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Allegri N, Rosi A, Del Signore F, Cremascoli R, Cappa S, Tassorelli C, Govoni S. Dementia-friendly intervention for hospitalized older adults with cognitive impairments: results of the Italian Dementia-Friendly Hospital Trial (IDENTITÀ). Aging Ment Health 2022; 26:716-724. [PMID: 33759658 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1901261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate whether a short training focused on improving dementia care practices of the hospital staff was able to counteract functional loss and to decrease negative outcomes at discharge among hospitalized older adults with cognitive impairment.Method: Sixty-eight hospitalized participants aged 65 and over with cognitive impairment were included in the study, allocated in the control group (n = 34) and intervention group (n = 34). The intervention consisted of a short training of the hospital staff aimed at improving the management of patients with cognitive impairment. Participants were evaluated within 48 h of hospital admission and at discharge using a battery of tests including Barthel Index, Mini-Mental State Examination, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.Results: The intervention group demonstrated shorter hospital length of stay and a maintenance of the functional status at discharge compared to the control group. We observed no differences in cognitive ability between the two groups, and a trend towards a decrease of anxious symptoms in the intervention group compared to the control group.Conclusion: The results suggest that an intervention, focused on improving dementia care practices in healthcare staff, has the potential to improve the outcomes for hospitalized older adults with cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Allegri
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,CEFAT (Center of Pharmaceuticals Economics and Medical Technologies Evaluation), University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessia Rosi
- Brain and Behavioral Sciences Department, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Cremascoli
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Brain and Behavioral Sciences Department, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Cappa
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,University School for Advanced Studies, IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Brain and Behavioral Sciences Department, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- CEFAT (Center of Pharmaceuticals Economics and Medical Technologies Evaluation), University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Drug Sciences Department, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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2
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Götzelmann TG, Strech D, Kahrass H. The full spectrum of ethical issues in dementia research: findings of a systematic qualitative review. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:32. [PMID: 33771131 PMCID: PMC8004446 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00572-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When including participants with dementia in research, various ethical issues arise. At present, there are only a few existing dementia-specific research guidelines (Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use in Clinical investigation of medicines for the treatment Alzheimer's disease (Internet). https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/clinical-investigation-medicines-treatment-alzheimers-disease ; Food and Drug Administration, Early Alzheimer's Disease: Developing Drugs for Treatment Guidance for Industry [Internet]. http://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/alzheimers-disease-developing-drugs-treatment-guidance-industy ), necessitating a more systematic and comprehensive approach to this topic to help researchers and stakeholders address dementia-specific ethical issues in research. A systematic literature review provides information on the ethical issues in dementia-related research and might therefore serve as a basis to improve the ethical conduct of this research. This systematic review aims to provide a broad and unbiased overview of ethical issues in dementia research by reviewing, analysing, and coding the latest literature on the topic. METHODS We conducted a systematic review in PubMed and Google Scholar (publications in English between 2007 and 2020, no restrictions on the type of publication) of literature on research ethics in dementia research. Ethical issues in research were identified by qualitative text analysis and normative analysis. RESULTS The literature review retrieved 110 references that together mentioned 105 ethical issues in dementia research. This set of ethical issues was structured into a matrix based on the eight major principles from a pre-existing framework on biomedical ethics (Emanuel et al. An Ethical Framework for Biomedical Research. in The Oxford textbook of clinical research ethics, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2008). Consequently, subcategories were created and further categorized into dementia stages and study phases. CONCLUSIONS The systematically derived matrix helps raise awareness and understanding of the complex topic of ethical issues in dementia research. The matrix can be used as a basis for researchers, policy makers and other stakeholders when planning, conducting and monitoring research, making decisions on the legal background of the topic, and creating research practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim G Götzelmann
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, OE 5450, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Daniel Strech
- QUEST Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Straße 2, 10178, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hannes Kahrass
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, OE 5450, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
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3
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Evans CJ, Yorganci E, Lewis P, Koffman J, Stone K, Tunnard I, Wee B, Bernal W, Hotopf M, Higginson IJ. Processes of consent in research for adults with impaired mental capacity nearing the end of life: systematic review and transparent expert consultation (MORECare_Capacity statement). BMC Med 2020; 18:221. [PMID: 32693800 PMCID: PMC7374835 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01654-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Involving adults lacking capacity (ALC) in research on end of life care (EoLC) or serious illness is important, but often omitted. We aimed to develop evidence-based guidance on how best to include individuals with impaired capacity nearing the end of life in research, by identifying the challenges and solutions for processes of consent across the capacity spectrum. METHODS Methods Of Researching End of Life Care_Capacity (MORECare_C) furthers the MORECare statement on research evaluating EoLC. We used simultaneous methods of systematic review and transparent expert consultation (TEC). The systematic review involved four electronic databases searches. The eligibility criteria identified studies involving adults with serious illness and impaired capacity, and methods for recruitment in research, implementing the research methods, and exploring public attitudes. The TEC involved stakeholder consultation to discuss and generate recommendations, and a Delphi survey and an expert 'think-tank' to explore consensus. We narratively synthesised the literature mapping processes of consent with recruitment outcomes, solutions, and challenges. We explored recommendation consensus using descriptive statistics. Synthesis of all the findings informed the guidance statement. RESULTS Of the 5539 articles identified, 91 met eligibility. The studies encompassed people with dementia (27%) and in palliative care (18%). Seventy-five percent used observational designs. Studies on research methods (37 studies) focused on processes of proxy decision-making, advance consent, and deferred consent. Studies implementing research methods (30 studies) demonstrated the role of family members as both proxy decision-makers and supporting decision-making for the person with impaired capacity. The TEC involved 43 participants who generated 29 recommendations, with consensus that indicated. Key areas were the timeliness of the consent process and maximising an individual's decisional capacity. The think-tank (n = 19) refined equivocal recommendations including supporting proxy decision-makers, training practitioners, and incorporating legislative frameworks. CONCLUSIONS The MORECare_C statement details 20 solutions to recruit ALC nearing the EoL in research. The statement provides much needed guidance to enrol individuals with serious illness in research. Key is involving family members early and designing study procedures to accommodate variable and changeable levels of capacity. The statement demonstrates the ethical imperative and processes of recruiting adults across the capacity spectrum in varying populations and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Evans
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK.
- Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton General Hospital, Brighton, UK.
| | - E Yorganci
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - P Lewis
- Centre of Medical Law and Ethics, The Dickson Poon School of Law, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J Koffman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - K Stone
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - I Tunnard
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - B Wee
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - W Bernal
- King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Hotopf
- Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - I J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
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4
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Pace A, Koekkoek JAF, van den Bent MJ, Bulbeck HJ, Fleming J, Grant R, Golla H, Henriksson R, Kerrigan S, Marosi C, Oberg I, Oberndorfer S, Oliver K, Pasman HRW, Le Rhun E, Rooney AG, Rudà R, Veronese S, Walbert T, Weller M, Wick W, Taphoorn MJB, Dirven L. Determining medical decision-making capacity in brain tumor patients: why and how? Neurooncol Pract 2020; 7:599-612. [PMID: 33312674 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npaa040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Brain tumor patients are at high risk of impaired medical decision-making capacity (MDC), which can be ethically challenging because it limits their ability to give informed consent to medical treatments or participation in research. The European Association of Neuro-Oncology Palliative Care Multidisciplinary Task Force performed a systematic review to identify relevant evidence with respect to MDC that could be used to give recommendations on how to cope with reduced MDC in brain tumor patients. Methods A literature search in several electronic databases was conducted up to September 2019, including studies with brain tumor and other neurological patients. Information related to the following topics was extracted: tools to measure MDC, consent to treatment or research, predictive patient- and treatment-related factors, surrogate decision making, and interventions to improve MDC. Results A total of 138 articles were deemed eligible. Several structured capacity-assessment instruments are available to aid clinical decision making. These instruments revealed a high incidence of impaired MDC both in brain tumors and other neurological diseases for treatment- and research-related decisions. Incapacity appeared to be mostly determined by the level of cognitive impairment. Surrogate decision making should be considered in case a patient lacks capacity, ensuring that the patient's "best interests" and wishes are guaranteed. Several methods are available that may help to enhance patients' consent capacity. Conclusions Clinical recommendations on how to detect and manage reduced MDC in brain tumor patients were formulated, reflecting among others the timing of MDC assessments, methods to enhance patients' consent capacity, and alternative procedures, including surrogate consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pace
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J van den Bent
- Department of Neurology, The Brain Tumor Center, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Helen J Bulbeck
- Brainstrust (The Brain Cancer People), Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK
| | - Jane Fleming
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Waterford, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Robin Grant
- Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Heidrun Golla
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roger Henriksson
- Department of Radiation Sciences and Oncology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Christine Marosi
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Clinical Division of Medical Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingela Oberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stefan Oberndorfer
- Department Neurology, University Clinic St Pölten, KLPU and KLI-Neurology and Neuropsychology, St Pölten, Austria
| | - Kathy Oliver
- International Brain Tumour Alliance, Tadworth, UK
| | - H Roeline W Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Emilie Le Rhun
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alasdair G Rooney
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Veronese
- Department of Palliative Care, Fondazione FARO, Turin, Italy
| | - Tobias Walbert
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, US
| | - Michael Weller
- Department of Neurology & Brain Tumor Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic and National Centre for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Consortium of Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
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5
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Jensen JS, Reiter-Theil S, Celio DA, Jakob M, Vach W, Saxer FJ. Handling of informed consent and patient inclusion in research with geriatric trauma patients - a matter of protection or disrespect? Clin Interv Aging 2019; 14:321-334. [PMID: 30863026 PMCID: PMC6388780 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s191751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the aging of numerous societies and future health care challenges, clinical research in the elderly is underrepresented. The aim of this review was to analyze the current practice exemplary in gerontotraumatology and to discuss potential improvements. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature review was performed in 2016 based on a PubMed search for gerontotraumatologic studies published between 2005 and 2015. Trials were evaluated for methodology and ethical and age-related aspects. RESULTS The search revealed 649 articles, 183 of which met the inclusion criteria. The age range for inclusion was heterogeneous; one-third of trials included patients <65 years and only 11% excluded very elderly. Seventy-four trials excluded patients with typical comorbidities, with 55% of these without stating scientific reasons. Frailty was assessed in 94 trials and defined as the exclusion criterion in 66 of them. Informed consent (IC) was reportedly obtained in 144 trials; descriptions of the IC process mostly remained vague. Substitute decision making was described in 19 trials; the consenting party remained unclear in 45 articles. Diagnosed dementia was a primary exclusion criterion in 31% of the trials. Seventeen trials assessed decisional capacity before inclusion, with six using specific assessments. CONCLUSION Many trials in gerontotraumatology exclude relevant subgroups of patients, and thus risk presenting biased estimates of the relevant treatment effects. Exclusion based on age, cognitive impairment, or other exhaustive exclusion criteria impedes specific scientific progress in the treatment of elderly patients. Meaningful trials could profit from a staged, transparent approach that fosters shared decision making. Rethinking current policies is indispensable to improve treatment and care of elderly trauma patients and to protect study participants and researchers alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana S Jensen
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,
| | - Stella Reiter-Theil
- Department of Clinical Ethics, University Hospital Basel/Psychiatric Hospitals of the University Basel, Basel 4012, Switzerland
| | - Diana A Celio
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Triemli Hospital, Zürich 8063, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Jakob
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,
| | - Werner Vach
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,
| | - Franziska J Saxer
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,
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West E, Stuckelberger A, Pautex S, Staaks J, Gysels M. Operationalising ethical challenges in dementia research-a systematic review of current evidence. Age Ageing 2017; 46:678-687. [PMID: 28104596 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afw250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background the worldwide number of dementia cases is increasing, and this is a trend that is expected to continue as a growing proportion of the population ages. However, conducting research with persons suffering from dementia can be fraught due to fears surrounding research risks in vulnerable populations. This can make seeking approval for studies difficult. As research directly involving persons with dementia is key for the development of evidence-based best practice, the development of a coherent ethical strategy to perform such research feasibly and effectively is of paramount importance. Objective this paper aims to review and synthesise ethical challenges in performing research with persons who have dementia. Methods in undertaking a systematic review of the current research literature, we will identify the central issues and arguments characterising research that concerns the ethical dimensions of research participation in the dementia population. Data were analysed using both inductive and deductive content analysis. Ethical considerations in research involving persons with dementia primarily concern the representation of the interests of the person with dementia and protection of their vulnerabilities and rights. Results a total of 2,894 results were returned from initial searches, following deduplication. In total, 2,458 were excluded at title review, and following abstract review 158 papers remained; 29 papers were included for analysis after full paper review and data extraction. Papers ranged between 1995 and 2013. Conclusion this review has highlighted a lack of consensus in current research and guidelines addressing these concerns; a clear stance on ethical governance of studies is important for future research and best evidence-based practice in dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily West
- Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine, Amsterdam 1081 BT, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sophie Pautex
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, 11. ch de la Savonnière, Collonge-Bellerive 1245, Switzerland
| | - Janneke Staaks
- Universiteit Bibliotheek, Unvisersiteit van Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Gysels
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Amsterdam, North Holland, The Netherlands
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7
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Delineau VMEB, Schultz RR. Dementia and legal determination of capacity. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2017; 75:349-353. [PMID: 28658403 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20170061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the legal capacity and guardianship proceedings in patients diagnosed with dementia. METHODS Ninety-seven patients diagnosed with dementia and seen at a tertiary hospital were evaluated. RESULTS Of these 97 patients, 60 (62%) were female. The mean age of the patients was 77.9 years; average schooling was 5.5 years. The main diagnosis was Alzheimer's disease (73%): 16 patients were at a mild stage, eight at a moderate stage and 73 at an advanced stage of dementia. Only 28 patients had been legally declared incapable. CONCLUSION The large numbers of patients at an advanced stage of dementia, and the relatively few patients legally declared incapable show that legal issues in dementia are problematic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeska Maria Eboli Bello Delineau
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Setor de Neurologia do Comportamento, Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | - Rodrigo Rizek Schultz
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Setor de Neurologia do Comportamento, Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, São Paulo SP, Brasil
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8
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Porteri C, Petrini C. Research involving subjects with Alzheimer's disease in Italy: the possible role of family members. BMC Med Ethics 2015; 16:12. [PMID: 25888878 PMCID: PMC4357192 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-015-0009-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is a very common, progressive and still incurable disease. Future possibilities for its cure lie in the promotion of research that will increase our knowledge of the disorder's causes and lead to the discovery of effective remedies. Such research will necessarily involve individuals suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This raises the controversial issue of whether patients with Alzheimer's disease are competent to give their consent for research participation. DISCUSSION We discuss the case of subjects with Alzheimer's disease who may have impaired decision-making capacity and who could be involved in research protocols, taking into consideration aspects of the Italian normative framework, which requires a court-appointed legal representative for patients who are not able to give consent and does not recognise the legal value of advance directives. We show that this normative framework risks preventing individuals with Alzheimer's disease from taking part in research and that a new policy that favours research while promoting respect for patients' well-being and rights needs to be implemented. SUMMARY We believe that concerns about the difficulty of obtaining fully valid consent of patients with Alzheimer's disease should not prevent them from participating in clinical trials and benefiting from scientific progress. Therefore, we argue that the requirement for patients to have a legal representative may not be the best solution in all countries and clinical situations, and suggest promoting the role of patients' family members in the decision-making process. In addition, we outline the possible role of advance directives and ethics committees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Porteri
- Bioethics Unit, IRCCS Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Via Pilastroni 4, 25125, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Carlo Petrini
- Bioethics Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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9
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Sweet L, Adamis D, Meagher DJ, Davis D, Currow DC, Bush SH, Barnes C, Hartwick M, Agar M, Simon J, Breitbart W, MacDonald N, Lawlor PG. Ethical challenges and solutions regarding delirium studies in palliative care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2014; 48:259-71. [PMID: 24388124 PMCID: PMC4082407 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Delirium occurs commonly in settings of palliative care (PC), in which patient vulnerability in the unique context of end-of-life care and delirium-associated impairment of decision-making capacity may together present many ethical challenges. OBJECTIVES Based on deliberations at the Studies to Understand Delirium in Palliative Care Settings (SUNDIPS) meeting and an associated literature review, this article discusses ethical issues central to the conduct of research on delirious PC patients. METHODS Together with an analysis of the ethical deliberations at the SUNDIPS meeting, we conducted a narrative literature review by key words searching of relevant databases and a subsequent hand search of initially identified articles. We also reviewed statements of relevance to delirium research in major national and international ethics guidelines. RESULTS Key issues identified include the inclusion of PC patients in delirium research, capacity determination, and the mandate to respect patient autonomy and ensure maintenance of patient dignity. Proposed solutions include designing informed consent statements that are clear, concise, and free of complex phraseology; use of concise, yet accurate, capacity assessment instruments with a minimally burdensome schedule; and use of PC friendly consent models, such as facilitated, deferred, experienced, advance, and proxy models. CONCLUSION Delirium research in PC patients must meet the common standards for such research in any setting. Certain features unique to PC establish a need for extra diligence in meeting these standards and the employment of assessments, consent procedures, and patient-family interactions that are clearly grounded on the tenets of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Sweet
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - David J Meagher
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Cognitive Impairment Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Daniel Davis
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David C Currow
- Discipline of Palliative and Supportive Services, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia; Flinders Centre for Clinical Change, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Shirley H Bush
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Palliative Care Unit, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Barnes
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Palliative Care Unit, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Hartwick
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Division of Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Critical Care Response Team, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meera Agar
- Discipline of Palliative and Supportive Services, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia; Department of Palliative Care, Braeside Hospital, HammondCare, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; South West Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica Simon
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Oncology and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - William Breitbart
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Neil MacDonald
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Peter G Lawlor
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Paré Toe L, Ravinetto RM, Dierickx S, Gryseels C, Tinto H, Rouamba N, Diallo I, Cissao Y, Bayala K, Hausmann S, Muela J, D’Alessandro U, Peeters Grietens K. Could the decision of trial participation precede the informed consent process? Evidence from Burkina Faso. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80800. [PMID: 24260484 PMCID: PMC3829938 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the last years, the number of clinical trials carried out in low-income countries with poor medical infrastructure and limited access to health care has increased. In these settings, the decision of participating in a clinical study may be influenced by factors related to participants' vulnerability that limit the efficacy of the informed consent. METHODS A mixed methods social science study, based on the triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data, was carried out in a socio-economically disadvantaged and semi-urban area of Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The study aimed at assessing the relevance of the informed consent procedure on the decision-making process of the parents and/or guardians of potential participants in a pediatric malaria trial. RESULTS For most parents (70.4%), the decision of participating had already been taken before undergoing the informed consent process and was based on the information conveyed through the community. Access to free and good quality health care often inspired this decision. In addition, the parents' willingness to have their child included in the trial made them develop active strategies to achieve this purpose. DISCUSSION In a context of socio-economic vulnerability and poor access to free health care, the process of informed consent does not always accomplish its goal of informing people and enabling them to make a free and informed decision. This information role is somehow anticipated by the community and trial participation becomes a strategic action to secure otherwise unavailable health resources leading community members to decide on participation even prior to the informed consent process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Paré Toe
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Raffaella M. Ravinetto
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Catholic University (KU), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Susan Dierickx
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Gryseels
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Halidou Tinto
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Noèl Rouamba
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Ibrahim Diallo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Yacouba Cissao
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Korotimi Bayala
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Susanna Hausmann
- Partners for Applied Social Sciences (PASS) International, Tessenderlo, Belgium
| | - Joan Muela
- Partners for Applied Social Sciences (PASS) International, Tessenderlo, Belgium
| | - Umberto D’Alessandro
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Disease Control & Elimination Theme, Medical Research Council, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Koen Peeters Grietens
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Partners for Applied Social Sciences (PASS) International, Tessenderlo, Belgium
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11
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Sorbi S, Hort J, Erkinjuntti T, Fladby T, Gainotti G, Gurvit H, Nacmias B, Pasquier F, Popescu BO, Rektorova I, Religa D, Rusina R, Rossor M, Schmidt R, Stefanova E, Warren JD, Scheltens P. EFNS-ENS Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of disorders associated with dementia. Eur J Neurol 2013; 19:1159-79. [PMID: 22891773 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2012.03784.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The last version of the EFNS dementia guidelines is from 2007. In 2010, the revised guidelines for Alzheimer's disease (AD) were published. The current guidelines involve the revision of the dementia syndromes outside of AD, notably vascular cognitive impairment, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, dementia with Lewy bodies, corticobasal syndrome, progressive supranuclear palsy, Parkinson's disease dementia, Huntington's disease, prion diseases, normal-pressure hydrocephalus, limbic encephalitis and other toxic and metabolic disorders. The aim is to present a peer-reviewed evidence-based statement for the guidance of practice for clinical neurologists, geriatricians, psychiatrists and other specialist physicians responsible for the care of patients with dementing disorders. It represents a statement of minimum desirable standards for practice guidance. METHODS The task force working group reviewed evidence from original research articles, meta-analyses and systematic reviews, published by June 2011. The evidence was classified (I, II, III, IV) and consensus recommendations graded (A, B, or C) according to the EFNS guidance. Where there was a lack of evidence, but clear consensus, good practice points were provided. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS New recommendations and good practice points are made for clinical diagnosis, blood tests, neuropsychology, neuroimaging, electroencephalography, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, genetic testing, disclosure of diagnosis, treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia, legal issues, counselling and support for caregivers. All recommendations were revised as compared with the previous EFNS guidelines. The specialist neurologist together with primary care physicians play an important role in the assessment, interpretation and treatment of symptoms, disability and needs of dementia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sorbi
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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12
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Galeotti F, Vanacore N, Gainotti S, Izzicupo F, Menniti-Ippolito F, Petrini C, Chiarotti F, Chattat R, Raschetti R. How legislation on decisional capacity can negatively affect the feasibility of clinical trials in patients with dementia. Drugs Aging 2013; 29:607-14. [PMID: 22574633 DOI: 10.1007/bf03262277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Antipsychotic drugs are widely used to treat behavioural and psychological disturbances associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), although only modest evidence from randomized controlled trials supports their efficacy, and increasing evidence from post-marketing surveillance shows serious adverse events associated with their use, including increased mortality. The AdCare study, a non-profit, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicentre, pragmatic trial coordinated by the Italian National Institute of Health, aimed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy profiles of three atypical antipsychotic drugs (risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine) and one conventional antipsychotic drug (haloperidol) in treating psychosis, aggression and agitation in outpatients with AD. The study was planned to be carried out in 19 clinical centres and to enrol 1000 outpatients. According to Italian law, in the case where a patient is considered unable to give informed consent, a legal representative designated by the court has to provide it. Because of difficulties in the informed consent procedure, the study had to be prematurely interrupted. From February 2009 to April 2010, 83 patients gave informed consent to participate in the trial. Fifty-six patients (68%) were included with consent given by a legal representative, while 27 patients (32%) were considered to provide personal informed consent on the basis of the results from a specifically built procedure. Patients and caregivers were offered the opportunity to participate in the trial before the occurrence of behavioural disturbances, in order to provide them with enough time to consider their participation in the study. Twenty-three patients experienced behavioural, clinically relevant symptoms and were randomized to the study drug; all randomized patients except one had consent for inclusion in the study given by legal representatives. After trial interruption, all patients taking an active drug continued treatment with the same molecule in clinical practice. Randomized controlled trials are acknowledged as the gold standard source of evidence on drug safety and efficacy. The AdCare study showed that an excessively rigid regulation can become a major obstacle while carrying out therapeutic research with incapacitated persons.
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Galeotti F, Vanacore N, Gainotti S, Izzicupo F, Menniti-Ippolito F, Petrini C, Chiarotti F, Chattat R, Raschetti R. How Legislation on Decisional Capacity Can Negatively Affect the Feasibility of Clinical Trials in Patients with Dementia. Drugs Aging 2012. [DOI: 10.2165/11630810-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Silverman H. Protecting vulnerable research subjects in critical care trials: enhancing the informed consent process and recommendations for safeguards. Ann Intensive Care 2011; 1:8. [PMID: 21906335 PMCID: PMC3224458 DOI: 10.1186/2110-5820-1-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although critically ill patients represent a vulnerable group of individuals, guidelines in research ethics assert that ethically acceptable research may proceed with such vulnerable subjects if additional safeguards are in place to minimize the risk of harm and exploitation. Such safeguards include the proper obtainment of informed consent that avoids the presence of the therapeutic misconception and the assessment of decisional capacity in critically ill patients recruited for research. Also discussed in this review are additional safeguards for such vulnerable subjects, as well as the issues involved with proxy consent. Heightened awareness to principles of ethics and provision of additional safeguards to enhance protections of vulnerable subjects would help to maintain the public trust in the research endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Silverman
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 South Paca Street; 2nd floor, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201, USA.
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