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Różyńska J, Zawiła-Niedźwiecki J, Maćkiewicz B, Czarkowski M. Tough Clinical Decisions: Experiences of Polish Physicians. HEC Forum 2024; 36:111-130. [PMID: 35939219 PMCID: PMC10864525 DOI: 10.1007/s10730-022-09491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The paper reports results of the very first survey-based study on the prevalence, frequency and nature of ethical or other non-medical difficulties faced by Polish physicians in their everyday clinical practice. The study involved 521 physicians of various medical specialties, practicing mainly in inpatient healthcare. The study showed that the majority of Polish physicians encounter ethical and other non-medical difficulties in making clinical decisions. However, they confront such difficulties less frequently than their foreign peers. Moreover, Polish doctors indicate different circumstances as a source of the experienced problems. The difficulties most often reported relate to (i) patients (or their proxies) requests for medically non-indicated interventions; (ii) problems with communication with patients (or their proxies) due to the patients' negative attitude, unwillingness to cooperate, or aggression; and (iii) various difficulties with obtaining informed consent. Polish physicians report difficulties associated with disagreements among care givers or scarcity of resources less frequently than doctors from other countries. The study's findings provide support for the thesis that a significant portion of Polish physicians still follow a traditional, paternalistic, and hierarchical model of healthcare practice. Instead of promoting patient's empowerment, engagement, and rights, they often consider these ideas as a threat to physicians' professional authority and autonomy. The study leads to the conclusion that due to insufficient training in medical ethics, communication skills, and medical law, many Polish physicians lack the knowledge and competence necessary to adequately respond to challenges posed by modern healthcare practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Różyńska
- Center for Bioethics and Biolaw, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, 00-047, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Zawiła-Niedźwiecki
- Center for Bioethics and Biolaw, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, 00-047, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Bartosz Maćkiewicz
- Center for Bioethics and Biolaw, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, 00-047, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Czarkowski
- Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, ul. Kazimierza Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938, Warsaw, Poland
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Therond C, Saliba-Serre B, Le Coz P, Eon B, Michel F, Piriou V, Lamblin A, Douplat M. Ethical issues encountered by French intensive care unit caregivers during the first COVID-19 outbreak. Can J Anaesth 2023; 70:1816-1827. [PMID: 37749366 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-023-02585-1] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to describe the ethical issues encountered by health care workers during the first COVID-19 outbreak in French intensive care units (ICUs), and the factors associated with their emergence. METHODS This descriptive multicentre survey study was conducted by distributing a questionnaire to 26 French ICUs, from 1 June to 1 October 2020. Physicians, residents, nurses, and orderlies who worked in an ICU during the first COVID-19 outbreak were included. Multiple logistic regression models were performed to identify the factors associated with ethical issues. RESULTS Among the 4,670 questionnaires sent out, 1,188 responses were received, giving a participation rate of 25.4%. Overall, 953 participants (80.2%) reported experiencing issue(s) while caring for patients during the first COVID-19 outbreak. The most common issues encountered concerned the restriction of family visits in the ICU (91.7%) and the risk of contamination for health care workers (72.3%). Nurses and orderlies faced this latter issue more than physicians (adjusted odds ratio [ORa], 2.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.87 to 4.76; P < 0.001 and ORa, 4.35; 95% CI, 2.08 to 9.12; P < 0.001, respectively). They also faced more the issue "act contrary to the patient's advance directives" (ORa, 4.59; 95% CI, 1.74 to 12.08; P < 0.01 and ORa, 10.65; 95% CI, 3.71 to 30.60; P < 0.001, respectively). A total of 1,132 (86.9%) respondents thought that ethics training should be better integrated into the initial training of health care workers. CONCLUSION Eight out of ten responding French ICU health care workers experienced ethical issues during the first COVID-19 outbreak. Identifying these issues is a first step towards anticipating and managing such issues, particularly in the context of potential future health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Therond
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.
| | - Bérengère Saliba-Serre
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Le Coz
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Béatrice Eon
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Direction Qualité Gestion des Risques/Cellule Qualité gestion des risques, AP-HM Hospital Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Fabrice Michel
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Service d'anesthésie et réanimation pédiatrique, AP-HM Hospital Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Vincent Piriou
- Service d'Anesthésie et de Réanimation, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Research on Healthcare Performance (RESHAPE), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Antoine Lamblin
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Service civilo-militaire d'anesthésie-réanimation, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Marion Douplat
- (UMR) Unité mixte de recherche 7268 ADES (Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé), CNRS (Centre Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), EFS (Etablissement Français du Sang), Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Research on Healthcare Performance (RESHAPE), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service des Urgences de Lyon Sud, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Mathey L, Jacquier M, Meunier-Beillard N, Andreu P, Roudaut JB, Labruyère M, Rigaud JP, Quenot JP, Ecarnot F. ICU stays that are judged to be non-beneficial: A qualitative study of the perception of nursing staff. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289954. [PMID: 37561766 PMCID: PMC10414562 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-beneficial stays in the intensive care unit (ICU) may have repercussions for patients and their families, but can also cause suffering among the nursing staff. We aimed explore the perceptions of nursing staff in the ICU about patient stays that are deemed to be "non-beneficial" for the patient, to identify areas amenable to intervention, with a view to improving how the nursing staff perceive the patient pathway before, during and after intensive care. METHODS Multicentre, qualitative study using individual, semi-structured interviews. All qualified nurses and nurses' aides who were full-time employees in the ICU of three participating centres were invited to participate. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using textual content analysis. RESULTS A total of 21 interviews were performed from February 2020 to October 2021, at which point saturation was reached in the data. Average age of participants was 38.5±7.5 years, and they had an average of 10.7±7.4 years of experience working in the ICU. Four major themes emerged from the interviews, namely: (1) the work is oriented towards life-threatening emergencies, technical procedures and burdensome care; (2) a range of specific criteria and circumstances influence the decisions to admit patients to ICU; (3) there are significant organisational, physical and psychological repercussions associated with a non-beneficial stay in the ICU; (4) respondents made some proposals for improvements to the patient care pathway. CONCLUSION Nursing staff have a similar perception to physicians regarding admission decisions and non-beneficial ICU stays. The possibility of future ICU admission needs to be anticipated, discussed systematically with patients and integrated into healthcare goals that are consistent with the patient's wishes and preferences, in multi-professional collaboration including nursing and medical staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Mathey
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Marine Jacquier
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Equipe Lipness, Centre de Recherche INSERM UMR1231 et LabEx LipSTIC, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Meunier-Beillard
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- DRCI, USMR, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Pascal Andreu
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | | | - Marie Labruyère
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Rigaud
- Department of Intensive Care, Centre Hospitalier de Dieppe, Dieppe, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique de Normandie, University Hospital Caen, Caen, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Quenot
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Equipe Lipness, Centre de Recherche INSERM UMR1231 et LabEx LipSTIC, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EREBFC), Dijon, France
| | - Fiona Ecarnot
- EA3920, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Besancon, Besancon, France
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Taşkıran N, Turk G. The relationship between the ethical attitudes and holistic competence levels of intensive care nurses: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287648. [PMID: 37440592 PMCID: PMC10343054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive care units are directly associated with the competency level of nurses and are units where ethical problems are frequently experienced. This research aims to determine the relationship between intensive care nurses' ethical attitudes and holistic competence levels. METHODS This study was conducted as a cross-sectional design using self-report questionnaires distributed to 131 intensive care nurses in Turkey. The data of the study were collected with the "Nurses Information Form," "Holistic Nursing Competence Scale" and "Ethical Attitude Scale for Nursing Care". RESULTS The total mean score of the Holistic Nursing Competence of the nurses was 6.89±0.95. Holistic Nursing Competence level was significantly lower for those who had experienced less than one year in the profession, and it was higher for those who worked in the emergency intensive care unit and the nurses whose clinics had 21 and above nurses. The total mean score of the nurses' ethics attitude toward nursing care was 59.36±29.09. Ethical Attitude for Nursing Care was significantly lower for those who had a master's degree, and the nurses whose clinics had 21 and above nurses scored higher. There was a weak and negative correlation between the nurses' Holistic Nursing Competence Scale and the total mean score of the Ethical Attitude Scale for Nursing Care. The ethical attitude was predicted in 13.2% of the Holistic Nursing Competence of nurses. CONCLUSIONS It was concluded that nurses' holistic competence levels were high, their ethical attitudes were negative, and there was a weak negative correlation between their holistic competence levels and their ethical attitudes toward care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihal Taşkıran
- Department of Fundamentals of Nursing, Aydın Adnan Menderes University College of Nursing, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Gulengun Turk
- Department of Fundamentals of Nursing, Aydın Adnan Menderes University College of Nursing, Aydın, Turkey
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Taccone FS. Ableism in the intensive care unit. Intensive Care Med 2023; 49:898-899. [PMID: 37115259 PMCID: PMC10140718 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-023-07084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio S Taccone
- Department of Intensive Care, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 1070, 808, Brussels, Belgium.
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Taha A, Jacquier M, Meunier-Beillard N, Ecarnot F, Andreu P, Roudaut JB, Labruyère M, Rigaud JP, Quenot JP. Anticipating need for intensive care in the healthcare trajectory of patients with chronic disease: A qualitative study among specialists. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274936. [PMID: 36121869 PMCID: PMC9484637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We investigated the reflections and perceptions of non-ICU physicians about anticipating the need for ICU admission in case of acute decompensation in patients with chronic disease. Methods We performed a qualitative multicentre study using semi-structured interviews among non-ICU specialist physicians. The interview guide, developed in advance, focused on 3 questions: (1) What is your perception of ICU care? (2) How do you think advance directives can be integrated into the patient’s healthcare goals? and (3) How can the possibility of a need for ICU admission be integrated into the patient’s healthcare goals? Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed by thematic analysis. Interviews were performed until theoretical saturation was reached. Results In total, 16 physicians (8 women, 8 men) were interviewed. The main themes related to intensive care being viewed as a distinct specialty, dispensing very technical care, and with major human and ethical challenges, especially regarding end-of-life issues. The participants also mentioned the difficulty in anticipating an acute decompensation, and the choices that might have to be made in such situations. The timing of discussions about potential decompensation of the patient, the medical culture and the presence of advance directives are issues that arise when attempting to anticipate the question of ICU admission in the patient’s healthcare goals or wishes. Conclusion This study describes the perceptions that physicians treating patients with chronic disease have of intensive care, notably that it is a distinct and technical specialty that presents challenging medical and ethical situations. Our study also opens perspectives for actions that could promote a pluridisciplinary approach to anticipating acute decompensation and ICU requirements in patients with chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Taha
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Marine Jacquier
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Equipe Lipness, Centre de Recherche INSERM UMR1231 et LabEx LipSTIC, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Meunier-Beillard
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- DRCI, USMR, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Fiona Ecarnot
- EA3920, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Besancon, Besançon, France
| | - Pascal Andreu
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | | | - Marie Labruyère
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Rigaud
- Department of Intensive Care, Centre Hospitalier de Dieppe, Dieppe, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique de Normandie, University Hospital Caen, Caen, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Quenot
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Equipe Lipness, Centre de Recherche INSERM UMR1231 et LabEx LipSTIC, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EREBFC), Dijon, France
- * E-mail:
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Parchami F, Jackson AC, Sharifi F, Parsapoor A, Bahramnezad F. Written and computer simulation on the moral sensitivity of nurses. Nurs Ethics 2022; 29:1739-1749. [PMID: 35801307 DOI: 10.1177/09697330221109945] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Moral sensitivity is the first step towards ethical decision-making. This sensitivity should form a basic attitude in healthcare team members, particularly nurses, toward providing effective and ethical care. This is highlighted in intensive care units (ICUs) where close attention should be paid to patient rights and moral or ethical decision-making.Objective: The present study aimed at determining and comparing the effect of written simulation and computer simulation of a virtual patient on the development of moral sensitivity of ICU nurses.Research design: Randomized controlled trial with one control arm and two experimental arms.Participants and content: This study involved 204 ICU nurses working in hospitals affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, from 2019 to 2021 using a random allocation method. The participants were allocated to three groups comprising virtual patient computer simulation, written simulation, and the no simulation control group. After training based on a Patient Rights Charter, five scenarios, with themes reflecting the clauses of the Patient's Rights Charter, were written as a computer program and text for the computer simulation and written simulation groups, respectively. Finally, nurses' moral sensitivity was assessed using the Lützén moral sensitivity questionnaire as pre- and post-tests (immediately and 2 months after the intervention).Ethical considerations: Ethical permission was obtained for the study. All the participants signed the informed consent before the study onset.Results: The study results showed a significant difference in moral sensitivity among the three groups before the intervention (p = 0.003). Immediately after the intervention compared to pre-intervention, the three groups showed no significant differences in this regard (p = 0.056), however a significant difference among the three groups was found 2 months post-intervention (p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Parchami
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, 48439Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alun C Jackson
- Australian Centre for Heart Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia; Centre on Behavioural Health, Hong Kong University, Hong Kong, PRC, China
| | - Farshad Sharifi
- Elderly Health Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Research Institute, 48439Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Bahramnezad
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Spiritual Health Group, Research Center of Quran, Hadith and Medicine,48439 Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Vollam S, Gustafson O, Morgan L, Pattison N, Thomas H, Watkinson P. Patient Harm and Institutional Avoidability of Out-of-Hours Discharge From Intensive Care: An Analysis Using Mixed Methods. Crit Care Med 2022; 50:1083-1092. [PMID: 35245235 PMCID: PMC9197137 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Out-of-hours discharge from ICU to the ward is associated with increased in-hospital mortality and ICU readmission. Little is known about why this occurs. We map the discharge process and describe the consequences of out-of-hours discharge to inform practice changes to reduce the impact of discharge at night. DESIGN This study was part of the REcovery FoLlowing intensive CarE Treatment mixed methods study. We defined out-of-hours discharge as 16:00 to 07:59 hours. We undertook 20 in-depth case record reviews where in-hospital death after ICU discharge had been judged "probably avoidable" in previous retrospective structured judgment reviews, and 20 where patients survived. We conducted semistructured interviews with 55 patients, family members, and staff with experience of ICU discharge processes. These, along with a stakeholder focus group, informed ICU discharge process mapping using the human factors-based functional analysis resonance method. SETTING Three U.K. National Health Service hospitals, chosen to represent different hospital settings. SUBJECTS Patients discharged from ICU, their families, and staff involved in their care. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Out-of-hours discharge was common. Patients and staff described out-of-hours discharge as unsafe due to a reduction in staffing and skill mix at night. Patients discharged out-of-hours were commonly discharged prematurely, had inadequate handover, were physiologically unstable, and did not have deterioration recognized or escalated appropriately. We identified five interdependent function keys to facilitating timely ICU discharge: multidisciplinary team decision for discharge, patient prepared for discharge, bed meeting, bed manager allocation of beds, and ward bed made available. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant limitations in out-of-hours care provision following overnight discharge from ICU. Transfer to the ward before 16:00 should be facilitated where possible. Our work highlights changes to help make day time discharge more likely. Where discharge after 16:00 is unavoidable, support systems should be implemented to ensure the safety of patients discharged from ICU at night.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Vollam
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Owen Gustafson
- Oxford Allied Health Professions Research and Innovation Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Morgan
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Pattison
- School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- East and North Herts NHS Trust, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Hilary Thomas
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Watkinson
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Adult Intensive Care Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Işik MT, Özdemir RC, Serinkaya D. Ethical Attitudes of Intensive Care Nurses during Clinical Practice and Affecting Factors. Indian J Crit Care Med 2022; 26:288-293. [PMID: 35519912 PMCID: PMC9015944 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10071-24143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Technological advances in critical care contribute to patient survival, but healthcare professionals working in these units, which require technical expertise, experience highly challenging ethical decision-making processes. Aim The aim of this study is to determine the attitudes of intensive care nurses toward ethical problems they face during clinical practice and the affecting factors. Method The study included a total of 294 nurses working in the intensive care units at a city hospital. Data was collected using the Personal Information Form and Ethical Attitude Scale for Nursing Care. Findings About 58.8% of the participants were females and 71.1% had undergraduate degrees. The total scale score was 56.48 ± 15.98. A statistically significant difference was found between participants’ gender, weekly working hours, ethical definition status, and scale score averages. Conclusion More than half experienced frequent ethical problems and tried to solve them on their own. Trainings aimed at developing ethical sensitivity and participation in symposiums/conferences that address ethical issues specific to intensive care are recommended. How to cite this article Işik MT, Özdemir RC, Serinkaya D. Ethical Attitudes of Intensive Care Nurses during Clinical Practice and Affecting Factors. Indian J Crit Care Med 2022;26(3):288-293.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rana Can Özdemir
- Department of Medical History and Ethics, Akdeniz Üniversitesi, Antalya, Turkey
- Rana Can Özdemir, Department of Medical History and Ethics, Akdeniz Üniversitesi, Antalya, Turkey, e-mail:
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Alberti AR, Frej EA, Roselli LRP, Britto MA, Campelo E, Teixeira de Almeida A, Ferreira RJP. Methodology to Support the Triage of Suspected COVID-19 Patients in Resource-Limited Circumstances. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/ijdsst.309993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has put health systems worldwide under pressure. Thus, establish a triage protocol to support the allocation of resources is important to deal with this public health crisis. In this paper, a structured methodology to support the triage of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients has been proposed, based on the utilitarian principle. A decision model has been proposed for evaluating three treatment alternatives: intensive care, hospital stay and home isolation. The model is developed according to multi-attribute utility theory and considers two criteria: the life of the patient and the overall cost to the health system. A screening protocol is proposed to support the use of the decision model, and a method is presented for calculating the probability of which of three treatment is the best one. The proposed methodology was implemented in an information and decision system. The originality of this study is using of the multi-attribute utility theory to support the triage of suspected COVID-19 and implement the decision model in an information and decision system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Evônio Campelo
- Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brazil
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Blythe JA, Kentish-Barnes N, Debue AS, Dohan D, Azoulay E, Covinsky K, Matthews T, Curtis JR, Dzeng E. An Interprofessional Process for the Limitation of Life-Sustaining Treatments at the End of Life in France. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:160-170. [PMID: 34157398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The provision of potentially non-beneficial life-sustaining treatments (LSTs) remains a challenging problem. In 2005, legislation in France established an interprofessional process by which non-beneficial LSTs could be withheld or withdrawn, permitting exploration of the effects of such a legally-protected process and its implementation. OBJECTIVES To characterize intensive care unit (ICU) interprofessional team decision-making and consensus-building practices regarding withholding and withdrawing of LSTs in two Parisian hospitals and to explore physician and nurse perceptions of and experiences with these practices. METHODS This was an exploratory qualitative study utilizing thematic analysis of semi-structured, in-depth interviews of physicians and nurses purposively sampled based on level of training and experience from two hospitals in Paris, France. RESULTS A total of 25 participants were interviewed. Participants reported that the two Parisian hospitals in this study have each created an interprofessional process for withholding or withdrawing non-beneficial LSTs, providing insight into how norms of decision-making respond to systems-level legal changes. Participants reported that these processes tended to be consistent across several domains: maintaining unified messaging with patients, empowering nurses to participate in end-of-life decision-making, reducing moral distress provoked by end-of-life decisions, and shaping the ethical milieu within which end-of-life decision-making takes place. CONCLUSIONS The architecture of the interprofessional process created at two Parisian hospitals and its perceived benefits may be useful to clinicians and policy-makers attempting to establish processes, policies, or legislation directed at withholding or withdrawing potentially non-beneficial LSTs in the United States and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Blythe
- Stanford University School of Medicine (J.A.B.), Stanford, California, USA
| | - Nancy Kentish-Barnes
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP) (N.K.-B.), Hôpital Saint Louis, Famiréa Research Group, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Debue
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP) (A.-S.D.), Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Centre (HUPC), Hôpital Cochin, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Paris, France; UVSQ, INSERM, Équipe Recherches en éthique et épistémologie (A.-S.D.), CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Dohan
- Philip R. Lee Institute of Health Policy Studies (D.D., T.M., E.D.), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Elie Azoulay
- Médecine Intensive et Réanimation (E.A.), Hôpital Saint-Louis, APHP, Paris, France; Université de Paris (E.A), Paris, France
| | - Ken Covinsky
- University of California (K.C.), San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Thea Matthews
- Philip R. Lee Institute of Health Policy Studies (D.D., T.M., E.D.), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - J Randall Curtis
- Division of Pulmonary (R.C.), Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence (R.C.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth Dzeng
- Philip R. Lee Institute of Health Policy Studies (D.D., T.M., E.D.), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA; Division of Hospital Medicine (E.D.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.
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Sezgin D, Dost A, Esin MN. Experiences and perceptions of Turkish intensive care nurses providing care to Covid-19 patients: A qualitative study. Int Nurs Rev 2021; 69:305-317. [PMID: 34962292 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe the experiences of intensive care nurses who provided care to Covid-19 patients and their perceptions towards the disease and their work conditions during the pandemic. INTRODUCTION Identification of experiences and perceptions of intensive care nurses towards disease, care and their workplace conditions when providing care to Covid-19 patients will inform decision-makers about improvements that can be implemented. BACKGROUND The Covid-19 pandemic has led to increased strain and workplace-related health risks to intensive care nurses, but it has also provided a unique experience and opportunities for learning and development. METHODS A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with 10 intensive care unit nurses working in seven hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey. Snowball sampling method was used, and the data were collected by semistructured online interviews. A thematic analysis was performed. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research were followed. FINDINGS Five major themes were identified: 'death and fear of death', 'impact on family and social lives', 'nursing care of Covid-19 patients', 'changing perceptions of their own profession: empowerment and dissatisfaction', and 'experiences and perceptions of personal protective equipment and other control measures'. DISCUSSION Intensive care nurses experience an increased risk of infection and psychological burden, and they lack a sense of professional satisfaction. Improvements to working conditions are needed to support nurses caring for patients during the pandemic. CONCLUSION The pandemic increased the workload and responsibilities of intensive care nurses and led to increases in their work-related health risks and challenges with care. However, it also increased nurses' awareness about the importance of their professional roles. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE AND POLICIES There is a need to improve working conditions and develop nursing standards for the care of Covid-19 patients in intensive care units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Sezgin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway City, Ireland
| | - Ayşe Dost
- School of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Melek N Esin
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Department of Public Health Nursing, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Pakkanen P, Häggman-Laitila A, Kangasniemi M. Ethical issues identified in nurses´ interprofessional collaboration in clinical practice: a meta-synthesis. J Interprof Care 2021; 36:725-734. [PMID: 34120556 DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2021.1892612] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to synthesize previous knowledge about ethics in nurses' interprofessional collaboration in clinical practice. Although healthcare professionals have common goals and shared values, ethical conflicts still arise during patient care. We carried out a meta-synthesis of peer-reviewed papers published in any language from 2013-2019, using both electronic searches, with the CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, and SocINDEX databases, and manual searches. We identified 4,763 papers and selected six qualitative papers, and three theoretical papers, based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria and quality appraisal. The studies came from the USA, Canada, Sweden, Australia, Botswana, and the Netherlands. We found that in ethics studies on nurses' interprofessional collaboration in clinical practice the focus has been on factors that affect how patients receive care. These factors were patients' wishes, whether they were told the truth about their condition, and how different professionals recognized and treated their pain. The focus in the papers we reviewed was on the roles of different professionals during the care process, including ethical conflicts with regard to their aims, commitment, and the balance of power among them and other professions. More research is needed to raise the visibility of how nurses and other professionals recognize, and evaluate, their professional and interprofessional ethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piiku Pakkanen
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Arja Häggman-Laitila
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Mari Kangasniemi
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Escher M, Nendaz MR, Cullati S, Hudelson P. Physicians' perspective on potentially non-beneficial treatment when assessing patients with advanced disease for ICU admission: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046268. [PMID: 34020978 PMCID: PMC8144032 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The use of intensive care at the end of life can be high, leading to inappropriate healthcare utilisation, and prolonged suffering for patients and families. The objective of the study was to determine which factors influence physicians' admission decisions in situations of potentially non-beneficial intensive care. DESIGN This is a secondary analysis of a qualitative study exploring the triage process. In-depth interviews were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic content analysis. SETTING Data were collected in a Swiss tertiary care centre between March and June 2013. PARTICIPANTS 12 intensive care unit (ICU) physicians and 12 internists routinely involved in ICU admission decisions. RESULTS Physicians struggled to understand the request for intensive care for patients with advanced disease and full code status. Physicians considered patients' long-term vital and functional prognosis, but they also resorted to shortcuts, that is, a priori consensus about reasons for admitting a patient. Family pressure and unexpected critical events were determinants of admission to the ICU. Patient preferences, ICU physician's expertise and collaborative decision making facilitated refusal. Physicians were willing to admit a patient with advanced disease for a limited amount of time to fulfil a personal need. CONCLUSIONS In situations of potentially non-beneficial intensive care, the influence of shortcuts or context-related factors suggests that practice variations and inappropriate admission decisions are likely to occur. Institutional guidelines and timely goals of care discussions with patients with advanced disease and their families could contribute to ensuring appropriate levels of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Escher
- Division of Palliative Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Unit for Development and Research in Medical Education (UDREM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu R Nendaz
- Unit for Development and Research in Medical Education (UDREM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Cullati
- Quality of Care Service, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Population Health Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Hudelson
- Department of Primary Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Heidenreich K, Slowther AM, Griffiths F, Bremer A, Svantesson M. UK consultants' experiences of the decision-making process around referral to intensive care: an interview study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044752. [PMID: 33762241 PMCID: PMC7993217 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The decision whether to initiate intensive care for the critically ill patient involves ethical questions regarding what is good and right for the patient. It is not clear how referring doctors negotiate these issues in practice. The aim of this study was to describe and understand consultants' experiences of the decision-making process around referral to intensive care. DESIGN Qualitative interviews were analysed according to a phenomenological hermeneutical method. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Consultant doctors (n=27) from departments regularly referring patients to intensive care in six UK hospitals. RESULTS In the precarious and uncertain situation of critical illness, trust in the decision-making process is needed and can be enhanced through the way in which the process unfolds. When there are no obvious right or wrong answers as to what ought to be done, how the decision is made and how the process unfolds is morally important. Through acknowledging the burdensome doubts in the process, contributing to an emerging, joint understanding of the patient's situation, and responding to mutual moral duties of the doctors involved, trust in the decision-making process can be enhanced and a shared moral responsibility between the stake holding doctors can be assumed. CONCLUSION The findings highlight the importance of trust in the decision-making process and how the relationships between the stakeholding doctors are crucial to support their moral responsibility for the patient. Poor interpersonal relationships can damage trust and negatively impact decisions made on behalf of a critically ill patient. For this reason, active attempts must be made to foster good relationships between doctors. This is not only important to create a positive working environment, but a mechanism to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Heidenreich
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Frances Griffiths
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - Anders Bremer
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Mia Svantesson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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16
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Seidlein AH, Hannich A, Nowak A, Salloch S. Interprofessional health-care ethics education for medical and nursing students in Germany: an interprofessional education and practice guide. J Interprof Care 2021; 36:144-151. [PMID: 33653196 DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2021.1879748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Early interprofessional learning among nursing and medical students provides various benefits for future collaboration among professionals, and high-quality care for patients. Expert committees, thus, urge the integration of interprofessional education (IPE) in undergraduate studies to achieve significant sustainable improvements in health-care practice. In Germany, IPE interventions are already implemented in some health-care disciplines, but Health-care Ethics are scarcely regarded in undergraduate education. There are, however, several reasons why Health-care Ethics is particularly appropriate for teaching in an interprofessional format. Thus, after reviewing the legal framework and the current curricula of both professions, an IPE course on Health-care Ethics for medical and nursing students was developed and implemented, consisting of seven classes of 180 minutes each. Drawing on the evaluation results after two rounds of the course, this interprofessional education and practice guide reports on challenges, obstacles and perspectives for improvement of an IPE course on Health-care Ethics. It aims to provide guidance for teaching pioneers and innovators who implement similar projects and to foster practice-oriented and open discussion about the possibilities and limits of IPE in Health-care Ethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Henrikje Seidlein
- Institute of Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Arne Hannich
- Institute of Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Andre Nowak
- Institute of History and Ethics of Medicine, Faculty of Medical, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Sabine Salloch
- Institute of History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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17
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Frej EA, Roselli LRP, Ferreira RJP, Alberti AR, de Almeida AT. Decision Model for Allocation of Intensive Care Unit Beds for Suspected COVID-19 Patients under Scarce Resources. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2021; 2021:8853787. [PMID: 33574887 PMCID: PMC7861950 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8853787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper puts forward a decision model for allocation of intensive care unit (ICU) beds under scarce resources in healthcare systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. The model is built upon a portfolio selection approach under the concepts of the Utility Theory. A binary integer optimization model is developed in order to find the best allocation for ICU beds, considering candidate patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19. Experts' subjective knowledge and prior probabilities are considered to estimate the input data for the proposed model, considering the particular aspects of the decision problem. Since the chances of survival of patients in several scenarios may not be precisely defined due to the inherent subjectivity of such kinds of information, the proposed model works based on imprecise information provided by users. A Monte-Carlo simulation is performed to build a recommendation, and a robustness index is computed for each alternative according to its performance as evidenced by the results of the simulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Asfora Frej
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n-Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Lucia Reis Peixoto Roselli
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n-Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo José Pires Ferreira
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n-Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Ramalho Alberti
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n-Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Adiel Teixeira de Almeida
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n-Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740-530, Brazil
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18
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Svantesson M, Griffiths F, White C, Bassford C, Slowther A. Ethical conflicts during the process of deciding about ICU admission: an empirically driven ethical analysis. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2021; 47:medethics-2020-106672. [PMID: 33402429 PMCID: PMC8639921 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2020-106672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Besides balancing burdens and benefits of intensive care, ethical conflicts in the process of decision-making should also be recognised. This calls for an ethical analysis relevant to clinicians. The aim was to analyse ethically difficult situations in the process of deciding whether a patient is admitted to intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS Analysis using the 'Dilemma method' and 'wide reflective equilibrium', on ethnographic data of 45 patient cases and 96 stakeholder interviews in six UK hospitals. ETHICAL ANALYSIS Four moral questions and associated value conflicts were identified. (1) Who should have the right to decide whether a patient needs to be reviewed? Conflicting perspectives on safety/security. (2) Does the benefit to the patient of getting the decision right justify the cost to the patient of a delay in making the decision? Preventing longer-term suffering and understanding patient's values conflicted with preventing short-term suffering and provision of security. (3) To what extent should the intensivist gain others' input? Professional independence versus a holistic approach to decision-making. (4) Should the intensivist have an ongoing duty of care to patients not admitted to ICU? Short-term versus longer-term duty to protect patient safety. Safety and security (experienced in a holistic sense of physical and emotional security for patients) were key values at stake in the ethical conflicts identified. The life-threatening nature of the situation meant that the principle of autonomy was overshadowed by the duty to protect patients from harm. The need to fairly balance obligations to the referred patient and to other patients was also recognised. CONCLUSION Proactive decision-making including advance care planning and escalation of treatment decisions may support the inclusion of patient autonomy. However, our analysis invites binary choices, which may not sufficiently reflect reality. This calls for a complementary relational ethics analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Svantesson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Frances Griffiths
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Catherine White
- Patient and Public Representative, Trustee, ICUsteps - the Intensive Care Patient Support Charity, Coventry, UK
| | - Chris Bassford
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
| | - AnneMarie Slowther
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
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Griffiths F, Svantesson M, Bassford C, Dale J, Blake C, McCreedy A, Slowther AM. Decision-making around admission to intensive care in the UK pre-COVID-19: a multicentre ethnographic study. Anaesthesia 2020; 76:489-499. [PMID: 33141939 DOI: 10.1111/anae.15272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Predicting who will benefit from admission to an intensive care unit is not straightforward and admission processes vary. Our aim was to understand how decisions to admit or not are made. We observed 55 decision-making events in six NHS hospitals. We interviewed 30 referring and 43 intensive care doctors about these events. We describe the nature and context of the decision-making and analysed how doctors make intensive care admission decisions. Such decisions are complex with intrinsic uncertainty, often urgent and made with incomplete information. While doctors aspire to make patient-centred decisions, key challenges include: being overworked with lack of time; limited support from senior staff; and a lack of adequate staffing in other parts of the hospital that may be compromising patient safety. To reduce decision complexity, heuristic rules based on experience are often used to help think through the problem; for example, the patient's functional status or clinical gestalt. The intensive care doctors actively managed relationships with referring doctors; acted as the hospital generalist for acutely ill patients; and brought calm to crisis situations. However, they frequently failed to elicit values and preferences from patients or family members. They were rarely explicit in balancing burdens and benefits of intensive care for patients, so consistency and equity cannot be judged. The use of a framework for intensive care admission decisions that reminds doctors to seek patient or family views and encourages explicit balancing of burdens and benefits could improve decision-making. However, a supportive, adequately resourced context is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Griffiths
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - M Svantesson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University Health Care Research Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - C Bassford
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - J Dale
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - C Blake
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - A McCreedy
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - A-M Slowther
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Survivors of Critical Illness and Their Relatives. A Qualitative Study on Hospital Discharge Experience. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2020; 16:1405-1413. [PMID: 31394924 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.201902-156oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: To target rehabilitation needs of survivors of critical illness and their relatives in a timely and adequate manner, a thorough needs assessment is recommended when hospital discharge planning is initiated. In light of existing evidence on physical and psychological consequences of critical illness for patients and family, it is currently unclear if current hospital discharge procedures suffice to meet the needs of this group.Objectives: To explore hospital discharge experience and to identify perceived barriers and enablers for a positive transition experience from hospital to home or rehabilitation facility as perceived by survivors of critical illness and their families.Methods: We performed a grounded theory study with semi-structured interviews among a group of survivors of critical illness and their relatives (n = 35) discharged from 16 hospitals across the Netherlands. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using constant comparative methods, initial and focused coding was applied to the data, which were further labeled into major categories and subcategories, ultimately leading to the identification of key concepts. Triangulation was applied through several reflexivity meetings at different stages of the study.Results: Twenty-two former intensive care unit patients and 13 relatives were interviewed. The mean age was 53 (standard deviation ± 11.2) and 60% were female. Median intensive care unit and hospital length of stay were 14 days (interquartile range, 9.75-24.5) and 35 days (interquartile range, 21.75-57.25), respectively. Thematic analyses led to identification of seven key concepts, representing barriers and enablers to a positive transition experience. "Existing in a fragmented reality," "being overlooked," and "feeling disqualified" were identified barriers and "feeling empowered," "encountering empathic and expert professionals," "managing recovery expectations," and "family engagement" were identified as enablers for a positive perceived transition experience.Conclusions: Findings of this study suggest that current hospital discharge practice for survivors of critical illness is driven by speed and efficiency, rather than by individual needs assessments, despite advocacies for patient- and family-centered care. Discharge strategies should be customized to facilitate adequate and comprehensive assessment of aftercare needs, conducted at the right time and within the right context, encouraging empowerment and a positive perceived transition from hospital to home.
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Determination of Relationship Between Moral Sensitivity, Job Motivation and Hopelessness in Intensive Care Nurses. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.16899/jcm.706285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Haghighat S, Borhani F, Ranjbar H. Is there a relationship between moral competencies and the formation of professional identity among nursing students? BMC Nurs 2020; 19:49. [PMID: 32536811 PMCID: PMC7288505 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-020-00440-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Moral competencies are essential for nursing work. Professional identity is a set of values and beliefs that a person has about her/his job, which includes moral values as well. The development of moral competencies and formation of professional identity in nursing students occurs mainly during their college years. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between moral competencies and the formation of professional identity among nursing students. Methods This study was designed as a descriptive-correlational study. The study population was consisted of nursing students who were enrolled in nursing schools at the time of the study. Two hundred and twenty-one nursing students completed the study tools. The research tools were a demographic questionnaire, Moral Development Scale for Professionals (MDSP), and Professional Identity Scale for Nursing Students (PISNS). Results The mean (SD) of MDSP and PISNS scores was 45.69 ± 5.90 and 55.61 ± 12.75, respectively. There was a significant statistical relationship between MSDP and PISNS scores (p < 0.05). A significant equation was found (f (2, 218) = 16.68, p < 0.001) with an R2 of 0.113. The MSDP scores increased 0.136 for each score of PISNS, and married students had 2.452 scores higher than single students. Conclusions The positive correlation between the formation of professional identity and development of morality in nursing students indicates that by strengthening students’ professional values, their moral competencies may develop positively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Haghighat
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Nursing Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Fariba Borhani
- Medical Ethics and Law Research Center of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Ranjbar
- Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Science, Shahid Mansouri st, Niyayesh St, Sattarkhan Ave, Tehran, 1445613111 Iran
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Cardona M, Anstey M, Lewis ET, Shanmugam S, Hillman K, Psirides A. Appropriateness of intensive care treatments near the end of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Breathe (Sheff) 2020; 16:200062. [PMID: 33304408 PMCID: PMC7714540 DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0062-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The patient and family perspective on the appropriateness of intensive care unit (ICU) treatments involves preferences, values and social constructs beyond medical criteria. The clinician's perception of inappropriateness is more reliant on clinical judgment. Earlier consultation with families before ICU admission and patient education on the outcomes of life-sustaining therapies may help reconcile these provider-patient disagreements. However, global emergencies like COVID-19 change the usual paradigm of end-of-life care, as it is a new disease with only scarce predictive information about it. Pandemics can also bring about the burdensome predicament of doctors having to make unwanted choices of rationing access to the ICU when demand for otherwise life-saving resources exceeds supply. Evidence-based prognostic checklists may guide treatment triage but the principles of shared decision-making are unchanged. Yet, they need to be altered with respect to COVID-19, defining likely outcomes and likelihood of benefit for the patient, and clarifying their willingness to take on the risks inherent to being in an ICU for 2 weeks for those eligible. For patients who are admitted during the prodrome of COVID-19 disease, or those who deteriorate in the second week, clinicians have some lead time in hospital to have appropriate discussions about ceilings of treatments offered based on severity. KEY POINTS The patient and family perspective on inappropriateness of intensive care at the end of life often differs from the clinician's opinion due to the nonmedical frame of mind.To improve satisfaction with communication on treatment goals, consultation on patient values and inclusion of social constructs in addition to clinical prediction is a good start to reconcile differences between physician and health service users' viewpoints.During pandemics, where health systems may collapse, different admission criteria driven by the need to ration services may be warranted. EDUCATIONAL AIMS To explore the extent to which older patients and their families are involved in decisions about appropriateness of intensive care admission or treatmentsTo understand how patients or their families define inappropriate intensive care admission or treatmentsTo reflect on the implications of decision to admit or not to admit to the intensive care unit in the face of acute resource shortages during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnolia Cardona
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Australia
- Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, Australia
| | - Matthew Anstey
- Intensive Care Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Ebony T. Lewis
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | | | - Ken Hillman
- Intensive Care Unit, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Alex Psirides
- Intensive Care Unit, Wellington Regional Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand
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Sanson G, Marino C, Valenti A, Lucangelo U, Berlot G. Is my patient ready for a safe transfer to a lower-intensity care setting? Nursing complexity as an independent predictor of adverse events risk after ICU discharge. Heart Lung 2020; 49:407-414. [PMID: 32067723 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2020.02.003] [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] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients discharged from intensive care units (ICUs) are at risk for adverse events (AEs). Establishing safe discharge criteria is challenging. No available criteria consider nursing complexity among risk factors. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether nursing complexity upon ICU discharge is an independent predictor for AEs. METHODS Prospective observational study. The Patient Acuity and Complexity Score (PACS) was developed to measure nursing complexity. Its predictive power for AEs was tested using multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS The final regression model showed a very-good discrimination power (AUC 0.881; p<0.001) for identifying patients who experienced AEs. Age, ICU admission reason, PACS, cough strength, PaCO2, serum creatinine and sodium, and transfer to Internal Medicine showed to be predictive of AEs. Exceeding the identified PACS threshold increased by 3.3 times the AEs risk. CONCLUSIONS The level of nursing complexity independently predicts AEs risk and should be considered in establishing patient's eligibility for a safe ICU discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfranco Sanson
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Trieste University, Strada di Fiume 447, 34100 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Marino
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Andrea Valenti
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Umberto Lucangelo
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Trieste University, Strada di Fiume 447, 34100 Trieste, Italy; Department of Perioperative Medicine, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Berlot
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Trieste University, Strada di Fiume 447, 34100 Trieste, Italy; Department of Perioperative Medicine, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital, Trieste, Italy.
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Papagiannopoulou A, Stergiannis P, Katsoulas T, Intas G, Myrianthefs P. Characteristics and Survival Rates in Ward Patients Requiring Evaluation by Intensivist in Greece. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1196:141-147. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-32637-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Carter HE, Lee XJ, Gallois C, Winch S, Callaway L, Willmott L, White B, Parker M, Close E, Graves N. Factors associated with non-beneficial treatments in end of life hospital admissions: a multicentre retrospective cohort study in Australia. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e030955. [PMID: 31690607 PMCID: PMC6858125 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantitatively assess the factors associated with non-beneficial treatments (NBTs) in hospital admissions at the end of life. DESIGN Retrospective multicentre cohort study. SETTING Three large, metropolitan tertiary hospitals in Australia. PARTICIPANTS 831 adult patients who died as inpatients following admission to the study hospitals over a 6-month period in 2012. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Odds ratios (ORs) of NBT derived from logistic regression models. RESULTS Overall, 103 (12.4%) admissions involved NBTs. Admissions that involved conflict within a patient's family (OR 8.9, 95% CI 4.1 to 18.9) or conflict within the medical team (OR 6.5, 95% CI 2.4 to 17.8) had the strongest associations with NBTs in the all subsets regression model. A positive association was observed in older patients, with each 10-year increment in age increasing the likelihood of NBT by approximately 50% (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.9). There was also a statistically significant hospital effect. CONCLUSIONS This paper presents the first statistical modelling results to assess the factors associated with NBT in hospital, beyond an intensive care setting. Our findings highlight potential areas for intervention to reduce the likelihood of NBTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Elizabeth Carter
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Xing Ju Lee
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cindy Gallois
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Winch
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leonie Callaway
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lindy Willmott
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Faculty of Law, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ben White
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Faculty of Law, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Malcolm Parker
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eliana Close
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Faculty of Law, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas Graves
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
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Bassford C, Griffiths F, Svantesson M, Ryan M, Krucien N, Dale J, Rees S, Rees K, Ignatowicz A, Parsons H, Flowers N, Fritz Z, Perkins G, Quinton S, Symons S, White C, Huang H, Turner J, Brooke M, McCreedy A, Blake C, Slowther A. Developing an intervention around referral and admissions to intensive care: a mixed-methods study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr07390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundIntensive care treatment can be life-saving, but it is invasive and distressing for patients receiving it and it is not always successful. Deciding whether or not a patient will benefit from intensive care is a difficult clinical and ethical challenge.ObjectivesTo explore the decision-making process for referral and admission to the intensive care unit and to develop and test an intervention to improve it.MethodsA mixed-methods study comprising (1) two systematic reviews investigating the factors associated with decisions to admit patients to the intensive care unit and the experiences of clinicians, patients and families; (2) observation of decisions and interviews with intensive care unit doctors, referring doctors, and patients and families in six NHS trusts in the Midlands, UK; (3) a choice experiment survey distributed to UK intensive care unit consultants and critical care outreach nurses, eliciting their preferences for factors used in decision-making for intensive care unit admission; (4) development of a decision-support intervention informed by the previous work streams, including an ethical framework for decision-making and supporting referral and decision-support forms and patient and family information leaflets. Implementation feasibility was tested in three NHS trusts; (5) development and testing of a tool to evaluate the ethical quality of decision-making related to intensive care unit admission, based on the assessment of patient records. The tool was tested for inter-rater and intersite reliability in 120 patient records.ResultsInfluences on decision-making identified in the systematic review and ethnographic study included age, presence of chronic illness, functional status, presence of a do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation order, referring specialty, referrer seniority and intensive care unit bed availability. Intensive care unit doctors used a gestalt assessment of the patient when making decisions. The choice experiment showed that age was the most important factor in consultants’ and critical care outreach nurses’ preferences for admission. The ethnographic study illuminated the complexity of the decision-making process, and the importance of interprofessional relationships and good communication between teams and with patients and families. Doctors found it difficult to articulate and balance the benefits and burdens of intensive care unit treatment for a patient. There was low uptake of the decision-support intervention, although doctors who used it noted that it improved articulation of reasons for decisions and communication with patients.LimitationsLimitations existed in each of the component studies; for example, we had difficulty recruiting patients and families in our qualitative work. However, the project benefited from a mixed-method approach that mitigated the potential limitations of the component studies.ConclusionsDecision-making surrounding referral and admission to the intensive care unit is complex. This study has provided evidence and resources to help clinicians and organisations aiming to improve the decision-making for and, ultimately, the care of critically ill patients.Future workFurther research is needed into decision-making practices, particularly in how best to engage with patients and families during the decision process. The development and evaluation of training for clinicians involved in these decisions should be a priority for future work.Study registrationThe systematic reviews of this study are registered as PROSPERO CRD42016039054, CRD42015019711 and CRD42015019714.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme. The University of Aberdeen and the Chief Scientist Office of the Scottish Government Health and Social Care Directorates fund the Health Economics Research Unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Bassford
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Mia Svantesson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mandy Ryan
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Nicolas Krucien
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Sophie Rees
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karen Rees
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Agnieszka Ignatowicz
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Helen Parsons
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Nadine Flowers
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Zoe Fritz
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Department of Acute Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Cambridge, UK
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gavin Perkins
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah Quinton
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | | | - Huayi Huang
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Jake Turner
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Mike Brooke
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Aimee McCreedy
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Caroline Blake
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Anne Slowther
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Joynt GM, Gopalan PD, Argent A, Chetty S, Wise R, Lai VKW, Hodgson E, Lee A, Joubert I, Mokgokong S, Tshukutsoane S, Richards GA, Menezes C, Mathivha LR, Espen B, Levy B, Asante K, Paruk F. The Critical Care Society of Southern Africa Consensus Statement on ICU Triage and Rationing (ConICTri). SOUTHERN AFRICAN JOURNAL OF CRITICAL CARE 2019; 35:10.7196/SAJCC.2019.v35.i1b.383. [PMID: 37719327 PMCID: PMC10503494 DOI: 10.7196/sajcc.2019.v35.i1b.383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In South Africa (SA), intensive care is faced with the challenge of resource scarcity as well as an increasing demand for intensive care unit (ICU) services. ICU services are expensive, and practitioners in low- to middle-income countries experience daily the consequences of limited resources. Critically limited resources necessitate that rationing and triage (prioritisation) decisions are frequently necessary in SA, particularly in the publicly funded health sector. Purpose The purpose of this consensus statement is to examine key questions that arise when considering the status of ICU resources in SA, and more specifically ICU admission, rationing and triage decisions. The accompanying guideline in this issue is intended to guide frontline triage policy and ensure the best utilisation of intensive care in SA, while maintaining a fair distribution of available resources. Fair and efficient triage is important to ensure the ongoing provision of high-quality care to adult patients referred for intensive care. Recommendations In response to 14 key questions developed using a modified Delphi technique, 29 recommendations were formulated and graded using an adapted GRADE score. The 14 key questions addressed the status of the provision of ICU services in SA, the degree of resource restriction, the efficiency of resource management, the need for triage, and how triage could be most justly implemented. Important recommendations included the need to formally recognise and accurately quantify the provision of ICU services in SA by national audit; actively seek additional resources from governmental bodies; consider methods to maximise the efficiency of ICU care; evaluate lower level of care alternatives; develop a triage guideline to assist policy-makers and frontline practitioners to implement triage decisions in an efficient and fair way; measure and audit the consequence of triage; and promote research to improve the accuracy and consistency of triage decisions. The consensus document and guideline should be reviewed and revised appropriately within 5 years. Conclusion In recognition of the absolute need to limit patient access to ICU because of the lack of sufficient intensive care resources in public hospitals, recommendations and a guideline have been developed to guide policy-making and assist frontline triage decision-making in SA. These documents are not a complete plan for quality practice but rather the beginning of a long-term initiative to engage clinicians, the public and administrators in appropriate triage decision-making, and promote systems that will ultimately maximise the efficient and fair use of available ICU resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Joynt
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - P D Gopalan
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - A Argent
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S Chetty
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - R Wise
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, and Edendale Hospital,
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - V K W Lai
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - E Hodgson
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, and Inkosi Albert Luthuli
Central Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - A Lee
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - I Joubert
- Department of Anaesthesia and Peri-operative Medicine, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S Mokgokong
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - S Tshukutsoane
- Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - G A Richards
- Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - C Menezes
- Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - L R Mathivha
- Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - B Espen
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - B Levy
- Netcare Rosebank Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - K Asante
- African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - F Paruk
- Department of Critical Care, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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Mertz M, Fischer T, Salloch S. The value of bioethical research: A qualitative literature analysis of researchers' statements. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220438. [PMID: 31356629 PMCID: PMC6663028 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Value and waste in preclinical and clinical research projects are intensively debated in biomedicine at present. Such different aspects as the need for setting objectives and priorities, improving study design, quality of reporting, and problematic incentives of the academic reward system are addressed. While this debate is also fueled by ethical considerations and thus informed by bioethical research, up to now, the field of bioethics lacks a similar extensive debate. Nonetheless, bioethical research should not go unquestioned regarding its scientific or social value. What exactly constitutes the value of bioethical research, however, remains widely unclear so far. METHODS This explorative study investigated possible value dimensions for bioethical research by conducting a qualitative literature analysis of researchers' statements about the value of their studies. 40 bioethics articles published 2015 in four relevant journals (The American Journal of Bioethics, Bioethics, BMC Medical Ethics and Journal of Medical Ethics) were analyzed. The value dimensions of "advancing knowledge" (e.g. research results that are relevant for science itself and for further research) and "application" (e.g. increasing applicability of research results in practice) were used as main deductive categories for the analysis. Further subcategories were inductively generated. RESULTS The analysis resulted in 62 subcategories representing a wide range of value dimensions for bioethical research. Of these, 45 were subcategories of "advancing knowledge" and 17 of "application". In 21 articles, no value dimensions related to "application" was found; the remaining 19 articles mentioned "advancing knowledge" as well as "application". The value dimensions related to "advancing knowledge" were, in general, more fine-grained. CONCLUSIONS Even though limitations arise regarding the sample, the study revealed a plethora of value dimensions that can inform further debates about what makes bioethical research valuable for science and society. Besides theoretical reflections on the value of bioethics more meta-research in bioethics is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Mertz
- Institute of History, Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tobias Fischer
- Institute of Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Clinic for Dermatology and Venereology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Sabine Salloch
- Institute of Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Rees S, Griffiths F, Bassford C, Brooke M, Fritz Z, Huang H, Rees K, Turner J, Slowther AM. The experiences of health care professionals, patients, and families of the process of referral and admission to intensive care: A systematic literature review. J Intensive Care Soc 2019; 21:79-86. [PMID: 32284722 DOI: 10.1177/1751143719832185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment in an intensive care unit can be life-saving but it can be distressing and not every patient can benefit. Decisions to admit a patient to an intensive care unit are complex. We wished to explore how the decision to refer or admit is experienced by those involved, and undertook a systematic review of the literature to answer the research question: What are the experiences of health care professionals, patients, and families, of the process of referral and admission to an intensive care unit? Twelve relevant studies were identified, and a thematic analysis was conducted. Most studies involved health care professionals, with only two considering patients' or families' experiences. Four themes were identified which influenced experiences of intensive care unit referral and review: the professional environment; communication; the allocation of limited resources; and acknowledging uncertainty. Patients' and families' experiences have been under-researched in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Rees
- Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | - Mike Brooke
- Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Zoe Fritz
- Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Huayi Huang
- Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karen Rees
- Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Jake Turner
- General Critical Care, University Hospital Coventry, Coventry, UK
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Lehnus KS, Fordyce PS, McMillan MW. Ethical dilemmas in clinical practice: a perspective on the results of an electronic survey of veterinary anaesthetists. Vet Anaesth Analg 2019; 46:260-275. [PMID: 30952440 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Medical progress has greatly advanced our ability to manage animals with critical and terminal diseases. We now have the ability to sustain life even in the most dire of circumstances. However, the preservation of life may not be synonymous with providing 'quality of life', and worse, could cause unnecessary suffering. Using the results of an electronic survey, we aim to outline and give examples of ethical dilemmas faced by veterinary anaesthetists dealing with critically ill animals, how the impact of these dilemmas could be mitigated, and what thought processes underlie decision-making in such situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina S Lehnus
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter S Fordyce
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew W McMillan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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Escher M, Ricou B, Nendaz M, Scherer F, Cullati S, Hudelson P, Perneger T. ICU physicians' and internists' survival predictions for patients evaluated for admission to the intensive care unit. Ann Intensive Care 2018; 8:108. [PMID: 30430269 PMCID: PMC6236006 DOI: 10.1186/s13613-018-0456-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A higher chance of survival is a key justification for admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). This implies that physicians should be able to accurately estimate a patient’s prognosis, whether cared for on the ward or in the ICU. We aimed to determine whether physicians’ survival predictions correlate with the admission decisions and with patients’ observed survival. Consecutive ICU consultations for internal medicine patients were included. The ICU physician and the internist were asked to predict patient survival with intensive care and with care on the ward using 5 categories of probabilities (< 10%, 10–40%, 41–60%, 61–90%, > 90%). Patient mortality at 28 days was recorded. Results Thirty ICU physicians and 97 internists assessed 201 patients for intensive care. Among the patients, 140 (69.7%) were admitted to the ICU. Fifty-eight (28.9%) died within 28 days. Admission to intensive care was associated with predicted survival gain in the ICU, particularly for survival estimates made by ICU physicians. Observed survival was associated with predicted survival, for both groups of physicians. The discrimination of the predictions for survival with intensive care, measured by the area under the ROC curve, was 0.63 for ICU physicians and 0.76 for internists; for survival on the ward the areas under the ROC curves were 0.69 and 0.74, respectively. Conclusions Physicians are able to predict survival probabilities when they assess patients for intensive care, albeit imperfectly. Internists are more accurate than ICU physicians. However, ICU physicians’ estimates more strongly influence the admission decision. Closer collaboration between ICU physicians and internists is needed. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13613-018-0456-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Escher
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Unit of Development and Research in Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Bara Ricou
- Division of Intensive Care, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Nendaz
- Unit of Development and Research in Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne Scherer
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Cullati
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Hudelson
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Perneger
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
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Escher M, Cullati S, Hudelson P, Nendaz M, Ricou B, Perneger T, Dayer P. Admission to intensive care: A qualitative study of triage and its determinants. Health Serv Res 2018; 54:474-483. [PMID: 30362106 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.13076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine physicians' decision making and its determinants about admission to intensive care. DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING ICU physicians (n = 12) and internists (n = 12) working in a Swiss tertiary care hospital. STUDY DESIGN We conducted in-depth interviews. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Interviews were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Admission decisions regarding seriously ill or elderly patients with comorbidities are complex. Nonmedical factors such as ICU beds availability, health care resources on the ward, information about patient preferences, and family behavior determine the decision. Code status and the quality of interaction between physicians are key determinants. The absence of code status or poor documentation of code status discussions makes decisions more difficult and laden emotionally, as physicians feel they are making a life-death decision. Mutual respect and collaborative decision making facilitate the decision. Tensions arise due to ICU physicians' postponing the decision because of lack of beds, ICU physicians' dismissive attitudes, perceived shortcomings in the other physician's completion of expected tasks, and preconceptions about the other physician. CONCLUSIONS Systematic documentation of code status, and fostering collaboration between ICU physicians and internists would facilitate ICU admission decisions in complex clinical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Escher
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,Unit for Development and Research in Medical Education (UDREM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Cullati
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Hudelson
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Nendaz
- Unit for Development and Research in Medical Education (UDREM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bara Ricou
- Division of Intensive Care, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Perneger
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Dayer
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
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Cullati S, Hudelson P, Ricou B, Nendaz M, Perneger TV, Escher M. Internists' and intensivists' roles in intensive care admission decisions: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:620. [PMID: 30089526 PMCID: PMC6083517 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3438-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive care Unit (ICU) admission decisions involve collaboration between internists and intensivists. Clear perception of each other's roles is a prerequisite for good collaboration. The objective was to explore how internists and intensivists perceive their roles during admission decisions. METHODS Individual in-depth interviews with 12 intensivists and 12 internists working at a Swiss teaching hospital. Interviews were analyzed using a thematic approach. RESULTS Roles could be divided into practical roles and identity roles. Internist and intensivists had the same perception of each other's practical roles. Internists' practical roles were: recognizing signs of severity when the patient becomes acutely ill, calling the intensivist at the right moment, having the relevant information about the patient and having determined the goals of care. Intensivists' practical roles were: assessing the patient on the ward, giving expert advice, making quick decisions, managing access to the ICU, having the final decision power and, sometimes, deciding whether or not to limit treatment. In complex situations, perceived flaws in performing practical roles could create tensions between the doctors. Intensivists' identity roles included those of leader, gatekeeper, life-death decision maker, and supporting colleague doctors (consultant, senior and helper). These roles could be perceived as emotionally burdensome. Internists' identity roles were those of leader and partner. CONCLUSIONS Despite a common perception of each other's practical roles, tensions can arise between internists and intensivists in complex situations of ICU admission decisions. Training in communication skills and interprofessional education interventions aimed at a better understanding of each other roles would improve collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Cullati
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Hudelson
- Department of Community Medicine, Primary Care and Emergency Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bara Ricou
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Anaesthesiology, Pharmacology and Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Nendaz
- Unit of Development and Research in Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of General Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Rehabilitation, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas V. Perneger
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Monica Escher
- Pain and Palliative Care Consultation, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Unit of Development and Research in Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Van den Bulcke B, Piers R, Jensen HI, Malmgren J, Metaxa V, Reyners AK, Darmon M, Rusinova K, Talmor D, Meert AP, Cancelliere L, Zubek L, Maia P, Michalsen A, Decruyenaere J, Kompanje EJO, Azoulay E, Meganck R, Van de Sompel A, Vansteelandt S, Vlerick P, Vanheule S, Benoit DD. Ethical decision-making climate in the ICU: theoretical framework and validation of a self-assessment tool. BMJ Qual Saf 2018; 27:781-789. [DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2017-007390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundLiterature depicts differences in ethical decision-making (EDM) between countries and intensive care units (ICU).ObjectivesTo better conceptualise EDM climate in the ICU and to validate a tool to assess EDM climates.MethodsUsing a modified Delphi method, we built a theoretical framework and a self-assessment instrument consisting of 35 statements. This Ethical Decision-Making Climate Questionnaire (EDMCQ) was developed to capture three EDM domains in healthcare: interdisciplinary collaboration and communication; leadership by physicians; and ethical environment. This instrument was subsequently validated among clinicians working in 68 adult ICUs in 13 European countries and the USA. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was used to determine the structure of the EDM climate as perceived by clinicians. Measurement invariance was tested to make sure that variables used in the analysis were comparable constructs across different groups.ResultsOf 3610 nurses and 1137 physicians providing ICU bedside care, 2275 (63.1%) and 717 (62.9%) participated respectively. Statistical analyses revealed that a shortened 32-item version of the EDMCQ scale provides a factorial valid measurement of seven facets of the extent to which clinicians perceive an EDM climate: self-reflective and empowering leadership by physicians; practice and culture of open interdisciplinary reflection; culture of not avoiding end-of-life decisions; culture of mutual respect within the interdisciplinary team; active involvement of nurses in end-of-life care and decision-making; active decision-making by physicians; and practice and culture of ethical awareness. Measurement invariance of the EDMCQ across occupational groups was shown, reflecting that nurses and physicians interpret the EDMCQ items in a similar manner.ConclusionsThe 32-item version of the EDMCQ might enrich the EDM climate measurement, clinicians’ behaviour and the performance of healthcare organisations. This instrument offers opportunities to develop tailored ICU team interventions.
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Kauppi W, Proos M, Olausson S. Ward nurses' experiences of the discharge process between intensive care unit and general ward. Nurs Crit Care 2018; 23:127-133. [DOI: 10.1111/nicc.12336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wivica Kauppi
- Faculty of Caring Science, Work Life and Social Welfare, School of Health Sciences; University of Borås; Borås Sweden
| | | | - Sepideh Olausson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska academy, Gothenburg University; Goteborg Sweden
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van Sluisveld N, Oerlemans A, Westert G, van der Hoeven JG, Wollersheim H, Zegers M. Barriers and facilitators to improve safety and efficiency of the ICU discharge process: a mixed methods study. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:251. [PMID: 28376872 PMCID: PMC5381117 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2139-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence indicates that suboptimal clinical handover from the intensive care unit (ICU) to general wards leads to unnecessary ICU readmissions and increased mortality. We aimed to gain insight into barriers and facilitators to implement and use ICU discharge practices. Methods A mixed methods approach was conducted, using 1) 23 individual and four focus group interviews, with post-ICU patients, ICU managers, and nurses and physicians working in the ICU or general ward of ten Dutch hospitals, and 2) a questionnaire survey, which contained 27 statements derived from the interviews, and was completed by 166 ICU physicians (21.8%) from 64 Dutch hospitals (71.1% of the total of 90 Dutch hospitals). Results The interviews resulted in 66 barriers and facilitators related to: the intervention (e.g., feasibility); the professional (e.g., attitude towards checklists); social factors (e.g., presence or absence of a culture of feedback); and the organisation (e.g., financial resources). A facilitator considered important by ICU physicians was a checklist to structure discharge communication (92.2%). Barriers deemed important were lack of a culture of feedback (55.4%), an absence of discharge criteria (23.5%), and an overestimation of the capabilities of general wards to care for complex patients by ICU physicians (74.7%). Conclusions Based on the barriers and facilitators found in this study, improving handover communication, formulating specific discharge criteria, stimulating a culture of feedback, and preventing overestimation of the general ward are important to effectively improve the ICU discharge process. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-017-2139-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelleke van Sluisveld
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Anke Oerlemans
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Westert
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Hub Wollersheim
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Zegers
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Willmott L, White B, Gallois C, Parker M, Graves N, Winch S, Callaway LK, Shepherd N, Close E. Reasons doctors provide futile treatment at the end of life: a qualitative study. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2016; 42:496-503. [PMID: 27188227 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2016-103370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Futile treatment, which by definition cannot benefit a patient, is undesirable. This research investigated why doctors believe that treatment that they consider to be futile is sometimes provided at the end of a patient's life. DESIGN Semistructured in-depth interviews. SETTING Three large tertiary public hospitals in Brisbane, Australia. PARTICIPANTS 96 doctors from emergency, intensive care, palliative care, oncology, renal medicine, internal medicine, respiratory medicine, surgery, cardiology, geriatric medicine and medical administration departments. Participants were recruited using purposive maximum variation sampling. RESULTS Doctors attributed the provision of futile treatment to a wide range of inter-related factors. One was the characteristics of treating doctors, including their orientation towards curative treatment, discomfort or inexperience with death and dying, concerns about legal risk and poor communication skills. Second, the attributes of the patient and family, including their requests or demands for further treatment, prognostic uncertainty and lack of information about patient wishes. Third, there were hospital factors including a high degree of specialisation, the availability of routine tests and interventions, and organisational barriers to diverting a patient from a curative to a palliative pathway. Doctors nominated family or patient request and doctors being locked into a curative role as the main reasons for futile care. CONCLUSIONS Doctors believe that a range of factors contribute to the provision of futile treatment. A combination of strategies is necessary to reduce futile treatment, including better training for doctors who treat patients at the end of life, educating the community about the limits of medicine and the need to plan for death and dying, and structural reform at the hospital level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindy Willmott
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Benjamin White
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cindy Gallois
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Malcolm Parker
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas Graves
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Winch
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leonie Kaye Callaway
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole Shepherd
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eliana Close
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Oerlemans AJM, Wollersheim H, van Sluisveld N, van der Hoeven JG, Dekkers WJM, Zegers M. Rationing in the intensive care unit in case of full bed occupancy: a survey among intensive care unit physicians. BMC Anesthesiol 2016; 16:25. [PMID: 27142161 PMCID: PMC4855768 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-016-0190-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, there is no consensus on how to best deal with admission requests in cases of full ICU bed occupancy. Knowledge about the degree of dissension and insight into the reasons for this dissension is lacking. Information about the opinion of ICU physicians can be used to improve decision-making regarding allocation of ICU resources. The aim of this study was to: Assess which factors play a role in the decision-making process regarding the admission of ICU patients; Assess the adherence to a Dutch guideline pertaining to rationing of ICU resources; Investigate factors influencing the adherence to this guideline. METHODS In March 2013, an online questionnaire was sent to all ICU physician members (n = 761, in 90 hospitals) of the Dutch Society for Intensive Care. RESULTS 166 physicians (21.8 %) working in 64 different Dutch hospitals (71.1 %) completed the questionnaire. Factors associated with a patient's physical condition and quality of life were generally considered most important in admission decisions. Scenario-based adherence to the Dutch guideline "Admission request in case of full ICU bed occupancy" was found to be low (adherence rate 50.0 %). There were two main reasons for this poor compliance: unfamiliarity with the guideline and disagreement with the fundamental approach underlying the guideline. CONCLUSIONS Dutch ICU physicians disagree about how to deal with admission requests in cases of full ICU bed occupancy. The results of this study contribute to the discussion about the fundamental principles regarding admission of ICU patients in case of full bed occupancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke J M Oerlemans
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Hub Wollersheim
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nelleke van Sluisveld
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes G van der Hoeven
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wim J M Dekkers
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Zegers
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ healthcare, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Charlesworth M, A Foëx B. Qualitative research in critical care: Has its time finally come? J Intensive Care Soc 2015; 17:146-153. [PMID: 28979479 DOI: 10.1177/1751143715609955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As clinicians, we are well acquainted with using randomised controlled trials, case-control studies and cohort studies together with p-values, odds ratios and confidence intervals to understand and improve the way in which we care for our patients. We have a degree of familiarity, trust and confidence with well-performed scientific quantitative studies in critical care and we make a judgment about our practice based on their recommendations. The same cannot be said of qualitative research, and its use accounts for only a small proportion of published studies in critical care. There are many research questions in our environment that lend themselves to a qualitative research design. Our positivistic education as doctors potentially incites distrust towards such studies and, as such, they are seldom undertaken in our units. We aim to describe and discuss the differences between quantitative and qualitative research with focus being given to common misunderstandings and misconceptions. An overview of the methods of data collection and analysis is provided with references towards published qualitative studies in critical care. Finally, we provide pragmatic and practical instruction and guidance for those wishing to undertake their own qualitative study in critical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Charlesworth
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals, Manchester, UK.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Bernard A Foëx
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals, Manchester, UK
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Borhani F, Abbaszadeh A, Mohamadi E, Ghasemi E, Hoseinabad-Farahani MJ. Moral sensitivity and moral distress in Iranian critical care nurses. Nurs Ethics 2015; 24:474-482. [PMID: 26419438 DOI: 10.1177/0969733015604700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral sensitivity is the foremost prerequisite to ethical performance; a review of literature shows that nurses are sometimes not sensitive enough for a variety of reasons. Moral distress is a frequent phenomenon in nursing, which may result in paradoxes in care, dealing with patients and rendering high-quality care. This may, in turn, hinder the meeting of care objectives, thus affecting social healthcare standards. RESEARCH OBJECTIVE The present research was conducted to determine the relationship between moral sensitivity and moral distress of nurses in intensive care units. RESEARCH DESIGN This study is a descriptive-correlation research. Lutzen's moral sensitivity questionnaire and Corley Moral Distress Questionnaire were used to gather data. Participants and research context: A total of 153 qualified nurses working in the hospitals affiliated to Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences were selected for this study. Subjects were selected by census method. Ethical considerations: After explaining the objectives of the study, all the participants completed and signed the written consent form. To conduct the study, permission was obtained from the selected hospitals. FINDINGS Nurses' average moral sensitivity grade was 68.6 ± 7.8, which shows a moderate level of moral sensitivity. On the other hand, nurses also experienced a moderate level of moral distress (44.8 ± 16.6). Moreover, there was no meaningful statistical relationship between moral sensitivity and moral distress (p = 0.26). DISCUSSION Although the nurses' moral sensitivity and moral distress were expected to be high in the intensive care units, it was moderate. This finding is consistent with the results of some studies and contradicts with others. CONCLUSION As moral sensitivity is a crucial factor in care, it is suggested that necessary training be provided to develop moral sensitivity in nurses in education and practical environments. Furthermore, removing factors that contribute to moral distress may help decrease it in nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Borhani
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Medical Ethics and Law Research Center, Iran
| | - Abbas Abbaszadeh
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Iran
| | - Elham Mohamadi
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Students Research Center, Iran
| | - Erfan Ghasemi
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, School of Paramedical, Department of Biostatistics, Iran
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