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Robles JM, Ruiz J, Correa R, Dinescu-Munoz N, Patel C, Noyd D, Alvarez M, Frost E, Ledbetter L, LeBlanc TW. The impact of language discordance on pediatric cancer care outcomes: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024:e31338. [PMID: 39323048 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Language discordance between clinicians and families in pediatrics has been associated with adverse events and lower quality of care. We aimed to summarize the existing literature evaluating the impact of language discordance among healthcare professionals and families within pediatric oncology by conducting a systematic review. Of 8364 studies, 43 studies met eligibility for inclusion in this review. These studies highlight the impact of language discordance on pediatric cancer care outcomes, including communication challenges, obstacles to research participation, and potentially higher risk disease features at presentation. Healthcare professionals endorsed inconsistent professional interpreter use and lack of formal training on communicating via interpreters. Interventions to address barriers to language-appropriate care are sparse. Further research is warranted to design and implement interventions promoting language justice and provision of high-quality, equitable pediatric cancer care for all families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M Robles
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenny Ruiz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ramon Correa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nicole Dinescu-Munoz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida School of Medicine, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Chandni Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida School of Medicine, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - David Noyd
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital/University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Monica Alvarez
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erin Frost
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Leila Ledbetter
- Medical Center Library, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Graetz DE, Ahmad A, Raza MR, Hameed A, Naheed A, Najmi A, Quanita AT, Munir S, Ahmad S, Ferrara G, Staples C, Rodriguez Galindo C, Ahmer Hamid S, Jeha S, Mack JW. Functions of patient- and family-centered pediatric cancer communication in Pakistan. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1393908. [PMID: 39323999 PMCID: PMC11422343 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1393908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Communication is an essential aspect of high-quality patient- and family-centered care. A model for pediatric cancer communication developed in the United States defined eight communication functions. The purpose of this study was to explore the relevance of these functions in Pakistan as part of an effort to understand the role of culture in communication. Materials and methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 clinicians and 18 caregivers of children with cancer at two major cancer centers. Interviews were conducted in Urdu or English and transcribed and translated as necessary. Two independent coders used a priori codes related to the communication model as well as novel codes derived inductively. Thematic analysis focused on operationalization of the functional communication model. Results Clinicians and caregivers in Pakistan discussed the importance of all eight communication functions previously identified including: information exchange, decision-making, managing uncertainty, enabling family self-management, responding to emotions, supporting hope, providing validation, and building relationships. The operationalization of these functions was influenced by Pakistani cultural context. For example, information-exchange included the importance of addressing preconceptions and community myths, while managing uncertainty included strong references to religion and faith-based coping. Essential to all eight functions was trust between the family and the medical team. Discussion These findings support the use of this functional communication model in diverse pediatric oncology settings and emphasize the importance of trust. Culturally sensitive operationalization of these functions could inform the adaptation of tools to measure communication and interventions aimed at supporting the needs of parents of children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan E. Graetz
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Alia Ahmad
- University of Child Health Sciences, Children’s Hospital Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rafie Raza
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ambreen Hameed
- University of Child Health Sciences, Children’s Hospital Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Asma Naheed
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Atoofa Najmi
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Afia tul Quanita
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shabnam Munir
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Safwan Ahmad
- University of Child Health Sciences, Children’s Hospital Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Gia Ferrara
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Courtney Staples
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Carlos Rodriguez Galindo
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Syed Ahmer Hamid
- Department of Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sima Jeha
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Department of Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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3
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Ouyang N, Baker JN, Ananth PJ, Knobf MT, Snaman JM, Feder SL. Parent-Clinician Communication and Prolonged Grief in Parents Whose Child Died From Cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00921-7. [PMID: 39142495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Parent-clinician communication is essential for high-quality end-of-life (EOL) care in children with cancer. However, it is unknown how parent-clinician communication affects parents' experience in the first two years after their child's death. OBJECTIVES To examine the association between communication and prolonged grief among parents whose child died from cancer and to explore the mediation effect of preparation for EOL care. METHODS We analyzed data from a cross-sectional survey of parents of children who died from cancer in the prior 6-24 months. We used multiple linear regression to examine the association between communication variables and prolonged grief symptoms. We also examined how preparation for EOL mediates these associations. RESULTS Across N = 124 parents, the mean age was 46 years, 82% were White, and 64% were mothers. The average PG-13 sum score was 32.7 ± 10.6 (range 11-55, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity). Most parents reported "very good/excellent" communication with clinicians (80%), adequate prognostic information (64%), and high levels of trust (90%). Nearly 39% of parents reported feeling "not at all prepared" for their child's EOL. Compared to parents who wanted more prognostic information, parents who perceived prognostic information to be adequate had significantly lower PG-13 sum scores (36.4 ± 10.8 vs. 30.5 ± 10.1, F = 9.26, P = 0.003). Preparation for EOL fully mediated this association. CONCLUSION Early bereaved parents report severe prolonged grief symptoms. Interventions focused on providing adequate prognostic information and improving preparation for EOL may mitigate parental prolonged grief symptoms in the first two years of their bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ouyang
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-Morbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, School of Nursing, Yale University (N.O., M.T.K., S.L.F.), Orange, Connecticut, USA.
| | - Justin N Baker
- Division of Quality of Life and Pediatric Palliative (J.N.B.), Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Prasanna J Ananth
- Department of Pediatrics (P.J.A.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Cancer Outcomes (P.J.A.), Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - M Tish Knobf
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-Morbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, School of Nursing, Yale University (N.O., M.T.K., S.L.F.), Orange, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jennifer M Snaman
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care (J.M.S.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pediatrics (J.M.S.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shelli L Feder
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-Morbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, School of Nursing, Yale University (N.O., M.T.K., S.L.F.), Orange, Connecticut, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System (S.L.F.), West Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Bekar P, Erkul M, Efe E. Experiences of Parents of Children with Cancer in the Diagnosis Process: A Qualitative Study. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024:302228241272694. [PMID: 39120953 DOI: 10.1177/00302228241272694] [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: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to describe the experiences of parents of children with cancer in the diagnosis process. A descriptive qualitative research design and content analysis method were used. Eleven parents participated in the study. Three main themes emerged, each with related sub-themes: encountering a cancer diagnosis, changes in the lives of those affected by the diagnosis, and coping strategies. Upon their children's diagnosis, parents reported feelings of guilt, regret, helplessness, devastation, constant thoughts of death, and changes in their lives, with some siblings displaying negative reactions. Some children felt their freedom was restricted, and some refused treatment. Parents coped by distracting their attention, praying, receiving support from their family, relatives or health professionals, and maintaining hope for their children's recovery. The study concludes that parents of children diagnosed with cancer require support to manage and adapt to the diagnosis process and meet their needs effectively throughout this difficult journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pınar Bekar
- Bucak School of Health, Department of Child Health and Diseases Nursing, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Münevver Erkul
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Department, Antalya Bilim University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Emine Efe
- Nursing Faculty, Department of Child Health and Diseases Nursing, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Guttmann KF, Raviv GN, Fortney CA, Ramirez M, Smith CB. Parent Perspectives on Communication Quality in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Adv Neonatal Care 2024; 24:382-388. [PMID: 38975667 PMCID: PMC11334642 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though prior literature has demonstrated that communication in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) needs to be improved, in-depth descriptions of parents' views of NICU communication are lacking. PURPOSE We sought (1) to explore parent perceptions of communication in the NICU and (2) to understand parents' communication needs and preferences. METHODS We conducted in-depth semi-structured cognitive interviews utilizing concurrent probes with parents of 10 patients in our urban level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit over a period of 4 months (July 2021-October 2021). Interview questions were derived from the Quality of Communication scale. We conducted thematic analysis of interview transcripts modeled after work by Braun and Clarke. RESULTS Four overarching themes were identified: Strengths, Challenges, People, and Coping Strategies. Parents reported a range of communication quality in the NICU. Results revealed that the first 48 hours of NICU hospitalization represent a period of vulnerability and uncertainty for parents. Parents value clear yet hopeful communication about a baby's clinical status and expected course. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH We hope that the concrete findings from this study can both inform practice in the NICU now and influence practice guidelines to include such components as emphasis on the first 48 hours, desire for proactive information sharing, and the importance of including hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine F Guttmann
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Guttmann and Ms Raviv); The Ohio State University College of Nursing Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children, and Youth, Columbus, Ohio (Dr Fortney); Research Division, Hebrew Home at Riverdale, Riverdale, New York, USA (Dr Ramirez); Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Smith); Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Smith and Dr Guttmann)
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Knoerl R, Grandinetti K, Smener L, Doll E, Fecher LA, Henry NL, Karimi Y, Pettit K, Schuetze S, Walling E, Zhang A, Barton D. Exploring Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors' Experience with Cancer Treatment-Related Symptoms: A Qualitative Analysis of Semi-Structured Interviews. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:665-673. [PMID: 38634665 PMCID: PMC11322622 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2024.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Few studies have specifically targeted symptom management interventions for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. A greater understanding of AYA cancer survivors' experiences with cancer treatment-related symptoms would help develop age-appropriate oncology symptom management interventions. The purpose of this qualitative analysis was to explore AYA cancer survivors' experience with cancer treatment-related symptoms. Methods: Nineteen post-treatment AYA cancer survivors (18-39 years old) who self-reported moderate-severe cancer treatment-related symptom severity participated in video conferencing or telephone interviews. The questions in the interview guide queried participants to share their experience with cancer treatment-related symptoms. Inductive content analysis was used to identify themes from the interviews. Results: The themes that emerged from the interviews included (1) cancer treatment-related symptoms negatively affected AYA cancer survivors' quality of life (e.g., symptoms served as a reminder of cancer recurrence possibility); (2) AYA cancer survivors' attitudes and feelings about communicating cancer treatment-related symptom concerns to clinicians (e.g., patient-clinician communication was bolstered when AYAs perceived that symptoms were being taken seriously); (3) AYA cancer survivors are interested in oncology symptom management clinical trials, but logistical challenges are barriers to participation; and (4) AYA cancer survivors are interested in nonpharmacological treatments for symptom management. Conclusion: Results highlight the burden of cancer treatment-related symptoms on day-to-day life among post-treatment AYA cancer survivors. Future work is needed to identify nonpharmacological symptom management interventions, strategies to improve patient-clinician communication about symptoms, and strategies to increase the visibility and accessibility of symptom management clinical trials for AYA cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knoerl
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Liat Smener
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Doll
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Leslie A. Fecher
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - N. Lynn Henry
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yasmin Karimi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kristen Pettit
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Scott Schuetze
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Walling
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anao Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Debra Barton
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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Sisk BA, Antes AL, Bereitschaft C, Bourgeois F, DuBois JM. Providing Adolescents with Access to Online Patient Portals: Interviews with Parent-Adolescent Dyads. J Pediatr 2024; 270:114015. [PMID: 38492914 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify perceived benefits, problems, facilitators, and barriers to adolescent online patient portal use. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with dyads of parents and adolescents with or without chronic illness. The study team purposively sampled for racial and ethnic minorities and fathers. Three team members then performed thematic analysis of the transcripts, with subsequent dyadic analysis of themes represented by related parents and adolescents. RESULTS We performed 102 interviews with 51 dyads of parents and adolescents (26 with chronic illness, 25 without chronic illness). Nearly all participants believed that adolescents should be permitted portal access. We identified 4 themes related to portal benefits: improves adolescent's knowledge of health; supports medical self-management and autonomy; strengthens communication and relationships; and supports parental influence. We identified 4 themes related to portal problems: misunderstanding or confusion; emotional distress; strain on relationships; and irresponsible use of portal. Facilitators of portal use included severity of illness, adolescent's curiosity, and ease of technology use. Barriers included lack of awareness or interest, complexity of information, and access difficulties. Twenty adolescents (39%) did not know they could access the portal, and 23 (45%) lacked interest in portals. Parents and adolescents seldom used the portal as a collaborative tool, and instead were engaging with the portal independently. CONCLUSION Parents and adolescents perceive several benefits and problems with portal use, but many adolescents lack interest in using portals. Adolescent portals represent an underutilized resource to engage adolescents in their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; Bioethics Research Center, General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
| | - Alison L Antes
- Bioethics Research Center, General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Christine Bereitschaft
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Fabienne Bourgeois
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - James M DuBois
- Bioethics Research Center, General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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Forth FA, Hammerle F, König J, Urschitz MS, Neuweiler P, Mildenberger E, Kidszun A. Optimistic vs Pessimistic Message Framing in Communicating Prognosis to Parents of Very Preterm Infants: The COPE Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240105. [PMID: 38393728 PMCID: PMC10891472 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance In the neonatal intensive care unit, there is a lack of understanding about how best to communicate the prognosis of a serious complication to parents. Objective To examine parental preferences and the effects of optimistic vs pessimistic message framing when providing prognostic information about a serious complication. Design, Setting, and Participants This crossover randomized clinical trial was conducted at a single German university medical center between June and October 2021. Eligible participants were parents of surviving preterm infants with a birth weight under 1500 g. Data were analyzed between October 2021 and August 2022. Interventions Alternating exposure to 2 scripted video vignettes showing a standardized conversation between a neonatologist and parents, portrayed by professional actors, about the prognosis of a hypothetical very preterm infant with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. The video vignettes differed in the framing of identical numerical outcome estimates as either probability of survival and probability of nonimpairment (optimistic framing) or a risk of death and impaired survival (pessimistic framing). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was preference odds (ratio of preference for optimistic vs pessimistic framing). Secondary outcomes included state anxiety, perceptions of communication, and recall of numerical estimates. Results Of 220 enrolled parents (142 [64.5%] mothers; mean [SD] age: mothers, 39.1 [5.6] years; fathers, 42.7 [6.9] years), 196 (89.1%) preferred optimistic and 24 (10.1%) preferred pessimistic framing (preference odds, 11.0; 95% CI, 6.28-19.10; P < .001). Preference for optimistic framing was more pronounced when presented second than when presented first (preference odds, 5.41; 95% CI, 1.77-16.48; P = .003). State anxiety scores were similar in both groups at baseline (mean difference, -0.34; -1.18 to 0.49; P = .42) and increased equally after the first video (mean difference, -0.55; 95% CI, -1.79 to 0.69; P = .39). After the second video, state anxiety scores decreased when optimistic framing followed pessimistic framing but remained unchanged when pessimistic framing followed optimistic framing (mean difference, 2.15; 95% CI, 0.91 to 3.39; P < .001). With optimistic framing, participants recalled numerical estimates more accurately for survival (odds ratio, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.64-9.79; P = .002) but not for impairment (odds ratio, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.85-2.63; P = .16). Conclusions and Relevance When given prognostic information about a serious complication, parents of very preterm infants may prefer optimistic framing. Optimistic framing may lead to more realistic expectations for survival, but not for impairment. Trial Registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS): DRKS00024466.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona A. Forth
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Florian Hammerle
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jochem König
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael S. Urschitz
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Philipp Neuweiler
- Journalistisches Seminar, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eva Mildenberger
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - André Kidszun
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Semerci R, Savaş EH, Gürbüz EG, Başegen N, Erkul M, Alki K, Uysalol EP. The Effect of Psychosocial Support Videos Provided by the Community on Disease Attitudes and Symptoms of Pediatric Oncology Patients: Randomized Controlled Study. Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151570. [PMID: 38161096 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the impact of psychosocial support videos provided by the community on the attitudes of pediatric oncology patients aged between 10 and 18 years toward their illness and treatment-related symptoms. DATA SOURCES This prospective randomized controlled study was conducted with 52 pediatric oncology patients aged between 10 and 18. The data were collected using the Information Form, Child Attitude Towards Illness Scale (CATIS), and Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS). When the control group received standard care, the intervention group received psychosocial support videos provided by the community at the beginning of the week for 1 month. CONCLUSION This study suggests that the implemented intervention positively affected pediatric patients' symptom management, psychological well-being, and attitudes toward their illness. Considering that today's adolescents have grown up in the age of technology and show great interest in technology and media use, it is clear that psychosocial support videos may attract the attention of this age group. Producing and sharing similar content for other children with similar health problems may positively affect the psychosocial health outcomes of pediatric patients. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE It has been found that it is beneficial to include community-supported psychosocial support in the nursing care of pediatric oncology patients. For this reason, it is recommended that nurses actively participate in developing psychosocial support strategies and take the lead in creating and making the content accessible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remziye Semerci
- Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Koç University, Istanbul, Türkiye.
| | | | - Ezgi Gizem Gürbüz
- Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Koç University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nazlı Başegen
- Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Koç University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Münevver Erkul
- Assistant Professor, Faculty of Health Science, Akdeniz Bilim University, Antalya, Türkiye
| | - Kübra Alki
- Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Başakşehir Çam and Sakura State Hospital, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ezgi Paslı Uysalol
- Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Başakşehir Çam and Sakura State Hospital, İstanbul, Türkiye
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Özdemir Koyu H, Algül G, Kilicarslan Törüner E. Realities and ideals: Experiences and needs of pediatric oncology nurses in communication processes with children and their families at the end-of-life period: A photovoice qualitative study. Nurs Health Sci 2023; 25:685-699. [PMID: 37931643 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.13062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Effective communication in end-of-life care for pediatric cancer patients is crucial. Yet, limited research focuses on the communication experiences of pediatric oncology nurses during this period. This study aims to investigate the communication experiences and needs of these nurses with children and their families during the end-of-life period. A qualitative study design with photo voice methodology was followed. The research was conducted with 16 pediatric oncology nurses working in the pediatric oncology wards of a university hospital between January and May 2023. Data were collected the "Characteristic Information Form", "Semi-Structured Interview Form", and photovoice methodology. Data were analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis. Most of the nurses are at the undergraduate level, and their working experience in pediatric oncology wards ranges from 4 months to 17 years. Seven main themes emerged: Optimistic Communication-Interaction, Mindfulness, Active Coping, Behavioral Actions, Death Uncertainty Dilemma, Interpersonal and Environmental Factors, and Discrepancy between Ideals and Reality. The study sheds light on the importance of pediatric oncology nurses' ideals versus realities upstream approach in communicating with end-of-life children and their families, empowering pediatric oncology nurses on the journey to ideal end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Özdemir Koyu
- Nursing Faculty Department of Pediatric Nursing, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gökce Algül
- Health Research and Application Center, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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11
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van Teunenbroek KC, Kremer LCM, Verhagen AAE, Verheijden JMA, Rippen H, Borggreve BCM, Michiels EMC, Mulder RL. Palliative care for children: methodology for the development of a national clinical practice guideline. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:193. [PMID: 38041060 PMCID: PMC10691037 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01293-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Provision of paediatric palliative care for children with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions and their families is often complex. Guidelines can support professionals to deliver high quality care. Stakeholders expressed the need to update the first Dutch paediatric palliative care guideline with new scientific literature and new topics. This paper provides an overview of the methodology that is used for the revision of the Dutch paediatric palliative care guideline and a brief presentation of the identified evidence. METHODS The revised paediatric palliative care guideline was developed with a multidisciplinary guideline panel of 72 experts in paediatric palliative care and nine (bereaved) parents of children with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions. The guideline covered multiple topics related to (refractory) symptom treatment, advance care planning and shared-decision making, organisation of care, psychosocial care, and loss and bereavement. We established six main working groups that formulated 38 clinical questions for which we identified evidence by updating two existing systematic literature searches. The GRADE (CERQual) methodology was used for appraisal of evidence. Furthermore, we searched for additional literature such as existing guidelines and textbooks to deal with lack of evidence. RESULTS The two systematic literature searches yielded a total of 29 RCTs or systematic reviews of RCTs on paediatric palliative care interventions and 22 qualitative studies on barriers and facilitators of advance care planning and shared decision-making. We identified evidence for 14 out of 38 clinical questions. Furthermore, we were able to select additional literature (29 guidelines, two textbooks, and 10 systematic reviews) to deal with lack of evidence. CONCLUSIONS The revised Dutch paediatric palliative care guideline addresses many topics. However, there is limited evidence to base recommendations upon. Our methodology will combine the existing evidence in scientific literature, additional literature, expert knowledge, and perspectives of patients and their families to provide recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Paediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- University Medical Centre Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A A Eduard Verhagen
- Department of Paediatrics, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Hester Rippen
- Stichting Kind en Ziekenhuis, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Erna M C Michiels
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Renée L Mulder
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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12
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Nilsson ML, Engvall G, Enskär K, Edner A, Funkquist EL. Children's interaction with a dog when having Animal Assisted Activity in paediatric hospital care. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2023; 53:101807. [PMID: 37918336 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2023.101807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the interaction process between child and dog and how it possibly affects children's wellbeing during Animal Assisted Activity. Children have reported negative feelings such as fear and anxiety when being cared for in hospital and various kinds of complementary treatment can alleviate this. Different complementary treatments, including interaction with a dog, can create positive emotions and the treatment has been reported to have both physiological and psychological beneficial effects. However, there is a lack of studies describing children's interaction with a dog. This is an observational study, analysed from field notes with qualitative content analysis using a deductive approach. Children (n = 49) aged 3-18 years of age at a paediatric hospital voluntarily participated in the study. The results are reported on a six-level scale that describes the child-dog interaction: 1. Passive interaction, 2. One-way non-spoken communication, 3. Facilitating the interaction, 4. Interaction by activity encouragement, 5. Interaction initiated by the child, and 6. Interaction through deepened interplay. All children attained level five. Eighty-nine per cent attained level six and these children interacted fully, having a two-way deepened interplay with the dog. Further, when the interaction proceeded to a deepened interplay this affected the children positively both physically and emotionally. Structured Animal Assisted Activity with a dog that includes an introduction, an active part and a relaxing part is a suitable model to offer children in paediatric hospital care since the children attained a child-initiated interaction or interaction through deepened interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gunn Engvall
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Enskär
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ann Edner
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva-Lotta Funkquist
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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13
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Michinobu R, Yamamoto M, Sakai Y, Mikami T, Igarashi K, Iesato K, Takebayashi A, Hori T, Tsutsumi H, Tsugawa T. Parental Decision-Making in Cancer Therapy: A Long-Term Observational Study. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:1059-1066. [PMID: 36680345 DOI: 10.1177/00099228221150606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Parental participation in shared decision-making in children's cancer therapy is essential because parents advocate for and support their children's wishes. However, little research has focused on this issue. We conducted a longitudinal observational study of 7 parents whose child had received their first cancer treatment. We recorded parents' behaviors, interactions, and narratives in 1 pediatric ward and 2 outpatient clinics. The recordings were systematically conducted and thematically analyzed using variable-oriented and process-oriented modes to assess the causal relationships among phenomena. We found 4 themes describing the processes by which parents developed and participated in shared decision-making. The first 2 themes reflected the development of reciprocal parental relationships and parent-other child relationships. These 2 types of relationship generated mutual trust and a sense of solidarity among parents (the third theme). This, in turn, became the foundation for parents to share decision-making with health care professionals (the fourth theme).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoko Michinobu
- Faculty of Nursing & Social Welfare Sciences, Fukui Prefectural University, Fukui, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masaki Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Sakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
| | - Takahiro Mikami
- Division of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Keita Igarashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Hokkaido Medical Center for Child Health and Rehabilitation, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kotoe Iesato
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akira Takebayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Hori
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tsutsumi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Midorinosato, Saiseikai Otaru Hospital, Otaru, Japan
| | - Takeshi Tsugawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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14
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Cowfer B, Kang TI, McEvoy MT. Practical considerations for prognostic communication in pediatric cancer. Curr Probl Cancer 2023; 47:101009. [PMID: 37838548 DOI: 10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2023.101009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
High-quality communication is essential for the optimal care of children with cancer and their families. There are opportunities for pediatric oncologists to engage in clear and compassionate prognostic communication across the disease trajectory including at the time of diagnosis, disease recurrence or progression, and end of life. Contrary to previously held beliefs, prognostic disclosure supports parental hope and meets the needs and expectations of families who prefer honest conversations about prognosis. These communication encounters can be challenging with many oncologists having little training in this important skill. In this summary, we aim to provide practical guidance for prognostic communication in pediatric cancer across the illness trajectory giving phrases we have found helpful including a brief overview of some published communication frameworks utilized in the care of pediatric oncology patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Cowfer
- Division of Palliative Care, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Tammy I Kang
- Division of Palliative Care, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.
| | - Matthew T McEvoy
- Division of Palliative Care, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
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15
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Rosa WE, Levoy K, Doyon K, McDarby M, Ferrell BR, Parker PA, Sanders JJ, Epstein AS, Sullivan DR, Rosenberg AR. Integrating evidence-based communication principles into routine cancer care. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:566. [PMID: 37682354 PMCID: PMC10805358 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08020-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The global incidence of cancer and available cancer-directed therapy options is increasing rapidly, presenting patients and clinicians with more complex treatment decisions than ever before. Despite the dissemination of evidence-based communication training tools and programs, clinicians cite barriers to employing effective communication in cancer care (e.g., discomfort of sharing serious news, concern about resource constraints to meet stated needs). We present two composite cases with significant communication challenges to guide clinicians through an application of evidence-based approaches to achieve quality communication. METHODS Composite cases, communication skills blueprint, and visual conceptualization. RESULTS High-stakes circumstances in each case are described, including end-of-life planning, advanced pediatric illness, strong emotions, and health inequities. Three overarching communication approaches are discussed: (1) content selection and delivery; (2) rapport development; and (3) empathic connection. The key takeaways following each case provide succinct summaries of challenges encountered and approaches used. A communication blueprint from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Communication Skills Training Program and Research Laboratory has been adapted and is comprised of strategies, skills, process tasks, and sample talking points. A visually concise tool - the Communication Blueprint Traffic Circle - illustrates these concepts and demonstrates the iterative, holistic, and agile considerations inherent to effective communication. CONCLUSION Evidence-based communication is foundational to person-centeredness, associated with improved clinician and patient/caregiver outcomes, and can be integrated throughout routine oncology care. When used by clinicians, evidence-based communication can improve patient and caregiver experiences and assist in ensuring goal-concordant cancer care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Kristin Levoy
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Center for Aging Research (IUCAR), Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Meghan McDarby
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Patricia A Parker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin J Sanders
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Andrew S Epstein
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Donald R Sullivan
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care (CIVIC), Portland-Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Sisk BA, Bereitschaft C, Enloe M, Schulz G, Mack J, DuBois J. Oncology Clinicians' Perspectives on Online Patient Portal Use in Pediatric and Adolescent Cancer. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2023; 7:e2300124. [PMID: 37972324 DOI: 10.1200/cci.23.00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Online patient portals represent widely available communication tools in pediatric oncology. Previous studies have not evaluated clinicians' perspectives on portal use, including issues related to access to adolescents' portals. METHODS We performed semistructured interviews with physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) who care for children or adolescents with cancer. We performed thematic analysis of benefits, problems, and accommodations related to portal use in oncology. RESULTS We interviewed 29 physicians and 24 APPs representing 26 institutions. Participants described five themes of benefits provided by portals: (1) empowering adolescents, (2) improving efficiency and accuracy of communication, (3) promoting open and adaptive communication, (4) supporting parents in managing care, and (5) bolstering clinical relationships. Participants described eight themes of problems caused by portal access: (1) creating emotional distress and confusion, (2) increasing workload and changing workflows, (3) threatening adolescent confidentiality, (4) adolescents lacking interest to engage, (5) diminishing clinical relationship, (6) misusing portal messages, (7) diminishing quality of sensitive documentation, and (8) parents losing access to adolescents' records. Participants described three themes related to accommodations they made as a result of portal access: (1) modifying note writing, (2) providing anticipatory guidance about viewing results, and (3) adapting workflows. Some portal functions created either benefits or problems depending on the clinical context. CONCLUSION Oncologists identified benefits and problems created by portal use, which were sometimes in tension, depending on the clinical context. To make portals useful, we must take steps to mitigate risks while preserving functionality for parents and adolescent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | | | - Madi Enloe
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Ginny Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Jennifer Mack
- Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - James DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
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Boeriu E, Borda A, Miclea E, Boeriu AI, Vulcanescu DD, Bagiu IC, Horhat FG, Kovacs AF, Avram CR, Diaconu MM, Vlaicu LF, Sirb OD, Arghirescu ST. Prognosis Communication in Pediatric Oncology: A Systematic Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:972. [PMID: 37371204 DOI: 10.3390/children10060972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While communication plays an important role in medicine, it also often represents a challenge when the topic at hand is the prognosis of a high-risk condition. When it comes to pediatric oncology, the challenge becomes even greater for physicians who have to adapt their discourse to both the child and their family. METHODS Following the PRISMA guidelines, an advanced search on PubMed, Scopus and the Cochrane Library was performed, from 1 January 2017 to 31 October 2022. Demographic data for caregivers, pediatric patients and physicians were extracted, as well as diagnosis, prognosis, presence at discussion, emotional states and impact on life, trust, decision roles, communication quality and other outcomes. RESULTS A total of 21 articles were analyzed. Most studies (17) focused on caregivers, while only seven and five studies were focused on children and physicians, respectively. Most parents reported high trust in their physicians (73.01%), taking the leading role in decision making (48%), moderate distress levels (46.68%), a strong desire for more information (78.64%), receiving high-quality information (56.71%) and communication (52.73%). Most children were not present at discussions (63.98%); however, their desire to know more was expressed in three studies. Moreover, only two studies observed children being involved in decision making. Most physicians had less than 20 years of experience (55.02%) and reported the use of both words and statistics (47.3%) as a communication method. CONCLUSIONS Communication research is focused more on caregivers, yet children may understand more than they seem capable of and want to be included in the conversation. More studies should focus on and quantify the opinions of children and their physicians. In order to improve the quality of communication, healthcare workers should receive professional training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estera Boeriu
- Department of Pediatrics, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Oncology and Haematology, "Louis Turcanu" Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iosif Nemoianu Street 2, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Borda
- Department of Oncology and Haematology, "Louis Turcanu" Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iosif Nemoianu Street 2, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Eunice Miclea
- Department of Oncology and Haematology, "Louis Turcanu" Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iosif Nemoianu Street 2, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Amalia-Iulia Boeriu
- Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Department, Klinikum Rechts der Isar Der Technischen, Universitat Munchen, Ismaninger Street 22, 81675 Munchen, Germany
| | - Dan Dumitru Vulcanescu
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (MULTI-REZ), Microbiology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Cristina Bagiu
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (MULTI-REZ), Microbiology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin George Horhat
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (MULTI-REZ), Microbiology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Flavia Kovacs
- Department of Oncology, Onco-Help Association, Ciprian Porumbescu Street 56-59, 300239 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cecilia Roberta Avram
- Department of Residential Training and Post-University Courses, "Vasile Goldis" Western University, Liviu Rebreanu Street 86, 310414 Arad, Romania
| | - Mircea Mihai Diaconu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Luiza Florina Vlaicu
- Department of Social Assistance, Faculty of Sociology and Psychology, Western University, Vasile Parvan Boulevard 4, 300223 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Otniel Dorian Sirb
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (MULTI-REZ), Microbiology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Eduard Pamfil Psychiatry Clinic Timisoara, Iancu Vacarescu Street 21, 300425 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Smaranda Teodora Arghirescu
- Department of Pediatrics, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Oncology and Haematology, "Louis Turcanu" Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iosif Nemoianu Street 2, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
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18
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Terrasson J, Rault A, Seigneur É, Brédart A, Dolbeault S. [The announcement of treatment resistance in pediatric oncology: Understanding parents' experiences and influencing factors with a mixed methodology]. Bull Cancer 2023:S0007-4551(23)00160-1. [PMID: 37100684 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2023.03.016] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The announcement of a resistance to treatment in pediatric oncology occurs within the framework of an established parent-pediatrician relationship. The aim of this study was to understand the parents' experience of this announcement and the relational and communicational factors likely to impact it. METHOD A mixed-methods study was conducted in a pediatric oncology department with 15 parents of a child with treatment-resistant cancer, with an average age of 40.8years. The parents completed three questionnaires to assess their anxiety and depression (HADS) and their information needs (EORTC - QLQ Info 25 and PTPQ). Semi-structured interviews were conducted and a content analysis was performed. RESULTS The majority of parents have "suspected" or "proven" anxiety and/or depressive disorders. The experience of this announcement was influenced by the quality of the parent-pediatrician relationship, the perceived quality of the management, the anticipation of the announcement, the context of the announcement, and the experience of previous announcements. The parents interviewed were very satisfied with the informational exchanges. This satisfaction was underpinned by honest communication and by the responsiveness and availability of the pediatricians. DISCUSSION The establishment of a relationship of trust between the family and the pediatrician throughout the course of care plays a major role in the parents' experience of the announcement of resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Terrasson
- PSL université Paris, équipe SHARE Institut Curie, unité de psycho-oncologie, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Aude Rault
- PSL université Paris, équipe SHARE Institut Curie, unité de psycho-oncologie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Étienne Seigneur
- PSL université Paris, équipe SHARE Institut Curie, unité de psycho-oncologie, 75005 Paris, France; Institut Curie, centre SIREDO - Soins Innovation, Recherche en oncologie de l'Enfant, de l'aDOlescent et de l'adulte jeune, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Anne Brédart
- PSL université Paris, équipe SHARE Institut Curie, unité de psycho-oncologie, 75005 Paris, France; Université de Paris, laboratoire psychopathologie et processus de santé, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Sylvie Dolbeault
- PSL université Paris, équipe SHARE Institut Curie, unité de psycho-oncologie, 75005 Paris, France; University Paris Saclay, Inserm, Centre de recherche en épidémiologie et santé des populations (CESP), 94807 Villejuif, France
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Schwartz-Attias I, Krulik T, Amit Aharon A, Ronen T. Perceptions of children with cancer and their parents regarding illness: A qualitative study. J Pediatr Nurs 2023; 71:32-41. [PMID: 36966727 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The current study aims to understand inter-generational differences and similarities in the perception of illness and the available resources employed by children with cancer and their parents. METHODS A qualitative descriptive research design was utilized, including face-to-face interviews with 108 parent-child dyads where the children had been diagnosed with cancer, by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. The participants were recruited from two pediatric hematology-oncology wards in two different hospitals in Israel. The data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis. Debriefing and inter-rater reliability methods were utilized. FINDINGS Similarities were found between the coping of children and parents with the illness. Children with cancer and their parents can find bright sides and support for coping, such as different perspectives on life, faith, positive thoughts, and family assistance. Most of the differences between the perceptions of children and parents relate to the difficulties encountered. While parents are mainly concerned about the long-term impact, children contend with ordeals involving the here-and-now. CONCLUSIONS Parents and children demonstrate a dual process in their challenging journey. Positive and facilitating factors are intertwined with the aggravating aspects, which exist side by side. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Nursing staff should advise children and their parents to attain and use external and internal sources of support found in this study to help them deal with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irit Schwartz-Attias
- Meir Academic Nursing School, Meir Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, 14 Kaplan St. Petah, Tikva, Israel.
| | - Tamar Krulik
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Steyer School of Health Professions, Department of Nursing, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Anat Amit Aharon
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Steyer School of Health Professions, Department of Nursing, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Tammie Ronen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
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Kerr AM, Bereitschaft C, Duty KM, Sisk BA. Navigating care for rare diseases: Caregiver and patient advice for families and clinicians managing care for vascular malformations. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 107:107569. [PMID: 36410314 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Families affected by rare diseases face many challenges finding adequate care and often report poor communication with clinicians. In the current study, we explore patient and caregiver advice for families and clinicians in the context of complex vascular malformations (VMs), a condition that is frequently misunderstood and misdiagnosed. METHODS We performed semi-structured interviews with 21 adult patients with complex VMs and 24 caregivers of children with VMs. We analyzed the transcripts using thematic analysis. RESULTS Participants advised patients and caregivers to advocate for care, address mental and emotional well-being, seek social support, and promote self-management and self-care. Participants advised clinicians to show care and concern, show commitment, empower and validate, communicate information clearly, address mental/emotional well-being, acknowledge the broad impact of disease and treatment, acknowledge your limitations, work as a team, and commit to learning. CONCLUSION Participants' advice revealed challenges related to family-centered communication and patient and caregiver quality of life and demonstrated the importance of self-advocacy and social support. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The result of this study can help newly-diagnosed families overcome challenges related to care and communication. Clinicians can also use the results to support families by offering them our accompanying handout to validate families' experiences and relay this advice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Kerr
- Department of Primary Care, Ohio University, Dublin, OH 43016, USA.
| | | | - Kayla M Duty
- School of Communication, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA
| | - Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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21
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Bourque C, Dumont E, Martisella M, Daoust L, Cantin S, Levasseur MC, de Steur Q, Duval M, Marquis MA, Sultan S. L’expérience à long terme des parents endeuillés en oncologie pédiatrique : une étude rétrospective de 2 à 18 ans après le décès d’un enfant. PSYCHO-ONCOLOGIE 2023. [DOI: 10.3166/pson-2022-0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Objectifs : Cette étude rétrospective et transversale vise à comprendre l’expérience à long terme des parents endeuillés en oncologie pédiatrique et les différences du deuil parental en fonction du genre.
Matériel et méthodes : Un questionnaire multisectionnel coconstruit avec des cliniciens et intervenants en suivi de deuil a été tenu en ligne en 2018 et 2019. Les participants au sondage étaient des parents dont l’enfant était décédé au service d’hématologie-oncologie du CHU Sainte-Justine 2 à 18 ans auparavant. Des sections spécifiques sur les réactions, les changements et les souvenirs ont fait l’objet d’analyses descriptives.
Résultats : Les réponses de 48 parents ont été analysées. Les résultats indiquent que les mères ont tendance à modifier certaines de leurs activités sociales, alors que les pères cherchent plutôt à retrouver leurs habitudes. Les réactions initialement fortes des parents s’atténuent au fil du temps sans disparaître, en particulier la tristesse et les troubles du sommeil. Les parents ont des souvenirs apaisants des interactions et des soins reçus des intervenants en milieux clinique et communautaire même plusieurs années après le décès de leur enfant.
Conclusion : L’offre de soutien psychosocial communautaire et professionnel à long terme est pertinente, de même aux besoins des couples et aux besoins individuels des parents en fonction du genre.
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22
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Sisk BA, Keenan MA, Schulz GL, Bakitas M, Currie ER, Gilbertson-White S, Lindley LC, Roeland EJ, Mack JW. Bereaved Caregivers Perspectives of Negative Communication Experiences Near the End of Life for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2022; 11:498-505. [PMID: 34870475 PMCID: PMC9595604 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: High-quality communication is a standard of palliative care for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. Yet, few studies have characterized the negative communication experiences of AYAs near the end of life (EOL). Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of 27 qualitative interviews with bereaved caregivers of AYAs with cancer who died between 2013 and 2016 at 1 of 3 sites. Interviews focused on barriers to optimal EOL care for AYAs. We used thematic analysis using iterative consensus coding to analyze transcripts. Results: Participants were predominantly white (85%), non-Hispanic (93%), and female (74%). Half of the participants were bereaved parents, and 37% were bereaved partners or spouses. Overall, 23/27 (85%) caregivers described at least one negative communication experience related to one of three themes: (1) Insensitivity to patients' needs, preferences, and values; (2) Insufficient discussions of prognosis and/or EOL; and (3) Loss of support from the clinical team near EOL. Both clinician- and patient-related factors contributed to limited EOL discussions. Lack of care continuity related to both clinician factors and systems of care that required new or changing clinical care teams near the EOL. Conclusions: Caregivers report a desire for clinician sensitivity to their needs and values, information about the future, and longitudinal connections with individual clinicians. Clinicians might improve caregivers' EOL experiences by eliciting patient preferences, engaging in EOL discussions, adapting to the AYA's developmental and emotional needs, and demonstrating a commitment to AYAs and caregivers as they approach the EOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medicine, Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Megan A. Keenan
- Department of Medicine, Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ginny L. Schulz
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Marie Bakitas
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Erin R. Currie
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Lisa C. Lindley
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Eric J. Roeland
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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23
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Gillipelli SR, Kaye EC, Garza M, Ferrara G, Rodriguez M, Soberanis Vasquez DJ, Mendez Aceituno A, Antillón‐Klussmann F, Gattuso JS, Mandrell BN, Baker JN, Rodriguez‐Galindo C, Agulnik A, Graetz DE. Pediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS) improve provider-family communication from the provider perspective in pediatric cancer patients experiencing clinical deterioration. Cancer Med 2022; 12:3634-3643. [PMID: 36128882 PMCID: PMC9939098 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication between providers and patients' families is an integral part of clinical care. Family concern is a validated component of Pediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS); however, little is known about the impact of PEWS on provider-family communication. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 83 ward and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) providers involved in the care of patients with deterioration at two pediatric oncology hospitals of different resource levels: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (n = 42) in the United States and Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica (UNOP, n = 41) in Guatemala. Interviews were conducted in the participants' native language (English or Spanish), transcribed, and translated into English. Transcripts were coded by two researchers and analyzed for thematic content surrounding family communication and concern. RESULTS All participants recognized patients' families as a valuable part of the care team, particularly during events requiring escalation of care. Perceived barriers to communication included limited time spent at the bedside, and, at UNOP, language and literacy challenges which occasionally limited providers' ability to assess family concern and involve families in patient care. Despite these barriers, providers perceived PEWS improved communication by facilitating more interaction with families, allowing for relationship-building, anticipatory guidance, and destigmatization of the PICU. PEWS assessments also allowed families to contribute to identification of deterioration. CONCLUSIONS PEWS improve the quality of communication between providers and families by providing more opportunities for interaction, building relationships, and trust. These findings further support the use of PEWS in the care of children with cancer in hospitals of all resource-levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinithya R. Gillipelli
- Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA,Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Erica C. Kaye
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative CareSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Marcela Garza
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Gia Ferrara
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Mario Rodriguez
- Department of OncologyUnidad Nacional de Oncología PediátricaGuatemala CityGuatemala
| | | | | | - Federico Antillón‐Klussmann
- Department of OncologyUnidad Nacional de Oncología PediátricaGuatemala CityGuatemala,School of MedicineFrancisco Marroquin UniversityGuatemala CityGuatemala
| | - Jami S. Gattuso
- Department of Nursing ResearchSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Belinda N. Mandrell
- Department of Nursing ResearchSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Justin N. Baker
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative CareSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | | | - Asya Agulnik
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Dylan E. Graetz
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
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24
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Terrasson J, Rault A, Seigneur É, El Mellah L, Dolbeault S, Brédart A. How do you tell parents whose child has cancer that the treatment has failed: A qualitative study on pediatric oncologists' practices. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 40:382-394. [PMID: 36094797 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2022.2120936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Announcing drug resistance is complex for pediatric oncologists because they have to provide a substantial amount of medical information while taking a major emotional impact on the parents into account. This study aimed to understand how these announcements are currently conducted and how pediatric oncologists adapt the information given to each family in situations where there is resistance to treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 pediatric oncologists (66.7% women, aged 44.7 years on average). Interviews were audio-recorded and a thematic content analysis was conducted. Announcements of drug resistance are stressful, as they are not well codified, difficult to anticipate, and pediatric oncologists have many issues about how best to behave and which words to choose. The majority of them believe that the severity, or even the incurability of the disease, and the offer of a therapeutic alternative are essential components of the information to pass on. Pediatric oncologists describe how they adapt their communication to each family, particularly in relation to parents' questions, and also to their reactions during the announcement. They also need to adapt to the prior acquaintance they may have with the families, and to previous exchanges. Finally, pediatric oncologists acknowledge their subjectivity when estimating the parents need in terms of information. Understanding the course of these announcements gives us another point of view at the issues involved in this announcement. Proposals to support pediatric oncologists in this difficult moment can be suggested: communication support tool, work in pairs and discussion group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Terrasson
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Aude Rault
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Étienne Seigneur
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, SIREDO Oncology Center, Paris, France
| | - Leïla El Mellah
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Dolbeault
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Research Center in Epidemiology and Health Population, INSERM, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Anne Brédart
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Psychopathology and Health Process Laboratory, University of Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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25
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Factors affecting pathways to care for children and adolescents with complex vascular malformations: parental perspectives. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:271. [PMID: 35840977 PMCID: PMC9287854 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02432-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complex vascular malformations (VMs) are rare disorders that can cause pain, coagulopathy, disfigurement, asymmetric growth, and disability. Patients with complex VMs experience misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, delayed or inappropriate treatments, and worsened health. Given the potential consequences of delaying expert care, we must identify the factors that impede or facilitate this access to care.
Results We performed semi-structured interviews with 24 parents (21 mothers; 3 fathers; median age = 42.5 years) of children with complex VMs and overgrowth disorders living in the US, recruited through two patient advocacy groups – CLOVES Syndrome Community, and Klippel-Trenaunay Support Group. We performed thematic analysis to assess parental perspectives on barriers and facilitators to accessing expert care. We identified 11 factors, representing 6 overarching themes, affecting families’ ability to access and maintain effective care for their child: individual characteristics (clinician behaviors and characteristics, parent behaviors and characteristics), health care system (availability of specialist multidisciplinary teams, care coordination and logistics, insurance and financial issues, treatments and services), clinical characteristics (accuracy and timing of diagnosis, features of clinical presentation), social support networks, scientific progress, and luck and privilege. Additionally, access to information about VMs and VM care was a crosscutting theme affecting each of these factors. These factors influenced both the initial access to care and the ongoing maintenance of care for children with VMs. Conclusion Parents of children with VMs report multiple factors that facilitate or impede their ability to provide their child with optimal care. These factors represent possible targets for future interventions to improve care delivery for families affected by VMs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-022-02432-4.
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26
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Khandpur M, Kumar K, Kumar S, Mehrotra D, Mehra P. A single-blinded assessment of the effect of communication on psychological burden among oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorder patients. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2022; 12:427-430. [PMID: 35664948 PMCID: PMC9157209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Lack of communication begets distress in patients and often hampers patient care. This study aims to assess the effect of communication on psychological distress among patients with Oral Cancer (OC) and Oral Potentially Malignant Disorder (OPMD). Methods This is a prospective single-arm study wherein the psychological burden in terms of depression, anxiety, and stress was evaluated in 120 patients through Beck's anxiety inventory, Beck's depression inventory, and perceived stress scale respectively when they were diagnosed with OPMD or OC. All patients were then communicated and informed about their disease through an audiovisual mode and their queries were resolved. Their psychological status was re-evaluated 15 min after this communication. Results Wilcoxon signed ranks test revealed a statistically significant decline in the scores of each domain for both OC and OPMD post communication. When OC and OPMD were compared, a statistically significant difference was observed for only depression and anxiety domains. Conclusion Audiovisual communication by healthcare professionals reduces the psychological burden of patients and is immensely useful in providing tailored information to the patients and their families. It is recommended to initiate such communication set ups at the waiting area of all outpatient departments as a good practice, where detailed tailored information can be provided to the patients. Practice implications The intervention used in this study was not time-consuming and expensive, and can be used by the clinicians or health professional in their clinical practice to improve upon their treatment outcome. However, it should not be considered as a substitute to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mani Khandpur
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Kapila Kumar
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Department of Health Research Multidisciplinary Research Unit, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Divya Mehrotra
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Payal Mehra
- Department of Communication, Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow, UP, India
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27
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Sisk BA, Keenan M, Goodman MS, Servin AE, Yaeger LH, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Racial and ethnic disparities in communication study enrollment for young people with cancer: A descriptive analysis of the literature. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:2067-2073. [PMID: 34991915 PMCID: PMC9203904 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the racial and ethnic diversity of study participants in recent pediatric cancer communication literature. METHODS We systematically searched for communication studies in pediatric oncology published between January 2018 and September 2020, limiting analysis to US studies. We considered race and ethnicity as separate categories in our analysis. Two authors screened studies and abstracted characteristics of race and ethnicity reporting and enrollment. RESULTS Of 98 articles included in this analysis, many studies failed to report participants' race (21/98) and ethnicity (40/98). Most studies ascertained race and ethnicity by self-report (51/98); 25 studies did not describe how they ascertained race and ethnicity. White participants were overrepresented in studies relative to the US population (median 80% in studies vs 72% in 2020 US census). Racial and ethnic minorities were underrepresented (Black: 7% vs 14%; Asian: 4% vs 7%; Pacific Islander: 0% vs 0.5%; Native American: 0.5% vs 3%; Hispanic 8% vs 19%). CONCLUSION Communication literature in pediatric oncology underrepresents all racial and ethnic minority populations and is inconsistent in the reporting of race and ethnicity. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future work should follow best practices to ensure this literature adequately represents the experiences of all families in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Megan Keenan
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melody S Goodman
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Argentina E Servin
- Department of Medicine, University of California - San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lauren H Yaeger
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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28
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Benini F, Avagnina I, Giacomelli L, Papa S, Mercante A, Perilongo G. Pediatric Palliative Care in Oncology: Basic Principles. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081972. [PMID: 35454879 PMCID: PMC9031296 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary About 4 million children with an oncological disease worldwide require palliative care due to the nature of their condition. The WHO defines pediatric palliative care (PPC) as the prevention and relief of suffering in patients with life-threatening or life-limiting disease and their families. PPC relies on the comprehensive and multidisciplinary management of the child and the family’s physical, psychological, spiritual, and social needs. Importantly, PPC begins at the diagnosis of incurability, or supposed incurability, and continues regardless of whether the patient receives any oncological treatment. As such, PPC is a general approach continuing over the entire disease trajectory, which includes, but is not limited to, end-of-life care. This review addresses the value of integrating PPC in treating children with cancer, focusing on the basic principles of PPC and its application in pediatric oncology. Abstract About 4 million children with an oncological disease worldwide require pediatric palliative care (PPC) due to the nature of their condition. PPC is not limited to end-of-life care; it is a general approach continuing over the entire disease trajectory, regardless of whether the patient receives any oncological treatment. This review addresses the value of integrating PPC in treating children with cancer, focusing on the basic principles of PPC and its application in pediatric oncology. Moreover, models for PPC implementation in oncology, end-of-life care, and advanced care planning are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Benini
- Paediatric Palliative Care, Pain Service, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, 35127 Padua, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Irene Avagnina
- Paediatric Palliative Care, Pain Service, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, 35127 Padua, Italy;
| | | | | | - Anna Mercante
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, 35127 Padua, Italy; (A.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Giorgio Perilongo
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, 35127 Padua, Italy; (A.M.); (G.P.)
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Sisk BA, Keenan M, Schulz GL, Kaye E, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Interdependent functions of communication with adolescents and young adults in oncology. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29588. [PMID: 35092342 PMCID: PMC8860882 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication is central to patient-centered care in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer. Previously, we developed a functional communication model from perspectives of parents whose children had cancer. No prior studies have established a framework for the breadth of communication functions in AYA oncology. We aimed to identify these communication functions from AYAs' perspectives. METHODS Semistructured interviews with 37 AYAs with cancer aged 12-24 years at diagnosis from two pediatric centers during treatment or survivorship. We performed thematic analysis, using a functional communication model as an a priori framework, but remaining open to novel themes. RESULTS We identified eight interdependent functions of communication in AYA oncology that were consistent with those previously identified among parents: building relationships, exchanging information, enabling family self-management, making decisions, managing uncertainty, responding to emotions, providing validation, and supporting hope. AYAs held varying preferences for engagement in different communication functions. While some AYAs preferred very passive or active roles, most AYAs described an interdependent process of communication involving them, their parents, and their clinicians. Parents often served as a conduit and buffer of communication between the AYA and clinician. CONCLUSIONS Interviews with AYAs provided evidence for eight interdependent communication functions in AYA oncology. Many AYAs described the integral role of parents in communication regardless of their age. Clinicians can use this framework to better understand and fulfill the communication needs of AYA patients. Future work should aim to measure and intervene upon these functions to improve communication experiences for AYAs with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Department of Medicine, Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Megan Keenan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ginny L. Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Erica Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Justin N. Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James M. DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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30
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Sisk BA, Baldwin K, Parsons M, DuBois JM. Ethical, regulatory, and practical barriers to COVID-19 research: A stakeholder-informed inventory of concerns. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265252. [PMID: 35324933 PMCID: PMC8947496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has caused death and economic injury around the globe. The urgent need for COVID-19 research created new ethical, regulatory, and practical challenges. The next public health emergency could be worse than COVID-19. We must learn about these challenges from the experiences of researchers and Research Ethics Committee professionals responsible for these COVID-19 studies to prepare for the next emergency. Materials and methods We conducted an online survey to identify the ethical, oversight, and regulatory challenges of conducting COVID-19 research during the early pandemic, and proposed solutions for overcoming these barriers. Using criterion-based, convenience sampling, we invited researchers who proposed or conducted COVID-19 research to complete an anonymous, online survey about their experiences. We administered a separate but related survey to Institutional Review Board (IRB) professionals who reviewed COVID-19 research studies. The surveys included open-ended and demographic items. We performed inductive content analysis on responses to open-ended survey questions. Results IRB professionals (n = 143) and researchers (n = 211) described 19 types of barriers to COVID-19 research, related to 5 overarching categories: policy and regulatory, biases and misperceptions, institutional and inter-institutional conflicts, risks of harm, and pressure of the pandemic. Researchers and IRB professionals described 8 categories of adaptations and solutions to these challenges: enacting technological solutions; developing protocol-based solutions; disposition and team management; establishing and communicating appropriate standards; national guidance and leadership; maintaining high standards; prioritizing studies before IRB review; and identifying and incorporating experts. Discussion and conclusions This inventory of challenges represents ongoing barriers to studying the current pandemic, and they represent a risk to research during future public health emergencies. Delays in studies of a pandemic during a pandemic threatens the health and safety of the public. We urge the development of a national working group to address these issues before the next public health emergency arises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United State of America
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Kari Baldwin
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Meredith Parsons
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - James M. DuBois
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Measuring communication quality in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Pediatr Res 2022; 91:816-819. [PMID: 33854213 PMCID: PMC9000989 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-021-01522-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High quality communication between providers and parents of seriously ill neonatal patients is vital and yet poorly understood. Feudtner summarized five challenges and seven priorities to the study and advancement of pediatric palliative care. Improvement of communication is a priority, while lack of specification and measurement of outcomes relevant to the pediatric population remains a challenge. Specifically, measurement of communication quality in pediatrics, and especially neonatology, is problematic. METHODS We conducted a focused review of this topic which we hope will serve to support further research. We reviewed the current literature in Pubmed and searched the Palliative Care Research Cooperative (PCRC) instrument library. RESULTS We found five validated instruments which met our criteria, relied on patient or surrogate report, and were developed to measure quality of communication and/or satisfaction with communication with adult patients or their surrogates. Our Pubmed search yielded 249 unique results, only two of which met our inclusion criteria. CONCLUSION We conclude that development and exhaustive testing of a validated, comprehensive measure of communication quality for the neonatal population is needed. Without such a measure, it will be difficult to advance the field and achieve high quality prognostic communication for the parents of seriously ill babies. IMPACT Measurement of communication quality in pediatrics, and especially neonatology, is problematic, understudied, and yet critical to the advancement of the field. There has not been an overview of existing measures of communication quality in the NICU published, nor has there been a comprehensive discussion of this important topic. Our paper provides such an overview and initiates such a discussion. We present a narrative review of existing measures of communication quality in the NICU in order to highlight the need for further study.
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Terrasson J, Seigneur É, Rault A, El Mellah L, Dolbeault S, Brédart A. The announcement of treatment resistance from the pediatric oncologist's point of view: a qualitative study. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 39:132-144. [PMID: 34392770 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2021.1956030] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Breaking bad news in pediatric oncology covers widely diverse clinical situations. The aim of this study was to highlight the specificities of the announcement of treatment resistance as perceived by pediatric oncologists, particularly in comparison with the disclosure of a cancer diagnosis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in two pediatric oncology departments in France, with 15 pediatric oncologists (66.7% were women, aged 44.7 years on average). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed and a thematic content analysis was conducted. Most pediatric oncologists reported emotional difficulties in announcing treatment resistance. Some of them mentioned a personal need to accept resistance to treatment and to mourn the child's chances of recovery, and reported feelings of medical failure. This disclosure was considered more difficult than the announcement of the cancer diagnosis because it was associated with less optimism and more complex and fewer therapeutic options. The attachment bond created with families in the course of treatment seemed to exacerbate the emotional difficulties associated with this announcement. In conclusion, resistance to treatment has an impact on prognosis. It makes it more uncertain. Its announcement for pediatric oncologists is a turning point that affects their initial optimistic perspective. Their emotional difficulties are accentuated by the attachment that has been created with the families. Focusing on difficulties experienced by pediatricians could help to improve parent-pediatrician communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Terrasson
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Étienne Seigneur
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, SIREDO Oncology Center, Paris, France
| | - Aude Rault
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Leïla El Mellah
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Dolbeault
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Research Center in Epidemiology and Health Population, INSERM, U1018, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Anne Brédart
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Psychopathology and Health Process Laboratory, University of Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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Graetz DE, Caceres-Serrano A, Radhakrishnan V, Salaverria CE, Kambugu JB, Sisk BA. A proposed global framework for pediatric cancer communication research. Cancer 2022; 128:1888-1893. [PMID: 35201609 PMCID: PMC9303244 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The authors introduce a functional communication framework that can be used for global pediatric cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan E Graetz
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.,Solid Tumor Division, Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Ana Caceres-Serrano
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | - Carmen E Salaverria
- Department of Psychology, Fundacion Ayudame a Vivir, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Joyce B Kambugu
- Department of Oncology, Uganda Cancer Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.,Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
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34
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Uber A, Ebelhar JS, Lanzel AF, Roche A, Vidal-Anaya V, Brock KE. Palliative Care in Pediatric Oncology and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:161-174. [DOI: 10.1007/s11912-021-01174-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Sisk BA, Schulz G, Kaye EC, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Conflicting goals and obligations: Tensions affecting communication in pediatric oncology. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:56-61. [PMID: 33992486 PMCID: PMC8978564 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the tensions experienced by clinicians and psychosocial professionals that affect communication in pediatric oncology. METHODS Ten focus groups with nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals at 2 US institutions. We analyzed transcripts using thematic analysis, assessing tensions experienced when communicating with parents. RESULTS We identified 5 themes of tensions, defined as challenges experienced when clinicians and psychosocial professionals are trying to achieve multiple conflicting goals or obligations while communicating: (1) Supporting parental hopes while providing honest opinions and information; (2) disclosing all possible outcomes while avoiding the creation of new worries or uncertainties; (3) building relationships while maintaining personal boundaries; (4) disclosing sensitive information while adhering to professional role and perceived authority; (5) validating parental beliefs or decisions while fulfilling obligation for honesty. Some tensions represented conflicts between different communication goals. Others represented conflicts between a communication goal and another obligation. CONCLUSION Clinicians and psychosocial professionals experience tensions that affect communication with parents in pediatric oncology. Some tensions might be addressed with interventions or education. Others will require further analysis to provide sufficient guidance to clinicians. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Unaddressed tensions might lead to poor communication and clinician burnout. Future work should explore solutions to these tensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ginny Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Erica C Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA; Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Sisk BA, Harvey K, Friedrich AB, Antes AL, Yaeger LH, Mack JW, DuBois J. Multilevel barriers and facilitators of communication in pediatric oncology: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29405. [PMID: 34662485 PMCID: PMC8875310 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Multiple factors can facilitate or impede the fulfillment of communication functions in pediatric cancer. In this systematic review, we evaluated 109 studies from the preceding 20 years that presented qualitative or quantitative evidence of barriers or facilitators to communication in pediatric cancer. Using a multilevel framework developed in our prior study, we then analyzed and categorized the levels of barriers and facilitators identified in included studies. The vast majority of studies focused on individual-level barriers, rather than team, organization/system, collaborating hospital, community, or policy-level barriers. Future studies should explore the full range of factors that affect communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.,Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kieandra Harvey
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Annie B. Friedrich
- Albert Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Alison L. Antes
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lauren H Yaeger
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; and Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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Kerr AM, Sisk BA. Unanswered questions and unmet needs: A call for communication research in vascular anomalies. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:2839-2842. [PMID: 33858723 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Kerr
- Department of Primary Care, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA.
| | - Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Darabos K, Berger AJ, Barakat LP, Schwartz LA. Cancer-Related Decision-Making Among Adolescents, Young Adults, Caregivers, and Oncology Providers. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:2355-2363. [PMID: 34382889 PMCID: PMC9198895 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211037654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Decision-making among adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA) is often complex, ongoing, and multifaceted, involving caregiver and oncology provider perspectives. Engagement in decision-making against the backdrop of normative developmental processes of acquiring autonomy and gaining independence contributes to the complexity of decision-making. Semi-structured qualitative interviews from 11 AYA and caregiver dyads and eight oncology providers examined decision-making processes with specific attention to the role of shared decision-making, cognitive and emotional processes, and coping with the decision-making experience. Five decision-making patterns were identified, with collaborative decision-making and AYA-driven decisions most commonly described. Utilizing hypothesis coding, AYA and caregivers explained how cognitive (i.e., pros/cons) and emotional (i.e., shock and fear of missing out) processes influenced cancer-related decisions. Coping strategies provided clarity and respite when engaged in decision-making. Our findings illuminate important implications for how to best support decision-making among AYA and caregivers, including the role oncology providers can play during decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Darabos
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Lamia P. Barakat
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lisa A. Schwartz
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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New Horizons for Effective Communication Using Mobile Technologies. Cancer Nurs 2021; 44:433-434. [PMID: 34694083 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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40
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Mcharo SK, Bally J, Spurr S. Nursing Presence in Pediatric Oncology: A Scoping Review. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2021; 39:99-113. [PMID: 34558334 DOI: 10.1177/10434542211041939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Nursing presence creates meaningful and trusting relationships that facilitate healing for the patient and enhances the nurse's clinical experience. Although nursing presence has been linked to better health outcomes especially in chronic illnesses and end-of-life, little is known about its contribution in pediatric oncology. Purpose: The purpose of this scoping review was to explore how nursing presence is understood and expressed in pediatric oncology. Methods: Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) framework was used to guide the review, with Clarke and Braun's (2013) thematic analysis process used for collating, summarizing, and reporting the results. Key search terms were developed for searches between January 1999 and July 2020 in CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Psych INFO databases. Initially, 4,357 studies were identified with a final sample of nine articles meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Gray literature retrieved from the search was used to inform the review. Findings: Most notably, there is a limited understanding of nursing presence in pediatric oncology setting. However, findings revealed five themes that can be identified with nursing presence: Being With or Being There, Therapeutic Relationships, Communication, Family-centered Approach, and Perceived Outcomes of Nursing Presence. Nurses in pediatric oncology are in an ideal position to provide nursing presence in order to improve the quality of care in pediatric oncology settings. Discussion: There is a need to establish a comprehensive evidence-based understanding of the construct of nursing presence in pediatric oncology that health care providers can utilize to enhance their clinical practice and health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon K Mcharo
- 7235College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Jill Bally
- 7235College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Shelley Spurr
- 7235College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
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41
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Sisk BA, Schulz GL, Blazin LJ, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Parental views on communication between children and clinicians in pediatric oncology: a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:4957-4968. [PMID: 33569673 PMCID: PMC8295182 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06047-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication is essential to providing family-centered care in pediatric oncology. Previously, we developed a functional model of communication between parents and clinicians. Prior research has not examined the domains and purposes of communication between children and clinicians. We explored parental perspectives to begin understanding this communication. METHODS Secondary analysis of semi-structured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer across 3 academic medical centers during treatment, survivorship, or bereavement. We employed semantic content analysis, using the functional model of parental communication as an a priori framework. RESULTS We identified 6 distinct functions of communication in child-clinician interactions: building relationships, promoting patient engagement, addressing emotions, exchanging information, managing uncertainty, and fostering hope. These communication functions were identified by parents of older (> 13 years old) and younger (< 12 years old) children, although the specific manifestations sometimes differed by age. Notably, age was not always an indicator of the child's communication needs. For example, some parents noted older children who did not want to discuss difficult topics, whereas other parent described younger children who wanted to know every detail. Two functions from the previous parental model of communication were absent from this analysis: supporting family self-management and making decisions. CONCLUSION Interviews with 80 parents provided evidence for 6 distinct functions of communication between children and clinicians. These functions apply to older and younger children, although specific manifestations might vary by age. This functional model provides a framework to guide clinicians' communication efforts and future communication research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4523 Clayton Avenue, Campus Box 8005, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Ginny L Schulz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4523 Clayton Avenue, Campus Box 8005, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Rost M, Mihailov E. In the name of the family? Against parents' refusal to disclose prognostic information to children. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2021; 24:421-432. [PMID: 33847853 PMCID: PMC8349339 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-021-10017-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Parents frequently attempt to shield their children from distressing prognostic information. Pediatric oncology providers sometimes follow parental request for non-disclosure of prognostic information to children, invoking what we call the stability of the family argument. They believe that if they inform the child about terminal prognosis despite parental wishes, cohesion and family structure will be severely hampered. In this paper, we argue against parental request for non-disclosure. Firstly, we present the stability of the family argument in more detail. We, then, set out the (conceptual, legal, systemic) entitativity of the family and the kind of value the stability of the family argument assumes, before we set on to critically evaluate the argument. Our analysis shows that disclosure of prognostic information to children does not necessarily destabilize the family to a greater extent than non-disclosure. In fact, a systemic perspective suggests that mediated disclosure is more likely to result in a (long-term) stability of the family than non-disclosure. It is in the interest of the family to resist the initial aversive reaction to delivering bad news. In the final part, we draw a set of recommendations on how to facilitate decision-making in face of parental request for non-disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Rost
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistr. 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Emilian Mihailov
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistr. 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Research Centre in Applied Ethics, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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Sisk BA, Erwin Neu A. Reflections on Communication and Care in Cancer. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2020-042283. [PMID: 34261808 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-042283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Divisions of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, and Bioethics Research Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri
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44
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Sisk BA, Keenan MA, Blazin LJ, Kaye E, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. "Don't be afraid to speak up": Communication advice from parents and clinicians of children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29052. [PMID: 33861026 PMCID: PMC8286806 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents and clinicians of children with cancer can provide advice to improve communication that reflects lessons learned through experience. We aimed to identify categories of communication advice offered to parents of children with cancer from clinicians and other parents. PROCEDURE (1) Semi-structured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer at three sites; (2) single-item, open-ended survey administered following 10 focus groups with 58 pediatric oncology clinicians at two sites. We asked participants for communication advice to parents, and analyzed responses using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Parents provided five categories of communication advice to other parents. Advocacy involved asking questions, communicating concerns, and speaking up for the child. Support involved pursuing self-care, seeking and accepting help, and identifying supportive communities. Managing information involved taking and organizing notes, remaining open to difficult truths, and avoiding inaccurate information. Partnership involved establishing open lines of communication with clinicians, making the family's values and priorities known, and trusting the clinical team. Engaging and supporting the child involved, understanding and incorporating the child's preferences and values, and creating a loving environment. Clinicians' advice addressed similar categories, although only one clinician described engaging and supporting the child. Furthermore, parental advice expanded beyond interactions with the clinical team, whereas clinician advice focused more on the role of clinicians. CONCLUSIONS Parents and clinicians of children with cancer provided five categories of communication advice. With these data, clinicians, health care organizations, support groups, and patient advocates could offer experience-informed advice to parents who are seeking information and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Megan A Keenan
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erica Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Sisk BA, Schulz GL, Kaye EC, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Clinicians' Perspectives on the Functions of Communication in Pediatric Oncology. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1545-1549. [PMID: 34255562 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0090] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents previously identified eight core functions of communication with clinicians in pediatric oncology. Objective: To determine clinicians' views on communication functions in pediatric oncology. Design: In 10 focus groups with 59 clinicians at two academic centers, we asked open-ended questions about communication goals and purposes. Then we presented definitions of eight communication functions previously described by parents and explored clinicians' perspectives. Setting/Subjects: We performed separate focus groups for nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals. Measurements: Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts. Results: Clinicians identified six functions in response to open-ended questions. After reviewing the eight functions described by parents, all clinicians agreed with the framework: building relationships, exchanging information, making decisions, enabling family self-management, managing uncertainty, responding to emotions, supporting hope, and providing validation. Conclusions: Pediatric oncology clinicians corroborated this functional communication framework. Clinicians and researchers can utilize this framework to guide care and research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ginny L Schulz
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Erica C Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Division of Population Sciences, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Graetz D, Rivas S, Fuentes L, Cáceres-Serrano A, Ferrara G, Antillon-Klussmann F, Metzger M, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Mack JW. The evolution of parents' beliefs about childhood cancer during diagnostic communication: a qualitative study in Guatemala. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2020-004653. [PMID: 34039587 PMCID: PMC8160167 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-004653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatalistic cancer beliefs may contribute to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes, including treatment abandonment, for children with cancer. This study explored Guatemalan parents' cancer beliefs during initial paediatric cancer communication, and the sociocultural and contextual factors that influence these beliefs. METHODS Twenty families of children with cancer were included in this study. We audio-recorded psychosocial conversations with psychologists and diagnostic conversations with oncologists, then conducted semi-structured interviews with parents to explore the evolution of their cancer beliefs. Audio-recordings were transcribed and translated from Spanish into English, with additional review in both languages by bilingual team members. All 60 transcripts were thematically analysed using a priori and novel codes. RESULTS Guatemalan parents' beliefs evolve as they learn about cancer through various sources. Sources of information external to the cancer centre, including prior experiences with cancer, media exposure, community discussion and clinical encounters, contribute to pre-existing beliefs. Many parents' pre-existing cancer beliefs are fatalistic; some are influenced by Mayan spirituality. Sources internal to the cancer centre include psychologists and oncologists, other providers, other patients and families. Psychologists acknowledge pre-existing beliefs and deliver cancer education using verbal explanations and hand-drawings. Oncologists provide diagnostic information and outline treatment plans. Both support hope by providing a path toward cure. Parents' lived experience is a culmination of sources and simultaneously independent. Ultimately most parents arrive at an understanding of cancer that is consistent with an allopathic medical model and offers optimism about outcomes. CONCLUSION An interdisciplinary communication process that includes cancer education, is attentive to pre-existing beliefs, and supports hope may encourage acceptance of the allopathic medical model and need for treatment. Providers in settings of all resource levels may be able to use these techniques to support cross-cultural cancer communication, reduce treatment abandonment and improve therapy adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Graetz
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Silvia Rivas
- Department of Palliative Care, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Lucia Fuentes
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Ana Cáceres-Serrano
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Gia Ferrara
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Federico Antillon-Klussmann
- Department of Oncology, Universidad Francisco Marroquin Facultad de Medicina, Guatemala City, Guatemala.,Department of Oncology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Monika Metzger
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Departments of Pediatric Oncology and Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Providing Palliative and Hospice Care to Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. Semin Oncol Nurs 2021; 37:151166. [PMID: 34175165 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2021.151166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe palliative, concurrent, and hospice care in pediatric oncology in the United States (US), we present a clinical scenario illustrating palliative and hospice care, including eligibility for concurrent care, insurance coverage and billing, barriers to accessing quality pediatric palliative and hospice care, and implications for oncology nursing practice. DATA SOURCES Peer-reviewed articles, clinical practice guidelines, professional organizations, and expert clinical opinion examining pediatric oncology, palliative care, and hospice care. CONCLUSION Understanding the goals of palliative and hospice care and the differences between them is important in providing holistic, goal-directed care. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Oncology nurses play a pivotal role in supporting the goals of pediatric palliative care and hospice care and in educating patients and their families. Nurses form trusting relationships with pediatric oncology patients and their families and are in a position to advocate for best palliative care practices as disease progresses to end of life, including when appropriate concurrent care or hospice.
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Sisk BA, Friedrich AB, DuBois J, Mack JW. Characteristics of uncertainty in advanced pediatric cancer conversations. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:1066-1074. [PMID: 33109428 PMCID: PMC8052385 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the initiation, response, and content of communication about uncertainty in advanced pediatric cancer. METHODS Qualitative analysis of 35 audio-recorded outpatient consultations between physicians and families of children whose cancer recently progressed. We defined uncertainty as "future-oriented lack of clarity in which answers are unknown to all participants involved in the conversation." RESULTS Conversations contained a median of 14 (interquartile range 8.5-19) uncertainty statements related to 6 topics: appropriateness of treatments, acute toxicities and morbidities, prognosis or response to treatment, diagnostic uncertainty, logistical uncertainty, and long-term toxicities. Physicians initiated 63 % of statements (303/489), parents initiated 33 % (165/489), and children initiated 2% (10/489). We identified 14 unique responses to uncertainty: 11 responses provided space for discussion, 3 responses reduced space. Physicians most commonly responded by providing additional information (38 %, 361/947). Parents most often responded with continuing statements, such as "um" or "yeah" (50 %, 313/622). Children seldom responded (<1%, 12/1697). CONCLUSION Physicians initiated most uncertainty discussions, and their responses often provided space for further discussion. Children were seldom involved in these conversations. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinicians should consider maintaining open conversations about uncertainties in advanced pediatric cancer, and consider engaging children in these discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Annie B Friedrich
- Albert Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - James DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, and Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Neumann ML, Weaver MS, Lord B, Wiener L, Hinds PS. Care Provider Behaviors That Shape Parent Identity as a "Good Parent" to Their Seriously Ill Child. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:113-121. [PMID: 33937910 PMCID: PMC8086518 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2021.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents of medically complex children hold deeply personal definitions of how to be “good parents” that guide their medical decision making and interactions with providers and are impacted by provider behaviors. Objective: This study explored whether and how these beliefs are shaped by interactions with care providers and which provider behaviors foster or impede parents' ability to achieve their “good parent” definitions. Methods: A 63-item web-based survey distributed by an online support network for parents of medically complex children. Responses to closed- and open-ended questions from 67 caregivers based in the United States and Europe were analyzed. Results: Respondents' medical decisions are driven by goals of unselfishly doing what is best for my child (61%) and being my child's voice (18%). Almost half indicated that their personal “good parent” definition was impacted by provider behaviors or interactions with physicians or nurses. Although most parents reported wanting trusted care providers to ask them about their personal “good parent” definition, only 7% had ever been directly asked by members of their care teams about this topic. Provider behaviors such as kind and caring interactions, acknowledging the parents' role in caring for the child, and truly seeing the child as more than a diagnosis were reported as fostering caregivers' ability to achieve their “good parent” beliefs. Conclusions: The findings indicate that trusted provider-initiated conversations about “good parent” beliefs would be well received and are an opportunity to improve family-centered care. Care provider behaviors deemed by parents as supportive facilitate their efforts to achieve their “good parent” beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Neumann
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.,National Center for Ethics in Healthcare, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Blyth Lord
- Courageous Parents Network, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori Wiener
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, the George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Sisk BA, Zavadil JA, Blazin LJ, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Assume It Will Break: Parental Perspectives on Negative Communication Experiences in Pediatric Oncology. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e859-e871. [PMID: 33848191 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology can have negative consequences for patients and families. A detailed analysis of these negative encounters will support clinicians in anticipating and responding to communication breakdowns. METHODS Semistructured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer across three academic medical centers during treatment, survivorship, or bereavement. We analyzed transcripts using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Nearly all parents identified negative communication experiences (n = 76). We identified four categories of contributors to negative experiences: individual (n = 68), team (n = 26), organization (n = 46), and greater health care system (n = 8). These experiences involved a variety of health care professionals across multiple specialties. Parents reported 12 personal consequences of communication breakdowns: emotional distress (n = 65), insufficient understanding (n = 48), decreased trust or confidence (n = 37), inconvenience (n = 36), medical harm (n = 23), decreased self-confidence (n = 17), decreased emotional support (n = 13), decreased engagement (n = 9), false hope (n = 9), decreased hope (n = 7), financial insult (n = 7), and decreased access to resources (n = 3). We identified five categories of supportive responses from clinicians: exploring (n = 8), acknowledging (n = 17), informing (n = 27), adapting (n = 27), and advocating (n = 18). Parents often increased their own advocacy on behalf of their child (n = 47). Parents also identified the need for parental engagement in finding solutions (n = 12). Finally, one parent suggested that clinicians should assume that communication will fail and develop contingency plans in advance. CONCLUSION Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology negatively affect parents and children. Clinicians should plan for communication breakdowns and respond by exploring, acknowledging, informing, adapting, advocating, and engaging parents in finding solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Jessica A Zavadil
- Department of Pediatrics, St Louis Children's Hospital, St Louis, MO
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
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