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Kammin V, Fraser L, Flemming K, Hackett J. Experiences of music therapy in paediatric palliative care from multiple stakeholder perspectives: A systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis. Palliat Med 2024; 38:364-378. [PMID: 38450624 PMCID: PMC10955799 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241230664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families need physical and emotional support to manage the challenges of their lives. There is a lack of synthesised qualitative research about how music therapy is experienced by children, young people and their families supported by paediatric palliative care services. AIM To systematically identify and synthesise qualitative research on experiences of music therapy in paediatric palliative care from stakeholder perspectives. DESIGN A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis was conducted using Thematic Synthesis. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42021251025). DATA SOURCES Searches were conducted with no dates imposed via the electronic databases PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED and CINAHL in April 2021 and updated in April 2022. Studies were appraised for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool (CASP). RESULTS A total of 148 studies were found, 5 studies met the eligibility criteria reporting the experiences of 14 mothers, 24 family members and 4 staff members in paediatric palliative care. There were five overarching themes: emotional and physical reprieve, opportunity for normalised experiences, thriving despite life limited condition, enhance family wellbeing and therapeutic relationship central to outcomes. CONCLUSION Music therapy provides unique benefits for this paediatric population particularly in supporting child and family wellbeing. The therapeutic relationship, interpersonal skills of the therapist and experience in paediatric palliative care are perceived as central to these positive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Kammin
- The Paediatric Palliative Care Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lorna Fraser
- The Paediatric Palliative Care Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Kate Flemming
- The Paediatric Palliative Care Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Julia Hackett
- The Paediatric Palliative Care Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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2
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Iten R, O'Connor M, Gill FJ. Palliative care for infants with life-limiting conditions: integrative review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2023-004435. [PMID: 38123923 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants with life-limiting conditions are a heterogeneous population. Palliative care for infants is delivered in a diverse range of healthcare settings and by interdisciplinary primary healthcare teams, which may not involve specialist palliative care service consultation. OBJECTIVE To synthesise the literature for how palliative care is delivered for infants aged less than 12 months with life-limiting conditions. METHODS An integrative review design. MEDLINE, CINAHL, ProQuest, Cochrane, Joanna Briggs Institute and EMBASE were searched for research published in English language, from 2010 to 2022, and peer reviewed. Critical appraisal was completed for 26 patient case series, 9 qualitative, 5 cross-sectional and 1 quality improvement study. Data analysis involved deductive content analysis and narrative approach to summarise the synthesised results. RESULTS 37 articles met the eligibility for inclusion. Two models of palliative care delivery were examined, demonstrating differences in care received and experiences of families and health professionals. Health professionals reported lack of palliative care education, challenges for delivering palliative care in intensive care settings and barriers to advance care planning including prognostic uncertainty and transitioning to end-of-life care. Families reported positive experiences with specialist palliative care services and challenges engaging in advance care planning discussions. CONCLUSION There are complex issues surrounding the provision of palliative care for infants. Optimal palliative care should encompass a collaborative and coordinated approach between the primary healthcare teams and specialist palliative care services and prioritisation of palliative care education for nurses and physicians involved in providing palliative care to infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Iten
- Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Fenella J Gill
- Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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3
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Music therapy and pediatric palliative care: songwriting with children in the end-of-life. World J Pediatr 2022; 18:695-699. [PMID: 35773435 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00578-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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4
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Arora G, Caliboso M, Baird J, Rusch R, Greenman J, Obregon D, Serwint JR. Educational Priorities for Providing End-of-Life Care: Parent Perspectives. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2021-051379. [PMID: 34518315 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-051379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Partnership with parents is a tenet of pediatric medicine; however, initiatives to include parents in education and research have been limited. Through focus groups, we included parents at the beginning of curriculum development by asking them to identify the priorities, existing supports, and opportunities for improvement in their child's end-of-life (EOL) care. METHODS English and Spanish-speaking bereaved parents whose child had been cared for by the palliative care team and had died >18 months before the study initiation were invited to participate. In-person focus groups and a follow-up phone call were used to elicit opinions and capture a diversity of viewpoints. Themes were identified and clustered through an iterative analytic process. RESULTS Twenty-seven parents of 17 children participated, with the total sample size determined by thematic saturation. Four themes were identified as important to parents in their child's EOL care: (1) honoring the role of the parent, (2) having confidence in the care team, (3) receiving gestures of love and caring, and (4) navigating logistic challenges. CONCLUSIONS We asked parents to be partners in guiding priorities for health care education and professional development to improve pediatric EOL care. In addition to strengthening skills in communication, confidence in the team, and compassion, parents in this study identified a need for hospital staff to anticipate financial and social stressors and provide supportive resources more readily. Additionally, parents described clinical and nonclinical staff as providing support, suggesting that a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary curriculum be developed to improve pediatric EOL care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitanjli Arora
- Division of Comfort and Palliative Care .,Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Daniela Obregon
- Diversity Services, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Janet R Serwint
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Green DJ, Bennett E, Olson LM, Wawrzynski S, Bodily S, Moore D, Mansfield KJ, Wilkins V, Cook L, Delgado-Corcoran C. Timing of Pediatric Palliative Care Consults in Hospitalized Patients with Heart Disease. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2021; 12:63-70. [PMID: 36742256 PMCID: PMC9894702 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric palliative care (PPC) provides an extra layer of support for families caring for a child with complex heart disease as these patients often experience lifelong morbidities with frequent hospitalizations and risk of early mortality. PPC referral at the time of heart disease diagnosis provides early involvement in the disease trajectory, allowing PPC teams to longitudinally support patients and families with symptom management, complex medical decision-making, and advanced care planning. We analyzed 113 hospitalized pediatric patients with a primary diagnosis of heart disease and a PPC consult to identify timing of first PPC consultation in relation to diagnosis, complex chronic conditions (CCC), and death. The median age of heart disease diagnosis was 0 days with a median of two CCCs while PPC consultation did not occur until a median age of 77 days with a median of four CCCs. Median time between PPC consult and death was 33 days (interquartile range: 7-128). Death often occurred in the intensive care unit ( n = 36, 67%), and the most common mode was withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies ( n = 31, 57%). PPC referral often occurred in the context of medical complexity and prolonged hospitalization. Referral close to the time of heart disease diagnosis would allow patients and families to fully utilize PPC benefits that exist outside of end-of-life care and may influence the mode and location of death. PPC consultation should be considered at the time of heart disease diagnosis, especially in neonates and infants with CCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J. Green
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States,Address for correspondence Danielle J. Green, MD Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical CarePO Box 581289, Salt Lake City, UT 84158United States
| | - Erin Bennett
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Critical Care, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
| | - Lenora M. Olson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Sarah Wawrzynski
- University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States,Pediatric Critical Care Services, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Stephanie Bodily
- Pediatric Critical Care Services, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Dominic Moore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Palliative Care Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Kelly J. Mansfield
- Pediatric Critical Care Services, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Victoria Wilkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Inpatient Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Lawrence Cook
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Claudia Delgado-Corcoran
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Palliative Care Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Describe pediatric palliative care consult in children with heart disease; retrospectively apply Center to Advance Palliative Care criteria for pediatric palliative care consults; determine the impact of pediatric palliative care on end of life. DESIGN A retrospective single-center study. SETTING A 16-bed cardiac ICU in a university-affiliated tertiary care children's hospital. PATIENTS Children (0-21 yr old) with heart disease admitted to the cardiac ICU from January 2014 to June 2017. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Over 1,000 patients (n = 1, 389) were admitted to the cardiac ICU with 112 (8%) receiving a pediatric palliative care consultation. Patients who received a consult were different from those who did not. Patients who received pediatric palliative care were younger at first hospital admission (median 63 vs 239 d; p = 0.003), had a higher median number of complex chronic conditions at the end of first hospitalization (3 vs 1; p < 0.001), longer cumulative length of stay in the cardiac ICU (11 vs 2 d; p < 0.001) and hospital (60 vs 7 d; p < 0.001), and higher mortality rates (38% vs 3%; p < 0.001). When comparing location and modes of death, patients who received pediatric palliative care were more likely to die at home (24% vs 2%; p = 0.02) and had more comfort care at the end of life (36% vs 2%; p = 0.002) compared to those who did not. The Center to Advance Palliative Care guidelines identified 158 patients who were eligible for pediatric palliative care consultation; however, only 30 patients (19%) in our sample received a consult. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric palliative care consult rarely occurred in the cardiac ICU. Patients who received a consult were medically complex and experienced high mortality. Comfort care at the end of life and death at home was more common when pediatric palliative care was consulted. Missed referrals were apparent when Center to Advance Palliative Care criteria were retrospectively applied.
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7
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Mitchell S, Bennett K, Morris A, Slowther AM, Coad J, Dale J. Achieving beneficial outcomes for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions receiving palliative care and their families: A realist review. Palliat Med 2020; 34:387-402. [PMID: 31431129 PMCID: PMC7074600 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319870647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care for children and young people is a growing global health concern with significant resource implications. Improved understanding of how palliative care provides benefits is necessary as the number of children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions rises. AIM The aim is to investigate beneficial outcomes in palliative care from the perspective of children and families and the contexts and hidden mechanisms through which these outcomes can be achieved. DESIGN This is a systematic realist review following the RAMESES standards. A protocol has been published in PROSPERO (registration no: CRD42018090646). DATA SOURCES An iterative literature search was conducted over 2 years (2015-2017). Empirical research and systematic reviews about the experiences of children and families in relation to palliative care were included. RESULTS Sixty papers were included. Narrative synthesis and realist analysis led to the proposal of context-mechanism-outcome configurations in four conceptual areas: (1) family adaptation, (2) the child's situation, (3) relationships with healthcare professionals and (4) access to palliative care services. The presence of two interdependent contexts, the 'expert' child and family and established relationships with healthcare professionals, triggers mechanisms, including advocacy and affirmation in decision-making, which lead to important outcomes including an ability to place the emphasis of care on lessening suffering. Important child and family outcomes underpin the delivery of palliative care. CONCLUSION Palliative care is a complex, multifactorial intervention. This review provides in-depth understanding into important contexts in which child and family outcomes can be achieved so that they benefit from palliative care and should inform future service development and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mitchell
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karina Bennett
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Andrew Morris
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Jane Coad
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Provider Consensus on Candidate Protective and Risk Factors for Adverse Psychosocial Outcomes Following Discharge From a PICU: A Modified Delphi Study. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2020; 21:e1-e7. [PMID: 31651723 DOI: 10.1097/pcc.0000000000002158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pediatric palliative care promotes interdisciplinary, family-centered care when children are faced with diagnoses threatening length and/or quality of life. A significant knowledge gap remains in how to best match pediatric palliative care resources to palliate the psychosocial impact of a PICU admission. This study was designed to identify drivers of adverse post-PICU psychosocial outcomes related to social determinants of health to inform pediatric palliative care services and improve post-PICU psychosocial outcomes. DESIGN Modified Delphi technique to develop consensus regarding social determinants of health and clinical factors affecting post-ICU psychosocial outcomes. SETTING All Delphi rounds were via an electronically mailed survey link. SUBJECTS First-round participants were PICU and pediatric palliative care clinicians at the study institution. Subsequent rounds invited participants from national PICU and pediatric palliative care professional online listserves. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Consensus was defined a priori as items assigned a score greater than or equal to 4 (5-point scale) by greater than75% of respondents. One-hundred twenty-six surveys were returned and scored. Social determinants of health risk factors included child protective services involvement (91%), caregiver with intellectual disability (87%), lack of friend or family support (82%), caregiver with behavioral health diagnosis (81%), teenage caregiver (79%), transportation challenges (79%), and language/cultural barrier (76%). Clinical risk factors included new home ventilator (94%), new tracheostomy (90%), greater than or equal to 3 hospitalizations in the prior 6 months (88%), and greater than or equal to 3 hospitalizations in the prior 12 months (82%). Social determinants of health protective factors included extended family support (91%), caregivers in a committed relationship (79%), and caregiver optimism (78%). Respondents reported that pediatric palliative care services had the greatest impact on caregiver satisfaction with the healthcare system (90%) and increased family involvement with state social services programs (80%). CONCLUSIONS Consensus on candidate risk and protective factors for post-ICU psychosocial challenges and candidate pediatric palliative care-sensitive variables were identified. Further research is needed to operationalize and optimize a screening tool based on these consensus items and test it prospectively.
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9
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Nilsson S, Ohlen J, Hessman E, Brännström M. Paediatric palliative care: a systematic review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2019; 10:157-163. [PMID: 31836595 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2019-001934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review literature relating to evidence, context and facilitation to describe knowledge translation in paediatric palliative care. Paediatric palliative care requires competences including both paediatric specialists as well as services that are developed for this purpose, and there is a need to facilitate paediatric palliative care knowledge translation. Promoting Action on Research Implementation in the Health Services (PARiHS) is a framework for knowledge translation, which highlights the relationships between evidence, context and facilitation. PARiHS framework has been revised and updated in a new version called i-PARiHS. METHODS The electronic databases AgeLine, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus were searched. Papers included were limited to English and Swedish publications and restricted to publications dated between 1993 and August 2019. All types of observational and experimental studies using any research design were included. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Thirty-eight articles were included and there was a common vision about how and when palliative care should be offered to children. The i-PARiHS was used as a lens to describe the knowledge translation in paediatric palliative care. Symptom relief was the most commonly described evidence-based strategy, and the hospital environment was the most commonly described context. Different types of education were the most commonly used strategies to facilitate knowledge translation. The results mainly focused on increasing knowledge of palliative care in paediatric care. To sum up, the results report strategies to achieve knowledge translation of paediatric palliative care, and these can be interpreted as a guideline for how this process can be facilitated. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018100663.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Nilsson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden .,University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Joakim Ohlen
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Hessman
- Biomedical Library, Gothenburg University Library, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Margareta Brännström
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Campus Skellefteå, Umeå, Sweden
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10
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Abstract
This article addresses the current and desired future state of interprofessional practice in pediatric hospital medicine. It focuses on identifying optimal team composition and work patterns, describing the value of parent involvement on both the patient's care team and on operational teams, describing the need for interprofessional education, and identifying outcomes associated with interprofessional teamwork. The article also identifies challenges and opportunities for growth as interprofessional teamwork increasingly becomes a standard practice within healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Baird
- Institute for Nursing and Interprofessional Research, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, MS #74, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA.
| | - Michele Ashland
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, 725 Welch Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Glenn Rosenbluth
- Office of Graduate Medical Education, Pediatrics Residency Training Program, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 5th Floor, Mission Hall Box 3214, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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Rico-Mena P, Palacios-Ceña D, Martino-Alba R, Chocarro-Gonzalez L, Güeita-Rodríguez J. The impact of home-based physical rehabilitation program on parents' experience with children in palliative care: a qualitative study. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2019; 55:494-504. [PMID: 30781934 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.19.05474-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric palliative care programs aim to improve the quality of life of children with severe life-threatening illnesses, and that of their families. Although rehabilitation and physical therapy provides a valuable tool for the control of symptoms, it has been poorly researched to date. Since the family represents such a fundamental support in these cases, it is important to deepen our understanding regarding the value of implementing rehabilitation programs from the parents' perspective. AIM The aim of this paper was to explore parents' experiences regarding the implementation of a physical rehabilitation program in pediatric palliative care. DESIGN A qualitative methodology was chosen. SETTING The unit of pediatric palliative care at the Hospital Niño Jesús (Madrid, Spain). POPULATION The inclusion criteria were: 1) parents of children, irrespective of their diagnosis; 2) integrated within the program of palliative care at the time of study; 3) aged between 0-18 years; 4) must be receiving Home-Based Rehabilitation Program by the Pediatric Palliative Care team. Fourteen parents were included. METHODS Purposeful sampling method was implemented. Data collection consisted of unstructured and semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis was performed to interpret transcripts. Guidelines for conducting qualitative studies established by the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research were followed. RESULTS Three main themes were identified: 1) the meaning of physical rehabilitation to parents; 2) physical rehabilitation as an opportunity for patients to stay in their home environment; and 3) home-based physical rehabilitation as part of the families' social environment. CONCLUSIONS The main needs of a home physical rehabilitation program are to decrease pain and suffering, together with improving family education and training. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT The experience of rehabilitation programs at home is essential in order to improve both the quality of life and the quality of care of affected children and parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Rico-Mena
- Department of Physiotherapy, Podology and Dance, European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Domingo Palacios-Ceña
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain - .,Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Univesidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Martino-Alba
- Unit of Pediatric Palliative Care, Niño Jesús Pediatric University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Javier Güeita-Rodríguez
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain.,Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Univesidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Madrid, Spain
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Marsac ML, Kindler C, Weiss D, Ragsdale L. Let's Talk About It: Supporting Family Communication during End-of-Life Care of Pediatric Patients. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:862-878. [PMID: 29775556 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication is key in optimizing medical care when a child is approaching end of life (EOL). Research is yet to establish best practices for how medical teams can guide intrafamily communication (including surviving siblings) when EOL care is underway or anticipated for a pediatric patient. While recommendations regarding how medical teams can facilitate communication between the medical team and the family exist, various barriers may prevent the implementation of these recommendations. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a summary of research-to-date on family and medical provider perceptions of communication during pediatric EOL care. DESIGN Systematic review. RESULTS Findings from a review of 65 studies suggest that when a child enters EOL care, many parents try to protect their child and/or themselves by avoiding discussions about death. Despite current recommendations, medical teams often refrain from discussing EOL care with pediatric patients until death is imminent for a variety of reasons (e.g., family factors and discomfort with EOL conversations). Parents consistently report a need for honest complete information, delivered with sensitivity. Pediatric patients often report a preference to be informed of their prognosis, and siblings express a desire to be involved in EOL discussions. CONCLUSIONS Families may benefit from enhanced communication around EOL planning, both within the family and between the family and medical team. Future research should investigate a potential role for medical teams in supporting intrafamily communication about EOL challenges and should examine how communication between medical teams and families can be facilitated as EOL approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan L Marsac
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Kentucky Children's Hospital , Lexington, Kentucky.,2 College of Medicine, University of Kentucky , Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Christine Kindler
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Kentucky Children's Hospital , Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Danielle Weiss
- 3 Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lindsay Ragsdale
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Kentucky Children's Hospital , Lexington, Kentucky.,2 College of Medicine, University of Kentucky , Lexington, Kentucky
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13
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Verberne LM, Schouten-van Meeteren AY, Bosman DK, Colenbrander DA, Jagt CT, Grootenhuis MA, van Delden JJ, Kars MC. Parental experiences with a paediatric palliative care team: A qualitative study. Palliat Med 2017; 31:956-963. [PMID: 28659021 DOI: 10.1177/0269216317692682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with a life-limiting disease have to rely on themselves at home while adequate paediatric palliative care is lacking. In several countries, paediatric palliative care teams are introduced to ensure continuity and quality of care and to support the child and the family. Yet, little is known about how parents experience such multidisciplinary teams. AIM To obtain insight into the support provided by a new paediatric palliative care team from the parents' perspective. DESIGN An interpretative qualitative interview study using thematic analysis was performed. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS A total of 47 single or repeated interviews were undertaken with 42 parents of 24 children supported by a multidisciplinary paediatric palliative care team located at a university children's hospital. The children suffered from malignant or non-malignant diseases. RESULTS In advance, parents had limited expectations of the paediatric palliative care team. Some had difficulty accepting the need for palliative care for their child. Once parents experienced what the team achieved for their child and family, they valued the team's involvement. Valuable elements were as follows: (1) process-related aspects such as continuity, coordination of care, and providing one reliable point of contact; (2) practical support; and (3) the team members' sensitive and reliable attitude. As a point of improvement, parents suggested more concrete clarification upfront of the content of the team's support. CONCLUSION Parents feel supported by the paediatric palliative care team. The three elements valued by parents probably form the structure that underlies quality of paediatric palliative care. New teams should cover these three valuable elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Verberne
- 1 Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Diederik K Bosman
- 3 Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Derk A Colenbrander
- 3 Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Charissa T Jagt
- 2 Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martha A Grootenhuis
- 4 Psychosocial Department, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,5 Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Jm van Delden
- 1 Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marijke C Kars
- 1 Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Mitchell S, Morris A, Bennett K, Sajid L, Dale J. Specialist paediatric palliative care services: what are the benefits? Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:923-929. [PMID: 28377450 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2016-312026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of children and young people (CYP) living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions is rising. Paediatric palliative care is a relatively new aspect of healthcare, the delivery of which is variable, with a wide range of healthcare and voluntary sector providers involved. Policy recommendations are for Specialist Paediatric Palliative Care (SPPC) services to be supported by a physician with specialist training. AIM To examine the research evidence regarding the distinct benefits of SPPC services, with 'Specialist Paediatric Palliative Care' defined as palliative care services supported by a specialist physician. METHOD Systematic review of studies of SPPC services published in English from 1980 to 2016. Keyword searches were carried out in medical databases (Cochrane, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and AMED) and a narrative synthesis. RESULTS Eight studies were identified, most of which were retrospective surveys undertaken within single institutions; three were surveys of bereaved parents and three were medical notes reviews. Together they represented a heterogeneous body of low-level evidence. Cross-cutting themes suggest that SPPC services improve the quality of life and symptom control and can impact positively on place of care and family support. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence indicates that SPPC services contribute beneficially to the care and experience of CYP and their families, but is limited in terms of quantity, methodological rigour and generalisability. Further research is necessary given the significant workforce and resource implications associated with policy recommendations about the future provision of SPPC and to address the need for evidence to inform the design and delivery of SPPC services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mitchell
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Andrew Morris
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karina Bennett
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Laiba Sajid
- Sibling Council, Acorns Children's Hospice Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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15
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Mullen JE, Reynolds MR, Larson JS. Caring for Pediatric Patients' Families at the Child's End of Life. Crit Care Nurse 2017; 35:46-55; quiz 56. [PMID: 26628545 DOI: 10.4037/ccn2015614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Nurses play an important role in supporting families who are faced with the critical illness and death of their child. Grieving families desire compassionate, sensitive care that respects their wishes and meets their needs. Families often wish to continue relationships and maintain lasting connections with hospital staff following their child's death. A structured bereavement program that supports families both at the end of their child's life and throughout their grief journey can meet this need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi E Mullen
- Jodi E. Mullen is a clinical leader, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital, Gainesville, Florida.Melissa R. Reynolds is a nurse manager, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital.Jennifer S. Larson is an advanced hospice and palliative social worker in pediatric hematology/oncology, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital.
| | - Melissa R Reynolds
- Jodi E. Mullen is a clinical leader, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital, Gainesville, Florida.Melissa R. Reynolds is a nurse manager, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital.Jennifer S. Larson is an advanced hospice and palliative social worker in pediatric hematology/oncology, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital
| | - Jennifer S Larson
- Jodi E. Mullen is a clinical leader, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital, Gainesville, Florida.Melissa R. Reynolds is a nurse manager, pediatric intensive care unit, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital.Jennifer S. Larson is an advanced hospice and palliative social worker in pediatric hematology/oncology, University of Florida Health, Shands Children's Hospital
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16
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Aligning guidelines and medical practice: Literature review on pediatric palliative care guidelines. Palliat Support Care 2017; 15:474-489. [PMID: 28065197 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951516000882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Palliative care for children is becoming an important subspecialty of healthcare. Although concurrent administration of curative and palliative care is recommended, timely referral to pediatric palliative care (PPC) services remains problematic. This literature review aims to identify barriers and recommendations for proper implementation of palliative care for children through the looking glass of PPC guidelines. METHOD To identify studies on PPC guidelines, five databases were searched systematically between 1960 and 2015: Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, the Web of Science, and CINAHL. No restrictions were placed on the type of methodology employed in the studies. RESULTS Concerning barriers, most of the papers focused on gaps within medical practice and the lack of evidence-based research. Common recommendations therefore included: training and education of healthcare staff, formation of a multidisciplinary PPC team, research on the benefits of PPC, and raising awareness about PPC. A small number of publications reported on the absence of clear guidance in PPC documents regarding bereavement care, as well as on the difficulties and challenges involved in multidisciplinary care teams. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our results indicate that a critical assessment of both the research guidelines and medical practice is required in order to promote timely implementation of PPC for pediatric patients.
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17
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Abstract
AIM The ability to communicate serious news to patients and families in a caring and compassionate way is a critical skill for physicians. This study explores the impact of a novel communication skills workshop that included bereaved parents in role play on pediatric residents' confidence to communicate serious news. METHODS Following the workshop, pediatric residents were surveyed to assess their perceived efficacy of the educational intervention. The survey included anchored response and open-ended questions to yield qualitative and quantitative results. RESULTS After completing the workshop, residents' confidence in discussing goals, managing emotions, and expressing empathy all increased significantly. Residents reported that the inclusion of bereaved parents was beneficial since it made the experience more realistic. In addition, they believed their ability to communicate with patients and families had improved. CONCLUSIONS Including bereaved parents in this communication skills workshop improved the residents' confidence in discussing serious topics and enhanced the reality of the experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Flint
- 1 Department of Anesthesia, Division of Pain Management, Palliative Care, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
| | - Mark Meyer
- 1 Department of Anesthesia, Division of Pain Management, Palliative Care, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
| | - Monir Hossain
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
| | - Melissa Klein
- 3 Department of Pediatrics, Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
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18
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Repercusiones en el cuidador principal del niño hospitalizado a domicilio en cuidados paliativos pediátricos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medipa.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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19
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Darbyshire P, Mischo-Kelling M, Lochner L, Messerschmidt-Grandi C. ‘Fighting for care’: parents' perspectives of children's palliative care in South Tyrol, Italy. Int J Palliat Nurs 2015; 21:542-7. [DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2015.21.11.542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Mischo-Kelling
- Professor of Nursing, University of Applied Science Ravensburg-Weingarten, Germany
| | - Lukas Lochner
- Medical Tutor, at Claudiana College of Health-Care Professions, Bolzano/Bozen, Italy
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20
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Rahimzadeh V, Bartlett G, Longo C, Crimi L, Macdonald ME, Jabado N, Ells C. Promoting an ethic of engagement in pediatric palliative care research. BMC Palliat Care 2015; 14:50. [PMID: 26474573 PMCID: PMC4608148 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-015-0048-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This paper defends the ethical and empirical significance of direct engagement with terminally ill children and adolescents in PPC research on health-related quality of life. Clinical trials and other forms of health research have resulted in tremendous progress for improving clinical outcomes among children and adolescents diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Less attention has been paid, however, to engaging this patient population directly in studies aimed at optimizing health-related quality of life in PPC. Though not restricted to care at the end of life, PPC—and by extension PPC research—is in part dependent on recognizing the social complexities of death and dying and where health-related quality of life is a fundamental element. To explore these complexities in depth requires partnership with terminally ill children and adolescents, and acknowledgement of their active social and moral agency in research. Discussion Principles of pediatric research ethics, theoretical tenets of the “new sociology of the child(hood),” and human rights codified in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) underpin the position that a more engagement-centered approach is needed in PPC research. The ethics, sociologies and human rights of engagement will each be discussed as they relate to research with terminally ill children and adolescents in PPC. Qualitative method(ologies) presented in this paper, such as deliberative stakeholder consultations and phenomenology of practice can serve as meaningful vehicles for achieving i) participation among terminally ill children and adolescents; ii) evidence-bases for PPC best practices; and iii) fulfillment of research ethics principles. Conclusion PPC research based on direct engagement with PPC patients better reflects their unique expertise and social epistemologies of terminal illness. Such an approach to research would strengthen both the ethical and methodological soundness of HRQoL inquiry in PPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Rahimzadeh
- Department of Family Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, 5858 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montréal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada.
| | - Gillian Bartlett
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, 5858 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montréal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada
| | - Cristina Longo
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, 5858 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montréal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada
| | - Laura Crimi
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, 5858 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montréal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada
| | - Mary Ellen Macdonald
- Division of Oral Health and Society, Pediatric Palliative Care Research, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, #530-2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, QC, H3A 1G1, Canada
| | - Nada Jabado
- Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital Research Institute, McGill University Health Center, 1001 Décarie Boulevard, Montreal, H4A 3J1, QC, Canada
| | - Carolyn Ells
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, 3647 Peel St, Montreal, QC, H3A 1X1, Canada
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21
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Smith AG, Andrews S, Bratton SL, Sheetz J, Feudtner C, Zhong W, Maloney CG. Pediatric palliative care and inpatient hospital costs: a longitudinal cohort study. Pediatrics 2015; 135:694-700. [PMID: 25802343 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-3161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric palliative care (PPC) improves the quality of life for children with life-limiting conditions, but the cost of care associated with PPC has not been quantified. This study examined the association between inpatient cost and receipt of PPC among high-cost inpatients. METHODS The 10% most costly inpatients treated at a children's hospital in 2010 were studied, and factors associated with receipt of PPC were determined. Among patients dying during 2010, we compared 2010 inpatient costs between PPC recipients and nonrecipients. Inpatient costs during the 2-year follow up period between PPC recipients and nonrecipients were also compared. Patients were analyzed in 2 groups: those who died and those who survived the 2-year follow-up. RESULTS Of 902 patients, 86 (10%) received PPC. Technology dependence, older age, multiple chronic conditions, PICU admission, and death in 2010 were independently associated with receipt of PPC. PPC recipients had increased inpatient costs compared with nonrecipients during 2010. Among patients who died during the 2-year follow-up, PPC recipients had significantly lower inpatient costs. Among survivors, PPC recipients had greater inpatient costs. When controlling for patient complexity, differences in inpatient costs were not significant. CONCLUSIONS The relationship of PPC to inpatient costs is complex. PPC seems to lower costs among patients approaching death. Patients selectively referred to PPC who survive most often do so with chronic serious illnesses that predispose them to remain lifelong high-resource utilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew G Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah;
| | - Seth Andrews
- Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Susan L Bratton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joan Sheetz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Chris Feudtner
- Pediatric Advanced Care Team and the Center for Pediatric Clinical Effectiveness, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy and the Leonard Davis Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Wenjun Zhong
- Pediatric Advanced Care Team and the Center for Pediatric Clinical Effectiveness, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Christopher G Maloney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
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22
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Kang SC, Hwang SJ, Wang WS. Investigations of the pediatric hospice care in Taiwan: 2005 to 2010. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2014; 31:480-4. [PMID: 23739240 DOI: 10.1177/1049909113492007] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utilization of pediatric hospice care remains unclear in Taiwan. METHODS Data were analyzed from the claims of hospice admissions in patients aged 18 years or younger using the National Health Insurance Research Database from 2005 to 2010. RESULTS A total of 91 patients and 136 admissions were enrolled (male-female = 50:41; mean 11.6 years old). In all, 62 patients were admitted once, including 47 patients who died. All the patients had cancer, with brain cancer (40.7%) accounting the most . Among acute comorbidities, neurological complications (16.2%) were mostly accounted. Family physicians provided most (64.7%) of the hospice services. Hospice stay ≤3 days correlated positively with death in hospices (odds ratio = 2.922, 95% confidence interval = 1.268-6.730). CONCLUSIONS Pediatric hospice care revealed characteristics different from adults. Underlying late referrals were prevalent. There is space to promote the utilization of hospices for terminally ill pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chao Kang
- Division of Family Medicine, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Yilan, Taiwan, Republic of China Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shinn-Jang Hwang
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wei-Shu Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China Department of Oncology and Hematology and Deputy Administrator's Office, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Yilan, Taiwan, Republic of China
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Abstract
Pediatric palliative care (PPC) is a relatively new and quickly growing pediatric subspecialty. It is generally provided using a consultative model, and is available in most specialized pediatric hospitals. This article discusses PPC consultation with specific focus on the added value of PPC, elements of a PPC consultation, and challenges to and opportunities for PPC consultation. Ongoing research, current publication, expert opinion, and institutional experience were compiled for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Moore
- Division of In-Patient Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Children's Hospital, University of Utah, 100 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA
| | - Joan Sheetz
- Division of In-Patient Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Children's Hospital, University of Utah, 100 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA.
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24
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Groh G, Borasio GD, Nickolay C, Bender HU, von Lüttichau I, Führer M. Specialized pediatric palliative home care: a prospective evaluation. J Palliat Med 2013; 16:1588-94. [PMID: 24168349 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2013.0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In Germany since 2007 children with advanced life-limiting diseases are eligible for Pediatric Palliative Home Care (PPHC), which is provided by newly established specialized PPHC teams. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptance and effectiveness of PPHC as perceived by the parents. METHODS Parents of children treated by the PPHC team based at the Munich University Hospital were eligible for this prospective nonrandomized study. The main topics of the two surveys (before and after involvement of the PPHC team) were the assessment of symptom control and quality of life (QoL) in children; and the parents' satisfaction with care, burden of patient care (Häusliche Pflegeskala, home care scale, HPS), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS), and QoL (Quality of Life in Life-Threatening Illness-Family Carer Version, QOLLTI-F). RESULTS Of 43 families newly admitted to PPHC between April 2011 and June 2012, 40 were included in the study. The median interval between the first and second interview was 8.0 weeks. The involvement of the PPHC team led to a significant improvement of children's symptoms and QoL (P<0.001) as perceived by the parents; and the parents' own QoL and burden relief significantly increased (QOLLTI-F, P<0.001; 7-point change on a 10-point scale), while their psychological distress and burden significantly decreased (HADS, P<0.001; HPS, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The involvement of specialized PPHC appears to lead to a substantial improvement in QoL of children and their parents, as experienced by the parents, and to lower the burden of home care for the parents of severely ill children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesa Groh
- 1 Pediatric Palliative Care Service, Dr. von Haunersches Kinderspital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich, Germany
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