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Wakefield D, Ta Y, Dewhurst F, Hussain J, Chamberlain C, Etkind S. Qualified and motivated, but limited by specialty-specific barriers: a national survey of UK Palliative Medicine consultants research experience. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:76-86. [PMID: 37611937 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004198] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Providing high-quality safe palliative care requires high-quality clinically driven research. Little is known about how to optimise clinical research capacity in this field.To understand interest and capacity to conduct clinical research in palliative medicine and identify key facilitators and barriers, by surveying palliative medicine consultants and academic trainees. METHODS National online survey exploring experience in conducting research, including facilitators and barriers. Sent to all current UK palliative medicine consultants, and previous/current academic trainees. Descriptive statistics are reported with framework analysis of free text responses. RESULTS 195 surveys were submitted including 15 respondents with Integrated Academic Training (IAT) experience. 78% (n=140/180) of consultants were interested in conducting research. Despite this enthusiasm, 83% had no allocated time within their job plan. 88% of those who undertook IAT would recommend IAT, but 60% reported difficulty transitioning from academic trainee to research active consultant.Barriers to research included; insufficient research culture and integration, with small teams working in a mixture of National Health Service (NHS) and non-NHS settings, leading to isolated, silo working. Even those who had undertaken IAT, felt a 'cliff edge' in opportunities after completing IAT. Filling service gaps was routinely prioritised over research activity. CONCLUSION Palliative medicine consultants, including those who have completed academic training want to conduct research but overwhelming barriers limit activity. A palliative care-specific strategy that permeates different palliative care settings, promotes interspecialty collaboration and improves the current infrastructure for palliative care research to maximise gains from IAT and embed a research culture are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna Wakefield
- North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-Upon-Tees, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Felicity Dewhurst
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- St Oswald's Hospice, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jamilla Hussain
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - Charlotte Chamberlain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- University Hospitals Bristol & Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Simon Etkind
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
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Linge-Dahl L, Heintz S, Ruch W, Bley M, von Hirschhausen E, Radbruch L. Evaluation of a Study Protocol of the Application of Humor Interventions in Palliative Care Through a First Pilot Study. Palliat Med Rep 2023; 4:239-248. [PMID: 37732024 PMCID: PMC10507944 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2023.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Humor and laughter might have an alleviating effect on pain threshold and enhance coping and building relationships. However, randomized controlled studies in palliative care have struggled with high percentages of attrition and missing values. Objectives We aimed to evaluate a study protocol through a pilot study for the evaluation of a multistage humor intervention with psychological and physiological outcome parameters that may be applied successfully in a palliative care environment. Design This pilot study utilized a pre-post design. The inclusion of a control group for the final study setting recruiting 120 patients is planned. Setting/Subjects The study was a monocenter study in a clinic for palliative care in Germany. All patients were eligible for recruitment. Seven patients were recruited for the pilot study. Measurements Interventions were developed using a humor training for psychiatric patients. Quantitative sensory testing for pain threshold testing and questionnaires on humor as a character trait, pain intensity, life satisfaction, and symptom burden were planned to be evaluated before and after three humor interventions. Results The feasibility of the original study design was re-evaluated after pilot testing. Only two out of the seven patients were able to complete two interventions, requiring modification. Fewer questionnaires, less complex physiological testing, and reduction from three to two interventions were then planned. Conclusion The initial planned research methodology must be adjusted for patients with high symptom burden. In the experimental group of the final study setting, the effects of one to two interventions will be evaluated measuring oxytocin levels in saliva and using standardized questionnaires to determine cheerfulness, life satisfaction and symptom burden, as well as assessing as-needed medication. Trial registration DRKS00028978 German Registry of Clinical Studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Linge-Dahl
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sonja Heintz
- Faculty of health, School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Willibald Ruch
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maria Bley
- Foundation “Humor Hilft Heilen” (Humor Helps to Cure), Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Center for Palliative Care, Helios Hospital Bonn/Rhine-Sieg, Bonn, Germany
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Dewhurst F, Wakefield D, Elverson J, McConnell R, Bryan C, Spriggs H, Atkinson K, Frew K. Palliative care inpatients favour research participation irrespective of prognosis, performance or socioeconomic status: multicentre cohort study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2022:spcare-2022-004037. [PMID: 36522142 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-004037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Palliative care needs to embrace research to guide service development and effective symptom management. Healthcare professionals often feel research is too burdensome for patients who have poor performance status or are near the end of life. Many studies exclude these groups from participating.We aimed to identify whether specialist palliative care inpatients would wish to take part in research and whether preference varies according to study design, demographics, diagnosis, performance status and prognosis. METHODS 100 inpatients in two National Health Service specialist palliative care units and one independent hospice in the Northeast of England completed a short questionnaire about preferences for involvement in research. RESULTS 92% of participants stated they were interested in being involved in research. This was mostly unaffected by age, diagnosis, prognosis, performance and socioeconomic status. Three-quarters were within the last 3 months of life. Simple questions or interviews were the preferred methodology, whereas only half of patients would want further investigations or additional medications and fewer still wanted to participate in online activities, lifestyle change or group activities. CONCLUSIONS Palliative care inpatients welcome the opportunity to be involved in research and should not be excluded on the grounds of advanced disease, poor prognosis and low performance status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Dewhurst
- Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- St Oswald's Hospice, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Donna Wakefield
- Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Specialist Palliative Care Team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
| | - Joanna Elverson
- St Oswald's Hospice, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Specialist Palliative Care Team, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Charlotte Bryan
- Specialist Palliative Care Team, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North Shields, UK
| | | | - Kate Atkinson
- Health Education North East, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Katherine Frew
- Specialist Palliative Care Team, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North Shields, UK
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van Esch HJ, Stoppelenburg A, van Zuylen L, van der Rijt CC, van der Heide A. When a dying patient is asked to participate in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on symptom control: The decision-making process and experiences of relatives. Palliat Med 2022; 36:1552-1558. [PMID: 36503315 PMCID: PMC9749009 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221127557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placebo-controlled trials can provide evidence to inform end-of-life care, but it is contested whether asking dying patients to participate in such trials is morally justifiable. To investigate the experiences of these patients is even more complex. Therefore, proxy assessments by relatives can be a good alternative. AIM To explore the experience of participating in a placebo-controlled trial at the end of life from the perspective of bereaved relatives. DESIGN Mixed-method study, including questionnaires and interviews. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS The SILENCE study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the efficacy of scopolamine butylbromide to prevent death rattle. The study was performed in six inpatient hospice facilities. Patients were asked to participate at admission in the hospice. Three months after the death of the patient, bereaved relatives were invited to fill in a questionnaire and to participate in an interview. One hundred four questionnaires were completed and 17 relatives were interviewed. RESULTS Fourteen percent of the relatives participating in the questionnaire study considered the participation of their loved one in research a bit burdensome and 10% considered it a bit stressful. Seventeen percent thought that it was a bit burdensome for the patient. Eighty-three percent considered participation in this type of research (very) valuable. The in-depth interviews showed that patients and relatives jointly decided about participation in this double-blind placebo-controlled medication trial. Relatives generally respected and felt proud about patients' decision to participate. CONCLUSION The large majority of bereaved relatives experienced the participation of their dying love one in this RCT as acceptable and valuable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriëtte J van Esch
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Laurens Cadenza, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne Stoppelenburg
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Cancer Centrum Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carin Cd van der Rijt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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van Beinum A, Murphy N, Weijer C, Gruben V, Sarti A, Hornby L, Dhanani S, Chandler J. Family experiences with non-therapeutic research on dying patients in the intensive care unit. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2022; 48:845-851. [PMID: 34261806 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2021-107311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Experiences of substitute decision-makers with requests for consent to non-therapeutic research participation during the dying process, including to what degree such requests are perceived as burdensome, have not been well described. In this study, we explored the lived experiences of family members who consented to non-therapeutic research participation on behalf of an imminently dying patient.We interviewed 33 family members involved in surrogate research consent decisions for dying patients in intensive care. Non-therapeutic research involved continuous physiological monitoring of dying patients prior to and for 30 min following cessation of circulation. At some study centres participation involved installation of bedside computers. At one centre electroencephalogram monitoring was used with a subset of participants. Aside from additional monitoring, the research protocol did not involve deviations from usual end-of-life care.Thematic analysis of interviews suggests most family members did not perceive this minimal-risk, non-therapeutic study to affect their time with patients during the dying process, nor did they perceive research consent as an additional burden. In our analysis, consenting for participation in perimortem research offered families of the dying an opportunity to affirm the intrinsic value of patients' lives and contributions. This opportunity may be particularly important for families of patients who consented to organ donation but did not proceed to organ retrieval.Our work supports concerns that traditional models of informed consent fail to account for possible benefits and harms of perimortem research to surviving families. Further research into consent models which integrate patient and family perspectives is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda van Beinum
- Critical Care Research, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton University Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nick Murphy
- Philosophy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charles Weijer
- Philosophy, Western University Faculty of Arts and Humanities, London, Ontario, Canada
- Medicine, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vanessa Gruben
- Common Law, University of Ottawa Faculty of Law, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aimee Sarti
- Medicine, Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Critical Care Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Hornby
- Critical Care Research, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Deceased Donation, Canadian Blood Services Organ Donation and Transplantation, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sonny Dhanani
- Critical Care Research, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Chandler
- Common Law, University of Ottawa Faculty of Law, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Views of advance care planning in older hospitalized patients following an emergency admission: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273894. [PMID: 36048853 PMCID: PMC9436063 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273894] [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: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is increasing evidence of the need to consider advance care planning (ACP) for older adults who have been recently admitted to hospital as an emergency. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding how to facilitate ACP following acute illness in later life. Aim/Objectives To explore the perceived impact of ACP on the lives of older persons aged 70+ who have been acutely admitted to hospital. Method Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with older adults aged 70+ who were admitted to hospital as an emergency. Thematic analysis was enhanced by dual coding and exploration of divergent views within an interdisciplinary team. Results Twenty participants were interviewed. Thematic analysis generated the following themes: (1) Bespoke planning to holistically support a sense of self, (2) ACP as a socio-cultural phenomenon advocating for older persons rights, (3) The role of personal relationships, (4) Navigating unfamiliar territory and (5) Harnessing resources. Conclusion These findings indicate that maintaining a sense of personal identity and protecting individuals’ wishes and rights during ACP is important to older adults who have been acutely unwell. Following emergency hospitalization, older persons believe that ACP must be supported by a network of relationships and resources, improving the likelihood of adequate preparation to navigate the uncertainties of future care in later life. Therefore, emergency hospitalization in later life, and the uncertainty that may follow, may provide a catalyst for patients, carers and healthcare professionals to leverage existing or create new relationships and target resources to enable ACP, in order to uphold older persons’ identity, rights and wishes following acute illness.
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van Esch HJ, Prins SD, van de Vathorst S, van der Rijt CCD, van der Heide A, van Zuylen L. Reflections on Including Patients in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Multicentre Trial in the Dying Phase - the SILENCE Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:e545-e552. [PMID: 34954069 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A need exists for studies investigating symptom relief at the end of life. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for demonstrating efficacy of medication, but they are difficult to perform at the end of life due to barriers such as the vulnerability of patients, and gatekeeping by healthcare professionals. We analyzed and reflected on recruitment, participation, and strategies used in an RCT at the end of life. The SILENCE study, performed in six inpatient hospice facilities, was a placebo-controlled trial to study the effect of ScopolamIne butyLbromidE giveN prophylactiCally for dEath rattle in dying patients. We addressed patients' vulnerability by using an advance consent procedure, and potential gatekeeping by extensive training of health care professionals and the appointment of hospice doctors as daily responsible researchers. In almost three years, 1097 patients were admitted of whom 626 were eligible at first assessment. Of these, 119 (19%) dropped out because of physical deterioration before they could be informed about the study (44) or sign informed consent (75). Twenty-five (4%) patients were not asked to participate. In 24 cases (4%), relatives advised against the patient participating. Overall, 229 patients (37%) gave informed consent to participate. The vulnerability of patients was the most important barrier in this medication study at the end of life. Gatekeeping by HCPs and relatives occurred in a small number of patients. The robust design and applied strategies to facilitate patient recruitment in this study resulted in a successful study with sufficient participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriëtte J van Esch
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Laurens Cadenza, Oosterhagen 239, 3078 CL Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Sanne D Prins
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne van de Vathorst
- Department of Medical ethics,philosophy and history, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carin C D van der Rijt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Zuylen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Winners and Losers in Palliative Care Service Delivery: Time for a Public Health Approach to Palliative and End of Life Care. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9121615. [PMID: 34946341 PMCID: PMC8702146 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9121615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Consumer experience of palliative care has been inconsistently and selectively investigated. Methods: People in Western Australia who had experienced a life limiting illness in the past five years were recruited via social media and care organisations (2020) and invited to complete a cross sectional consumer survey on their experiences of the care they received. Results: 353 bereaved carers, current carers and patients responded. The winners, those who received the best quality end-of-life care, were those who were aware of palliative care as an end-of-life care (EOLC) option, qualified for admission to and were able to access a specialist palliative care program, and with mainly a cancer diagnosis. The losers, those who received end-of-life care that was adequate rather than best practice, were those who were unaware of palliative care as an EOLC option or did not qualify for or were unable to access specialist palliative care and had mainly a non-cancer diagnosis. Both groups were well supported throughout their illness by family and a wider social network. However, their family carers were not adequately supported by health services during caregiving and bereavement. Conclusions: A public health approach to palliative and end of life care is proposed to integrate tertiary, primary, and community services through active consumer engagement in the design and delivery of care. Therefore, suggested strategies may also have relevance in many other international settings.
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Hewison A, Hodges E, Balasubramanian S, Swani T. System transformation in palliative and end of life care: developing a model for excellence. J Health Organ Manag 2021; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 34142520 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-06-2020-0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to report how the palliative and end of life care community in one region of England worked together to create a new model for integrated palliative and end of life care to respond to the challenges of changing demography, the need to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions of people nearing the end of life and to improve the quality of provision in line with current policy. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH A co-production approach to system transformation was adopted involving 73 members of the palliative and end of life care community in one region of England. FINDINGS A new model for the delivery of integrated palliative and end of life care services was produced. The breadth of membership of the co-production working party and constructive/collaborative working helped ensure a viable model was produced. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Although systems' thinking perspectives can help address the challenges of large-scale transformation because they focus on promoting the value of relationships, recognise the nuances of context and the need to understand system behaviour over time, the potential for systems to benefit from this approach is limited by the complexity of the processes involved and the sheer number of issues to be addressed in practical terms by policy makers and change leaders. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The paper explores the contribution that theories of large-scale transformation can make to the design of palliative and end of life care services in health and social care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tina Swani
- Birmingham St Mary's Hospice, Birmingham, UK
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10
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Combes S, Gillett K, Norton C, Nicholson CJ. The importance of living well now and relationships: A qualitative study of the barriers and enablers to engaging frail elders with advance care planning. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1137-1147. [PMID: 33934669 PMCID: PMC8189003 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211013260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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 population of frail elders is growing, and due to their vulnerability to sudden deterioration, advance care planning is particularly important. However, advance care planning is uncommon for multiple reasons, some of which are linked to the perceptions of frail elders and their families. AIM To explore the barriers and enablers to advance care planning engagement with frail elders. DESIGN Qualitative in-depth interviews with thematic analysis. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Purposive sample of 10 frail elders and 8 nominated family members using a community-based older persons' service run by a large urban UK hospice. Frail elders had capacity, were ⩾65 (median 85, range 71-95), scored 6 or 7 (median 6.5) on the Clinical Frailty Scale, and 70% were female. RESULTS Key barriers were: Advance care planning is unclear, in terms of meaning and the language used; Lack of relevance, with frail elders preferring to focus on living well now; and the Importance of family, relationships and home, and the influence of relationship on end of life decision-making. Engagement strategies included preparing the frail elder for advance care planning conversations and using a gentle, honest, individualised approach. CONCLUSIONS Essential enablers for frail elders are understanding what advance care planning is and why it may be relevant to them. For professionals, enablers include recognising the importance of living well now and relational decision-making. To further support advance care planning, recommendations include early engagement and re-conceptualising advance care planning as an ongoing process which encompasses current and future care. Further research is needed in different cultures and care contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Combes
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,St Christopher's Hospice, London, UK
| | - Karen Gillett
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christine Norton
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Jane Nicholson
- St Christopher's Hospice, London, UK.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Surrey University, Guildford, UK
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11
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Breen LJ, Johnson AR, O'Connor M, Howting D, Aoun SM. Challenges in Palliative Care Research on Family Caregivers: Who Volunteers for Interviews? J Palliat Med 2020; 24:112-115. [PMID: 32255736 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Interviews are a common method of data collection in palliative care research because they facilitate the gathering of rich, experiential data that are important for theory and practice. What is less clear is the extent to which those interviewed are representative of the larger group. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if family caregivers who volunteer to be interviewed were similar or different to those who do not. Design: This study used data from the Caregiving and Bereavement study, a prospective, longitudinal mixed-methods study of family caregivers' general health, quality of life, and grief. Setting/Subjects: The 16 caregivers who volunteered to be interviewed were compared to the 20 who did not. Measurements: Comparisons were made in terms of the caregivers' demographic characteristics as well as measures of their quality of life, general health, general grief, and caregiver prolonged grief (i.e., before death). Results: Compared to caregivers who did not volunteer for an interview, those who volunteered were significantly older and reported less caregiver prolonged grief. Logistic regression showed that for each 1-unit increase in the caregiver prolonged grief score, individuals were 13% less likely to agree to an interview. Conclusions: Research findings based upon family caregivers who volunteer for research interviews might not provide a full picture of their experiences and needs. Researchers are encouraged to consider strategies that sample broadly and promote the participation of the full range of family caregivers in research to address the neglected areas of pre- and postdeath bereavement care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Breen
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew R Johnson
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Denise Howting
- Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Samar M Aoun
- Public Health Palliative Care Unit, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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12
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Wong CHL, Wu IXY, Balneaves LG, Lo RSK, Witt CM, Wu JCY, Leung TH, Chung VCH. Prioritizing Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Questions in Cancer Palliative Care: International Delphi Survey. J Pain Symptom Manage 2019; 58:1002-1014.e7. [PMID: 31404640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Chinese medicine modalities, including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), have been used as palliative interventions among cancer patients. More research should be conducted to confirm their effectiveness. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to prioritize Chinese medicine clinical research questions for cancer palliative care. METHODS Twelve international experts, including physicians, Chinese medicine practitioners, nurses, and clinical research methodologists (n = 3 from each category), from Asia, North America, Australia, and Europe participated in a two-round Delphi survey for prioritizing 29 research questions identified from existing systematic reviews. The experts were asked to 1) rate clinical importance of answering the questions on a nine-point Likert scale; 2) provide qualitative comments on their ratings; and 3) suggest outcome measurement approaches. RESULTS Eight research priorities reached positive consensus after the two-round Delphi survey. Six of the priorities focused on acupuncture and related therapies, of which median ratings on importance ranged from 7.0 to 8.0 (interquartile range: 1.00 to 2.50), and the percentage agreement ranged from 75.0% to 91.7%. The remaining two priorities related to CHM, with median ratings ranged from 7.0 to 8.0 (interquartile range: 1.00 to 1.50) and percentage agreement ranged from 75.0% to 83.3%. Neither positive nor negative consensus was established among the remaining 21 questions. CONCLUSION The findings will inform rational allocation of scarce research funding for evaluating the effectiveness of Chinese medicine for cancer palliative care, especially on acupuncture and related therapies. Further research on herb safety and herb-drug interaction should be performed before conducting international trials on CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene H L Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong; Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Irene X Y Wu
- Xiang-Ya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Raymond S K Lo
- Hospice and Palliative Care, New Territories East Cluster, Hospital Authority, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Claudia M Witt
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Justin C Y Wu
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong; Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Ting Hung Leung
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent C H Chung
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong; Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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13
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Etkind SN, Lovell N, Nicholson CJ, Higginson IJ, Murtagh FE. Finding a 'new normal' following acute illness: A qualitative study of influences on frail older people's care preferences. Palliat Med 2019; 33:301-311. [PMID: 30526371 PMCID: PMC6376597 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318817706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [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: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The frail older population is growing, and many frail older people have episodes of acute illness. Patient preferences are increasingly considered important in the delivery of person-centred care and may change following acute illness. AIM: To explore influences on the care preferences of frail older people with recent acute illness. DESIGN: Qualitative in-depth individual interviews, with thematic analysis. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS: Maximum variation sample of 18 patients and 7 nominated family carers from a prospective cohort study of people aged over 65, scoring ⩾5 on the Clinical Frailty Scale, and with recent acute illness, who were not receiving specialist palliative care. Median patient age was 84 (inter-quartile range 81–87), 53% female. Median frailty score 6 (inter-quartile range 5–7). RESULTS: Key influences on preferences were illness and care context, particularly hospital care; adaptation to changing health; achieving normality and social context. Participants focused on the outcomes of their care; hence, whether care was likely to help them ‘get back to normal’, or alternatively ‘find a new normal’ influenced preferences. For some, acute illness inhibited preference formation. Participants’ social context and the people available to provide support influenced place of care preferences. We combined these findings to model influences on preferences. CONCLUSION: ‘Getting back to normal’ or ‘finding a new normal’ are key focuses for frail older people when considering their preferences. Following acute illness, clinicians should discuss preferences and care planning in terms of an achievable normal, and carefully consider the social context. Longitudinal research is needed to explore the influences on preferences over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Noah Etkind
- 1 Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Natasha Lovell
- 1 Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Jane Nicholson
- 1 Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,2 St Christopher's Hospice, London, UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- 1 Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,3 King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Fliss Em Murtagh
- 1 Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,4 Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Sullivan R, Ugalde A, Sinclair C, Breen LJ. Developing a Research Agenda for Adult Palliative Care: A Modified Delphi Study. J Palliat Med 2018; 22:480-488. [PMID: 30461347 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Little is known about research priorities in adult palliative care. Identifying research priorities for adult palliative care will help in increasing research quality and translation. Objective: The aim was to identify the views of health professionals' research priorities in adult palliative care that lead to development of a palliative care research agenda in Australia. Design: A modified three-round Delphi survey. Setting/Subjects: Palliative care researchers and clinicians in Australia were invited to participate. Results: A total of 25 panelists completed round 1, 14 completed round 2, and 13 completed round 3. Round 1 resulted in 90 research priorities in 13 categories. Round 2 showed consensus agreement on 19/90 research priorities. Round 3 resulted in the top 10 research priorities of the 19 achieving consensus in round 2. Panelists agreed that research is needed on the transition to palliative care; improving communication about prognosis; increasing access to palliative care for indigenous communities, people who wish to remain at home, and people in aged care; addressing family caregivers' needs; promoting patients' and families' decision making; improving cross-cultural aspects of palliative care; determining the effects of assisted dying legislation; and improving bereavement care in rural, remote, and Aboriginal populations. Conclusions: The expert panelists identified the top 10 research priorities for adult palliative care. These identified research priorities are the most urgent topics requiring attention to increase the quality of life of patients requiring palliative care and their family members.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Ugalde
- 2 School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Craig Sinclair
- 3 Rural Clinical School of Western Australia, University of Western Australia (Albany Centre), Albany, Australia
| | - Lauren J Breen
- 1 School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Lam HR, Chow S, Taylor K, Chow R, Lam H, Bonin K, Rowbottom L, Herrmann N. Challenges of conducting research in long-term care facilities: a systematic review. BMC Geriatr 2018; 18:242. [PMID: 30314472 PMCID: PMC6186062 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-018-0934-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this review is to describe the challenges and barriers to conducting research in long-term care facilities. Methods A literature search was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central, PsycINFO and CINAHL. Keywords used included “long term care”, “nursing home”, “research”, “trial”, “challenge” and “barrier”, etc. Resulting references were screened in order to identify relevant studies that reported on challenges derived from first-hand experience of empirical research studies. Challenges were summarized and synthesized. Results Of 1723 references, 39 articles were selected for inclusion. To facilitate understanding we proposed a classification framework of 8 main themes to categorize the research challenges presented in the 39 studies, relating to the characteristics of facility/owner/administrator, resident, staff caregiver, family caregiver, investigator, ethical or legal concerns, methodology, and budgetary considerations. Conclusions Conducting research in long-term care facilities is full of challenges which can be categorized into 8 main themes. Investigators should be aware of all these challenges and specifically address them when planning their studies. Stakeholders should be involved from an early stage and flexibility should be built into both the methodology and research budget. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12877-018-0934-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen R Lam
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Selina Chow
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.,Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Room FG19, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Kate Taylor
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Ronald Chow
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Henry Lam
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Katija Bonin
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Leigha Rowbottom
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Nathan Herrmann
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada. .,Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Room FG19, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.
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