploring bereaved families/wha-nau experiences of end-of-life care under COVID-19 restrictions: a qualitative interview study. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231189525. [PMID: 37584059 PMCID: PMC10424543 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231189525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There have been international concerns raised that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an absence of good palliative care resulting in poor end-of-life care experiences. To date, there have been few studies considering the pandemic's impact on people dying from non-COVID-19 causes and their families and friends. In particular, there has been very less empirical research in relation to end-of-life care for Indigenous, migrant and minoritised ethnic communities. Objectives To explore bereaved next-of-kin's views and experiences of end-of-life care under COVID-19 pandemic regulations. Design This qualitative study involved in-depth one-off interviews with 30 ethnically diverse next-of-kin who had a family member die in the first year of the pandemic in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Methods Interviews were conducted by ethnically matched interviewers/interviewees. A reflexive thematic analysis was used to explore and conceptualise their accounts. Results A key finding was that dying alone and contracting COVID-19 were seen as equally significant risks by bereaved families. Through this analysis, we identified five key themes: (1) compromised connection; (2) uncertain communication; (3) cultural safety; (4) supported grieving and (5) silver linings. Conclusion This article emphasises the importance of enabling safe and supported access for family/whanau to be with their family/wha-nau member at end-of-life. We identify a need for wider provision of bereavement support. We recommend that policy makers increase resourcing of palliative care services to ensure that patients and their families receive high-quality end-of-life care, both during and post this pandemic. Policy makers could also promote a culturally-diverse end-of-life care work force and the embedding of culturally-safety practices across a range of institutions where people die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Morgan
- Applied Social Science Group, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, The University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Merryn Gott
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lisa Williams
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joe Naden
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yingmin Wang
- School of Foreign Studies and School of International Culture, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Brianna Smith
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Elizabeth Fanueli
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Martyarini Budi Setyawati
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kathryn Morgan
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jackie Robinson
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natalie Anderson
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melissa Carey
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tess Moeke-Maxwell
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Hedman C, Strang P, Lundström S, Martinsson L. Symptom Management and Support in Dying Patients with Cancer and Coronavirus Disease-19-A Register-Based Study. J Palliat Care 2023; 38:261-267. [PMID: 36793233 PMCID: PMC10350711 DOI: 10.1177/08258597231157622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known to what extent access to specialist palliative care (SPC) for cancer patients dying with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) affects the occurrence of breakthrough symptoms, symptom relief, and overall care, compared to hospital deaths. Our aim was to include patients with both COVID-19 and cancer and compare those dying in hospitals with those dying in SPC with reference to the quality of end-of-life care. METHODS Patients with both cancer and COVID-19 who died in hospitals (n = 430) and within SPC (n = 384) were identified from the Swedish Register of Palliative Care. The hospital and SPC groups were compared regarding the quality of end-of-life care, including the occurrence of 6 breakthrough symptoms during the last week in life, symptom relief, end-of-life care decisions, information, support, and human presence at death. RESULTS Breakthrough of breathlessness was more common in the hospital patients compared to the SPC patients (61% and 39%, respectively; p < .001), while pain was less common (65% and 78%, respectively; p < .001). Breakthrough of nausea, anxiety, respiratory secretions, or confusion did not differ. All 6 symptoms, except for confusion, were more often completely relieved in SPC (p = .014 to p < .001 in different comparisons). In SPC, a documented decision about the goal being end-of-life care and information about this were more common than in hospitals (p < .001). Also, to have family members present at the time of death and for family members to be offered a follow-up talk afterward was more common in SPC (p < .001). CONCLUSION More systematic palliative care routines may be an important factor for better symptom control and higher quality of end-of-life care in hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christel Hedman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- R&D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter Strang
- R&D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology–Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Staffan Lundström
- R&D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology–Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lisa Martinsson
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Jeon H, Kim S, Lee I. "The communication I had with him back then is still stuck in my mind." Bereaved families of cancer patients' experiences for end-of-life communication. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:277. [PMID: 37071223 PMCID: PMC10111311 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07753-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication with family members is important to end-of-life care for patients with cancer. It is an interactive engagement between terminally-ill cancer patients and their families through which they expand their mutual understanding to cope with losses and find meaning in death. This study aimed to describe the experiences of end-of-life communication between patients with cancer and their family members in South Korea. METHODS This is a qualitative descriptive study using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Ten bereaved family members with end-of-life communication experience with terminal cancer patients were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS A total of 29 constructed meanings, 11 sub-categories, and the following 3 categories were derived: "Offering a space for patients to reminisce and reflect," "Building a bond," and "Reflections on what we need." End-of-life communication primarily centered on the patients, with families struggling to share their stories with them. Although the families coped well, they also regretted the lack of meaningful communication with the patients, indicating a need for support to facilitate effective end-of-life communication. CONCLUSION The study highlighted concrete communication for finding meaning at the end-of-life for cancer patients and their families. We found that the families have the potential to communicate appropriately to cope with the patients' end-of-life. Nevertheless, end-of-life presents a unique challenge in which families require adequate support. Given the increasing number of patients and families dealing with end-of-life care in hospitals, healthcare providers should be mindful of their needs and help them cope effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejung Jeon
- Department of Nursing, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Kim
- College of Nursing and Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ilhak Lee
- Division of Medical Law and Ethics, Department of Medical Humanities and Social Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Asian Institute for Bioethics and Health Law, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Zee MS, Bagchus L, Becqué YN, Witkamp E, van der Heide A, van Lent LGG, Goossensen A, Korfage IJ, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, Pasman HR. Impact of COVID-19 on care at the end of life during the first months of the pandemic from the perspective of healthcare professionals from different settings: a qualitative interview study (the CO-LIVE study). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e063267. [PMID: 36878652 PMCID: PMC9990162 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to better understand how the COVID-19 outbreak impacted the different domains of the palliative care approach to end-of-life care from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs) from different professions, working in different settings during the first months of the COVID-19 outbreak in the Netherlands. METHODS An in-depth qualitative interview study among 16 HCPs of patients who died between March and July 2020 in different healthcare settings in the Netherlands. The HCPs were recruited through an online survey about end-of-life care. Maximum variation sampling was used. Data were analysed following the principles of thematic analysis. RESULTS Several aspects impacted the quality of the palliative care approach to care at the end of life. First, COVID-19 was a new disease and this led to challenges in the physical domain of end-of-life care, for example, a lack of knowledge on how to manage symptoms and an unreliable clinical view. Second, the high workload HCPs experienced impacted the quality of end-of-life care, especially in the emotional, social and spiritual domains, since they only had time for urgent, physical care. Third, COVID-19 is a contagious disease and measures taken to prevent the spread of the virus hampered care for both patients and relatives. For example, because of the visiting restrictions, HCPs were not able to provide emotional support to relatives. Finally, the COVID-19 outbreak also had a potentially positive impact in the longer term, for example, more awareness of advance care planning and the importance of end-of-life care that includes all the domains. CONCLUSION The palliative care approach, which is key to good end-of-life care, was often negatively influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, predominantly in the emotional, social and spiritual domains. This was related to a focus on essential physical care and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha S Zee
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Lotje Bagchus
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Yvonne N Becqué
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Erica Witkamp
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Liza G G van Lent
- Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | | | - Ida J Korfage
- Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - H Roeline Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
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15
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Becker CB. Utilizing the spirituality of funeral rituals for post-pandemic grief recovery. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1040482. [PMID: 36687981 PMCID: PMC9851600 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1040482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
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16
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Selman LE, Farnell DJJ, Longo M, Goss S, Torrens-Burton A, Seddon K, Mayland CR, Machin L, Byrne A, Harrop EJ. Factors Associated With Higher Levels of Grief and Support Needs Among People Bereaved During the Pandemic: Results from a National Online Survey. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221144925. [PMID: 36542774 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221144925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We identified factors associated with higher levels of grief and support needs among 711 people bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK (deaths 16 March 2020-2 January 2021). An online survey assessed grief using the Adult Attitude to Grief (AAG) scale, which calculates an overall index of vulnerability (IOV) (range 0-36), and practical and emotional support needs in 13 domains. Participants' mean age was 49.5 (SD 12.9); 628 (88.6%) female. Mean age of deceased 72.2 (SD 16.1). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. High overall levels of grief and support needs were observed; 28.2% exhibited severe vulnerability (index of vulnerability ≥24). Grief and support needs were higher for close relationships with the deceased (vs. more distant) and reported social isolation and loneliness (p < 0.001), and lower when age of deceased was above 40-50. Other associated factors were place of death and health professional support post-death (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Silvia Goss
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anna Torrens-Burton
- PRIME Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Catriona R Mayland
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emily J Harrop
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Hedman C, Fürst CJ, Rasmussen BH, van der Heide A, Schelin MEC. Dying during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sweden: Relatives' Experiences of End-of-Life Care (the CO-LIVE Study). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16146. [PMID: 36498221 PMCID: PMC9740982 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has seen many deaths, but the majority were for causes other than COVID-19. However, end-of-life care in all settings has been affected by measures limiting the spread of the virus, for patients with and without COVID-19. The Swedish coronavirus strategy was different compared to many other countries, which might have affected end-of-life care. The aim was to describe the experiences of end-of-life care for bereaved relatives in Sweden during the “first wave” and to compare the experiences for deaths due to COVID-19 with the experiences for deaths for other reasons. Methods: A random sample of addresses for 2400 people who died during March−September 2020 was retrieved from the Swedish Person Address Registry. Relatives were contacted with a questionnaire regarding their experience of end-of-life care, with a focus on communication, participation, and trust. Results: In total, 587 relatives (25% response rate) answered the questionnaire (14% COVID-19-deaths, 65% non-COVID-19-deaths, 21% uncertain). In the COVID-19 group 28% of the relatives were allowed visits without restrictions compared to 60% in the non-COVID-19 group (p < 0.01). Only 28% of the relatives in the COVID-19 group reported that the person received “enough care from physicians”, significantly fewer than the non-COVID group (65%, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Relatives’ experience of end-of-life care for persons with COVID-19 was significantly worse than relatives of persons without COVID-19, but relatives for persons without COVID-19 were also negatively affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christel Hedman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Anna Steckséns gata 53, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- R&D Department, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Mariebergsgatan 22, SE-11219 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC, Sölvegatan 19, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
- Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Scheelevägen 2, Medicon Village, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Fürst
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC, Sölvegatan 19, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
- Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Scheelevägen 2, Medicon Village, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden
| | - Birgit H. Rasmussen
- Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Scheelevägen 2, Medicon Village, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Margaretavägen 1B, SE-22240 Lund, Sweden
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Scheelevägen 2, Medicon Village, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, NL-3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria E. C. Schelin
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC, Sölvegatan 19, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
- Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Scheelevägen 2, Medicon Village, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden
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van Schaik T, Brouwer MA, Knibbe NE, Knibbe HJJ, Teunissen SCCM. The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Grief Experiences of Bereaved Relatives: An Overview Review. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221143861. [PMID: 36453639 PMCID: PMC9720061 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221143861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted grief experiences of bereaved relatives and altered accustomed ways of coping with loss. To understand how bereaved relatives experienced grief during COVID-19, a review, using the overview method, was conducted. An overview of empirical data about this subject has been lacking and therefore, PubMed and CINAHL databases were searched for empirical studies published from January 1, 2020 until December 31, 2021. 28 articles were included in the review. Thematic analysis showed different emotional responses, changes in grief, the effect of absence during final moments, a lack of involvement in the caring process, the impact on communities and social support systems and the alteration of funerals among bereaved relatives. During COVID-19, death is characterized by poor bereavement outcomes and health implications, but bereaved also show signs of resilience and coping. Directions for future research about cultural and societal differences in grief and support methods are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara van Schaik
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marije A. Brouwer
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Saskia C. C. M. Teunissen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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van Langen-Datta S, Wesson H, Fleming J, Eccles A, Grimley C, Dale J, Almack K, Mayland C, Mitchell S, Driscoll R, Tatnell L, Roberts L, MacArtney JI. The impact of Covid-19 pandemic on hospices: A systematic integrated review and synthesis of recommendations for policy and practice. AMRC OPEN RESEARCH 2022; 4:23. [PMID: 38708127 PMCID: PMC11064931 DOI: 10.12688/amrcopenres.13105.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Background The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in the development of numerous recommendations for practice and policy for specialist palliative care provided by hospices in United Kingdom (UK), as hospices were significantly affected by the pandemic and protections put in place.The aim of this review is to identify and synthesise recommendations or implications for policy and practice that have been generated for adult hospice specialist palliative care during the first 24 months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods AMED, BNI, CINAHL, EMBASE, EMCARE, HMIC, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed databases were searched for peer-reviewed papers, as well as hand searchers for grey literature. Literature relating to hospices and Covid-19 in the UK were included and a thematic synthesis of recommendations for hospice policy and practice was undertaken. Results 858 articles were identified with 12 meeting the inclusion criteria. Fifty-eight recommendations or implications were identified: 31 for policy, 27 for practice, and 10 covering both. Recommendations were organised under ten themes. There were several recommendations seeking to secure hospice resources to mitigate the short-term impact of the pandemic, as well as those focused on longer-term implications such as core funding. The impact of the pandemic on the quality of hospice care was the focus for numerous recommendations around improving integration of hospice care in the community, provision of bereavement support and better use of Advance Care Plans (ACP). However, there were significant gaps related to carer visitation in hospices, inequities of palliative care, or hospice-at-home services. Conclusion The Covid-19 pandemic and protections exposed several ongoing policy and practice needs, especially around hospice resources, while generating novel issues for hospices to address. Significant policy gaps remain to be addressed to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the quality of hospice specialist palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Helen Wesson
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Joanna Fleming
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Abi Eccles
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Catherine Grimley
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Kathryn Almack
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Catriona Mayland
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Sarah Mitchell
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | | | - Lynn Tatnell
- Patient or Public Involvement (PPI) Representative, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Lesley Roberts
- Patient or Public Involvement (PPI) Representative, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - John I. MacArtney
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV4 7AL, UK
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Voultsos P, Tsompanian A, Deligianni M, Tsamadou E, Tsaroucha AK. A qualitative study of nursing practitioners' experiences with COVID-19 patients dying alone in Greece. Front Public Health 2022; 10:981780. [PMID: 36339201 PMCID: PMC9634155 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.981780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Greece, there is still limited research on death in isolation due to COVID-19. This deserves attention because of the recent financial crisis, which profoundly impacted public health, and the high relevance of the Hippocratic tradition to the moral values of clinical practice. Methods A prospective qualitative study using in-depth interviews with 15 frontline nursing practitioners working in a COVID-19 ward or intensive care unit (ICU) was conducted from July 2021 to December 2021. Results The inability of family members to say a final goodbye before, during, or after death by performing proper mourning rituals is extremely inhuman and profoundly impacts the mental health status of patients, family members, and nursing practitioners. Patients and their family members strongly desire to see each other. Epidemiology, liability, and proper nursing performance emerged as reasons for the enforced strict visitation restrictions. Participants emphasized that visitations should be allowed on an individual basis and highlighted the need for the effective use of remote communication technology, which, however, does not substitute for in-person contact. Importantly, physicians allowed "clandestine" visits on an individual basis. Nursing practitioners had a strong empathic attitude toward both patients and their families, and a strong willingness to provide holistic care and pay respect to dead bodies. However, they also experienced moral distress. Witnessing heartbreaking scenes with patients and/or their families causes nursing practitioners to experience intense psychological distress, which affects their family life rather than nursing performance. Ultimately, there was a shift from a patient-centered care model to a population-centered care model. Furthermore, we identified a range of policy- and culture-related factors that exaggerate the negative consequences of dying alone of COVID-19. Conclusion These results reinforce the existing literature on several fronts. However, we identified some nuances related to political decisions and, most importantly, convictions that are deeply rooted in Greek culture. These findings are of great importance in planning tailored interventions to mitigate the problem of interest and have implications for other similar national contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polychronis Voultsos
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Tsompanian
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, Laboratory of Bioethics and Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Maria Deligianni
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eftychia Tsamadou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandra K. Tsaroucha
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, Laboratory of Bioethics and Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Strategies Addressing the Challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Long-Term, Palliative and Hospice Care: A Qualitative Study on the Perspectives of Patients’ Family Members. REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/reports5030026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients in long-term, palliative, and hospice care are at increased risk of a severe course of COVID-19. For purposes of infection control, different strategies have been implemented by the respective health care facilities, also comprising visitation and other forms of contact restrictions. The aim of the present study was to examine how these strategies are perceived by family members of patients in these settings. An exploratory, qualitative approach was used to examine perceptions of policies and strategies using partially standardized guided interviews analyzed by means of a thematic approach. Interviews were conducted with 10 family members of long-term, palliative, and hospice care patients. Interviewees were between 30 and 75 years old. Because of the pandemic-related measures, respondents felt that their basic rights were restricted. Results indicate that perceptions of strategies and interventions in long-term, palliative, and hospice care facilities are particularly influenced by the opportunity to visit and the number of visitors allowed. Strict bans on visits, particularly during end-of-life care, are associated with a strong emotional burden for patients and family members alike. Aside from sufficient opportunities for visits, virtual communication technologies need to be utilized to facilitate communication between patients, families, and caregivers.
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22
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Lawlor P, Parsons H, Adeli SR, Besserer E, Cohen L, Gratton V, Murphy R, Warmels G, Bruni A, Kabir M, Noel C, Heidinger B, Anderson K, Arsenault-Mehta K, Wooller K, Lapenskie J, Webber C, Bedard D, Enright P, Desjardins I, Bhimji K, Dyason C, Iyengar A, Bush SH, Isenberg S, Tanuseputro P, Vanderspank-Wright B, Downar J. Comparative end-of-life communication and support in hospitalised decedents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective regional cohort study in Ottawa, Canada. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062937. [PMID: 35760548 PMCID: PMC9237652 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare end-of-life in-person family presence, patient-family communication and healthcare team-family communication encounters in hospitalised decedents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN In a regional multicentre retrospective cohort study, electronic health record data were abstracted for a prepandemic group (pre-COVID) and two intrapandemic (March-August 2020, wave 1) groups, one COVID-19 free (COVID-ve) and one with COVID-19 infection (COVID+ve). Pre-COVID and COVID-ve groups were matched 2:1 (age, sex and care service) with the COVID+ve group. SETTING One quaternary and two tertiary adult, acute care hospitals in Ottawa, Canada. PARTICIPANTS Decedents (n=425): COVID+ve (n=85), COVID-ve (n=170) and pre-COVID (n=170). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES End-of-life (last 48 hours) in-person family presence and virtual (video) patient-family communication, and end-of-life (last 5 days) virtual team-family communication encounter occurrences were examined using logistic regression with ORs and 95% CIs. End-of-life (last 5 days) rates of in-person and telephone team-family communication encounters were examined using mixed-effects negative binomial models with incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% CIs. RESULTS End-of-life in-person family presence decreased progressively across pre-COVID (90.6%), COVID-ve (79.4%) and COVID+ve (47.1%) groups: adjusted ORs=0.38 (0.2-0.73) and 0.09 (0.04-0.17) for COVID-ve and COVID+ve groups, respectively. COVID-ve and COVID+ve groups had reduced in-person but increased telephone team-family communication encounters: IRRs=0.76 (0.64-0.9) and 0.61 (0.47-0.79) for in-person, and IRRs=2.6 (2.1-3.3) and 4.8 (3.7-6.1) for telephone communications, respectively. Virtual team-family communication encounters occurred in 17/85 (20%) and 10/170 (5.9%) of the COVID+ve and COVID-ve groups, respectively: adjusted OR=3.68 (1.51-8.95). CONCLUSIONS In hospitalised COVID-19 pandemic wave 1 decedents, in-person family presence and in-person team-family communication encounters decreased at end of life, particularly in the COVID+ve group; virtual modalities were adopted for communication, and telephone use increased in team-family communication encounters. The implications of these communication changes for the patient, family and healthcare team warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lawlor
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Henrique Parsons
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ella Besserer
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leila Cohen
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Valérie Gratton
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Institut du Savoir Montfort, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebekah Murphy
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Grace Warmels
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrianna Bruni
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monisha Kabir
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chelsea Noel
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brandon Heidinger
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Koby Anderson
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Krista Wooller
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julie Lapenskie
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen Webber
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Bedard
- Institut du Savoir Montfort, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Enright
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Desjardins
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Khadija Bhimji
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Claire Dyason
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Akshai Iyengar
- Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shirley H Bush
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarina Isenberg
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brandi Vanderspank-Wright
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa Faculty of Health Sciences, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Downar
- Department of Palliative Care, Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Divisions of Palliative Care and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Torrens-Burton A, Goss S, Sutton E, Barawi K, Longo M, Seddon K, Carduff E, Farnell DJ, Nelson A, Byrne A, Phillips R, Selman LE, Harrop E. 'It was brutal. It still is': a qualitative analysis of the challenges of bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic reported in two national surveys. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221092456. [PMID: 35462622 PMCID: PMC9021476 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221092456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been a devastating, mass bereavement event characterised by high levels of disruption to end-of-life, grieving and coping processes. Quantitative evidence is emerging on the effects of the pandemic on grief outcomes, but rich qualitative evidence on the lived experiences of people bereaved during these times is lacking. Methods We analysed qualitative data from two independent UK-wide online surveys to describe the experiences of 881 people bereaved during the pandemic. We analysed the data in two phases, conducting an inductive thematic analysis and then applying Stroebe and Schut's Dual Process Model (DPM) and concepts of loss-oriented and restoration-oriented coping (1999; 2010) as an analytic lens to further contextualise and interpret the data. Results We identified six main themes: troubled deaths; mourning, memorialisation and death administration; mass bereavement, the media and the ongoing threat of the pandemic; grieving and coping; work and employment; and support from the health and social care system. Examples of loss-oriented stressors included being unable to visit and say goodbye at the end of life and restricted funeral and memorialisation practices. Associated reactions were feelings of guilt, anger, and problems accepting the death and beginning to grieve. Examples of restoration-oriented stressors and reactions were severely curtailed support-systems and social/recreational activities, which impacted people's ability to cope. Conclusion Study results demonstrate the exceptionally difficult sets of experiences associated with pandemic bereavement, and the utility of the DPM for conceptualising these additional challenges and their impacts on grieving. Our analysis builds and expands on previous use of the DPM in explicating the impact of the pandemic on bereavement. We make recommendations for statutory, private and third sector organisations for improving the experiences of people bereaved during and following this and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Torrens-Burton
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Silvia Goss
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Eileen Sutton
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Kali Barawi
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kathy Seddon
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Annmarie Nelson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rhiannon Phillips
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lucy E. Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Emily Harrop
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park Way, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK
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24
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Pauli B, Strupp J, Schloesser K, Voltz R, Jung N, Leisse C, Bausewein C, Pralong A, Simon ST. It's like standing in front of a prison fence - Dying during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic: A qualitative study of bereaved relatives' experiences. Palliat Med 2022; 36:708-716. [PMID: 35350933 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221076355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the onset of the SARS CoV2 pandemic, protective and isolation measures had a strong impact on the care and support provided to seriously ill and dying people at the end-of-life. AIM Exploring bereaved relatives' experiences of end-of-life care during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic. DESIGN Qualitative interview study with bereaved relatives. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-two relatives of patients who died during the pandemic, regardless of infection with SARS-CoV2. RESULTS Three core categories were identified: needs, burden and best practice. Relatives wished for a contact person responsible for providing information on the medical and mental condition of their family members. The lack of information, of support by others and physical closeness due to the visiting restrictions, as well as not being able to say goodbye, were felt as burdens and led to emotional distress. However, case-by-case decisions were made and creative ways of staying in touch were experienced positively. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the strong need for closeness when a family member was dying could not be met due to the pandemic. This led to suffering that can be prevented. Visits need to be facilitated by making considered decisions on a case-by-case basis. For easy communication with relatives, approaches should be made by healthcare professionals and support for virtual communication should be offered. Furthermore, the results of the study can help to implement or develop ideas to enable dignified farewells even during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berenike Pauli
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julia Strupp
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Karlotta Schloesser
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Dusseldorf (CIO ABCD), Germany.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Clinical Trials Center (ZKS), Germany.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Center for Health Services Research, Germany
| | - Norma Jung
- Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Charlotte Leisse
- Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Munich University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Pralong
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Dusseldorf (CIO ABCD), Germany
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25
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Selman LE, Farnell D, Longo M, Goss S, Seddon K, Torrens-Burton A, Mayland CR, Wakefield D, Johnston B, Byrne A, Harrop E. Risk factors associated with poorer experiences of end-of-life care and challenges in early bereavement: Results of a national online survey of people bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic. Palliat Med 2022; 36:717-729. [PMID: 35176927 PMCID: PMC9005832 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221074876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiences of end-of-life care and early bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic are poorly understood. AIM To identify clinical and demographic risk factors for sub-optimal end-of-life care and pandemic-related challenges prior to death and in early bereavement, to inform clinical practice, policy and bereavement support. DESIGN Online national survey of adults bereaved in the UK (deaths between 16 March 2020 and 2 January 2021), recruited via media, social media, national associations and organisations. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS 711 participants, mean age 49.5 (SD 12.9, range 18-90). 628 (88.6%) were female. Mean age of the deceased was 72.2 (SD 16.1, range miscarriage to 102 years). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. RESULTS Deaths in hospital/care home increased the likelihood of poorer experiences at the end of life; for example, being unable to visit or say goodbye as wanted (p < 0.001). COVID-19 was also associated with worse experiences before and after death; for example, feeling unsupported by healthcare professionals (p < 0.001), social isolation/loneliness (OR = 0.439; 95% CI: 0.261-0.739), and limited contact with relatives/friends (OR = 0.465; 95% CI: 0.254-0.852). Expected deaths were associated with a higher likelihood of positive end-of-life care experiences. The deceased being a partner or child also increased the likelihood of positive experiences, however being a bereaved partner strongly increased odds of social isolation/loneliness, for example, OR = 0.092 (95% CI: 0.028-0.297) partner versus distant family member. CONCLUSIONS Four clear risk factors were found for poorer end-of-life care and pandemic-related challenges in bereavement: place, cause and expectedness of death, and relationship to the deceased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Ellen Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Djj Farnell
- School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - M Longo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - S Goss
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - K Seddon
- Wales Cancer Research Centre, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - C R Mayland
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - D Wakefield
- North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
| | - B Johnston
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - A Byrne
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - E Harrop
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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26
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Yildiz B, Korfage IJ, Witkamp EF, Goossensen A, van Lent LG, Pasman HR, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, Zee M, van der Heide A. Dying in times of COVID-19: Experiences in different care settings - An online questionnaire study among bereaved relatives (the CO-LIVE study). Palliat Med 2022; 36:751-761. [PMID: 35264024 PMCID: PMC9006387 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221079698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic and restricting measures have affected end-of-life care across different settings. AIM To compare experiences of bereaved relatives with end-of-life care for a family member or friend who died at home, in a hospital, nursing home or hospice during the pandemic. DESIGN An open observational online survey was developed and disseminated via social media and public fora (March-July 2020). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses. PARTICIPANTS Individuals who lost a family member or friend in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS The questionnaire was filled out by 393 bereaved relatives who lost a family member or friend at home (n = 68), in a hospital (n = 114), nursing home (n = 176) or hospice (n = 35). Bereaved relatives of patients who died in a hospital most often evaluated medical care (79%) as sufficient, whereas medical care (54.5%) was least often evaluated as sufficient in nursing homes. Emotional support for relatives was most often evaluated as sufficient at home (67.7%) and least often in nursing homes (40.3%). Sufficient emotional support for relatives was associated with a higher likelihood to rate the place of death as appropriate. Bereaved relatives of patients who died at a place other than home and whose care was restricted due to COVID-19 were less likely to evaluate the place of death as appropriate. CONCLUSION End-of-life care during the COVID-19 pandemic was evaluated least favourably in nursing homes. The quality of emotional support for relatives and whether care was restricted or not were important for assessing the place of death as appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berivan Yildiz
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ida J Korfage
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erica Fe Witkamp
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Research Centre Innovations in Care, University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Liza Gg van Lent
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H Roeline Pasman
- Department of public and occupational health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of public and occupational health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Masha Zee
- Department of public and occupational health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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27
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Quain A, Mullan S, Ward MP. Low and No-Contact Euthanasia: Associated Ethical Challenges Experienced by Veterinary Team Members during the Early Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050560. [PMID: 35268128 PMCID: PMC8908847 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary During the COVID-19 pandemic, many veterinary practices have been required to move to a low or no-contact consultation model to minimise the risk of SARS-CoV-2. Utilising data from a global survey, we explored the experiences of veterinary team members performing low and no-contact euthanasia during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. We found that low and no-contact euthanasia were encountered as common and/or stressful ethical challenges in the pandemic. In order to minimise the potential negative impacts of low and no-contact euthanasia on veterinary team members, clients and animal patients, there is a need for a toolkit of protocols to assist veterinary team members in provision of low-contact euthanasia, and avoidance of no-contact euthanasia wherever possible. Abstract Background: During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many veterinary practices around the world have shifted to a low or no-contact consultation model to ensure the safety of their team members and clients, and comply with public health orders, while continuing to provide veterinary care. Methods: We performed reflexive thematic analysis on a subset of data collected using a mixed-methods survey of veterinary team members globally. Results: There were 540 valid responses available for analysis. Low and no-contact euthanasia we raised as a common and/or stressful ethical challenge for 22.8% of respondents. We identified five key themes: no-contact euthanasia as a unique ethical challenge; balancing veterinary team safety with the emotional needs of clients; low and no-contact protocols may cause or exacerbate fear, anxiety and distress in veterinary patients; physical distancing was more challenging during euthanasia consultations; and biosecurity measures complicated communication around euthanasia and end-of-life decision making. Recommendations: In light of concerns highlighted by respondents, we recommend the development of a toolkit of protocols that will assist veterinary team members in performing low-contact euthanasia in a range of circumstances, in alignment with their values and professional ethical codes. Professional bodies may be involved in developing, updating and disseminating this information, and ensuring a continuous supply chain of PPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Quain
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Siobhan Mullan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Michael P. Ward
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
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28
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Dennis B, Vanstone M, Swinton M, Brandt Vegas D, Dionne JC, Cheung A, Clarke FJ, Hoad N, Boyle A, Huynh J, Toledo F, Soth M, Neville TH, Fiest K, Cook DJ. Sacrifice and solidarity: a qualitative study of family experiences of death and bereavement in critical care settings during the pandemic. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058768. [PMID: 35046010 PMCID: PMC8771806 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pandemic-related restrictions are expected to continue to shape end-of-life care and impact the experiences of dying hospitalised patients and their families. OBJECTIVE To understand families' experiences of loss and bereavement during and after the death of their loved one amidst the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive study. SETTING Three acute care units in a Canadian tertiary care hospital. PARTICIPANTS Family members of 28 hospitalised patients who died from March-July 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Qualitative semistructured interviews conducted 6-16 months after patient death inquired about family experiences before and beyond the death of their loved one and garnered suggestions to improve end-of-life care. RESULTS Pandemic restrictions had consequences for families of dying hospitalised patients. Most family members described an attitude of acquiescence, some framing their experience as a sacrifice made for the public good. Families appreciated how clinicians engendered trust in the name of social solidarity while trying to mitigate the negative impact of family separation. However, fears about the patient's experience of isolation and changes to postmortem rituals also created despair and contributed to long-lasting grief. CONCLUSION Profound loss and enduring grief were described by family members whose final connections to their loved one were constrained by pandemic circumstances. Families observed solidarity among clinical staff and experienced a sense of unity with staff, which alleviated some distress. Their suggestions to improve end-of-life care given pandemic restrictions included frequent, flexible communication, exceptions for family presence when safe, and targeted efforts to connect patients whose isolation is intensified by functional impairment or limited technological access. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04602520; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Dennis
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marilyn Swinton
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Joanna C Dionne
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Cheung
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - France J Clarke
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neala Hoad
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne Boyle
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Huynh
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Feli Toledo
- Department of Spiritual Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Soth
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thanh H Neville
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kirsten Fiest
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Deborah J Cook
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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29
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Harrop E, Goss S, Farnell D, Longo M, Byrne A, Barawi K, Torrens-Burton A, Nelson A, Seddon K, Machin L, Sutton E, Roulston A, Finucane A, Penny A, Smith KV, Sivell S, Selman LE. Support needs and barriers to accessing support: Baseline results of a mixed-methods national survey of people bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1985-1997. [PMID: 34676792 PMCID: PMC8637353 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211043372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is a mass bereavement event which has profoundly disrupted grief experiences. Understanding support needs and access to support among people bereaved at this time is crucial to ensuring appropriate bereavement support infrastructure. AIM To investigate grief experiences, support needs and use of formal and informal bereavement support among people bereaved during the pandemic. DESIGN Baseline results from a longitudinal survey. Support needs and experiences of accessing support are reported using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of free-text data. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS 711 adults bereaved in the UK between March and December 2020, recruited via media, social media, national associations and community/charitable organisations. RESULTS High-level needs for emotional support were identified. Most participants had not sought support from bereavement services (59%, n = 422) or their General-Practitioner (60%, n = 428). Of participants who had sought such support, over half experienced difficulties accessing bereavement services (56%, n = 149)/General-Practitioner support (52%, n = 135). About 51% reported high/severe vulnerability in grief; among these, 74% were not accessing bereavement or mental-health services. Barriers included limited availability, lack of appropriate support, discomfort asking for help and not knowing how to access services. About 39% (n = 279) experienced difficulties getting support from family/friends, including relational challenges, little face-to-face contact and disrupted collective mourning. The perceived uniqueness of pandemic bereavement and wider societal strains exacerbated their isolation. CONCLUSIONS People bereaved during the pandemic have high levels of support needs alongside difficulties accessing support. We recommend increased provision and tailoring of bereavement services, improved information on support options and social/educational initiatives to bolster informal support and ameliorate isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Silvia Goss
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kali Barawi
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anna Torrens-Burton
- PRIME Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Annmarie Nelson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kathy Seddon
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Eileen Sutton
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Anne Finucane
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alison Penny
- National Bereavement Alliance/Childhood Bereavement Network, London, UK
| | - Kirsten V Smith
- Centre for Anxiety Disorders and Trauma, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stephanie Sivell
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lucy E Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this paper is (1) to provide insight in the palliative care needs of patients with COVID-19; (2) to highlight the challenges of COVID-19 for palliative care; and (3) to highlight developments in COVID-19 palliative care. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with serious COVID-19 have palliative care needs in all domains: physical, psychological, social and spiritual. COVID-19 palliative care is confronted with many challenges, including: the uncertain prognosis, resource limitations, challenges regarding advance care planning, lack of guidance, limited multidisciplinary collaboration, need for remote communication, restrictions in family visits, and burden for clinicians. Palliative care responded with many developments: development of services; integration of palliative care with other services; tools to support advance care planning, (remote) communication with patients and families, or spiritual care; and care for team members. SUMMARY Palliative care has an important role in this pandemic. Palliative care rapidly developed services and opportunities were found to support patients, families and clinicians. Further developments are warranted to face future demands of a pandemic, including integrated palliative care and education in palliative care skills across all specialties. Intervention studies are needed to enable evidence-based recommendations for palliative care in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy J.A. Janssen
- Department of Research & Development, CIRO, Horn
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Becqué YN, van der Geugten W, van der Heide A, Korfage IJ, Pasman HRW, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, Zee M, Witkamp E, Goossensen A. Dignity reflections based on experiences of end-of-life care during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative inquiry among bereaved relatives in the Netherlands (the CO-LIVE study). Scand J Caring Sci 2021; 36:769-781. [PMID: 34625992 PMCID: PMC8661881 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic affects care practices for critically ill patients, with or without a COVID-19 infection, and may have affected the experience of dying for patients and their relatives in the physical, psychological, social and spiritual domains. AIM To give insight into aspects of end-of-life care practices that might have jeopardised or supported the dignity of the patients and their family members during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Netherlands. METHODOLOGY A qualitative study involving 25 in-depth interviews with purposively sampled bereaved relatives of patients who died during the COVID-19 pandemic between March and July 2020 in the Netherlands. We created a dignity-inspired framework for analysis, and used the models of Chochinov et al. and Van Gennip et al. as sensitising concepts. These focus on illness-related aspects and the individual, relational and societal/organisational level of dignity. RESULTS Four themes concerning aspects of end-of-life care practices were identified as possibly jeopardising the dignity of patients or relatives: 'Dealing with an unknown illness', 'Being isolated', 'Restricted farewells' and 'Lack of attentiveness and communication'. The analysis showed that 'Meaningful end-of-life moments' and 'Compassionate professional support' contributed to the dignity of patients and their relatives. CONCLUSION This study illuminates possible aspects of end-of-life care practices that jeopardised or supported dignity. Experienced dignity of bereaved relatives was associated with the unfamiliarity of the virus and issues associated with preventive measures. However, most aspects that had an impact on the dignity experiences of relatives were based in human action and relationships. Relatives experienced that preventive measures could be mitigated by health care professionals to make them less devastating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne N Becqué
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ida J Korfage
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H Roeline W Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Masha Zee
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erica Witkamp
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Schloesser K, Simon ST, Pauli B, Voltz R, Jung N, Leisse C, van der Heide A, Korfage IJ, Pralong A, Bausewein C, Joshi M, Strupp J. "Saying goodbye all alone with no close support was difficult"- Dying during the COVID-19 pandemic: an online survey among bereaved relatives about end-of-life care for patients with or without SARS-CoV2 infection. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:998. [PMID: 34551766 PMCID: PMC8455806 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06987-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, protection measures, as well as visiting restrictions, had a severe impact on seriously ill and dying patients and their relatives. The study aims to describe the experiences of bereaved relatives of patients who died during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, regardless of whether patients were infected with SARS-CoV2 or not. As part of this, experiences related to patients' end-of-life care, saying goodbye, visiting restrictions and communication with the healthcare team were assessed. METHODS An open observational post-bereavement online survey with free text options was conducted with 81 bereaved relatives from people who died during the pandemic in Germany, with and without SARS-CoV2 diagnosis. RESULTS 67/81 of the bereaved relatives were female, with a mean age of 57.2 years. 50/81 decedents were women, with a mean age of 82.4 years. The main underlying diseases causing death were cardiovascular diseases or cancer. Only 7/81 of the patients were infected with SARS-CoV2. 58/81 of the relatives felt burdened by the visiting restrictions and 60/81 suffered from pandemic-related stress. 10 of the patients died alone due to visiting restrictions. The burden for relatives in the hospital setting was higher compared to relatives of patients who died at home. 45/81 and 44/81 relatives respectively reported that physicians and nurses had time to discuss the patient's condition. Nevertheless, relatives reported a lack of proactive communication from the healthcare professionals. CONCLUSIONS Visits of relatives play a major role in the care of the dying and have an impact on the bereavement of relatives. Visits must be facilitated, allowing physical contact. Additionally, virtual contact with the patients and open, empathetic communication on the part of healthcare professionals is needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00023552).
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlotta Schloesser
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Dusseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Berenike Pauli
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Dusseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Clinical Trials Center (ZKS), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Health Services Research. Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Norma Jung
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Charlotte Leisse
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus, MC, the Netherlands
| | - Ida J Korfage
- Department of Public Health, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus, MC, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Pralong
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Department of Palliative Medicine, LMU University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre Munich (CCCM), Munich, Germany
| | - Melanie Joshi
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julia Strupp
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Kerpener Street 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
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Moradi S. Emotional supportive care for first-degree relatives of deceased people with COVID-19: an important but neglected issue. Evid Based Nurs 2021; 25:56. [PMID: 34479946 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2021-103456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Saivash Moradi
- Evidence Based Clinical Fellowship, Education Development Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 4815733971, Iran
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Bloomer MJ, Walshe C. Smiles behind the masks: A systematic review and narrative synthesis exploring how family members of seriously ill or dying patients are supported during infectious disease outbreaks. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1452-1467. [PMID: 34405753 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211029515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection control measures during infectious disease outbreaks can have significant impacts on seriously ill and dying patients, their family, the patient-family connection, coping, grief and bereavement. AIM To explore how family members of patients who are seriously ill or who die during infectious disease outbreaks are supported and cared for during serious illness, before and after patient death and the factors that influence family presence around the time of death. DESIGN Systematic review and narrative synthesis. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, Medline, APA PsycInfo and Embase were searched from inception to June 2020. Forward and backward searching of included papers were also undertaken. Records were independently assessed against inclusion criteria. Included papers were assessed for quality, but none were excluded. FINDINGS Key findings from 14 papers include the importance of communication and information sharing, as well as new ways of using virtual communication. Restrictive visiting practices were understood, but the impact of these restrictions on family experience cannot be underestimated, causing distress and suffering. Consistent advice and information were critical, such as explaining personal protective equipment, which family found constraining and staff experienced as affecting interpersonal communication. Cultural expectations of family caregiving were challenged during infectious disease outbreaks. CONCLUSION Learning from previous infectious disease outbreaks about how family are supported can be translated to the current COVID-19 pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks. Consistent, culturally sensitive and tailored plans should be clearly communicated to family members, including when any restrictions may be amended or additional supports provided when someone is dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Bloomer
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Rapa E, Hanna JR, Mayland CR, Mason S, Moltrecht B, Dalton LJ. Experiences of preparing children for a death of an important adult during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed methods study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e053099. [PMID: 34400462 PMCID: PMC8370837 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were to investigate how families prepared children for the death of a significant adult, and how health and social care professionals provided psychosocial support to families about a relative's death during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN/SETTING A mixed methods design; an observational survey with health and social care professionals and relatives bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK, and in-depth interviews with bereaved relatives and professionals were conducted. Data were analysed thematically. PARTICIPANTS A total of 623 participants completed the survey and interviews were conducted with 19 bereaved relatives and 16 professionals. RESULTS Many children were not prepared for a death of an important adult during the pandemic. Obstacles to preparing children included families' lack of understanding about their relative's declining health; parental belief that not telling children was protecting them from becoming upset; and parents' uncertainty about how best to prepare their children for the death. Only 10.2% (n=11) of relatives reported professionals asked them about their deceased relative's relationships with children. This contrasts with 68.5% (n=72) of professionals who reported that the healthcare team asked about patient's relationships with children. Professionals did not provide families with psychosocial support to facilitate preparation, and resources were less available or inappropriate for families during the pandemic. Three themes were identified: (1) obstacles to telling children a significant adult is going to die, (2) professionals' role in helping families to prepare children for the death of a significant adult during the pandemic, and (3) how families prepare children for the death of a significant adult. CONCLUSIONS Professionals need to: provide clear and honest communication about a poor prognosis; start a conversation with families about the dying patient's significant relationships with children; and reassure families that telling children someone close to them is dying is beneficial for their longer term psychological adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Catriona R Mayland
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen Mason
- Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Selman L. Covid grief has cracked us open: how clinicians respond could reshape attitudes to bereavement-an essay by Lucy Selman. BMJ 2021; 374:n1803. [PMID: 34376385 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n1803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
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