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Choi HR, Ho MH, Lin CC. Navigating tensions when life-sustaining treatment is withdrawn: A thematic synthesis of nurses' and physicians' experiences. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:2337-2356. [PMID: 38323726 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
AIM To synthesise nurses' and physicians' experiences with withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in an intensive care unit. DESIGN The chosen methodology is thematic synthesis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses and Enhancing Transparency are used in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research Statement. METHODS AND DATA SOURCES A systematic search is conducted in APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, EMBASE, PubMed and Web of Science following the inclusion and exclusion criteria in April 2023. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted the qualitative data. Subsequently, data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis of qualitative research. This study was not registered with any review registry due to the irrelevance of the data to health-related outcomes. RESULTS From the 16 articles, 267 quotes were extracted and analysed. The findings of the study revealed five analytical themes: (1) tensions between interdependent collaboration and hierarchical roles; (2) tensions between dignified dying or therapeutic perspectives; (3) family members' reflections of patient's wishes; (4) tensions in family members' positions; and (5) double-sidedness of distress. CONCLUSION This study contributes to nursing knowledge by providing a more nuanced understanding of this complex phenomenon of withdrawing life-sustaining treatment. The findings of this study have revealed significant variations globally in the practices surrounding the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment in intensive care units, emphasising the need for further research to inform clinical practices that cater to diverse contexts. REPORTING METHOD Enhancing Transparency are used in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research Statement (ENTREQ statement). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Since this study reported a potential collision between the patient's dignified dying and the family member's perceptions and interests, the family member's wishes should be carefully distinguished from the patient's quality of end of life in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ri Choi
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | - Mu-Hsing Ho
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | - Chia-Chin Lin
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Charity Foundation, School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
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Abstract
Background: Despite documented benefits of Advance Care Planning (ACP), it is still under-utilized in the U.S. Our study aimed to examine whether experiencing a loved one's death is associated with one's own ACP behavior among adults in the U.S. and the potential moderating effect of age. Method: Using a nationwide cross-sectional survey design with probability sampling weights, our study included 1006 adults in the U.S. who participated in and completed the Survey on Aging and End-of-Life Medical Care. Three binary logistic regression models were established to investigate the relationship between death exposure and different aspects of ACP (i.e., informal conversations with family members and doctors and formal advance directives completion). The moderation analysis was subsequently conducted to examine moderating effects of age. Results: The exposure to a loved one's death was significantly associated with higher odds of having conversations with family about end-of-life medical care preferences among the 3 indicators of ACP (OR = 2.03, P < .001). Age significantly moderated the association between death exposure and ACP conversations with doctors (OR = .98, P = .017). The facilitation effect of death exposure on informal ACP engagement in discussing end-of-life medical wishes with doctors is stronger among younger adults than older adults. Conclusions: Exploring an individual's previous experience with a loved one's death might be an effective way to broach the concept of ACP among adults of all ages. This strategy may be particularly useful in facilitating discussions of end-of-life medical wishes with doctors among younger adults than older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Zhang
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Clem
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Roderick Rose
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John G Cagle
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Hamadeh RR, Alshammari YA. Bereavement and Grief Among Employees in an Arab University Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e55659. [PMID: 38586729 PMCID: PMC10997206 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several mental health outcomes develop following bereavement. Little research has examined bereavement in the workplace and the associated risk factors, particularly in Arab populations. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to determine the sociodemographic characteristics of bereaved employees, measure the prevalence of their dysfunction, establish the type of closeness and conflict in their relationship with the deceased, determine the available resources to the bereaved, and determine the proportion of bereaved employees who needed help. METHODS A study was conducted on Arabian Gulf University employees (91) in Bahrain. The revised Two Track Bereavement Questionnaire (TTBQ3-CG11) was utilized to assess bereavement outcomes. RESULTS The response rate of the study was 28%. The composition of the study population was as follows: 51.6% males, 37.4% in the age range of 40-49 years, 86.8% married, 39.6% Bahraini, and 51.6% academicians. Over half of the participants had biopsychosocial dysfunction, 35.2% had active relational grief and trauma (ARGT), 36.3% had a conflict with the deceased, and half were close to the deceased. Total TTBQ3-CG11 scores showed that 28.6% of the bereaved had a low score (14-22), 61.5% medium (23-28), and 9.9% high (29 or more), with more females than males in the high category. The majority reported receiving adequate support from the administration and colleagues following their loss. CONCLUSION There is a need to establish bereavement policies and procedures at tertiary educational institutes. This study may inform future policies to advance bereavement services in the educational institutions of the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randah R Hamadeh
- College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Yousef A Alshammari
- College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
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Lewis S, La Brooy C, Kerridge I, Holmes A, Olver I, Hudson P, Dooley M, Komesaroff P. Choreographing a good death: Carers' experiences and practices of enacting assisted dying. Sociol Health Illn 2024. [PMID: 38386331 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The proliferation of assisted dying legislative reforms globally is a significant change in the social and medico-legal landscape of end-of-life care. Understanding the impacts of these legislative reforms on family members who care for a dying person is vital, yet under-theorised in research. In this article, drawing on semi-structured interviews with 42 carers for a person who has sought assisted dying in Australia, and extending ideas of ontological choreography we explore the new and complex choreographies enacted by carers in their endeavour to arrange a 'good death' for the dying person. We find that desires to fulfil the dying person's wishes are often accompanied by normative pressures, affective tensions and complexities in bereavement. Enacting assisted dying requires carers to perform a repertoire of highly-staged practices. Yet, institutional obstacles and normative cultural scripts of dying can constrain carer assisted dying practices. Understanding the nuances of carers' experiences and how they navigate this new end-of-life landscape, we argue, provides critical insights about how assisted dying legislation is producing new cultural touchpoints for caring at the end of life. Moreover, we show how emerging cultural scripts of assisted dying are impacting in the lives of these carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Lewis
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Ian Kerridge
- Sydney Health Ethics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alex Holmes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ian Olver
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Hudson
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Dooley
- Alfred Health, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Feldstain A. Psychosocial intervention in palliative care: What do psychologists need to know. J Health Psychol 2024:13591053231222848. [PMID: 38282369 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231222848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Emotional and existential suffering is prevalent in advanced diseases and psychologists have valuable skills to support people in this time of life. Yet, psychologists are rarely integrated in palliative care and relevant training is sparse. Being integrated in other areas of health, it is likely that we will be supporting these patients, whether integrated in a specialized team or not. This article is meant to serve psychologists, already skilled in the art and science of psychosocial intervention, who may find themselves supporting patients with advanced disease. Relevant history of palliative care is provided to elucidate palliative philosophy and approach. Evidence-based existential interventions will be reviewed. Integration of psychological models and both palliative theory and practice is provided to support palliative-appropriate case conceptualizations. Finally, case examples are provided throughout to help readers reconcile their existing practice in this domain of care.
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Pesut B, Thorne S, Chambaere K, Hall M, Schiller CJ. The Evolving Complexities of MAID Care in Canada From a Nursing Perspective. Glob Qual Nurs Res 2024; 11:23333936241228233. [PMID: 38433773 PMCID: PMC10908223 DOI: 10.1177/23333936241228233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) legislation has evolved rapidly in Canada with significant impacts on nursing practice. The purpose of this paper is to describe evolving complexities in legislative context and practice standards that influence the experiences nurse practitioners and registered nurses have with MAID. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 registered nurses and 10 nurse practitioners from diverse contexts across Canada. Participants described their practices and considerations when discussing MAID as part of advance care planning; their use of, and challenges with, waivers of consent; their practice considerations in negotiating the complexities of clients for whom death is not reasonably foreseeable; and their moral wrestling with the inclusion of MAID for persons whose sole underlying medical condition is mental illness. Findings illustrate the moral complexities inherent in the evolving legislation and the importance of robust health and social care systems to the legal and ethical implementation of MAID in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Pesut
- University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Sally Thorne
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Su F, Zhao H, Wang T, Zhang L, Shi G, Li Y. Death education for undergraduate nursing students in the China Midwest region: An exploratory analysis. Nurs Open 2023; 10:7780-7787. [PMID: 37823440 PMCID: PMC10643828 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this study was to comprehend the need for incorporating death education within the curriculum of undergraduate nursing students and to assess the factors that impact the desire for such education. DESIGN We enlisted undergraduate nursing students from several nursing colleges located in the central and west region of China. Undergraduate students who fulfilled the eligibility criteria between January and February 2021 were chosen to participate. Data were collected via an online platform called Questionnaire Star. The survey encompassed a general information questionnaire and a scale for assessing the need for education on the topic of death. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 20.0 software, while multivariate stepwise regression was employed for more complex analysis. Statistical significance was indicated when the p-value was below 0.05, and high statistical significance was noted when the p-value fell below 0.01. METHODS We designed a descriptive quantitative approach to investigate the need for death education and its associated factors. The research involved 907 undergraduate nursing students from the central and west region of China. The data collection was done through the Questionnaire Star platform. RESULTS Following the collection of completed surveys, individuals displaying contradictory responses were omitted. Out of 911 surveys disseminated, 907 were successfully collected, resulting in a recovery rate of 99.6%. Among the participants, 769 identified as female, constituting 84.8% of the total, while 138 identified as male, making up 15.2%. The survey findings indicated that factors such as residency, parental educational history and exposure to hospice care education significantly impacted the need for death education among undergraduate nurses (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Among students pursuing a nursing degree at the undergraduate level, there was a pronounced need for education related to the topic of death. Offering such education to these students is essential, as it helps cultivate a proper understanding of death. This, in turn, contributes to enhancing the overall quality of patient care throughout their life journey. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION A total of 907 nursing undergraduates from central and western China participated in the questionnaire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen‐Ju Su
- Nursing SchoolGuizhou University of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuizhouGuiyangChina
| | - Hai‐Yan Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Jilin Medical UniversityJilinChina
| | - Tian‐Lan Wang
- Nursing SchoolGuizhou University of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuizhouGuiyangChina
| | - Lu‐Jiao Zhang
- Nursing SchoolGuizhou University of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuizhouGuiyangChina
| | - Guo‐Feng Shi
- Nursing SchoolGuizhou University of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuizhouGuiyangChina
| | - Yuan Li
- Nursing SchoolGuizhou University of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuizhouGuiyangChina
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Tan MZY. A resilient death: Gross oxymoron or realistic Utopia? J Intensive Care Soc 2023; 24:63-64. [PMID: 37928100 PMCID: PMC10621503 DOI: 10.1177/17511437221142252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark ZY Tan
- Health Education England Northwest, Manchester, UK
- Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Troya MI, Griffin E, Arensman E, Cassidy E, Mughal F, Lonergan CN, O'Mahony J, Lovejoy S, Ward M, Corcoran P. Hospital-presenting self-harm among older adults living in Ireland: a 13-year trend analysis from the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland. Int Psychogeriatr 2023:1-9. [PMID: 37842766 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610223000856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine trends in rates of self-harm among emergency department (ED) presenting older adults in Ireland over a 13-year period. DESIGN Population-based study using data from the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland. SETTING National hospital EDs. PARTICIPANTS Older adults aged 60 years and over presenting with self-harm to hospital EDs in Ireland between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2019. MEASUREMENTS ED self-harm presentations. RESULTS Between 2007 and 2019, there were 6931 presentations of self-harm in older adults. The average annual self-harm rate was 57.8 per 100,000 among older adults aged 60 years and over. Female rates were 1.1 times higher compared to their male counterparts (61.4 vs 53.9 per 100,000). Throughout the study time frame, females aged 60-69 years had the highest rates (88.1 per 100,000), while females aged 80 years and over had the lowest rates (18.7 per 100,000). Intentional drug overdose was the most commonly used method (75.5%), and alcohol was involved in 30.3% of presentations. Between the austerity and recession years (2007-2012), self-harm presentations were 7% higher compared to 2013-2019 (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 1.07 95% CI 1.02-1.13, p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that self-harm in older adults remains a concern with approximately 533 presentations per year in Ireland. While in younger age groups, females report higher rates of self-harm, this gender difference was reversed in the oldest age group (80 years and over), with higher rates of self-harm among males. Austerity/recession years (2007-2012) had significantly higher rates of self-harm compared to subsequent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Isabela Troya
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Eugene Cassidy
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Science, University College Cork, Acute Mental Health Unit, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Ireland
| | | | - Caoimhe Ni Lonergan
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Science, University College Cork, Acute Mental Health Unit, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Ireland
| | - James O'Mahony
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sally Lovejoy
- National Clinical Programme for Self-Harm and Suicide-related Ideation, Office of the National Clinical Advisor and Group Lead, Dr. Steevens Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ward
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul Corcoran
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Yoo MJ, Kang M, Tsoukra P, Chen Z, Farrand S, Kelso W, Evans A, Eratne D, Walterfang M, Velakoulis D, Loi SM. Comparing survival and mortality in patients with late-onset and young-onset vascular dementia. Int Psychogeriatr 2023; 35:519-527. [PMID: 37052303 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610223000248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vascular dementia (VD) is one of the more common types of dementia. Much is known about VD in older adults in terms of survival and associated risk factors, but comparatively less is known about VD in a younger population. This study aimed to investigate survival in people with young-onset VD (YO-VD) compared to those with late-onset VD (LO-VD) and to investigate predictors of mortality. DESIGN Retrospective file review from 1992 to 2014. SETTING The inpatient unit of a tertiary neuropsychiatry service in Victoria, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Inpatients with a diagnosis of VD. MEASUREMENTS AND METHODS Mortality information was obtained from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Clinical variables included age of onset, sex, vascular risk factors, structural neuroimaging, and Hachinksi scores. Statistical analyses used were Kaplan-Meier curves for median survival and Cox regression for predictors of mortality. RESULTS Eighty-four participants were included with few clinical differences between the LO-VD and YO-VD groups. Sixty-eight (81%) had died. Median survival was 9.9 years (95% confidence interval 7.9, 11.7), with those with LO-VD having significantly shorter survival compared to those with YO-VD (6.1 years and 12.8 years, respectively) and proportionally more with LO-VD had died (94.6%) compared to those with YO-VD (67.5%), χ2(1) = 9.16, p = 0.002. The only significant predictor of mortality was increasing age (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION While there were few clinical differences, and older age was the only factor associated with survival, further research into the effects of managing cardiovascular risk factors and their impact on survival are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Yoo
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew Kang
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Alfred Mental and Addiction Health, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Farrand
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Wendy Kelso
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew Evans
- Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Dhamidhu Eratne
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Walterfang
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Dennis Velakoulis
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Samantha M Loi
- Neuropsychiatry, NorthWestern Mental Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Shakwane S. Fear of dying dirty: Intimate care encounters during COVID-19 pandemic in South African context. Health SA 2023; 28:2317. [PMID: 37670751 PMCID: PMC10476542 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v28i0.2317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Physical distancing, personal protective equipment (PPE) and hand hygiene were encouraged during the pandemic of COVID-19. However, personal hygiene procedures for patients admitted to hospitals, such as assisted baths, oral care and elimination, were neglected. Aim This study aimed to describe intimate care and touch experiences for patients admitted to the hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Setting This study was conducted in the medical and surgical units of two hospitals in Gauteng province. Methods A generic qualitative approach was used to explore and describe the patients' intimate care and touch experiences during the COVID-19 hard lockdown. In-patient individuals above 18 years were purposively sampled. Twelve patients aged between 28 and 60 years participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Three central themes emerged from the data: (1) Keeping away from the body, (2) Who is touching my body? and (3) Fear of dying dirty - a sense of losing bodily dignity. The participants felt that the nurses were trying to avoid them, as they were seen as potential carriers of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion The cleanliness of a patient's body gives them a sense of self-respect and dignity. Nurses should find ways to ensure that patients receive quality intimate care and touch, even during situations such as the pandemic. Contribution Patients' religious or cultural beliefs and anxieties about dying dirty should be acknowledged and respected in nursing care to provide quality bodily care for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simangele Shakwane
- Department of Health Studies, Faculty of Humanities, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
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12
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Ardman E. Old Books, Warm Cookies, and Death With Dignity. Ann Fam Med 2023; 21:370-371. [PMID: 37487728 PMCID: PMC10365862 DOI: 10.1370/afm.3003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Family medicine physicians take care of patients and their families "from womb to tomb." This phrase is particularly apt in Oregon, where the Death with Dignity Act allows for terminally ill patients to end their lives with self-administered medications prescribed by a physician. This story chronicles my first experience caring for a patient under the Death with Dignity Act; that night of her death at home, surrounded by the warmth of her life and loved ones, opened my mind to the possibilities of what the patient-physician relationship entails, from the routine of meeting her family to the intimacy of assisting in her decision to die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Ardman
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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13
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Timm H. Transformation of the concepts and practice of total pain and total care: 30 years of Danish hospices. Front Sociol 2023; 8:1145131. [PMID: 37250437 PMCID: PMC10213508 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1145131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The concept of total pain endeavors to encompass central aspects of suffering in relation to severe disease, death and dying. Dame Cicely Saunders introduced the concept in the early 1960s in relation to care for the terminally ill and dying patients with cancer. An examination of Danish palliative care, particularly Danish hospice care, indicates that total pain continues to be a relevant concept today. To further explore the current relevance of total pain the study examines its underlying ontology, epistemology and methodology. The study also addresses how the understanding and practice of total pain theory has developed throughout its history, in addition to how the understanding of concepts and practices is constantly being negotiated, shaped and transformed in relation to changes in society and by individuals, groups and organizations. The first of 21 hospices in Denmark opened in 1992 and they represent a case in point for exploring the transformation of total pain and total care since then. The empirical data, which are based on materials relevant to the history of the hospice movement and practice in Denmark, include national policy documents, local yearbooks, mapping, research, documentation of practice, interviews and on-going dialogue with management and staff at Danish hospices over the last 25 years. The study, which takes an abductive analytical approach, draws on my own experiences and empirical data, in addition to the empirical and theoretical research of others but also gains inspiration from a theoretical institutional logic perspective. Research shows that there are three main co-existing and interrelated institutional logics in the history of Danish hospices: care, medicine and governance. Based on inspiration from sociological and philosophical palliative care research and data on the development of Danish hospices, this study demonstrates how the concepts and practices of total pain and total care have been transformed in the compromises made due to the co-existence of these competing logics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helle Timm
- National Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Health Care, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
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14
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Lambert E, Strickland K, Gibson J. Cultural considerations at end-of-life for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds: A critical interpretative synthesis. J Clin Nurs 2023. [PMID: 37024426 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/AIM To establish cultural considerations for people from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds at the end-of-life in Australia. BACKGROUND Globally, there is a rapidly increasing proportion of the ageing population, and high levels of migration to Australia, the Australian healthcare community must recognise individualised and cultural needs when approaching death and end-of-life care. Many people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds do not traditionally practice the palliative care approaches that have been developed and practised in Australia. DESIGN A Critical Interpretive Synthesis. METHODS A review protocol was established using PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the literature searched using CINAHL, PubMed, Psych INFO and Medline from January 2011 to 27th February 2021. This search protocol results in 19 peer-reviewed results for inclusion in critical analysis. RESULTS Included studies were qualitative (14), quantitative (4) and mixed methods (1). Four themes were identified from the literature: (i) communication and health literacy; (ii) access to end-of-life care services; (iii) cultural norms, traditions and rituals; and (iv) cultural competence of healthcare workers. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare workers have an essential role in providing care to people with life-limiting illnesses. Cultural considerations during end-of-life care are imperative for the advancement of nursing practice. To achieve effective care for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care, healthcare workers need to increase their education and cultural competency. There is inadequate research conducted within specific cultural groups, rural and remote Australian communities and individual cultural competence of healthcare workers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Continuing advancement within nursing practice relies on health professionals adopting a person-centred and culturally appropriate approach to care. To ensure individualised person-centred care is provided in a culturally appropriate way, healthcare workers must learn to reflect on their practice and actively advocate for people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jo Gibson
- University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
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15
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Schnipke B, MacKay M. Existential Issues in Psychotherapy. Innov Clin Neurosci 2023; 20:72-75. [PMID: 37122574 PMCID: PMC10132274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Existential issues are common in patient experiences and can present as themes in any practice setting, but particularly in psychotherapy. Existential issues are any concerns that arise from distress or questions about difficult subjects, such as death, meaning, freedom, and isolation, and can be a source of psychiatric concerns or simply a modifying factor. Because of this, clinicians should be able to recognize and understand the basic tenets of addressing existential issues in psychotherapy. This article outlines the historical context and theoretical basis of existentialism. It also discusses existential issues in relation to psychotherapy and provides practical clinical tips for addressing these issues with patients, including helpful probing questions, tips for noticing existential themes, and ideas about how to address existential issues in session.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brent Schnipke
- Both authors are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio
| | - Michael MacKay
- Both authors are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio
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16
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Selter F, Persson K, Kunzmann P, Neitzke G. End-of-life decisions: A focus group study with German health professionals from human and veterinary medicine. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1044561. [PMID: 36876014 PMCID: PMC9975587 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1044561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction At first glance, human and (companion animal) veterinary medicine share challenging processes in end-of-life (EOL) decision-making. At the same time, treatment options in both professions are substantially different. The potential of an interdisciplinary exchange between both fields has been neglected by empirical research so far. Methods In this qualitative study, professionals from both fields were brought together in interdisciplinary focus groups to investigate the ethical aspects of convergences and divergences in EOL situations in human and veterinary medicine. The authors present and discuss an innovative mix of materials and methods as stimuli for discussion and for generating hypotheses. Results The results point toward a general convergence of issues, challenges, and judgements in EOL situations in both fields, such as professional ethos, communication with the family and the role thereof as well as the ideals of death, clearly exceeding the expectations of study participants. At the same time, the study highlights a few prominent differences such as the access to patients' preferences or legal and practical constraints. Discussion The findings suggest that using social science methods in empirical interdisciplinary biomedical-veterinary ethics could help to shed more light on this new area. Animal as well as human patients can potentially benefit from this mutual, scientifically accompanied exchange and the resulting identification and corrections of misconceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Selter
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kirsten Persson
- Applied Ethics in Veterinary Medicine Group, Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Peter Kunzmann
- Applied Ethics in Veterinary Medicine Group, Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerald Neitzke
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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17
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Pettus K. Palliative Care as ma-space Practice. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:e379-e382. [PMID: 34508817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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18
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Knox M. Design-Related Impacts on End-of-Life Experience: A Brief Report of Findings from an Exploratory Qualitative Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022:10499091221129203. [PMID: 36222280 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221129203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the general preference to die at home, many deaths occur in institutionalized settings. While biomedical interventions to ameliorate end-of-life (EoL) suffering have advanced, the end-of-life care (EoLC) environment is less understood as a means of palliative support. OBJECTIVE This exploratory study considered the implications of clinical EoLC environments (facility buildings and their adjacent areas), aiming to understand how these designed spaces may be improved to better support experiences for patients, families, and staff. METHODS Using an ethnography-driven approach, field observations (including participant commentaries) were captured at a standalone hospice and a palliative care ward at a general hospital. These were supplemented with semi-structured interviews. Content and thematic analyses were performed based on an interpretive-descriptive paradigm. Finally, informed by a review of field literature, analyses of all data were inter-related, and an interpretation was built to highlight key design considerations. RESULTS Through the analysis, 6 socio-spatial dimensions of EoLC facilities were identified (locational contexts; service administration & management; common spaces; private spaces; in-between spaces; and nature-integrated spaces) as guiding concepts to appraise and improve such settings. CONCLUSION Physical, emotional, and social wellbeing at the end of life is coalesced in and made visible by the designed environment. Therefore, evidence-based design serves as an important non-clinical intervention in such settings; however, patient involvement in such research remains difficult. Future scholarly research, new building schemes, and renovation projects should further examine the socio-spatial functions of clinical EoLC environments and investigate the challenges surrounding patient engagement within this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Knox
- Department of Medicine, 12357University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Design x Health Research Innovation Lab, 12357University of Alberta, Canada
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19
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Choi HR, Rodgers S, Tocher J, Kang SW. Nurse's, physician's and family member's experiences of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment process in an intensive care unit. J Clin Nurs 2022. [PMID: 36217241 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore nurse's, physician's and family member's experiences of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in an intensive care unit. BACKGROUND In South Korea, withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment is legalised by the enforcement of the Hospice, Palliative Care and Life-sustaining Treatment Decision-making Act (2018). The Act (2018) is the first legal ground for making decisions regarding life-sustaining treatment in South Korea. DESIGN Focused ethnography. The standards for reporting qualitative research checklist is used. METHODS Interview data are collected between August 2018 and January 2019 using semi-structured interviews with 23 nurses, 10 physicians and four family members in a South Korean intensive care unit. The interview data are analysed following the thematic analysis of Braun and Clarke. RESULTS An overarching theme of 'constructing death' is identified from the experiences of nurses, physicians and family members regarding withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in a South Korean intensive care unit. Family members had the strongest power in the withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment process whilst the process had to be based on medical consideration. All the research participants shared the purpose and motivation of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment as the dying patient's dignity. Due to the South Korean national health insurance system, the relationships between medical staff and family members were driven by customer ideology. CONCLUSION The impact and linkage of the context of familism culture and health insurance with the process of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in South Korea are shown in this research. The findings of this research inspire future studies to uncover the impact of the cultural context in the decision-making process of a patient's death, to explore the dynamics of family members under cultural values and to explore the influence of the healthcare system and medical costs on the relationships between medical staff and family members. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE By integrating the experiences of nurses, physicians and family members, the findings of this study inform the shared values in the context of familism culture and the health insurance system. In particular, understanding family dynamics when a patient's dying and death as a result of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment informs nurses to provide quality of care in the intensive care setting. Therefore, the findings of this research contribute to distinguishing the priority in care when withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment, rapidly changing the aims of care from the patient's recovery to a dignified death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ri Choi
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Sheila Rodgers
- Nursing Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Tocher
- Nursing Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sung Wook Kang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Korea
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20
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Adjoian Mezzaca T, Dodds LV, Rundek T, Zeki Al Hazzouri A, Caunca MR, Gomes-Osman J, Loewenstein DA, Schneiderman N, Elfassy T. Associations Between Cognitive Functioning and Mortality in a Population-Based Sample of Older United States Adults: Differences by Sex and Education. J Aging Health 2022; 34:905-915. [PMID: 35440227 DOI: 10.1177/08982643221076690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To determine whether cognition is associated with mortality among older US adults. Methods: We studied 5,989 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants age 60+ in years 1999-2014 with mortality follow-up through 2015. Cognitive function was measured in one standard deviation decrements using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), Animal Fluency (AnFl), and two Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) tests. Results: Each decrement in cognitive function was associated with increased risk of mortality overall (DSST HR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.25, 1.48), among women only (AnFl: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.24), and among those with less than a high school education only (AnFl HR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.97; CERAD-WL HR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.67; and CERAD-DR HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.82). Discussion: Among US adults, lower cognitive functioning was associated with mortality; associations were stronger among women and those with less education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leah V Dodds
- Department of Public Health Sciences, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tatjana Rundek
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Adina Zeki Al Hazzouri
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, 5798Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Michelle R Caunca
- Department of Public Health Sciences, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Joyce Gomes-Osman
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David A Loewenstein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Neil Schneiderman
- Department of Psychology, 5452University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Tali Elfassy
- Department of Medicine, 12235University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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21
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Abstract
The impact of digitalization on the topic of death and dying seems to be accelerated in recent years. This study aimed to explore the online ways people used to overcome grief and used the COVID-19 restrictions as an example. Thirty-two bereaved participants were interviewed and the data were analyzed using the constructive grounded theory method. Three main themes were extracted from the data: 1) an online way to remember; 2) digitalization of social support, and 3) continuing the bonds. Findings highlighted the important and inevitable role of the digital world in the grief process when there is a restriction in holding usual ceremonies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Asgari
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Azam Naghavi
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Abedi
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
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22
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Mahmoud S, Moughrabi SM, Khasawneh WF. Dying in Isolation: An Islamic Perspective on End-of-Life Care During COVID-19. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2022; 24:00129191-990000000-00037. [PMID: 36083224 PMCID: PMC9616564 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has taken 1 million lives as of March 22, 2022. The restrictions and enforced social distancing imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the way people die, often alone in hospitals without their family members or loved ones by their side. Religious and cultural beliefs predominantly influence every aspect of people's lives, especially during the end of life (EOL). Islam is the fastest growing religion worldwide after Christianity and the third most practiced religion in the United States. The Islamic religion specifies how Muslim practice health and wellness, death, and EOL care. Islamic teachings provide a roadmap on EOL practices and death rituals that must be followed by the practicing individual. Scarce empirical studies exist on practices and rituals of Muslims near death and dying. Therefore, the aim of this case report is to provide a practical framework for health care practitioners to understand essential Islamic EOL practices and provide resources to guide clinical practice.
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23
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Thompson A, Utz R. Beyond Patient-Provider Relationships: Expanding the Roles and Boundaries of Families during Patient End-of-Life. Qual Health Res 2022; 32:1620-1634. [PMID: 35772971 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221111249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Role conflict and strain occur when healthcare providers are required to cross boundaries, either voluntarily or involuntarily, to meet the needs of their dying patients. This research is an unobtrusive digital ethnography of a publicly accessible online forum for healthcare providers (N = 242 posts); it explores the boundaries set by families and healthcare providers, and identifies how healthcare providers navigate and which circumstances require them to sometimes cross these professional boundaries. Results indicate that patient-and-family-centered care may not be fully achieved due to the ambiguity in the expected roles played by both families and healthcare providers during patient death and dying. Grounded in data, an expanded model of the therapeutic alliance, which includes the family, is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca Utz
- Sociology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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24
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Abstract
Disparity in hospice use threatens optimal quality of life during the final stage of life while American Indians/Alaska Natives may not be aware of hospice benefits. Our established Blackfeet members and Montana State University collaborative team conducted a modified Duke End-of-Life Care Survey (8 sections with 60 questions) to assess a baseline end-of-life values, beliefs, and attitudes of Blackfeet individuals. In this manuscript, we present the results of 3 sections with 28 questions: Preference of Care; Beliefs About Dying, Truth Telling, and Advance Care Planning; and Hospice Care by examining overall and generational differences. Most participants (n = 92) chose quality of life over quantity of life with using various devices if they had an incurable disease (54-82%), would want to know if they were dying (92%) or had cancer (89%), but had not thought or talked about their preference of end-of-life care (30% and 35% respectively). The results portray understandable cultural context as well as generational differences with personal variability. While an affirmative shift towards hospice was emerging, dissemination of accurate hospice information would benefit people in the partner community. In conclusion, an individual-centered approach-understanding individual need first-may be the most appropriate and effective strategy to promote hospice information and its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiko Colclough
- Mark & Robyn Jones College of Nursing, 33052Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
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25
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Suija K, Rooväli L, Aksen M, Pisarev H, Uusküla A, Kiivet RA. Coping with suicide loss: a qualitative study in primary health care. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2022; 23:e41. [PMID: 35876481 DOI: 10.1017/S1463423622000263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To analyze how people cope with suicide loss and the implications for primary health care. Background: Previous studies have shown that primary health care will often be an initial source of support for those bereaved by suicide. Methods: We included adult persons who were ready to talk about a suicide completed by a person they knew well (family member or close friend). Participants were recruited via mixed media (television, radio, print, social media, etc.). Altogether, we conducted 37 individual interviews, which were recorded using a dictaphone and lasted from 46 to 158 min. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a content analysis method. The interviewees were mostly women (n = 27) and family members (n = 28) of a person who had died by suicide during the years 2012–2018. Findings: We identified two main themes in the data: supporters and barriers in support. Coping with suicide takes time, and support was mostly found among friends and family. Support from GPs was mentioned in the context of diagnosing medical problems and prescribing medicines. Respondents indicated that feeling ashamed and a lack of trust impeded their willingness to seek help from their GP. Unmet needs among the bereaved may increase their risk of diminished mental health outcomes. Thus, primary health care practitioners may have a substantial opportunity to support those who are bereaved by suicide. Conclusion: Primary care providers have an opportunity to provide bereavement support among their patients. Continuing medical education regarding the needs of the bereaved and a coordinated approach among primary care practitioners may be useful to proactively identifying and supporting those in need.
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26
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Brown RL, LeRoy AS, Chen MA, Suchting R, Jaremka LM, Liu J, Heijnen C, Fagundes CP. Grief Symptoms Promote Inflammation During Acute Stress Among Bereaved Spouses. Psychol Sci 2022; 33:859-873. [PMID: 35675903 PMCID: PMC9343888 DOI: 10.1177/09567976211059502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The death of a spouse is associated with maladaptive immune alterations; grief severity may exacerbate this link. We investigated whether high grief symptoms were associated with an amplified inflammatory response to subsequent stress among 111 recently bereaved older adults. Participants completed a standardized psychological stressor and underwent a blood draw before, 45 min after, and 2 hr after the stressor. Those experiencing high grief symptoms (i.e., scoring > 25 on the Inventory of Complicated Grief) experienced a 45% increase in interleukin-6 (IL-6; a proinflammatory cytokine) per hour, whereas those experiencing low grief symptoms demonstrated a 26% increase. In other words, high grief was related to a 19% increase in IL-6 per hour relative to low grief. The grief levels of recently bereaved people were associated with the rate of change in IL-6 following a subsequent stressor, above and beyond depressive symptoms. This is the first study to demonstrate that high grief symptoms promote inflammation following acute stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan L. Brown
- Department of Psychological Sciences,
Rice University
| | | | | | - Robert Suchting
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at
Houston
| | - Lisa M. Jaremka
- Department of Psychological and Brain
Sciences, University of Delaware
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Cobi Heijnen
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Christopher P. Fagundes
- Department of Psychological Sciences,
Rice University
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine
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27
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Mauck EE. An Operational Definition of End-of-Life Healthcare: A Complex and Subjective Construct. Omega (Westport) 2022:302228221086058. [PMID: 35416727 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221086058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Comprehensively defining end-of-life healthcare is a challenge due to the diverse areas of healthcare involved, the various stakeholders, and the range of patient options. This qualitative study examined many areas of end-of-life healthcare including quality, areas for improvement, and healthcare policy in Tennessee, in which the definition of end-of-life healthcare was a focus. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 19 participants who included end-of-life healthcare experts and Tennessee legislators. Through this research an operational definition of end-of-life healthcare, encompassing five concepts, was developed. Concepts include: a diagnosis, a timeframe, type of care, location of care, and planning for the future. When considered together, they are the embodiment of what end-of-life healthcare encompasses. Not in a one-fits-all definition, but individually tailored. An understanding of what end-of-life healthcare denotes is essential to maintaining open communication, high quality standards of care, and the protection of patient autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Mauck
- College of Public Health, 4154East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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28
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Plys E, Smith R, Portz JD. "You Lose Some Good Friends": Death and Grief in Assisted Living. J Soc Work End Life Palliat Care 2022; 18:160-176. [PMID: 35317703 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2022.2050339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate responses to death at multiple levels within the assisted living (AL) system and to characterize the psychosocial impact of death on surviving residents. This study used secondary thematic analysis of multiple data sources collected as part of a larger quantitative-focused study with 21 ALs. Data sources included: (a) community documents, e.g., newsletters; (b) descriptive and reflective observational field notes; and (c) memos and key statements from interviews with residents (n = 18). Three themes emerged from the data: administrative memorialization practices, resident perceptions of staff communication related to death, and resident psychosocial responses to death. Surviving residents reported using both adaptive and avoidant strategies to cope with psychological responses to death; noting that grief responses extended to the loss of the deceased resident's family, friends, and pets. Residents also perceived staff-resident communication and community memorialization practices as incongruent with a "family-like" social climate. Findings highlight the potential utility of a multi-level approach to improving psychosocial aspects of end-of-life care and grief management by targeting AL administration, workforce, and individuals. Social workers are well-positioned to lead these types of psychosocial interventions but must contend with staffing barriers limiting clinical roles in AL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Plys
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ronald Smith
- Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Deptartment of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jennifer D Portz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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29
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Rosenberg LB, Brenner KO, Shalev D, Jackson VA, Seaton M, Weisblatt S, Jacobsen JC. To Accompany, Always: Psychological Elements of Palliative Care for the Dying Patient. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:537-541. [PMID: 35263176 PMCID: PMC10162575 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Palliative care clinicians provide psychological support throughout their patients' journeys with illness. Throughout our series exploring the psychological elements of palliative care (PEPC), we suggested that the quality of care is enhanced when clinicians have a deeper understanding of patients' psychological experience of serious illness. Palliative care clinicians are uniquely poised to offer patients a grounded, boundaried, and uplifting relationship to chart their own course through a life-altering or terminal illness. This final installment of our series on PEPC has two aims. First, to integrate PEPC into a comfort-focused or hospice setting and, second, to demonstrate how the core psychological concepts previously explored in the series manifest during the dying process. These aspects include frame/formulation, attachment, attunement, transference/countertransference, the holding environment, and clinician wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah B Rosenberg
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keri O Brenner
- Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Care, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Daniel Shalev
- Department of Psychiatry and Medicine, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Vicki A Jackson
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Juliet C Jacobsen
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ryan K, Windsor C, Jack L. The phenomenon of caring for older patients who are dying from traumatic injuries in the emergency department: An interpretive phenomenological study. J Nurs Scholarsh 2022; 54:562-568. [PMID: 35076153 PMCID: PMC9546414 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To gain greater understanding of what it means to care for older patients dying from traumatic injuries in the emergency department. Design A Heideggerian phenomenological design using the methods of Van Manen. Methods In‐depth, face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with five emergency nurses who worked in an emergency department in Australia. Interview data were interpreted using a Heideggerian hermeneutic approach and guided by Van Manen’s lifeworld analysis focusing on the experiential aspects of lived time (temporality) and lived space (spatiality) in the phenomenon. Findings The older patient reflects the passage of chronological time. This temporal aspect shaped the participant experience as there was a sudden awareness of the impact of the injuries sustained on the fragile physical condition of the patients. There was an unexpectedness and unpreparedness which was related to a precognitive assumption that the older patient would die from an age‐related comorbid condition. Also of significance was the sacred liminal space in which the nurses worked to facilitate the dying patient transition from life to death. Conclusions The existential dimensions of temporality and spatiality revealed new insights into what it means to care for elderly patients dying from traumatic injuries. Temporal aspects were shaped by the longevity of the lives of patients and spatiality explored the liminal space where participants were morally guided to deliver end of life care with dignity and respect for a long‐lived life taken by trauma. Clinical relevance The findings may contribute to further understanding of what shapes the experience for emergency nurses delivering EOL care in the ED, with specific relevance and focus on the older patient with traumatic injuries. Hermeneutic research may also encourage clinicians to explore phenomena to reveal new understandings that will inform further dialogue and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Ryan
- Emergency and Trauma Centre, Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carol Windsor
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leanne Jack
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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31
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Barone W, Mitsunaga-Whitten M, Blaustein LO, Perl P, Swank M, Swift TC. Facing death, returning to life: A qualitative analysis of MDMA-assisted therapy for anxiety associated with life-threatening illness. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:944849. [PMID: 36238946 PMCID: PMC9552520 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.944849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety associated with life-threatening illness (LTI) is a pervasive mental health issue with a wide impact. A spectrum of traditional pharmacotherapies and psychotherapies are available, but offer varying success in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. We explore a novel therapy for this condition by assessing prominent thematic elements from participant narrative accounts of a pilot phase 2 clinical trial of 3,4 Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-Assisted Therapy (MDMA-AT) for treating anxiety associated with LTI. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a subset of adult participants 3 months following completion of this trial. This qualitative analysis sought to complement, clarify, and expand upon the quantitative findings obtained from the clinical trial to further understand the process and outcomes of the treatment. Interviews were coded and analyzed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) methodological framework. Participants described in detail their experiences from before, during and after the trial, which were analyzed and categorized into thematic clusters. Specifically, participants explored what they felt were important elements of the therapeutic process including processing trauma and grief, exploring mystical and existential experiences, engaging with the present moment with reduced physiological activation, and facing illness and existential fears. Outcomes of the treatment included increased ability to cope with LTI, reduced psychological symptoms, improved vitality and quality of life, and feeling more resourced. Participant narratives also showed a reconnection to life and greater emotional resilience in response to trauma and medical relapse. These findings are compared to similar treatments for the same indication. Limitations and challenges encountered in conducting this study are discussed along with implications for theory and clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Barone
- Lucin Psychology Consultation, Oakland, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Phillip Perl
- MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, San Jose, CA, United States.,University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marisa Swank
- Department of Psychosocial and Psychoanalytic Studies, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Cody Swift
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Dzierżanowski T, Kozlowski M. Personal fear of their own death and determination of philosophy of life affects the breaking of bad news by internal medicine and palliative care clinicians. Arch Med Sci 2022; 18:1505-1512. [PMID: 36457975 PMCID: PMC9710283 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.85944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with life-threatening disease should be informed about the diagnosis and prognosis of life-expectancy. Breaking bad news (BBN) by a clinician may be affected not only by their lack of communication skills but also their philosophy of life, beliefs, fear of their own death, their length of tenure, and their exposure to dying and death. MATERIAL AND METHODS This questionnaire-based study aimed to investigate the impact of these factors on BBN in internal medicine practitioners (INT) versus palliative care physicians (PCP), and to detect the possible impediments to the proper communication process and the clinicians' needs regarding their preparation for such a conversation. RESULTS Thirty-eight PCPs and 64 INTs responded. Determination of philosophy of life, but not religiousness, positively correlated with the number of working years in palliative care. Two-thirds of the respondents declared fear of death, and it diminishes along with working years, especially in palliative care. For most physicians, BBN appeared difficult; however, less so for PCPs, persons with a high level of determination of philosophy of life, and men. The most frequent impediment was insufficient communication skills. Consistently, the respondents expressed the need for closing the gap in communication skills, especially by mentoring or training on communication. CONCLUSIONS Fear of death may restrain inexperienced medical professionals from BBN to patients and makes it difficult. Working in palliative care augments the determination of philosophy of life and diminishes fear of death. The higher the determination of philosophy of life, the more likely BBN is to be performed. Philosophy of life, spirituality, and communication skills should be addressed in postgraduate education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Dzierżanowski
- Laboratory of Palliative Medicine, Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michael Kozlowski
- Clinic of Pain Treatment and Palliative Care, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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33
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Giménez-Llort L, Torres-Lista V, Oghagbon EK, Pereira HVFS, Gijsberts MJHE, Invitto S. Editorial: Death and Mourning Processes in the Times of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19). Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:922994. [PMID: 35711605 PMCID: PMC9196876 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.922994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Giménez-Llort
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Torres-Lista
- Dirección de Investigación, Catholic University Santa Maria La Antigua, Panama, Panama.,Scientific Research Center for Social Sciences (CENICS), Panama, Panama
| | - Efosa K Oghagbon
- College of Health Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Sara Invitto
- INSPIRE LAB - Laboratory of Cognitive and Psychophysiological Olfactory Processes, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
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34
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Hagelin CL, Melin-Johansson C, Ek K, Henoch I, Österlind J, Browall M. Teaching about death and dying-A national mixed-methods survey of palliative care education provision in Swedish undergraduate nursing programmes. Scand J Caring Sci 2021; 36:545-557. [PMID: 34962307 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In coming decades, the number of people affected by illnesses who need palliative care will rise worldwide. Registered Nurses are in a central position in providing this care, and education is one of the necessary components for meeting coming requirements. However, there is a lack of knowledge about palliative care in undergraduate nursing education curricula, including the extent of the education provided and the related pedagogical methods. AIM The aim was to investigate the extent, content and pedagogical methods used and to explore lecturers' experiences of being responsible for teaching and learning about palliative care for undergraduate nursing students on nursing programmes at Swedish universities. SETTING All 24 universities responsible for providing undergraduate nursing education in Sweden participated. PARTICIPANTS One lecturer with in-depth knowledge about palliative care or end-of-life care education participated in the quantitative (n = 24) and qualitative (n = 22) parts of the study. METHOD A mixed-method research study with an explorative design was used. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, and content analysis for qualitative, with both also analysed integratively. RESULTS Few undergraduate nursing programmes included a specific course about palliative care in their curricula, however, all universities incorporated education about palliative care in some way. Most of the palliative care education was theoretical, and lecturers used a variety of pedagogical strategies and their own professional and personal experience to support students to understand the palliative care approach. Topics such as life and death were difficult to both learn and teach about. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for substantial education about palliative care. Lecturers strive on their own to develop students' understanding and increase the extent of palliative care education with innovative teaching strategies, but must compete with other topics. Palliative care teaching must be prioritised, not only by the universities, but also by the national authority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Lundh Hagelin
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Melin-Johansson
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Nursing Östersund, MidSweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Kristina Ek
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Skovde University, Skovde, Sweden
| | - Ingela Henoch
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jane Österlind
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Browall
- IMPROVE, Department of Nursing, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University Sweden.,Affiliated with the Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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35
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Moskop JC. Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking: Conceptual, Personal, and Policy Questions. J Med Philos 2021; 46:805-826. [PMID: 34665228 DOI: 10.1093/jmp/jhab031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED) as a way to hasten one's death is not yet a widely recognized practice in the United States, it has received increasing attention in the medical and bioethics literature in recent years. After a brief review of the broader context of human death and dying, this article poses and examines 11 conceptual, personal, and public policy questions about VSED. The article identifies essential features of VSED and discusses whether VSED is a type of suicide. It identifies reasons why people may or may not choose VSED, and it considers responses by family members and professional caregivers to people who have chosen VSED. It also considers how public policies may permit and regulate or restrict the practice of VSED. Examination of these questions is designed to increase understanding of VSED and to inform moral evaluation of this practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Moskop
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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36
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Perera N, Gold M, O'Driscoll L, Katz NT. Goals of Care Discussions Over the Course of a Patient's End of Life Admission: A Retrospective Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:652-658. [PMID: 34355578 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211035322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As deaths in hospitals increase, clear discussions regarding resuscitation status and treatment limitations, referred to as goals of care (GOC), are vital. GOC may need revision as disease and patient priorities change over time. There is limited data about who is involved in GOC discussions, and how this changes as patients deteriorate in hospital. AIMS To review the timing and clinicians involved in GOC discussions for a cohort of patients who died in hospital. METHODS Retrospective observational audit of 80 consecutive end of life admissions between March 11th and April 9th, 2019. RESULTS Of 80 patients, 75 (93.6%) had GOC recorded during their admission, about half for ward-based non-burdensome symptom management or end-of-life care. GOC were revised in 68.0% of cases. Medical staff involved in initial versus final GOC discussions included home team junior doctor (54.7% versus 72.5%), home team consultant (37.3% versus 56.9%) and ICU doctor (16.0% versus 21.6%). For initial versus final GOC decisions, patients were involved in 34.7% versus 31.4%, and family in 53.3% versus 86.3%. Dying was documented for 92.0% of patients and this was documented to have been communicated to the family and patient in 98.6% and 19.5% of cases respectively. CONCLUSIONS As patients deteriorated, family and senior clinician involvement in GOC discussions increased, but patient involvement did not. Junior doctors were most heavily involved in discussions. We advocate for further GOC training and modeling to enhance junior doctors' confidence and competence in conducting and involving patients and families in GOC conversations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Perera
- Palliative Care Service, 5392Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelle Gold
- Palliative Care Service, 5392Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa O'Driscoll
- Advance Care Planning and Improving End of Life Care, 5392Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Naomi T Katz
- Palliative Care Service, 5392Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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37
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Crawford GB, Dzierżanowski T, Hauser K, Larkin P, Luque-Blanco AI, Murphy I, Puchalski CM, Ripamonti CI. Care of the adult cancer patient at the end of life: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines. ESMO Open 2021; 6:100225. [PMID: 34474810 PMCID: PMC8411064 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2021.100225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
•This ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline provides key recommendations for end-of-life care for patients with advanced cancer. •It details care that is focused on comfort, quality of life and approaching death of patients with advanced cancer. •All recommendations were compiled by a multidisciplinary group of experts. •Recommendations are based on available scientific data and the authors’ collective expert opinion.
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Affiliation(s)
- G B Crawford
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - T Dzierżanowski
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - K Hauser
- Palliative and Supportive Care Department Cabrini Health, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Larkin
- Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A I Luque-Blanco
- Palliative Care Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - I Murphy
- Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Curraheen, Cork, Ireland
| | - C M Puchalski
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, USA
| | - C I Ripamonti
- Oncology-Supportive Care in Cancer Unit, Department Onco-Haematology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori Milano, Milan, Italy
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Hedayioglu J, Marsden S, Sackree A, Oliver D. Paid carers' understanding and experiences of meaningful involvement in bereavement for people with intellectual disability when a significant other is dying. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil 2021; 35:143-149. [PMID: 34240511 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wider communication about death and dying for those with intellectual disabilities has been highlighted as being of key importance. OBJECTIVE To gain the perspective of paid carers based in residential homes about meaningfully supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities in the bereavement process. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with paid carers working across two residential homes. RESULTS Four themes were identified: (a) challenges in having conversations about death and dying; (b) meaningful involvement of residents in the bereavement process; (c) the relationship between paid carers and residents (including the impact of a resident's death on paid carers); and (d) the support needs of paid carers. CONCLUSIONS The recommendations from previous research of meaningfully involving people with intellectual disabilities in the bereavement process have not filtered fully into practice. Paid carers still highlight the need for specialist support and advice to help them discuss and increase involvement in death and dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Hedayioglu
- Clinical Audit & Research, Kent Community NHS Foundation Trust, Kent, UK.,Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Kent, UK
| | - Sue Marsden
- Specialist Community Matron, Kent Community NHS Foundation Trust, West Malling, UK
| | | | - David Oliver
- Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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Abstract
With an increasingly ageing population there will be a rising demand for palliative care, including from older migrants and ethnic minorities. While many (future) physicians are unfamiliar with specific needs of older migrants and ethnic minorities regarding care and communication in palliative care, this may be challenging for them to deal with. Moreover, even many medical teachers also feel unprepared to teach palliative care and culturally sensitive communication to students. In order to support medical teachers, we suggest twelve tips to teach culturally sensitive palliative care to guide the development and implementation of teaching this topic to medical students. Drawn from literature and our own experiences as teachers, these twelve tips provide practical guidance to both teachers and curriculum designers when designing and implementing education about culturally sensitive palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanine Suurmond
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Lanting
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Academy of Health (AGZ), Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Xanthe de Voogd
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roukayya Oueslati
- Department of Ethics and Law of Health Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Nursing, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Gudule Boland
- Dutch Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Pharos, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maria van den Muijsenbergh
- Dutch Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Pharos, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary Care and Community Health, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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40
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Gagnon M, Kunyk D. Beyond technology, drips, and machines: Moral distress in PICU nurses caring for end-of-life patients. Nurs Inq 2021; 29:e12437. [PMID: 34157180 DOI: 10.1111/nin.12437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Moral distress is an experience of profound moral compromise with deeply impactful and potentially long-term consequences to the individual. Critical care areas are fraught with ethical issues, and end-of-life care has been associated with numerous incidences of moral distress among nurses. One such area where the dichotomy of life and death seems to be at its sharpest is in the pediatric intensive care unit. The purpose of this study was to understand the moral distress experiences of pediatric intensive care nurses when caring for pediatric patients at the end of life. A secondary analysis was undertaken of seven transcripts from registered nurses across six Canadian pediatric intensive care units and produced three themes: under prioritization of child patient dignity, burden of insider knowledge, and environmental constraints on nursing roles and responsibilities. When caring for patients at the end of life, nurses experienced moral distress when a dignified death was not realized. Furthermore, despite interprofessional collaboration efforts in Canada, the concept of silo mentality persists and contributes to moral distress. Organizational involvement is needed to address moral distress in pediatric intensive care nurses both to achieve a dignified death for child patients and in addressing silo mentality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Gagnon
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Diane Kunyk
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers of persons with dementia often feel unprepared for end-of-life and preparedness predicts caregiver outcomes in bereavement. Existing questionnaires assessing preparedness have limitations. A multi-dimensional questionnaire assessing family caregiver preparedness for the end-of-life of persons with dementia is needed to identify caregivers at risk for negative outcomes in bereavement and evaluate the quality of strategies within a palliative approach. AIM To develop a multi-dimensional questionnaire titled 'Caring Ahead' to assess feelings of preparedness for end-of-life in family caregivers of persons with dementia. DESIGN A mixed methods, sequential design employed semi-structured interviews, a Delphi-survey and pilot-testing of the questionnaire, June 2018 to July 2019. SETTING/POPULATION Participants included five current and 16 bereaved family caregivers of persons with symptoms advanced dementia from long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada; and 12 professional experts from clinical and academic settings in Canada, Europe, United States. RESULTS Interviews generated three core concepts and 114 indicators of preparedness sampling cognitive, affective and behavioural traits in four domains (i.e., medical, psychosocial, spiritual, practical). Indicators were translated and reduced to a pool of 73 potential questionnaire items. 30-items were selected to create the 'Caring Ahead' preparedness questionnaire through a Delphi-survey. Items were revised through a pilot-test with cognitive interviewing. CONCLUSIONS Family caregivers' feelings of preparedness for end-of-life need to be assessed and the quality of strategies within a palliative approach evaluated. Future psychometric testing of the Caring Ahead questionnaire will evaluate evidence for validity and reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Durepos
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Noori Akhtar-Danesh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jenny Ploeg
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Aging, Community and Health Research Unit, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, QB, Canada
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Spacey A, Scammell J, Board M, Porter S. A critical realist evaluation of advance care planning in care homes. J Adv Nurs 2021; 77:2774-2784. [PMID: 33751625 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate care planning in advance of end-of-life care in care homes. DESIGN A qualitative study. METHODS Qualitative data were collected from January 2018-July 2019 (using focus groups and semi-structured interviews) from three care homes in the South West of England. The data were analysed using thematic analysis followed by Critical Realist Evaluation. RESULTS Participants comprised of registered nurses (N = 4), care assistants (N = 8), bereaved relatives (N = 7), and domiciliary staff (N = 3). Although the importance of advance care planning was well recognized, the emotional labour of frequently engaging in discussions about death and dying was highlighted as a problem by some care home staff. It was evident that in some cases care home staff's unmet emotional needs led them to rushing and avoiding discussions about death and dying with residents and relatives. A sparsity of mechanisms to support care home staff's emotional needs was noted across all three care homes. Furthermore, a lack of training and knowledge appeared to inhibit care home staff's ability to engage in meaningful care planning conversations with specific groups of residents such as those living with dementia. The lack of training was principally evident amongst non-registered care home staff and those with non-formal caring roles such as housekeeping. CONCLUSION There is a need for more focused education to support registered and non-registered care home staff to effectively engage in sensitive discussions about death and dying with residents. Furthermore, greater emotional support is necessary to help build workforce resilience and sustain change. IMPACT Knowledge generated from this study can be used to inform the design and development of future advance care planning interventions capable of supporting the delivery of high-quality end-of-life care in care homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Spacey
- School of Health and Society, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | - Janet Scammell
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Michele Board
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Sam Porter
- Department of Social Sciences and Social Work, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
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Ordóñez-Piedra J, Ponce-Blandón JA, Robles-Romero JM, Gómez-Salgado J, Jiménez-Picón N, Romero-Martín M. Effectiveness of the Advanced Practice Nursing interventions in the patient with heart failure: A systematic review. Nurs Open 2021; 8:1879-1891. [PMID: 33689229 PMCID: PMC8186677 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE AND AIM Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) is a specialist who has acquired clinical skills to make complex decisions for a better professional practice. In the United States, this figure has been developed in different ways, but in some European countries, it is not yet fully developed, although it may imply a significant advance in terms of continuity and quality of care in patients with chronic or multiple pathologies, including cardiac ones and, more specifically, heart failure (HF). The follow-up of HF patients in many countries has focused on the medical management of the process, neglecting all the other comprehensive health aspects that contribute to decompensation of HF, worsening quality indicators or patient satisfaction, and there are not updated reviews to clarify the relevance of APN in HF, comparing the results of APN interventions with doctors clinical practice, since the complexity of care that HF patients need makes it difficult to control the disease through regular treatment. For this reason, this systematic review was proposed in order to update the available knowledge on the effectiveness of APN interventions in HF patients, analysing four PICO questions (Patients, Interventions, Comparison and Outcomes): whether APN implies a reduction in the number of hospital readmissions, if it reduces mortality, if it has a positive cost-benefit relationship and if it implies any improvement in the quality of life of HF patients. DESIGN AND METHODS A systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA statement, searching at four databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and Cuiden. Articles were selected based on the following criteria: English/Spanish language, up to 6 years since publication, and original quantitative studies of experimental, quasi-experimental or observational character. Papers were excluded if they do not comply with CONSORT or STROBE checklists, and if they had not been published in journals indexed in JCR and/or SJR. For the analysis, two separate researchers used the Cochrane Handbook form for systematic reviews of intervention, collecting authorship variables, study methods, risks of bias, intervention and comparison groups, results obtained, PICO question or questions answered, and the main conclusions. RESULTS A total of 43,754 patients participated in the 11 included studies for the development of this review, mostly from United States and non-European countries, with a clearly visible lack of European publications. Regarding the results related to first PICO question, researches reviewed proved that APN implied a reduction in the number of hospital readmissions in patients with heart failure (up to 33%). Regarding the second question, mortality was always lower in groups assisted by APN versus in control groups (up to 7.8% vs. 17.7%). Regarding the third question, APN was cost-effective in this type of patient as the cost reduction was eventually calculated in 1.9 million euros. Regarding the last question, quality of life of patients who have been cared for by an APN had notoriously improved, although one of the papers concluded that no significant differences were found. All the questions addressed obtained a positive answer; therefore, APN is a practice that reduced hospital readmissions and mortality in HF patients. The cost-effectiveness is much better with APN than with usual care, and although the quality of life of HF patients seems to improve with APN, more studies are needed to support this focused on this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ordóñez-Piedra
- Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | | | | | - Juan Gómez-Salgado
- Departamento de Sociología, Trabajo Social y Salud Pública, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain.,Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Nerea Jiménez-Picón
- Centro Universitario de Enfermería de Cruz Roja, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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Ali I. From Normal to Viral Body: Death Rituals During Ordinary and Extraordinary Covidian Times in Pakistan. Front Sociol 2021; 5:619913. [PMID: 33869536 PMCID: PMC8022599 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2020.619913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Death is far from being simply a physiologic event; it is a complex phenomenon with sociocultural and politicoeconomic aspects. During extraordinary times such as the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, death becomes a contested site. I argue that the Pakistani government's dealings with the bodies of people who die from COVID-19 have shifted the meaning of a normal dead body to a viral body that poses particular challenges to cultures and people, including the government. This article is both autoethnographic and ethnographic. It concurrently draws on my observations and participation in death rituals in a Pakistani village in Sindh province as a member of that society, and on a recent experience that I faced after the death of a gentle lady of my acquaintance due to COVID-19. I also build on my previous long-term ethnographic research in Pakistan and my ongoing research on COVID-19 in that country. I discuss the death rituals and ceremonies performed during "ordinary" situations as background information; and the changes in these rituals that have resulted from the coronavirus pandemic. My data demonstrate significant differences between usual and customary death rituals and those performed during Covidian times by government mandate, which have severely and negatively affected people's mental health. I show the government's "symbolic ownership" of the viral body, in that the government can control how people deal with their viral dead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inayat Ali
- Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Hawthorne DM, Joyner R, Gaucher E, Liehr P. Death of an infant: Accessing the voices of bereaved mothers to create healing. A qualitative study. J Clin Nurs 2020; 30:229-238. [PMID: 33113218 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To describe the health challenge for mothers whose infants have died and approaches and resources they used to manage the loss. BACKGROUND The death of an infant is a devastating experience for families. Bereaved mothers have higher rates of mental distress, loneliness and isolation. While some learn to cope, others remain consumed by grief, unable to function, with persistent affective, cognitive and physical symptoms. DESIGN Qualitative design guided by story theory. METHODS In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with mothers 13-36 months after the death of their infant. Looking at the present, past and future, mothers were asked to describe the health challenge of losing an infant and approaches used to manage the loss. The COREQ checklist was used. RESULTS These mothers' experiences were captured in six main themes: 'Painful aloneness', 'Blemished identity', 'Burden of being misunderstood', 'Being with and being heard', 'Being present and building a future' and 'Finding meaning in the tragedy'. In sharing their stories, mothers identified positive and negative encounters with healthcare professionals following the death of their infant. CONCLUSION After losing an infant, mothers experience an array of challenges as they move forward. They describe their approaches used to manage the loss. This included a need to be heard, feel supported and find meaning in the loss as they try to build a new future. Their stories express a need for health care encounters to be healing, allowing mothers to feel cared for and supported on their unique journeys towards a new sense of well-being. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE In sharing their stories what matters most to these mothers having lost an infant emerged. The study findings can be used to guide nursing practice, incorporated into healthcare providers bereavement training, increase knowledge and build effective communication skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn M Hawthorne
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Patricia Liehr
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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Lewis ET, Mahimbo A, Linhart C, Williamson M, Morgan M, Hammill K, Hall J, Cardona M. General practitioners' perceptions on the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a risk prediction checklist to support their end-of-life discussions in routine care: a qualitative study. Fam Pract 2020; 37:703-710. [PMID: 32297645 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmaa036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND General practitioners' (GPs) play a central role in facilitating end-of-life discussions with older patients nearing the end-of-life. However, prognostic uncertainty of time to death is one important barrier to initiation of these discussions. OBJECTIVE To explore GPs' perceptions of the feasibility and acceptability of a risk prediction checklist to identify older patients in their last 12 months of life and describe perceived barriers and facilitators for implementing end-of-life planning. METHODS Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 GPs practising in metropolitan locations in New South Wales and Queensland between May and June 2019. Data were analysed thematically. RESULTS Eight themes emerged: accessibility and implementation of the checklist, uncertainty around checklist's accuracy and usefulness, time of the checklist, checklist as a potential prompt for end-of-life conversations, end-of-life conversations not an easy topic, end-of-life conversation requires time and effort, uncertainty in identifying end-of-life patients and limited community literacy on end-of-life. Most participants welcomed a risk prediction checklist in routine practice if assured of its accuracy in identifying which patients were nearing end-of-life. CONCLUSIONS Most participating GPs saw the value in risk assessment and end-of-life planning. Many emphasized the need for appropriate support, tools and funding for prognostic screening and end-of-life planning for this to become routine in general practice. Well validated risk prediction tools are needed to increase clinician confidence in identifying risk of death to support end-of-life care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebony T Lewis
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Abela Mahimbo
- Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christine Linhart
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Margaret Williamson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Morgan
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Kathrine Hammill
- School of Science & Health, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - John Hall
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Magnolia Cardona
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Australia.,Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Tate K, Reid RC, McLane P, Cummings GE, Rowe BH, Estabrooks CA, Norton P, Lee JS, Wagg A, Robinson C, Cummings GG. Who Doesn't Come Home? Factors Influencing Mortality Among Long-Term Care Residents Transitioning to and From Emergency Departments in Two Canadian Cities. J Appl Gerontol 2020; 40:1215-1225. [PMID: 33025863 PMCID: PMC8406367 DOI: 10.1177/0733464820962638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Residents of long-term care (LTC) whose deaths are imminent are likely to trigger a transfer to the emergency department (ED), which may not be appropriate. Using data from an observational study, we employed structural equation modeling to examine relationships among organizational and resident variables and death during transitions between LTC and ED. We identified 524 residents involved in 637 transfers from 38 LTC facilities and 2 EDs. Our model fit the data, (χ2 = 72.91, df = 56, p = .064), explaining 15% variance in resident death. Sustained shortness of breath (SOB), persistent decreased level of consciousness (LOC) and high triage acuity at ED presentation were direct and significant predictors of death. The estimated model can be used as a framework for future research. Standardized reporting of SOB and changes in LOC, scoring of resident acuity in LTC and timely palliative care consultation for families in the ED, when they are present, warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R Colin Reid
- The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, Canada
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Abstract
Hospital visitation restrictions have been widely implemented during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic as a means of decreasing the transmission of coronavirus. While decreasing transmission is an important goal, it is not the only goal that quality healthcare must aim to achieve. Severely restricted visitation policies undermine our ability to provide humane, family-centered care, particularly during critical illness and at the end of life. The enforcement of these policies consequently increases the risk of moral distress and injury for providers. Using our experience in a PICU, we survey the shortcomings of current visitation restrictions. We argue that hospital visitation restrictions can be implemented in ways that are nonmaleficent, but this requires unwavering acknowledgment of the value of social and familial support during illness and death. We advocate that visitation restriction policies be implemented by independent, medically knowledgeable decision-making bodies, with the informed participation of patients and their families.
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Galvin J, Richards G, Smith AP. A Longitudinal Cohort Study Investigating Inadequate Preparation and Death and Dying in Nursing Students: Implications for the Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2206. [PMID: 32982890 PMCID: PMC7477344 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims and Objectives To investigate how changes in the levels of preparedness and experiences of death and dying influence nursing students’ mental health. Background The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to cause significant trauma in the nursing population. The lack of preparation, in combination with a substantial loss of life, may have implications for the longer-term mental health of the nursing workforce. Nursing students have, in many cases, been an important part of the emergency response. Design A longitudinal cohort study was conducted in the academic year 2014/15 with data collected at two time points. There was a 7-month time period between data collection. Methods Participants completed paper-based questionnaires measuring demographics, academic stressors, clinical stressors, and mental health. 358 nursing students at time point one and 347 at time point two (97% retention) completed the survey. Results Inadequate preparation (OR: 1.783) and the inadequate preparation x death and dying interaction term (OR: 4.115) significantly increased risk of mental health problems over time. Increased death and dying alone did not increase mental health risk. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that it is not the increase in death and dying per se that causes mental health difficulties, but that it is instead the experience of high levels of death and dying in combination with inadequate preparation. The data are considered within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, with both inadequate preparation and the scale of death and dying being two significant stressors during the emergency period.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Galvin
- Department of Psychology, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Richards
- School of Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The use of chemotherapy at the end of life in advanced cancer patients has increased and end of life care has become increasingly aggressive. The aim of this study is to evaluate patients receiving chemotherapy in the last 3 months of life and the aggressiveness of end-of-life support of these patients. METHODS All adult patients with solid tumors who received chemotherapy in their last 3 months of life and died in our hospital between January 2015 to June 2019 were included. Detailed information on chemotherapy and toxicity was collected in patient records. RESULTS A total of 182 patients included. Median age was 58,9 years. The median survival from the docementation of metastatic disease was 9,98 months (0,95-64,3). Of these 182 patients, 95 (52%) were treated with chemotherapy in the last month of life and 52 (29%) in the last 2 weeks of life. The median number of days between the last administration of chemotherapy and patient death was 29 (0-90). A new chemotherapy regimen was started in the last 3 months of life in 102 patients (56%), in the last month of life in 43 patients (23,6%) and in the last 2 weeks in 23 patients (12.6%). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS There are many patients who received chemotherapy in the last 3 months of their life and the rates of chemotherapy initiation during this period are well above ideal rates. Whether such care has positive effects on survival or quality of life is questionable and deserves additional investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semiha Urvay
- Radiotherapy, Acibadem University Vocational School of Health Services, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burak Civelek
- Medical Oncology, Acibadem Kayseri Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ersin Özaslan
- Medical Oncology, Acibadem Kayseri Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
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