1
|
Ferraz-Gonçalves JA, Flores A, Silva AA, Simões A, Pais C, Melo C, Pirra D, Coelho D, Conde L, Real L, Feio M, Barbosa M, Martins MDL, Areias M, Muñoz-Romero R, Ferreira RC, Freitas S. Continuous Sedation in Palliative Care in Portugal: A Prospective Multicentric Study. J Palliat Care 2024:8258597241256874. [PMID: 38794900 DOI: 10.1177/08258597241256874] [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: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to survey the practice of palliative sedation in Portugal, where data on this subject were lacking. Methods: This was a prospective multicentric study that included all patients admitted to each team that agreed to participate. Patients were followed until death, discharge, or after 3 months of follow-up. Results: The study included 8 teams: 4 as palliative care units (PCU), 1 as a hospital palliative care team (HPCT), 2 as home care (HC), and 1 as HPCT and HC. Of the 361 patients enrolled, 52% were male, the median age was 76 years, and 285 (79%) had cancer. Continuous sedation was undergone by 49 (14%) patients: 26 (53%) were male, and the median age was 76. Most patients, 46 (94%), had an oncological diagnosis. Only in a minority of cases, the family, 16 (33%), or the patient, 5 (10%), participated in the decision to sedate. Delirium was the most frequent symptom leading to sedation. The medication most used was midazolam (65%). In the multivariable analysis, only age and the combined score were independently associated with sedation; patients <76 years and those with higher levels of suffering had a higher probability of being sedated. Conclusions: The practice of continuous palliative sedation in Portugal is within the range reported in other studies. One particularly relevant point was the low participation of patients and their families in the decision-making process. Each team must have a deep discussion on this aspect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Flores
- Department of Palliative Care, Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal
| | - Ana Abreu Silva
- Department of Palliative Care, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira (SESARAM), Funchal, Portugal
| | - Ana Simões
- Hospital Palliative Care Team and Home Care Unit, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carmen Pais
- Clinical Academic Center of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro - Professor Doctor Nuno Grande - CACTMAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Clarisse Melo
- Community Team of Palliative Care, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diana Pirra
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospital Santa Luzia, Elvas, Portugal
| | - Dora Coelho
- Department of Palliative Care, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Lília Conde
- Community Team of Palliative Care, Maia/Valongo, Portugal
| | - Lorena Real
- Department of Palliative Care, Hospital Santa Luzia, Elvas, Portugal
| | - Madalena Feio
- Hospital Palliative Care Team and Home Care Unit, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuel Barbosa
- Community Team of Palliative Care, Maia/Valongo, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lurdes Martins
- Clinical Academic Center of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro - Professor Doctor Nuno Grande - CACTMAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Marlene Areias
- Department of Palliative Care, Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal
| | - Rafael Muñoz-Romero
- Department of Palliative Care, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Rita Cunha Ferreira
- Community Team of Palliative Care, ACES Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susete Freitas
- Department of Palliative Care, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira (SESARAM), Funchal, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lojo-Cruz C, Mora-Delgado J, Rivas Jiménez V, Carmona Espinazo F, López-Sáez JB. Survival Outcomes in Palliative Sedation Based on Referring Versus On-Call Physician Prescription. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5187. [PMID: 37629229 PMCID: PMC10455353 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This study sought to determine the survival duration of patients who underwent palliative sedation, comparing those who received prescriptions from referring physicians versus on-call physicians. It included all patients over 18 years old who died in the Palliative Care, Internal Medicine, and Oncology units at the Hospital Universitario of Jerez de la Frontera between 1 January 2019, and 31 December 2019. Various factors were analyzed, including age, gender, oncological or non-oncological disease, type of primary tumor and refractory symptoms. Statistical analysis was employed to compare survival times between patients who received palliative sedation from referring physicians and those prescribed by on-call physicians, while accounting for other potential confounding variables. This study revealed that the median survival time after the initiation of palliative sedation was 25 h, with an interquartile range of 8 to 48 h. Notably, if the sedation was prescribed by referring physicians, the median survival time was 30 h, while it decreased to 17 h when prescribed by on-call physicians (RR 0.357; 95% CI 0.146-0.873; p = 0.024). Furthermore, dyspnea as a refractory symptom was associated with a shorter survival time (RR 0.307; 95% CI 0.095-0.985; p = 0.047). The findings suggest that the on-call physician often administered palliative sedation to rapidly deteriorating patients, particularly those experiencing dyspnea, which likely contributed to the shorter survival time following sedation initiation. This study underscores the importance of careful patient selection and prompt initiation of palliative sedation to alleviate suffering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Lojo-Cruz
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Juan Mora-Delgado
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Víctor Rivas Jiménez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda de Circunvalación S/N, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain; (C.L.-C.); (V.R.J.)
| | - Fernando Carmona Espinazo
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerta del Mar, Avenida Ana de Viya 21, 11009 Cádiz, Spain;
| | - Juan-Bosco López-Sáez
- Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Clinical Management Unit, Hospital Universitario de Puerto Real, Calle Romería 7, 11510 Puerto Real, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lucchi E, Milder M, Dardenne A, Bouleuc C. Could palliative sedation be seen as unnamed euthanasia?: a survey among healthcare professionals in oncology. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:97. [PMID: 37468913 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2016 a French law created a new right for end-of-life patients: deep and continuous sedation maintained until death, with discontinuation of all treatments sustaining life such as artificial nutrition and hydration. It was totally unprecedented that nutrition and hydration were explicitly defined in France as sustaining life treatments, and remains a specificity of this law. End- of-life practices raise ethical and practical issues, especially in Europe actually. We aimed to know how oncology professionals deal with the law, their opinion and experience and their perception. METHODS Online mono-centric survey with closed-ended and open-ended questions in a Cancer Comprehensive Centre was elaborated. It was built during workshops of the ethics committee of the Institute, whose president is an oncologist with a doctoral degree in medical ethics. 58 oncologists and 121 nurses-all professionals of oncological departments -, received it, three times, as mail, with an information letter. RESULTS 63/ 179 professionals answered the questionnaire (35%). Conducting end-of-life discussions and advanced care planning were reported by 46/63 professionals. In the last three months, 18 doctors and 7 nurses faced a request for a deep and continuous sedation maintained until death, in response to physical or existential refractory suffering. Artificial nutrition and even more hydration were not uniformly considered as treatment. Evaluation of the prognosis, crucial to decide a deep and continuous sedation maintained until death, appears to be very difficult and various, between hours and few weeks. Half of respondents were concerned that this practice could lead to or hide euthanasia practices, whereas for the other half, this new law formalised practices necessary for the quality of palliative care at the end-of-life. CONCLUSION Most respondents support the implementation of deep and continuous sedation maintained until death in routine end-of-life care. Nevertheless, difficulty to stop hydration, confusion with euthanasia practices, ethical debates it provokes and the risk of misunderstanding within teams and with families are significant. This is certainly shared by other teams. This could lead to a multi-centric survey and if confirmed might be reported to the legislator.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Lucchi
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Institut Curie, Saint-Cloud, France.
| | - M Milder
- Department of Clinical Research, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - A Dardenne
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Institut Curie, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - C Bouleuc
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Buchhold B, Jülich A, Glöckner F, Neumann T, Schneidewind L, Schmidt CA, Heidel FH, Krüger WH. Comparison of inpatient and outpatient palliative sedation practice - A prospective observational study. Palliat Support Care 2022:1-7. [PMID: 36397281 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001523] [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: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Palliative sedation (PS) is an intrusive measure to relieve patients at the end of their life from otherwise untreatable symptoms. Intensive discussion of the advantages and limitations of palliative care with the patients and their relatives should precede the initiation of PS since PS is terminated by the patient's death in most cases. Drugs for PS are usually administered intravenously. Midazolam is widely used, either alone or in combination with other substances. PS can be conducted in both inpatient and outpatient settings; however, a quality analysis comparing both modalities was missing so far. PATIENTS AND METHODS This prospective observational study collected data from patients undergoing PS inpatient at the palliative care unit (PCU, n = 26) or outpatient at a hospice (n = 2) or at home (specialized outpatient palliative care [SAPV], n = 31) between July 2017 and June 2018. Demographical data, indications for PS, and drug protocols were analyzed. The depth of sedation according to the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) and the degree of satisfaction of staff members and patient's relatives were included as parameters for quality assessment. RESULTS Patients undergoing PS at the PCU were slightly younger compared to outpatients (hospice and SAPV combined). Most patients suffered from malignant diseases, and midazolam was the backbone of sedation for inpatients and outpatients. The median depth of sedation was between +1 and -3 according to the RASS with a trend to deeper sedation prior to death. The median degree of satisfaction was "good," scored by staff members and by patient's relatives. Significant differences between inpatients and outpatients were not seen in protocols, depth of sedation, and degree of satisfaction. CONCLUSION The data support the thesis that PS is possible for inpatients and outpatients with comparable results. For choosing the best place for PS, other aspects such as patient's and relative's wishes, stress, and medical reasons should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Britta Buchhold
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Andreas Jülich
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Franziska Glöckner
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Thomas Neumann
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Christian-Andreas Schmidt
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Florian H Heidel
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - William H Krüger
- Clinic for Internal Medicine C - Haematology and Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Refractory psycho-existential distress and continuous deep sedation until death in palliative care: The French perspective. Palliat Support Care 2021; 18:486-494. [PMID: 31551106 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951519000816] [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] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Since February 2016, French Claeys-Leonetti law has recognized patients' right to confront incurable diseases with short-term prognosis and refractory physical or psychological or existential symptoms by requesting continuous deep sedation until death (CDSUD). Determining when psychological or existential distress is refractory and unbearable remains complex and controversial.This review provides a comprehensive thought on CDSUD for advanced incurable patients with refractory psychological and/or existential distress in palliative care settings. It offers guidance on psychiatric or psychological diagnosis for explaining patients' requests for CDSUD. METHOD A narrative literature review (2000-2019) was conducted on the MedLine search about the use of palliative sedation in cases of refractory psychological and/or existential distress. RESULTS (1) Definitions of "refractory symptom," "refractory psychological distress," and "refractory existential distress" are inconsistent; (2) alternative diagnoses might obscure or be obscured by psycho-existential distress; and (3) criteria on meanings, reasons for requests, decision-making processes, and functions are evolving in practice. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Before implementing CDSUD, palliative healthcare professionals should seek input from psycho-oncologists in palliative care. Mental health professionals should analyze and assess the reasons for psychological and/or existential distress, consider the intentionality processes of requests, and explore alternative diagnoses, such as depressive or adjustment disorders, demoralization syndrome, desire to hasten death, and desire for euthanasia. Therapeutic responses (e.g., pharmacological and psychotherapeutic) should be implemented before deciding that psycho-existential distress is refractory.
Collapse
|
6
|
Griboura N, Gatzonas K, Neochoritis CG. Still Relevant Today: The Asinger Multicomponent Reaction. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:1997-2020. [PMID: 33769692 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Asinger multicomponent reaction is a versatile synthetic tool which gives access to multiple drug-like scaffolds such as 3-thiazolines. The diversity and easy access of its starting materials, its operational simplicity combined with mild conditions and relatively good yields, renders the Asinger reaction, today more than ever, a cornerstone not only in heterocyclic chemistry and modern synthesis but also in medicinal chemistry. In this review, we perform a thorough analysis of the scope and limitations on the different reaction variants with their starting materials, the three-dimensional solid-state conformations of the Asinger derivatives, and we underline and classify all the major post-modifications that have been described. In addition, we report all the major applications in drug discovery projects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nefeli Griboura
- Chemistry Department, School of Science and Engineering, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Gatzonas
- Chemistry Department, School of Science and Engineering, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Piedade MAO, Cardoso Filho CA, Priolli DG. Prevalence of palliative sedation in the State of São Paulo: an emerging medical demand. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2020; 18:eAO5395. [PMID: 32935826 PMCID: PMC7480494 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2020ao5395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the prevalence of palliative sedation use and related factors. Methods An observational study based on data collected via electronic questionnaire comprising 23 close-ended questions and sent to physicians living and working in the state of São Paulo. Demographic data, prevalence and frequency of palliative sedation use, participant’s familiarity with the practice and related motivating factors were analyzed. In order to minimize memory bias, questions addressing use frequency and motivating factors were limited to the last year prior to survey completion date. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data. Results In total, 20,168 e-mails were sent and 324 valid answers obtained, resulting in 2% adherence. The overall prevalence of palliative sedation use over the course of professional practice was 68%. However, only 48% of respondents reported having used palliative sedation during the last year, primarily to relieve pain (35%). The frequency of use ranged from one to six times (66%) during the study period and the main reason for not using was the lack of eligible patients (64%). Approximately 83% of physicians felt comfortable using palliative sedation but only 26% reported having specific academic training in this field. Conclusion The prevalence of palliative sedation use is high, the primary indication being pain relief. However, frequency of use is low due to lack of eligible patients.
Collapse
|
8
|
Coelho TA, Wainstein AJA, Drummond-Lage AP. Hypodermoclysis as a Strategy for Patients With End-of-Life Cancer in Home Care Settings. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 37:675-682. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909119897401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background:The increase in the elderly population associated with a higher incidence of cancer strongly endorses palliative care (PC). Hypodermoclysis (HDC) is a feasible technique for drugs and fluids delivery at the home care setting.Objectives:To assess the use and benefits of HDC in patients with end-of-life cancer assisted by a single home-based palliative care program (HPCP) in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.Methods:This was a retrospective study that analyzed medical charts from patients with end-of-life cancer who were assisted by an HPCP in a 1-year period of time.Results:A total of 333 patients, 81.7% with advanced cancer, were included. The most frequent symptoms were fatigue (44.4%) and pain (43.2%). Hypodermoclysis was used in 77.5% of the patients for the administration of fluids or medicines. Continuous palliative sedation was applied to 70.5% of patients. The place of death was home for 90.2% of the patients.Conclusion:Receiving home care assistance with palliative intention may decrease the need for dying patients with cancer to visit emergency units, as their symptoms were well controlled. Hypodermoclysis was a safe and effective alternative for hydration and drug delivery when provided and supervised by an experienced team. The place of death is a reliable indicator of the quality of death, and, in this study, the HPCP allowed patients to die at home with their families. It is essential for PC professionals to understand the impact of HDC use at home care setting for patients with end-of-life cancer allowing the increase of quality of death indicators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana A. Coelho
- Post Graduation, Faculty of Medical Sciences of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Ana P. Drummond-Lage
- Post Graduation, Faculty of Medical Sciences of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Emmerich N, Gordijn B. Ethics of crisis sedation: questions of performance and consent. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2019; 45:339-345. [PMID: 31005858 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2018-105285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This paper focuses on the practice of injecting patients who are dying with a relatively high dose of sedatives in response to a catastrophic event that will shortly precipitate death, something that we term 'crisis sedation.' We first present a confabulated case that illustrates the kind of events we have in mind, before offering a more detailed account of the practice. We then comment on some of the ethical issues that crisis sedation might raise. We identify the primary value of crisis sedation as allowing healthcare professionals to provide some degree of reassurance to patients, their families and the professionals who are caring for them. Next we focus on the issue of informed consent. Finally, we ask whether continuous deep sedation might be preferable to crisis sedation in scenarios where potential catastrophic events can be anticipated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Emmerich
- School of Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Institute of Ethics, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bert Gordijn
- Institute of Ethics, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fainsinger RL, De Moissac D, Mancini I, Oneschuk D. Sedation for Delirium and Other Symptoms in Terminally Ill Patients in Edmonton. J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970001600202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The use of sedation and the management of delirium and other difficult symptoms in terminally ill patients in Edmonton has been reported previously. The focus of this study was to assess the prevalence in the Edmonton region of difficult symptoms requiring sedation at the end of life. Data were collected for 50 consecutive patients at each of (a) the tertiary palliative care unit, (b) the consulting palliative care program at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (acute care), and (c) three hospice inpatient units in the city. Patients on the tertiary palliative care unit were significantly younger. Assessments confirmed the more problematic physical and psychosocial issues of patients in the tertiary palliative care unit. These patients had more difficult pain syndromes and required significantly higher doses of daily opioids. Approximately 80% of patients in all three settings developed delirium prior to death. Pharmacological management of this problem was needed by 40% in the acute care setting, and by 80% in the tertiary palliative care unit. The patients sedated varied from 4% in the hospice setting to 10% in the tertiary palliative care unit. Of the 150 patients, nine were sedated for delirium, one for dyspnea. The prevalence of delirium and other symptoms requiring sedation in our area is relatively low compared to others reported in the literature. Demographic variability between the three Edmonton settings highlights the need for caution in comparing results of different palliative care groups. It is possible that some variability in the use of sedation internationally is due to cultural differences. The infrequent deliberate use of sedation in Edmonton suggests that improved management has resulted in fewer distressing symptoms at the end of life. This is of benefit to patients and to family members who are with them during this time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin L Fainsinger
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chochinov HM, Hack T, Hassard T, Kristjanson LJ, McClement S, Harlos M. Dignity and Psychotherapeutic Considerations in End-of-Life Care. J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970402000303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Max Chochinov
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba; Manitoba Palliative Care Research Unit and Department of Psychosocial Oncology, CancerCare Manitoba; Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; and Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Thomas Hack
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology, CancerCare Manitoba, and Faculty of Nursing, University of Manitoba
| | - Thomas Hassard
- Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Susan McClement
- Manitoba Palliative Care Research Unit, CancerCare Manitoba, and Faculty of Nursing, University of Manitoba
| | - Mike Harlos
- St. Boniface General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Morita T, Tsunoda J, Inoue S, Chihara S. Do Hospice Clinicians Sedate Patients Intending to Hasten Death? J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585979901500305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Morita
- Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatabara Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Inoue
- Seirei Hospice, Seirei Mikatabara Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Barreth A, Fainsinger R, Oneschuk D, Pritchard Z. The Challenge of Communicating Intent of Sedation in Advanced Illness. J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970301900313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Barreth
- Tertiary Palliative Care Program, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Robin Fainsinger
- Tertiary Palliative Care Program, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Doreen Oneschuk
- Tertiary Palliative Care Program, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Zinia Pritchard
- Tertiary Palliative Care Program, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Blondeau D, Roy L, Dumont S, Godin G, Martineau I. Physicians’ and Pharmacists’ Attitudes toward the use of Sedation at the End of Life: Influence of Prognosis and Type of Suffering. J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970502100402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Louis Roy
- Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec
| | | | - Gaston Godin
- Faculté des sciences infirmières, Université Laval
| | - Isabelle Martineau
- Faculté des sciences infirmières Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ciancio AL, Mirza RM, Ciancio AA, Klinger CA. The Use of Palliative Sedation to Treat Existential Suffering: A Scoping Review on Practices, Ethical Considerations, and Guidelines. J Palliat Care 2019; 35:13-20. [DOI: 10.1177/0825859719827585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Context: Though palliative sedation has been recognized as an acceptable practice in Canada for many years now, there is a lack of clinical research and guidelines pertaining to its use as a treatment of existential refractory symptoms in the terminally ill. Objectives: This scoping review aimed to survey the literature surrounding palliative sedation and existential suffering and to inform research, policy, and practice. Methods: To address the main research question: Is palliative sedation an acceptable intervention to treat existential refractory symptoms in adults aged 65 and older? a scoping review following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework was performed, spanning electronic databases of the peer reviewed and grey literature. Articles were screened for inclusion, and a thematic content analysis allowed for a summary of key findings. Results: Out of 427 search results, 71 full text articles were obtained, 20 of which were included. Out of these articles, four themes were identified as key findings. These included: (1) Ethical considerations; (2) The role of the health care provider; looking specifically at the impact on nurses; (3) The need for multidisciplinary care teams; and (4) Existential suffering’s connection to religiosity and spirituality. Conclusion: Palliative sedation to treat existential refractory symptoms was labelled a controversial practice. A shortage of evidence-based resources limits the current literature’s ability to inform policy and clinical practice. There is a need for both qualitative and quantitative multi-center research so health care professionals and regional-level institutions have firm roots to establish proper policy and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allysa L. Ciancio
- Health Studies Program, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Raza M. Mirza
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy A. Ciancio
- Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton General Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A. Klinger
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Research Program, Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The role of end-of-life palliative sedation: medical and ethical aspects – Review. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIOLOGY (ENGLISH EDITION) 2019. [PMID: 29776669 PMCID: PMC9391748 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjane.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background and objective Palliative sedation is a medical procedure that has been used for more than 25 years to relieve refractory symptoms not responsive to any previous treatment in patients with no possibility of cure and near the end of life. Many uncertainties persist on the theme regarding definition, indications, decision making, most appropriate place to perform the procedure, most used drugs, need for monitoring, fluids and nutritional support, and possible ethical dilemmas. The objective of this review was to seek a probable consensus among the authors regarding these topics not yet fully defined. Method An exploratory search was made in secondary sources, from 1990 to 2016, regarding palliative sedation and its clinical and bioethical implications. Conclusions Palliative sedation is an alternative to alleviate end-of-life patient suffering due to refractory symptoms, particularly dyspnea and delirium, after all other treatment options have been exhausted. Decision making involves prior explanations, discussions and agreement of the team, patient, and/or family members. It can be performed in general hospital units, hospices and even at home. Midazolam is the most indicated drug, and neuroleptics may also be required in the presence of delirium. These patients’ monitoring is limited to comfort observation, relief of symptoms, and presence of adverse effects. There is no consensus on whether or not to suspend fluid and nutritional support, and the decision must be made with family members. From the bioethical standpoint, the great majority of authors are based on intention and proportionality to distinguish between palliative sedation, euthanasia, or assisted suicide.
Collapse
|
17
|
Affiliation(s)
| | - Johannes Jm van Delden
- 2 Julius Center, Department of Medical Humanities, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Voeuk A, Nekolaichuk C, Fainsinger R, Huot A. Continuous Palliative Sedation for Existential Distress? A Survey of Canadian Palliative Care Physicians' Views. J Palliat Care 2018; 32:26-33. [PMID: 28662627 DOI: 10.1177/0825859717711301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation can be used for refractory symptoms during end-of-life care. However, continuous palliative sedation (CPS) for existential distress remains controversial due to difficulty determining when this distress is refractory. OBJECTIVES The aim was to determine the opinions and practices of Canadian palliative care physicians regarding CPS for existential distress. METHODS A survey focusing on experience and views regarding CPS for existential distress was sent to 322 members of the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians. RESULTS Eighty-one surveys returned (accessible target, 314), resulting in a response rate of 26%. One third (31%) of the respondents reported providing CPS for existential distress. On a 5-point Likert-type scale, 40% of participants disagreed, while 43% agreed that CPS could be used for existential distress alone. CONCLUSION Differing opinions exist regarding this complex and potentially controversial issue, necessitating the education of health-care professionals and increased awareness within the general public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Voeuk
- 1 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cheryl Nekolaichuk
- 1 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,2 Covenant Health Palliative Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robin Fainsinger
- 1 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,2 Covenant Health Palliative Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ann Huot
- 1 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,3 Department of Symptom Control and Palliative Care, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Menezes MS, Figueiredo MDGMDCDA. [The role of end-of-life palliative sedation: medical and ethical aspects - Review]. Rev Bras Anestesiol 2018; 69:72-77. [PMID: 29776669 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjan.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Palliative sedation is a medical procedure that has been used for more than 25 years to relieve refractory symptoms not responsive to any previous treatment in patients with no possibility of cure and near the end of life. Many uncertainties persist on the theme regarding definition, indications, decision making, most appropriate place to perform the procedure, most used drugs, need for monitoring, fluids and nutritional support, and possible ethical dilemmas. The objective of this review was to seek a probable consensus among the authors regarding these topics not yet fully defined. METHOD An exploratory search was made in secondary sources, from 1990 to 2016, regarding palliative sedation and its clinical and bioethical implications. CONCLUSIONS Palliative sedation is an alternative to alleviate end-of-life patient suffering due to refractory symptoms, particularly dyspnea and delirium, after all other treatment options have been exhausted. Decision making involves prior explanations, discussions and agreement of the team, patient, and/or family members. It can be performed in general hospital units, hospices and even at home. Midazolam is the most indicated drug, and neuroleptics may also be required in the presence of delirium. These patients' monitoring is limited to comfort observation, relief of symptoms, and presence of adverse effects. There is no consensus on whether or not to suspend fluid and nutritional support, and the decision must be made with family members. From the bioethical standpoint, the great majority of authors are based on intention and proportionality to distinguish between palliative sedation, euthanasia, or assisted suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam S Menezes
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brasil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cohen-Almagor R, Ely EW. Euthanasia and palliative sedation in Belgium. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2018; 8:307-313. [PMID: 29305500 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2017-001398] [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] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to use data from Belgium to analyse distinctions between palliative sedation and euthanasia. There is a need to reduce confusion and improve communication related to patient management at the end of life specifically regarding the rapidly expanding area of patient care that incorporates a spectrum of nuanced yet overlapping terms such as palliative care, sedation, palliative sedation, continued sedation, continued sedation until death, terminal sedation, voluntary euthanasia and involuntary euthanasia. Some physicians and nurses mistakenly think that relieving suffering at the end of life by heavily sedating patients is a form of euthanasia, when indeed it is merely responding to the ordinary and proportionate needs of the patient. Concerns are raised about abuse in the form of deliberate involuntary euthanasia, obfuscation and disregard for the processes sustaining the management of refractory suffering at the end of life. Some suggestions designed to improve patient management and prevent potential abuse are offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - E Wesley Ely
- Geriatric Research, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Center for Health Services Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
van Deijck RH, Hasselaar JG, Krijnsen PJ, Gloudemans AJ, Verhagen SC, Vissers KC, Koopmans RT. The Practice of Continuous Palliative Sedation in Long-Term Care for Frail Patients with Existential Suffering. J Palliat Care 2017; 31:141-9. [DOI: 10.1177/082585971503100303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Some guidelines and recommendations identify existential suffering as a potential refractory symptom for which continuous palliative sedation (CPS) can be administered under certain conditions. However, there has been little research on the characteristics of patients with existential suffering treated with CPS and the degree to which the preconditions are fulfilled. The aim of this study was to provide insight into this specific indication for CPS. Questionnaires were sent to nursing home physicians in the Netherlands, who described 314 patients. Existential suffering was a refractory symptom in 83 of the patients. For most of the patients with refractory existential suffering, other refractory symptoms were also reported, and life expectancy was seven days or less; informed consent for initiating CPS had been obtained in all cases. Consultation and intermittent sedation before the start of CPS were far less frequently reported than one would expect based on the guidelines. Multivariate analysis showed that being male, having previously requested euthanasia, having a nervous system disease, or having an other diagnosis were positively correlated with the administration of CPS for existential suffering. We conclude that more attention should be paid to the suggested preconditions and to the presence of existential suffering in male patients or patients with a nervous system disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeroen G.J. Hasselaar
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Petrus J.C. Krijnsen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Netherlands
| | | | - Stans C.A.H.H.V.M. Verhagen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Kris C.P. Vissers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Raymond T.C.M. Koopmans
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands; and De Waalboog, Specialized Geriatric Care Centre Joachim en Anna, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Maiser S, Estrada-Stephen K, Sahr N, Gully J, Marks S. A Survey of Hospice and Palliative Care Clinicians' Experiences and Attitudes Regarding the Use of Palliative Sedation. J Palliat Med 2017; 20:915-921. [PMID: 28475406 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2016.0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A variety of terms and attitudes surround palliative sedation (PS) with little research devoted to hospice and palliative care (HPC) clinicians' perceptions and experiences with PS. These factors may contribute to the wide variability in the reported prevalence of PS. OBJECTIVE This study was designed to better identify hospice and palliative care (HPC) clinician attitudes toward, and clinical experiences with palliative sedation (PS). METHODS A 32-question survey was distributed to members of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (n = 4678). The questions explored the language clinicians use for PS, and their experiences with PS. RESULTS Nine hundred thirty-six (20% response rate) responded to the survey. About 83.21% preferred the terminology of PS compared with other terms. A majority felt that PS is a bioethically appropriate treatment for refractory physical and nonphysical symptoms in dying patients. Most felt PS was not an appropriate term in clinical scenarios when sedation occurred as an unintended side effect from standard treatments. Hospice clinicians use PS more consistently and with less distress than nonhospice clinician respondents. Benzodiazepines (63.1%) and barbiturates (18.9%) are most commonly prescribed for PS. CONCLUSION PS is the preferred term among HPC clinicians for the proportionate use of pharmacotherapies to intentionally lower awareness for refractory symptoms in dying patients. PS is a bioethically appropriate treatment for refractory symptoms in dying patients. However, there is a lack of clear agreement about what is included in PS and how the practice of PS should be best delivered in different clinical scenarios. Future efforts to investigate PS should focus on describing the clinical scenarios in which PS is utilized and on the level of intended sedation necessary, in an effort to better unify the practice of PS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Maiser
- 1 Palliative Care Center , Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,2 Department of Neurology, Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,3 Department of Internal Medicine, Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Natasha Sahr
- 1 Palliative Care Center , Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Jonathan Gully
- 1 Palliative Care Center , Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Sean Marks
- 1 Palliative Care Center , Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bodnar J. A Review of Agents for Palliative Sedation/Continuous Deep Sedation: Pharmacology and Practical Applications. J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother 2017; 31:16-37. [PMID: 28287357 DOI: 10.1080/15360288.2017.1279502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Continuous deep sedation at the end of life is a specific form of palliative sedation requiring a care plan that essentially places and maintains the patient in an unresponsive state because their symptoms are refractory to any other interventions. Because this application is uncommon, many providers may lack practical experience in this specialized area and resources they can access are outdated, nonspecific, and/or not comprehensive. The purpose of this review is to provide an evidence- and experience-based reference that specifically addresses those medications and regimens and their practical applications for this very narrow, but vital, aspect of hospice care. Patient goals in a hospital and hospice environments are different, so the manner in which widely used sedatives are dosed and applied can differ greatly as well. Parameters applied in end-of-life care that are based on experience and a thorough understanding of the pharmacology of those medications will differ from those applied in an intensive care unit or other medical environments. By recognizing these different goals and applying well-founded regimens geared specifically for end-of-life sedation, we can address our patients' symptoms in a more timely and efficacious manner.
Collapse
|
24
|
Vitetta L, Kenner D, Sali A. Sedation and Analgesia-Prescribing Patterns in Terminally Ill Patients at the End of Life. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2016; 22:465-73. [PMID: 16323717 DOI: 10.1177/104990910502200601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The extensive use of sedative and analgesic medication at the end of life is often controversial due to the perception that death may be hastened as a result of progressive drug escalation. Physician attitudes toward prescribing medication in this setting vary, resulting in widely differing prescribing patterns for patients with advanced cancer. This investigation attempted to identify overall prescribing patterns and variation in the use of sedation and analgesia in an inpatient hospice setting at the end of life. A retrospective case review was undertaken of 102 consecutive patients who died in a palliative care hospice. A detailed review of medication prescription, with particular attention to sedation and analgesia in the last week of life, was performed. The review revealed that regular sedation was prescribed in 68 percent of the patients. Almost two-thirds of the patients began regular sedation on admission or within seven days of admission. Although survival was higher in patients who received regular sedation (mean, 36.5 days) versus those that did not (mean, 17 days), the difference was not significant (p = 0.1). Overall, regular sedation with moderate dose increases was observed. In patients prescribed morphine from the time of admission, morphine oral equivalents increased from a mean of 111 mg on admission to a mean of 346 mg at time of death for a mean escalation of 311 percent. The mean duration of admission was 26 days with an opioid-escalation index of 12 percent per day. Survival is a multifactorial phenomenon and was unrelated to the level of analgesia in this cohort. Findings showed that sedation dose increased modestly toward the end of life, and that the increase was not associated with a significant reduction in survival. Further, there was no significant impact on survival related to an individual physician's prescribing pattern at the end of life. These results suggest that, in the institution where the review was conducted, neither sedation nor individual variation in physician prescribing habits in terminally ill patients was associated with hastening of death. Overall, the amount of sedative drugs required for adequate symptom control during terminal care was moderate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Vitetta
- Centre for Molecular Biology and Medicine, Epworth Hospital Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
|
26
|
|
27
|
Schur S, Weixler D, Gabl C, Kreye G, Likar R, Masel EK, Mayrhofer M, Reiner F, Schmidmayr B, Kirchheiner K, Watzke HH. Sedation at the end of life - a nation-wide study in palliative care units in Austria. BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:50. [PMID: 27180238 PMCID: PMC4868021 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0121-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sedation is used to an increasing extent in end-of-life care. Definitions and indications in this field are based on expert opinions and case series. Little is known about this practice at palliative care units in Austria. METHODS Patients who died in Austrian palliative care units between June 2012 and June 2013 were identified. A predefined set of baseline characteristics and information on sedation during the last two weeks before death were obtained by reviewing the patients' charts. RESULTS The data of 2414 patients from 23 palliative care units were available for analysis. Five hundred two (21 %) patients received sedation in the last two weeks preceding their death, 356 (71 %) received continuous sedation until death, and 119 (24 %) received intermittent sedation. The median duration of sedation was 48 h (IQR 10-72 h); 168 patients (34 %) were sedated for less than 24 h. Indications for sedation were delirium (51 %), existential distress (32 %), dyspnea (30 %), and pain (20 %). Midazolam was the most frequently used drug (79 %), followed by lorazepam (13 %), and haloperidol (10 %). Sedated patients were significantly younger (median age 67 years vs. 74 years, p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.22), suffered more often from an oncological disease (92 % vs. 82 %, p ≤ 0.001, φ = 0.107), and were hospitalized more frequently (94 % vs. 76 %, p ≤ 0.001, φ = 0.175). The median number of days between admission to a palliative care ward/mobile palliative care team and death did not differ significantly in sedated versus non-sedated patients (10 vs. 9 days; p = 0.491). CONCLUSION This study provides insights into the practice of end-of-life sedation in Austria. Critical appraisal of these data will serve as a starting point for the development of nation-wide guidelines for palliative sedation in Austria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schur
- Clinical Division of Palliative Care, Department for Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | - Christoph Gabl
- Mobile Hospice and Palliative Care Team, Tiroler Hospizgemeinschaft, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gudrun Kreye
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Rudolf Likar
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Medicine, Interdisciplinary Center of Pain Therapy and Palliative Medicine, General Hospital Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Eva Katharina Masel
- Clinical Division of Palliative Care, Department for Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Mayrhofer
- Clinical Division of Palliative Care, Department for Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Reiner
- Department for Palliative Care, Salzkammergut-Klinikum, Vöcklabruck, Austria
| | - Barbara Schmidmayr
- Department of Internal Medicine, Krankenhaus der Elisabethinen, Graz, Austria
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Hans Watzke
- Clinical Division of Palliative Care, Department for Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Strand JJ, Feely MA, Kramer NM, Moeschler SM, Swetz KM. Palliative Sedation and What Constitutes Active Dying. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2016; 33:363-8. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909114561997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a 34-year-old woman with Klippel-Feil syndrome who developed progressive generalized dystonia of unclear etiology, resulting in intractable pain despite aggressive medical and surgical interventions. Ultimately, palliative sedation was required to relieve suffering. Herein, we describe ethical considerations including defining sedation, determining prognosis in the setting of an undefined neurodegenerative condition, and use of treatments that concurrently might prolong or alter end-of-life trajectory. We highlight pertinent literature and how it may be applied in challenging and unique clinical situations. Finally, we discuss the need for expert multidisciplinary involvement when implementing palliative sedation and illustrate that procedures and rules need to be interpreted to deliver optimal patient-centered plan of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob J. Strand
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Molly A. Feely
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Neha M. Kramer
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Susan M. Moeschler
- Division of Pain Medicine Mayo Clinic, Department of Anesthesiology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Keith M. Swetz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Krishna LKR. Addressing the Concerns Surrounding Continuous Deep Sedation in Singapore and Southeast Asia: A Palliative Care Approach. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2015; 12:461-475. [PMID: 26173777 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-015-9651-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The application of continuous deep sedation (CDS) in the treatment of intractable suffering at the end of life continues to be tied to a number of concerns that have negated its use in palliative care. Part of the resistance towards use of this treatment option of last resort has been the continued association of CDS with physician-associated suicide and/or euthanasia (PAS/E), which is compounded by a lack clinical guidelines and a failure to cite this treatment under the aegis of a palliative care approach. I argue that reinstituting a palliative care-inspired approach that includes a holistic review of the patient's situation and the engagement of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) guided by clearly defined practice requirements that have been lacking amongst many prevailing guidelines will overcome prevailing objections to this practice and allow for the legitimization of this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lalit Kumar Radha Krishna
- Department of Palliative Medicine, National Cancer Center Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
|
31
|
Bozzaro C. Der Leidensbegriff im medizinischen Kontext: Ein Problemaufriss am Beispiel der tiefen palliativen Sedierung am Lebensende. Ethik Med 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00481-015-0339-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|
32
|
Scott JF. The Case Against Clinical Guidelines for Palliative Sedation. PHILOSOPHY AND MEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-9106-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
33
|
Hosgood JR, Kimbrel JM, Protus BM, Grauer PA. Evaluation of Subcutaneous Phenobarbital Administration in Hospice Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2014; 33:209-13. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909114555157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenobarbital is used in hospice and palliative care to treat refractory symptoms. In end-of-life care, Food and Drug Administration approved routes of administration may be unreasonable based on patients’ status. In these cases, phenobarbital may be administered subcutaneously for symptom management. However, according to the American Hospital Formulary Service, subcutaneous administration of commercially available injectable phenobarbital is cautioned due to possible skin reactions. This study evaluates the tolerability of phenobarbital administered subcutaneously. Of 69 patients and 774 distinct subcutaneous phenobarbital injections, 2 site reactions were recorded (2.9% of patients; 0.3% of injections). Both were mild, grade 1 reactions. Each patient continued to receive subcutaneous phenobarbital via newly placed ports with no additional reactions. Based on these findings, phenobarbital appears to be well tolerated when administered subcutaneously.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Richards Hosgood
- HospiScript, a Catamaran Company, Dublin, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Pharmacy, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jason M. Kimbrel
- HospiScript, a Catamaran Company, Dublin, OH, USA
- Ohio Northern University, College of Pharmacy, Ada, OH, USA
| | - Bridget McCrate Protus
- HospiScript, a Catamaran Company, Dublin, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Pharmacy, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Phyllis A. Grauer
- HospiScript, a Catamaran Company, Dublin, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Pharmacy, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Cherny N. ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of refractory symptoms at the end of life and the use of palliative sedation. Ann Oncol 2014; 25 Suppl 3:iii143-52. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdu238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
35
|
Palliative Sedation in Nursing Homes: A Good Death? J Am Med Dir Assoc 2014; 15:541-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2014.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
36
|
Papavasiliou EE, Chambaere K, Deliens L, Brearley S, Payne S, Rietjens J, Vander Stichele R, Van den Block L, Zeger DG, Sarah B, Augusto C, Joachim C, Anneke F, Richard H, Irene J H, Stein K, Karen L, Guido M, Bregje OP, Koen P, Roeline P, Sophie P, Sheila P, Luc D. Physician-reported practices on continuous deep sedation until death: A descriptive and comparative study. Palliat Med 2014; 28:491-500. [PMID: 24718896 DOI: 10.1177/0269216314530768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on continuous deep sedation until death has focused on estimating prevalence and describing clinical practice across care settings. However, evidence on sedation practices by physician specialty is scarce. AIMS To compare and contrast physician-reported practices on continuous deep sedation until death between general practitioners and medical specialists. DESIGN/PARTICIPANTS A secondary analysis drawing upon data from a large-scale, population-based, retrospective survey among physicians in Flanders, Belgium in 2007. Symptom prevalence and characteristics of sedation (drugs used, artificial nutrition and hydration administered, intentions, and decision-making) were measured. RESULTS Response rate was 58.4%. The frequency of continuous deep sedation until death among all deaths was 11.3% for general practitioners and 18.4% for medical specialists. General practitioners reported significantly higher rates of severity and mean intensity of pain, delirium, dyspnea, and nausea in the last 24 h of life for sedated patients and a higher number of severe symptoms than medical specialists. No differences were found between groups in the drugs used, except in propofol, reported only by medical specialists (in 15.8% of all cases). Artificial nutrition and hydration was withheld or withdrawn in 97.2% of general practitioner and 36.2% of medical specialist cases. Explicit life-shortening intentions were reported by both groups (for 3%-4% of all cases). Continuous deep sedation until death was initiated without consent or request of either the patient or the family in 27.9% (medical specialists) and 4.7% (general practitioners) of the cases reported. CONCLUSION Considerable variation, often largely deviating from professional guidelines, was observed in physician-reported performance and decision-making, highlighting the importance of providing clearer guidance on the specific needs of the context in which continuous deep sedation until death is to be performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenneth Chambaere
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium Department of Public and Occupational Health, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah Brearley
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Judith Rietjens
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robert Vander Stichele
- Heymans Institute of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lieve Van den Block
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
The use of palliative sedation: A comparison of attitudes of French-speaking physicians from Quebec and Switzerland. Palliat Support Care 2014; 13:839-47. [PMID: 24825473 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951514000364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous literature has suggested that laws and regulations may impact the use of palliative sedation. Our present study compares the attitudes of French-speaking physicians practicing in the Quebec and Swiss environments, where different laws are in place regarding physician-assisted suicide. METHOD Data were drawn from two prior studies, one by Blondeau and colleagues and another by Beauverd and coworkers, employing the same two-by-two experimental design with length of prognosis and type of suffering as independent variables. Both the effect of these variables and the effect of their interaction on Swiss and Quebec physicians' attitudes toward sedation were compared. The written comments of respondents were submitted to a qualitative content analysis and summarized in a comparative perspective. RESULTS The analysis of variance showed that only the type of suffering had an effect on physicians' attitudes toward sedation. The results of the Wilcoxon test indicated that the attitudes of physicians from Quebec and Switzerland tended to be different for two vignettes: long-term prognosis with existential suffering (p = 0.0577) and short-term prognosis with physical suffering (p = 0.0914). In both cases, the Swiss physicians were less prone to palliative sedation. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The attitudes of physicians from Quebec and Switzerland toward palliative sedation, particularly regarding prognosis and type of suffering, seem similar. However, the results suggest that physicians from Quebec could be slightly more open to palliative sedation, even though most were not in favor of this practice as an answer to end-of-life existential suffering.
Collapse
|
38
|
McKinnon M, Azevedo C, Bush SH, Lawlor P, Pereira J. Practice and documentation of palliative sedation: a quality improvement initiative. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:100-3. [PMID: 24764700 DOI: 10.3747/co.21.1773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation (ps), the continuous use of sedating doses of medication to intentionally reduce consciousness and relieve refractory symptoms at end of life, is ethically acceptable if administered according to standards of best practice. Procedural guidelines outlining the appropriate use of ps and the need for rigorous documentation have been developed. As a quality improvement strategy, we audited the practice and documentation of ps on our palliative care unit (pcu). METHODS A pharmacy database search of admissions in 2008 identified, for a subsequent chart review, patients who had received either a continuous infusion of midazolam (≥10 mg/24 h), regular parenteral dosing of methotrimeprazine (≥75 mg daily), or regular phenobarbital. Documentation of the decision-making process, consent, and medication use was collected using a data extraction form based on current international ps standards. RESULTS Interpretation and comparison of data were difficult because of an apparent lack of a consistent operational definition of ps. Patient records had no specific documentation in relation to ps initiation, to clearly identified refractory symptoms, and to informed consent in 60 (64.5%), 43 (46.2%), and 38 (40.9%) charts respectively. Variation in the medications used was marked: 54 patients (58%) were started on a single agent and 39 (42%), on multiple agents. The 40 patients (43%) started on midazolam alone received a mean daily dose of 21.4 mg (standard deviation: 24.6 mg). CONCLUSIONS The lack of documentation and standardized practice of ps on our pcu has resulted in a quality improvement program to address those gaps. They also highlight the importance of conducting research and developing clinical guidelines in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M McKinnon
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON
| | - C Azevedo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S H Bush
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON
| | - P Lawlor
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON
| | - J Pereira
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON. ; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Rietjens JAC, Voorhees JR, van der Heide A, Drickamer MA. Approaches to suffering at the end of life: the use of sedation in the USA and Netherlands. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2014; 40:235-240. [PMID: 22982490 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2012-100561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies describing physicians' experiences with sedation at the end of life are indispensible for informed palliative care practice, but they are scarce. We describe the accounts of physicians from the USA and the Netherlands, two countries with different regulations on end-of-life decisions regarding their use of sedation. METHODS Qualitative face-to-face interviews were held in 2007-2008 with 36 physicians (18 from the Netherlands, 18 from the USA), including primary care physicians and specialists. We applied purposive sampling and conducted constant comparative analyses. RESULTS In both countries, the use of sedation was described in diverse terms, especially in the USA, and was often experienced as emotionally challenging. Respondents stated different and sometimes multiple intentions for their use of sedation. Besides alleviating severe suffering, most Dutch respondents justified its use by stating that it does not hasten death, while most American respondents indicated that it might hasten death but that this was justifiable as long as that was not their primary intention. While many Dutch respondents indicated that they initiated open discussions about sedation proactively to inform patients about their options and to allow planning, the accounts of American respondents showed fewer and less-open discussions, mostly late in the dying process and with the patient's relatives. CONCLUSIONS The justification for sedation and the openness with which it is discussed were found to differ in the accounts of respondents from the USA and the Netherlands. Further clarification of practices and research into the effect and effectiveness of the use of sedation is recommended to enhance informed reflection and policy making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith A C Rietjens
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
ten Have H, Welie JVM. Palliative sedation versus euthanasia: an ethical assessment. J Pain Symptom Manage 2014; 47:123-36. [PMID: 23742736 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Revised: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this article was to review the ethical debate concerning palliative sedation. Although recent guidelines articulate the differences between palliative sedation and euthanasia, the ethical controversies remain. The dominant view is that euthanasia and palliative sedation are morally distinct practices. However, ambiguous moral experiences and considerable practice variation call this view into question. When heterogeneous sedative practices are all labeled as palliative sedation, there is the risk that palliative sedation is expanded to include practices that are actually intended to bring about the patients' death. This troublesome expansion is fostered by an expansive use of the concept of intention such that this decisive ethical concept is no longer restricted to signify the aim in guiding the action. In this article, it is argued that intention should be used in a restricted way. The significance of intention is related to other ethical parameters to demarcate the practice of palliative sedation: terminality, refractory symptoms, proportionality, and separation from other end-of-life decisions. These additional parameters, although not without ethical and practical problems, together formulate a framework to ethically distinguish a more narrowly defined practice of palliative sedation from practices that are tantamount to euthanasia. Finally, the article raises the question as to what impact palliative sedation might have on the practice of palliative care itself. The increasing interest in palliative sedation may reemphasize characteristics of health care that initially encouraged the emergence of palliative care in the first place: the focus on therapy rather than care, the physical dimension rather than the whole person, the individual rather than the community, and the primacy of intervention rather than receptiveness and presence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henk ten Have
- Center for Healthcare Ethics, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Jos V M Welie
- Center for Health Policy and Ethics, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Brockmeyer F, Schoemaker R, Schmidtmann M, Martens J. Multicomponent reaction for the first synthesis of 2,2-dialkyl- and 2-alkyl-2-aralkyl-5,6-diaryl-2H-1,3-thiazines as scaffolds for various 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,3-thiazine derivatives. Org Biomol Chem 2014; 12:5168-81. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ob00866a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
2H-1,3-thiazines, prepared via a novel and efficient multicomponent reaction, can be used as scaffolds for the synthesis of diverse 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,3-thiazines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Brockmeyer
- Institut für Chemie
- Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg
- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Robin Schoemaker
- Institut für Chemie
- Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg
- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Marc Schmidtmann
- Institut für Chemie
- Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg
- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Martens
- Institut für Chemie
- Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg
- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Papavasiliou ES, Brearley SG, Seymour JE, Brown J, Payne SA. From sedation to continuous sedation until death: how has the conceptual basis of sedation in end-of-life care changed over time? J Pain Symptom Manage 2013; 46:691-706. [PMID: 23571206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Revised: 11/09/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Numerous attempts have been made to describe and define sedation in end-of-life care over time. However, confusion and inconsistency in the use of terms and definitions persevere in the literature, making interpretation, comparison, and extrapolation of many studies and case analyses problematic. OBJECTIVES This evidence review aims to address and account for the conceptual debate over the terminology and definitions ascribed to sedation at the end of life over time. METHODS Six electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, AMED, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) and two high-impact journals (New England Journal of Medicine and the British Medical Journal) were searched for indexed materials published between 1945 and 2011. This search resulted in bibliographic data of 328 published outputs. Terms and definitions were manually scanned, coded, and linguistically analyzed by means of term description criteria and discourse analysis. RESULTS The review shows that terminology has evolved from simple to complex terms with definitions varying in length, comprising different aspects of sedation such as indications for use, pharmacology, patient symptomatology, target population, time of initiation, and ethical considerations, in combinations of a minimum of two or more of these aspects. CONCLUSION There is a pressing need to resolve the conceptual confusion that currently exists in the literature to bring clarity to the dialogue and build a base of commonality on which to design research and enhance the practice of sedation in end-of-life care.
Collapse
|
43
|
Cherny NI. Palliative sedation for the relief of refractory physical symptoms. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2013. [DOI: 10.1179/096992608x291234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
|
44
|
Papavasiliou E, Payne S, Brearley S, Brown J, Seymour J. Continuous sedation (CS) until death: mapping the literature by bibliometric analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage 2013; 45:1073-1082.e10. [PMID: 23026544 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2012.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Sedation at the end of life, regardless of the nomenclature, is an increasingly debated practice at both clinical and bioethical levels. However, little is known about the characteristics and trends in scientific publications in this field of study. OBJECTIVES This article presents a bibliometric analysis of the scientific publications on continuous sedation until death. METHODS Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO®) were searched for the indexed material published between 1945 and 2011. This search resulted in bibliographic data of 273 published outputs that were analyzed using bibliometric techniques. RESULTS Data revealed a trend of increased scientific publication from the early 1990s. Published outputs, diverse in type (comments/letters, articles, reviews, case reports, editorials), were widely distributed across 94 journals of varying scientific disciplines (medicine, nursing, palliative care, law, ethics). Most journals (72.3%) were classified under Medical and Health Sciences, with the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management identified as the major journal in the field covering 12.1% of the total publications. Empirical research articles, mostly of a quantitative design, originated from 17 countries. Although Japan and The Netherlands were found to be the leaders in research article productivity, it was the U.K. and the U.S. that ranked top in terms of the quantity of published outputs. CONCLUSION This is the first bibliometric analysis on continuous sedation until death that can be used to inform future studies. Further research is needed to refine controversies on terminology and ethical acceptability of the practice, as well as conditions and modalities of its use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Papavasiliou
- International Observatory on End-of-Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Dietz I, Schmitz A, Lampey I, Schulz C. Evidence for the use of Levomepromazine for symptom control in the palliative care setting: a systematic review. BMC Palliat Care 2013; 12:2. [PMID: 23331515 PMCID: PMC3602665 DOI: 10.1186/1472-684x-12-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levomepromazine is an antipsychotic drug that is used clinically for a variety of distressing symptoms in palliative and end-of-life care. We undertook a systematic review based on the question "What is the published evidence for the use of levomepromazine in palliative symptom control?". METHODS To determine the level of evidence for the use of levomepromazine in palliative symptom control, and to discover gaps in evidence, relevant studies were identified using a detailed, multi-step search strategy. Emerging data was then scrutinized using appropriate assessment tools, and the strength of evidence systematically graded in accordance with the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine's 'levels of evidence' tool. The electronic databases Medline, Embase, Cochrane, PsychInfo and Ovid Nursing, together with hand-searching and cross-referencing provided the full research platform on which the review is based. RESULTS 33 articles including 9 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria: 15 on palliative sedation, 8 regarding nausea and three on delirium and restlessness, one on pain and six with other foci. The studies varied greatly in both design and sample size. Levels of evidence ranged from level 2b to level 5, with the majority being level 3 (non-randomized, non-consecutive or cohort studies n = 22), with the quality of reporting for the included studies being only low to medium. CONCLUSION Levomepromazine is widely used in palliative care as antipsychotic, anxiolytic, antiemetic and sedative drug. However, the supporting evidence is limited to open series and case reports. Thus prospective randomized trials are needed to support evidence-based guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Dietz
- Clinic for Anaesthesiology HELIOS Clinic Wuppertal, University Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Andrea Schmitz
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf University, Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Ingrid Lampey
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf University, Dusseldorf, Germany
- NELCS Northeast London (NHS) Community Services, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Schulz
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf University, Dusseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Brinkkemper T, van Norel AM, Szadek KM, Loer SA, Zuurmond WWA, Perez RSGM. The use of observational scales to monitor symptom control and depth of sedation in patients requiring palliative sedation: a systematic review. Palliat Med 2013; 27:54-67. [PMID: 22045725 DOI: 10.1177/0269216311425421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative sedation is the intentional lowering of consciousness of a patient in the last phase of life to relieve suffering from refractory symptoms such as pain, delirium and dyspnoea. AIM In this systematic review, we evaluated the use of monitoring scales to assess the degree of control of refractory symptoms and/or the depth of the sedation. DESIGN A database search of PubMed and Embase was performed up to January 2010 using the search terms 'palliative sedation' OR 'terminal sedation'. DATA SOURCES Retro- and prospective studies as well as reviews and guidelines containing information about monitoring of palliative sedation, written in the English, German or Dutch language were included. RESULTS The search yielded 264 articles of which 30 were considered relevant. Most studies focused on monitoring refractory symptoms (pain, fatigue or delirium) or the level of awareness to control the level of sedation. Four prospective and one retrospective study used scales validated in other settings: the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, the Visual Analogue Scale, the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale, the Communication Capacity Scale and Agitation Distress Scale. Only the Community Capacity Scale was partially validated for use in a palliative sedation setting. One guideline described the use of a scale validated in another setting. CONCLUSIONS A minority of studies reported the use of observational scales to monitor the effect of palliative sedation. Future studies should be focused on establishing proper instruments, most adequate frequency and timing of assessment, and interdisciplinary evaluation of sedation depth and symptom control for palliative sedation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tijn Brinkkemper
- Department of Anaesthesiology, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Bruinsma SM, Rietjens JAC, Seymour JE, Anquinet L, van der Heide A. The experiences of relatives with the practice of palliative sedation: a systematic review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2012; 44:431-45. [PMID: 22658470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2011] [Revised: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Guidelines about palliative sedation typically include recommendations to protect the well-being of relatives. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to systematically review evidence on the experiences of relatives with the practice of palliative sedation. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were searched for empirical studies on relatives' experiences with palliative sedation. We investigated relatives' involvement in the decision-making and sedation processes, whether they received adequate information and support, and relatives' emotions. RESULTS Of the 564 studies identified, 39 were included. The studies (30 quantitative, six qualitative, and three mixed methods) were conducted in 16 countries; three studies were based on relatives' reports, 26 on physicians' and nurses' proxy reports, seven on medical records, and three combined different sources. The 39 studies yielded a combined total of 8791 respondents or studied cases. Caregivers involved relatives in the decision making in 69%-100% of all cases (19 quantitative studies), and in 60%-100% of all cases, relatives were reported to have received adequate information (five quantitative studies). Only two quantitative studies reported on relatives' involvement in the provision of sedation. Despite the fact that the majority of relatives were reported to be comfortable with the use of palliative sedation (seven quantitative studies, four qualitative studies), several studies found that relatives were distressed by the use of sedation (five quantitative studies, five qualitative studies). No studies reported specifically about the support provided to the relatives. CONCLUSION Relatives' experiences with palliative sedation are mainly studied from the perspective of proxies, mostly professional caregivers. The majority of relatives seems to be comfortable with the use of palliative sedation; however, they may experience substantial distress by the use of sedation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie M Bruinsma
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Dean MM, Cellarius V, Henry B, Oneschuk D, Librach (Canadian Society of Pallia SL. Framework for Continuous Palliative Sedation Therapy in Canada. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:870-9. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2011.0498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mervyn M. Dean
- Palliative Care, Western Memorial Regional Hospital, Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Victor Cellarius
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Blair Henry
- Ethics Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Doreen Oneschuk
- Edmonton Regional Palliative Care Program, Grey Nuns Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Jaspers B, Nauck F, Lindena G, Elsner F, Ostgathe C, Radbruch L. Palliative Sedation in Germany: How Much Do We Know? A Prospective Survey. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:672-80. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2011.0395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Jaspers
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Bonn, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Lindena
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- CLARA Clinical Research, Kleinmachnow, Germany
| | - Frank Elsner
- Department of Palliative Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Germany
| | | | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
A survey of the sedation practice of Portuguese palliative care teams. Support Care Cancer 2012; 20:3123-7. [PMID: 22447339 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-012-1442-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this study is to study the practice of sedation by Portuguese palliative care teams. METHODS The teams included on the website of the Portuguese Association for Palliative Care were invited to participate. Data from all the patients sedated between April and June 2010 were recorded. Sedation was defined as the intentional administration of sedative drugs for symptom control, except insomnia, independently of the consciousness level reached. RESULTS Of the 19 teams invited only 4 actually participated. During the study period, 181 patients were treated: 171 (94 %) were cancer patients and 10 non-cancer patients. Twenty-seven (16 %) patients were sedated: 13 intermittently, 11 continuously, and 3 intermittently at first then continuously. The rate of sedation varied substantially among the teams. Delirium was the most frequent reason for sedation. Midazolam was the drug used in most cases. In 21 cases of sedation, the decision was made unilaterally by the professionals; in 16 (76 %) of those, the situation was deemed to be emergent. From the patients on continuous sedation, 9 (64 %) patients maintained oxygen, 13 (93 %) hydration, and 6 (43 %) nutrition. Two patients who had undergone intermittent sedation were discharged home and one was transferred to another institution; the reason for sedation in the three cases was delirium. CONCLUSION There is a substantial variation in the sedation rate among the teams. One of the most important aspects was the decision-making process which should be object of reflection and discussion in the teams.
Collapse
|