1
|
Gerlach C, Greinacher A, Alt-Epping B, Wrzus C. My virtual home: needs of patients in palliative cancer care and content effects of individualized virtual reality - a mixed methods study protocol. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:167. [PMID: 37904162 PMCID: PMC10617036 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01297-z] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The desire to be at home is one of the most important needs of patients with advanced, incurable cancers. However, palliative cancer patients may require inpatient hospital care for medical reasons. Virtual reality (VR) could provide an approximation to the individuals' home environment. METHODS The project consists of 3 parts. All parts are supported by the patient advisory board. In the 1st part of the project, we interview patients, relatives, and the patient advisory board about their wishes and concerns regarding the project. In the 2nd part of the project, patients are offered to view 360° VR videos of their choice (their home, relatives, others if applicable). Effects and side-effects of the intervention are assessed with validated instruments (MIDOS, MDBF, SSQ, SPES). Diagnosis, treatment adherence, medication, and vegetative functionality is determined from the medical records of the patients. In the 3rd part of the project, the results of the study will be discussed with patients, relatives, health care professionals and the patient advisory board regarding implementation. DISCUSSION This study is the first to investigate whether individualized VR videos have additional benefits over generic VR nature videos on symptom relief, well-being, treatment satisfaction, and adherence in patients with palliative cancer care. A strength of the study is that we can incorporate the results of each part of the project into the subsequent project parts. However, the generalizability might be limited as this is a single-centred study. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registered at German Clinical Trials Register (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien; DRKS); registration number: DRKS00032172; registration date: 11/07/2023 https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00032172 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Gerlach
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Anja Greinacher
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Bergheimer Straße 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Wrzus
- Psychological Institute and Network Aging Research, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Braulke F, Para S, Alt-Epping B, Tewes M, Bäumer M, Haberland B, Mayer-Steinacker R, Hopprich A, de Wit M, Grabe M, Bender-Säbelkampf S, Weßling C, Aulmann C, Gerlach C, Regincos P, Fischer F, Haarmann S, Huys T, Drygas S, Rambau A, Kiani A, Schnabel A, Buhl C, Seipke S, Hiemer S, Polata S, Meßmann M, Hansmeier A, Anastasiadou L, Letsch A, Wecht D, Hellberg-Naegele M, Krug U, Wedding U, van Oorschot B. Systematic symptom screening in patients with advanced cancer treated in certified oncology centers: results of the prospective multicenter German KeSBa project. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04818-8. [PMID: 37145199 PMCID: PMC10374724 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04818-8] [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: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Guidelines recommend a structured symptom screening (SC) for especially advanced cancer patients (CPs). The aim of this multicenter German prospective quality assurance project KeSBa (Kennzahl Symptom- und Belastungserfassung) was to gain knowledge on SC procedures in Oncology Centers (OCs) for advanced cancer patients and a first impression on the consequences of SC. METHODS The KeSBa project consisted of three phases: pilot, 3 months screening and feedback phase. Participating OCs decided to use either the Minimal Documentation System (MIDOS) or the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS) and defined the cutoff values for positive screening results. RESULTS Out of 172 certified German OCs, 40 (23%) participated in the KeSBa pilot phase, 29 (16.8%) in the 3 months screening phase using MIDOS (n = 18, 58.6%) or IPOS (n = 11, 41.3%) and in the feedback round. 25/29 performed paper-based screening (86.2%). 2.963 CPs were screened. Results were documented for 1255 (42.2%, SC +) positive and 874 (29.5%, SC-) negative screenings depending on the center´s schedules: 452 SC + CPs (28.4%) and 42 SC- CPs (2.6%) had contact to specialized palliative care or other supportive specialist teams afterwards, 458 SC + CPs (28.8%) and 605 SC- CPs (38.1%) remained in standard oncology care. In the feedback round missing resources (personal and IT) and improved communication were mentioned most often. CONCLUSION Routine SC is feasible in advanced CPs treated in OCs but associated with considerable workload. In 42.2% of CPs SC was classified as positive, indicating the need of further diagnostics or professional judgment. SC requires staff and IT resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Braulke
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Servet Para
- Interdisciplinary Center Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mitra Tewes
- Department of Palliative Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Markus Bäumer
- Kliniken Maria Hilf GmbH Mönchengladbach, Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | | | | | - Anne Hopprich
- Department of Radiooncology and Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maike de Wit
- Cancer Center Berlin-Neukölln - Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Grabe
- Cancer Center Rems-Murr-Hospital Winnenden, Winnenden, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Christina Gerlach
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pascale Regincos
- Clinic of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Soraya Haarmann
- Kliniken Heilbronn GmbH, Fachklinik Löwenstein, Löwenstein, Germany
| | | | - Sabine Drygas
- Brüderkrankenhaus St. Josef Paderborn, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Anett Rambau
- Caritas Krankenhaus Bad Mergentheim, Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Kiani
- Klinikum Bayreuth GmbH, and Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Christoph Buhl
- Department of Oncology, Hematology, Palliative Medicine, Special Pain Therapy, Hospital Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Seipke
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Silke Polata
- Evangelisches Waldkrankenhaus Berlin-Spandau, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Meßmann
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Hospital St. Elisabeth Straubing GmbH, Straubing, Germany
| | | | | | - Anne Letsch
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Daniel Wecht
- Specialist Care in Oncology and Palliative Care, University Hospital Gießen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Utz Krug
- Department of Oncology, Hematology, Palliative Medicine, Special Pain Therapy, Hospital Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wedding
- Department of Palliative Care, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Center Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Harnischfeger N, Rath HM, Alt-Epping B, Brand H, Haller K, Letsch A, Rieder N, Thuss-Patience P, Bokemeyer C, Oechsle K, Bergelt C. Association between oncologists' death anxiety and their end-of-life communication with advanced cancer patients. Psychooncology 2023. [PMID: 37057315 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6132] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early and open communication of palliative care (PC) and end-of-life (EoL)-related issues in advanced cancer care is not only recommended by guidelines, but also preferred by the majority of patients. However, oncologists tend to avoid timely addressing these issues. We investigated the role of oncologists' personal death anxiety in the rare occurrence of PC/EoL conversations. METHODS We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study assessing oncologists' strengths and difficulties in self-reported and externally rated PC/EoL communication skills as well as their association with death anxiety. Death anxiety was assessed via the Thanatophobia-Scale. PC/EoL communication skills were assessed via validated questionnaires and study-specific items plus an external rating of videotaped medical consultation with simulated patients. A general linear model was conducted to analyze associations. RESULTS One hundred fifty-three oncologists participated (age: M(SD) = 32.9 years (6.9), 59.5% female). Both from the external and from their own perspective, oncologists had difficulties in addressing PC and the EoL. They avoided those aspects more than other topics in consultations with advanced cancer patients. Death anxiety was associated with more avoidant self-reported communication strategies, lower self-efficacy, less confidence in discussing the EoL and less confidence in discussing patients' goals and wishes, but was not associated with externally rated PC/EoL communication. CONCLUSIONS Oncologists have experienced and externally observable difficulties in addressing PC and the EoL. Oncologists with higher death anxiety subjectively experience more difficulties. Group supervision and consultation offers might be means to empower oncologists, increase awareness of personal fears and enhance confidence and self-efficacy. This might facilitate earlier PC/EoL communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nele Harnischfeger
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hilke M Rath
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hannah Brand
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Karl Haller
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Letsch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicola Rieder
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Thuss-Patience
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Solar S, Wieditz J, Lordick F, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, Oechsle K, van Oorschot B, Thomas M, Asendorf T, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. Screening versus multidimensional assessment of symptoms and psychosocial distress in cancer patients from the time of incurability. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1002499. [PMID: 36776341 PMCID: PMC9908949 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1002499] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Previous symptom prevalence studies show a diverse spectrum of symptoms and a large diversity in symptom intensities in patients being just diagnosed as having incurable cancer. It is unclear, how physical symptoms and psychosocial burden should be recorded in order to determine the variable need for palliative care and further support. Therefore, we compared two different strategies for detecting physical symptoms and psychosocial burden of patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer and their effects on the further course of the disease. Methods SCREBEL is a controlled, randomized, non-blinded, longitudinal study of the research network of the Palliative Medicine Working Group (APM) of the German Cancer Society (DKG). We compared: a less complex repeated brief screening for symptoms and burden in patients using the NCCN Distress Thermometer and IPOS questionnaire versus a multidimensional comprehensive assessment using the FACT-G and their entity-specific questionnaires, the PHQ4 scales, SCNS-34-SF, IPOS and NCCN Distress Thermometer. The primary study endpoint was quality of life (QoL), measured using FACT-G, after six months. Secondary study endpoints were QoL by using evaluation of secondary scores (NCCN DT, IPOS, PHQ4, SCNS-SF-34G) at time 6 months, the number of hospital days, the utilization of palliative care, emergency services, and psychosocial care structures. To assess effects and differences, multiple linear regression models were fitted and survival analyses were conducted. Results 504 patients were included in the study. 262 patients were lost to follow-up, including 155 fatalities. There were no significant differences between the low-threshold screening approach and a comprehensive assessment with respect to symptoms and other aspects of QoL. Using the IPOS, we were able to measure an improvement in the quality of life in the low-threshold screening arm by a decrease of 0.67 points (95%-CI: 0.34 to 0.99) every 30 days. (p<0.001). Data on the involvement of emergency facilities and on supportive services were insufficient for analysis. Conclusion A comprehensive, multidimensional assessment did not significantly differ from brief screening in preserving several dimensions of quality of life. These findings may positively influence the implementation of structured low-threshold screening programs for supportive and palliative needs in DKG certified cancer centers.DRKS -No. DRKS00017774 https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00017774.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Solar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Johannes Wieditz
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,*Correspondence: Johannes Wieditz,
| | - Florian Lordick
- University Cancer Center Leipzig, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Palliative Care Unit, Center of Oncology, University Hospital of Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Thomas
- Thoraxklinik and National Center for Tumor Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany,Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC-H), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Asendorf
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Müller E, Mayer-Steinacker R, Gencer D, Keßler J, Alt-Epping B, Schönsteiner S, Jäger H, Couné B, Elster L, Keser M, Rauser J, Marquardt S, Becker G. Feasibility, use and benefits of patient-reported outcome measures in palliative care units: a multicentre observational study. Palliat Care 2023; 22:6. [PMID: 36641450 PMCID: PMC9839955 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01123-y] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has shown that routinely assessed, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have positive effects in patients with advanced oncologic diseases. However, the transferability of these results to specialist palliative care is uncertain because patients are more impaired and staff doubt the feasibility and benefits. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of patient self-assessment of PROMs, their use by staff and the benefits in palliative care wards. METHOD A multicentre observational study was conducted in the context of the implementation of the Integrated Patient Outcome Scale (IPOS) in three specialist palliative care wards at university hospitals in Germany. All admitted patients who screened positive regarding their ability to complete questionnaires were asked to participate and complete the IPOS on paper weekly, with assistance if necessary. Feasibility of questionnaire completion (e.g. proportion of patients able to complete them), use (e.g. involvement of different professional groups) and benefit (e.g. unexpected information in IPOS as rated by treating physicians) were assessed. Staff members' opinion was obtained in a written, anonymous evaluation survey, patients' opinion in a short written evaluation. RESULTS A total of 557 patients were screened for eligibility, 235 were assessed as able to complete the IPOS (42.2%) and 137 participated in the study (24.6%). A majority needed support in completing the IPOS; 40 staff members and 73 patients completed the evaluation. Unexpected information was marked by physicians in 95 of the 137 patient questionnaires (69.3%). The staff differed in their opinions on the question of whether this also improved treatment. A majority of 32 staff members (80.0%) were in favour of continuing the use of IPOS (4 against continuation, 4 no answer); 43 (58.9%) patients rated their overall experience of IPOS use as 'positive', 29 (39.7%) as 'neutral' and 1 (1.4%) as 'negative'. CONCLUSIONS While most staff wished to continue using IPOS, it was a challenge to integrate the effort to support the completion of IPOS into daily practice. Digital implementation was not successful, despite various attempts. To explore the effects on care and patient outcomes, multicentre cluster-randomised trials could be employed. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register DRKS-ID: DRKS00016681 (24/04/2019).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Müller
- grid.5963.9Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Regine Mayer-Steinacker
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Hematology and Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Medical Center Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany ,Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Deniz Gencer
- grid.411778.c0000 0001 2162 1728Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim Cancer Center, Mannheim University Hospital, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany ,Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jens Keßler
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908Department of Anaesthesiology, Devision of Pain Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 131, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ,Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany ,grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany
| | - Stefan Schönsteiner
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Hematology and Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Medical Center Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany ,Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Helga Jäger
- grid.5963.9Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Couné
- grid.5963.9Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Luise Elster
- grid.5963.9Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Muhammet Keser
- grid.411778.c0000 0001 2162 1728Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim Cancer Center, Mannheim University Hospital, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julia Rauser
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Hematology and Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Medical Center Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Susanne Marquardt
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908Department of Anaesthesiology, Devision of Pain Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 131, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gerhild Becker
- grid.5963.9Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany ,Competence Centre Palliative Care of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Robert-Koch Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Solar S, Wieditz J, Lordick F, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, Oechsle K, van Oorschot B, Thomas M, Asendorf T, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. Screening versus multidimensional assessment of symptoms and psychosocial distress in cancer patients from the time of incurability. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1002499. [PMID: 36776341 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1002499.pmid:36776341;pmcid:pmc9908949] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous symptom prevalence studies show a diverse spectrum of symptoms and a large diversity in symptom intensities in patients being just diagnosed as having incurable cancer. It is unclear, how physical symptoms and psychosocial burden should be recorded in order to determine the variable need for palliative care and further support. Therefore, we compared two different strategies for detecting physical symptoms and psychosocial burden of patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer and their effects on the further course of the disease. METHODS SCREBEL is a controlled, randomized, non-blinded, longitudinal study of the research network of the Palliative Medicine Working Group (APM) of the German Cancer Society (DKG). We compared: a less complex repeated brief screening for symptoms and burden in patients using the NCCN Distress Thermometer and IPOS questionnaire versus a multidimensional comprehensive assessment using the FACT-G and their entity-specific questionnaires, the PHQ4 scales, SCNS-34-SF, IPOS and NCCN Distress Thermometer. The primary study endpoint was quality of life (QoL), measured using FACT-G, after six months. Secondary study endpoints were QoL by using evaluation of secondary scores (NCCN DT, IPOS, PHQ4, SCNS-SF-34G) at time 6 months, the number of hospital days, the utilization of palliative care, emergency services, and psychosocial care structures. To assess effects and differences, multiple linear regression models were fitted and survival analyses were conducted. RESULTS 504 patients were included in the study. 262 patients were lost to follow-up, including 155 fatalities. There were no significant differences between the low-threshold screening approach and a comprehensive assessment with respect to symptoms and other aspects of QoL. Using the IPOS, we were able to measure an improvement in the quality of life in the low-threshold screening arm by a decrease of 0.67 points (95%-CI: 0.34 to 0.99) every 30 days. (p<0.001). Data on the involvement of emergency facilities and on supportive services were insufficient for analysis. CONCLUSION A comprehensive, multidimensional assessment did not significantly differ from brief screening in preserving several dimensions of quality of life. These findings may positively influence the implementation of structured low-threshold screening programs for supportive and palliative needs in DKG certified cancer centers.DRKS -No. DRKS00017774 https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00017774.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Solar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Johannes Wieditz
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Florian Lordick
- University Cancer Center Leipzig, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Palliative Care Unit, Center of Oncology, University Hospital of Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Thomas
- Thoraxklinik and National Center for Tumor Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC-H), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Asendorf
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Harnischfeger N, Rath H, Alt-Epping B, Brand H, Haller K, Letsch A, Rieder N, Thuss-Patience P, Bokemeyer C, Bergelt C, Oechsle K. Effects of a communication training for oncologists on early addressing palliative and end-of-life care in advanced cancer care (PALLI-COM): a randomized, controlled trial. ESMO Open 2022; 7:100623. [PMID: 36356411 PMCID: PMC9808464 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2022.100623] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In advanced cancer care, early communication about palliative care (PC) and end-of-life (EoL)-related issues is recommended, but is often impeded by physicians' communication insecurities. We investigated the effect of a newly developed compact communication skills training 'PALLI-COM' on oncologists' competencies to early address PC/EoL-related issues. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a randomized, controlled trial (RCT) with an intervention group (IG; 2 × 90 min training) and a wait list control group (CG) at five sites. At two assessment points, participating oncologists led videotaped medical consultations with simulated patients (SPs) via a privacy compliant video conference platform. SPs were represented by trained actors. The taped conversations were rated for primary outcome (communication skills assessed by adapted COM-ON-checklist and COM-ON-coaching rating scales) by raters blinded for study group. Secondary outcomes included oncologists' self-reported communication skills (Self-Efficacy in Palliative Care Scale, Thanatophobia-Scale, Communication about End of Life Survey, study-specific items) as well as external rating of the SPs. Univariate analyses of covariance with baseline adjustment were used to analyze intervention effects. RESULTS A total of 141 oncologists [age: mean (standard deviation) = 32.7 (6.3) years, 60% female (nIG = 73, nCG = 68)] participated. Following intervention, the IG showed significantly more improvement in four out of five assessed communication skills: 'reacting to emotions and showing empathy', 'pointing out opportunities and giving hope', 'addressing the EoL' and 'explaining the concept of PC'. IG participants also improved more than CG participants in almost all secondary outcomes assessed by participants and SPs: oncologists' self-efficacy, attitudes towards caring for terminally ill patients, communication strategies and confidence in dealing with PC/EoL-related issues as well as communication quality from the SPs' perspective. CONCLUSION Findings indicate that the compact communication skills training PALLI-COM increases oncologists' competencies in early addressing PC/EoL-related issues from different perspectives. Implementation in routine oncology residency might improve advanced cancer care by strengthening these communication skills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N. Harnischfeger
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,Correspondence to: Nele Harnischfeger, Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - H.M. Rath
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - B. Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany,Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - H. Brand
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Kiel, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - K. Haller
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité – University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A. Letsch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Kiel, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany,Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité – University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - N. Rieder
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany,Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - P. Thuss-Patience
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité – University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - C. Bokemeyer
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - C. Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - K. Oechsle
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alt-Epping B. Palliative Sedation: Controversial Discussions and Appropriate Practice. Dtsch Arztebl Int 2022; 119:371-372. [PMID: 36045550 PMCID: PMC9487709 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2022.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Salzmann L, Alt-Epping B, Simon A. Correction: Palliative sedation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: results of a nationwide survey among neurologists and palliative care practitioners in Germany. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:188. [PMID: 35606720 PMCID: PMC9125808 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02718-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Salzmann
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Medical Center Bad Hersfeld, Bad Hersfeld, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alfred Simon
- Academy of Ethics in Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Salzmann L, Alt-Epping B, Simon A. Palliative sedation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: results of a nationwide survey among neurologists and palliative care practitioners in Germany. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:161. [PMID: 35490234 PMCID: PMC9055769 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02681-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative sedation has become widely accepted as a method to alleviate refractory symptoms in terminally ill patients. Controversies regarding this topic especially concern the use of palliative sedation for psychological symptoms, the use in patients who are not imminently dying and the simultaneous withdrawal of life-sustaining measures. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by symptoms including muscle weakness, dysphagia, dysarthria, muscle spasms and progressive respiratory insufficiency. Due to these characteristic symptoms, palliative sedation might be considered to be necessary to alleviate refractory suffering in ALS patients. However, palliative sedation in ALS is only rarely discussed in current medical literature and guidelines. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted among neurologists and palliative care practitioners in Germany. The participants were asked to evaluate the use of palliative sedation in different situations. Results Two hundred and ninety-six completed questionnaires were analyzed. The results suggest high levels of support for the use of palliative sedation in ALS patients. 42% of the participants stated that they had already used palliative sedation in the treatment of ALS patients. Acceptance of palliative sedation was higher in case of physical symptoms than in case of psychological symptoms. Refusal of artificial nutrition did not lead to a lower acceptance of palliative sedation. Doctors with specialist training in palliative care had already used palliative sedation in ALS patients more often and they were more likely to accept palliative sedation in different situations than the participants without a background in palliative care. Conclusion Our survey showed that palliative sedation in ALS is widely accepted by the attending doctors. In case of psychological symptoms, palliative sedation is looked at with more concern than in case of physical symptoms. The refusal of artificial nutrition does not result in a decreased acceptance of palliative sedation. Doctors with specialist training in palliative care are more likely to approve of palliative sedation in ALS. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02681-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Salzmann
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Medical Center Bad Hersfeld, Bad Hersfeld, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alfred Simon
- Academy of Ethics in Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kuon J, Blasi M, Unsöld L, Vogt J, Mehnert A, Alt-Epping B, van Oorschot B, Sistermanns J, Ahlborn M, Ritterbusch U, Stevens S, Kahl C, Ruellan A, Matthias K, Kubin T, Stahlhut K, Heider A, Lordick F, Thomas M. Impact of molecular alterations on quality of life and prognostic understanding over time in patients with incurable lung cancer: a multicenter, longitudinal, prospective cohort study. Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:3131-3140. [PMID: 34877613 PMCID: PMC8857091 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06736-2] [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: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to investigate changes over time in quality of life (QoL) in incurable lung cancer patients and the impact of determinants like molecular alterations (MA). METHODS In a prospective, longitudinal, multicentric study, we assessed QoL, symptom burden, psychological distress, unmet needs, and prognostic understanding of patients diagnosed with incurable lung cancer at the time of the diagnosis (T0) and after 3 (T1), 6 (T2) and 12 months (T3) using validated questionnaires like FACT-L, National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Distress Thermometer (DT), PHQ-4, SCNS-SF-34, and SEIQoL. RESULTS Two hundred seventeen patients were enrolled, 22 (10%) with reported MA. QoL scores improved over time, with a significant trend for DT, PHQ-4, and SCNS-SF-34. Significant determinants for stable or improving scores over time were survival > 6 months, performance status at the time of diagnosis, and presence of MA. Patients with MA showed better QoL scores (FACT-L at T1 104.4 vs 86.3; at T2 107.5 vs 90.0; at T3 100.9 vs 92.8) and lower psychological distress (NCCN DT at T1 3.3 vs 5; at T2 2.7 vs 4.5; at T3 3.7 vs 4.5; PHQ-4 at T1 2.3 vs 4.1; at T2 1.7 vs 3.6; at T3 2.2 vs 3.6), but also a worsening of the scores at 1 year and a higher percentage of inaccurate prognostic understanding (27 vs 17%) compared to patients without MA. CONCLUSION Patients with tumors harboring MA are at risk of QoL deterioration during the course of the disease. Physicians should adapt their communication strategies in order to maintain or improve QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Kuon
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Miriam Blasi
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Unsöld
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jeannette Vogt
- Department of Medicine-2 (Oncology, Gastroenterology, Pulmonology, and Infectious Diseases), and University Cancer Center Leipzig (UCCL), University of Leipzig Medical Center, HepatologyLeipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Sistermanns
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kliniken Maria Hilf, Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | - Miriam Ahlborn
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Klinikum Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Susanne Stevens
- Department of Internistic Oncology, Kliniken Essen Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahl
- Department of Hematology, , Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Ruellan
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Palliative Care, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Kathrin Matthias
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Kubin
- Department of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Traunstein, Traunstein, Germany
| | - Kerstin Stahlhut
- Ambulatory of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Immanuel Klinik Und Poliklinik Rüdersdorf, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Heider
- Department of Medicine 3, Klinikum Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Florian Lordick
- Department of Medicine 2 (Oncology, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Pulmonology, and Infectious Disease), University Cancer Center Leipzig (UCCL), University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michael Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Background The concept of clinical ethics consultation (CECs) was implemented to provide support in ethical controversies in clinical settings and are offered in at least every second hospital in Germany. Neurological disorders often require complex decision-making. The aims of this study were to determine which situations lead to CEC in neurology and to investigate the influence of the individual patient’s wishes on the recommendation. Methods Standardised CEC protocols in the years 2011 to 2017 at the University Hospitals of Goettingen and Jena were retrospectively surveyed. The contents were categorised along existing protocol templates of CEC scenarios and subsequently paraphrased and reduced to significant meanings. Results 27 CEC scenarios which were facilitated by various professional disciplines were reviewed. Stroke was the most frequent underlying condition. Nearly all patients were not able to consent. Mostly, the relatives acted as representatives or health advocates. In 67 % of cases, a sense of conflict triggered a CEC; in 33 % a sense of uncertainty was the reason for the CEC request. In 21 CEC scenarios, a recommendation was reached in consensus with all parties involved. In 59 % of cases, a decision was made to continue medical therapy. In seven cases, the patient’s wishes led to a limitation of therapy, while in just two cases this decision was made primarily relying on the patient’s best interest. In only 13 % of cases, a valid advance directive led to respective therapeutic consequences. Conclusions CEC is feasible for consensus-finding not only in conflicts, but also in situations of therapeutic uncertainty in neurology. There is a special importance of the patient’s wishes in decision-making in neurology. However, only in a few cases were advance directives precise and specific enough to have sufficient and decisive weight in therapeutic decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ilse
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Günther
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Jan Liman
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Alfred Simon
- Academy of Ethics in Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Scherg A, Oechsle K, Coym A, Ilse B, Annweiler B, Alt-Epping B, Neukirchen M, Lemos M, Stummer T, Seibel J, Lenes A, Elsner F. [Virtual palliative care : Pilot study of an electronic tool to test cognitive, psychomotor and affective palliative medical and pain therapeutic learning contents during medical training]. Schmerz 2021; 35:242-250. [PMID: 33970339 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-021-00552-7] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article describes a first use of an electronic case-based assessment tool in undergraduate palliative care education. It describes the development of the tool presenting strengths and shortcomings in order to contribute to an innovative design of assessment tools in medical education. DESIGN AND METHOD An electronic (virtual) case-based assessment tool (the virtual palliative patient, vPp) was developed. Palliative care levels of knowledge, skills and attitude of students were tested at a computer workplace as a voluntary and non-performance-relevant pilot project at four faculties. RESULTS On average the students achieved 80% of the points using the vPp tool, which is below the average score of 91% achieved in the regular examination. In particular, the free text task on reflection of dealing with the patient's death wish caused uncertainty, while multiple choice questions and an interactive conversation sequence were perceived as relatively easy. Technical problems were also identified in the evaluation but overall the concept was evaluated positively and establishment as a regular examination or e‑learning tool was desired. CONCLUSION The implementation of an innovative assessment tool in medical education is technically challenging. A coordination with contents of the individual faculties is necessary in order that students do not have a feeling of a lack of preparation. The development of the vPp describes an innovative assessment format. In the long term, all interested faculties could receive a form of toolbox containing the technical framework of the assessment tool, which can then be fed with new contents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Scherg
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland. .,Abteilung für Hämatologie/Onkologie, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Wesel, Wesel, Deutschland.
| | - K Oechsle
- Palliativmedizin, Universitäres Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - A Coym
- Palliativmedizin, Universitäres Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - B Ilse
- Hans-Berger-Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| | - B Annweiler
- Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Helios Klinikum Schwerin, Schwerin, Deutschland
| | - B Alt-Epping
- Abteilung für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - M Neukirchen
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.,Interdisziplinäres Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - M Lemos
- Audiovisuelles Medienzentrum, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - T Stummer
- Audiovisuelles Medienzentrum, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - J Seibel
- Institut für Transfusionsmedizin, UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - A Lenes
- Medizinische Fakultät, RWTH Aachen, AIXTRA Trainingszentrum, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - F Elsner
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rieder N, Mühe K, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. „Leben retten bis der Arzt kommt?“. Notf Rett Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10049-020-00713-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Einsätze in Notfallsituationen bei Patienten mit fortgeschrittener, unheilbarer Erkrankung stellen für das Rettungsdienstpersonal eine besondere Belastung dar. Für ersteintreffendes nichtärztliches Rettungsdienstpersonal ergeben sich dabei Situationen, in denen Entscheidungen getroffen werden müssen, die außerhalb des erlernten oder rechtlich zugesicherten Kompetenzbereichs liegen. Ziel dieser Arbeit war daher die Darstellung von Konflikten und deren Belastungsauswirkung sowie die Diskussion über eine mögliche Erweiterung der therapeutischen Entscheidungskompetenz des nichtärztlichen Rettungsdienstpersonals als Entlastungsoption.
Material/Methoden
Online-Befragung von Rettungsassistenten und Notfallsanitätern („mixed methods design“) zu deren Konflikten und wahrgenommenen Belastungen. Analyse der Freitextantworten mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse (Mayring). Deskriptiv-statistische Analyse der wahrgenommenen Belastungsintensitäten und Belastungshäufigkeiten.
Ergebnisse
Im Umgang mit Patienten mit fortgeschrittener unheilbarer Erkrankung erlebt das nichtärztliche Rettungsdienstpersonal einen konflikthaften und belastenden Entscheidungs- und Handlungsdruck. Die Konflikte können in vier Dimensionen eingeordnet werden: a) patientenbezogen, b) strukturell, c) persönlich und d) interprofessionell. Eine Erweiterung der therapeutischen Entscheidungskompetenz des nichtärztlichen Rettungsdienstpersonals zur Therapiebegrenzung wurde kritisch und vorbehaltlich wahrgenommen.
Diskussion
Die vom nichtärztlichen Rettungsdienstpersonal beschriebenen Konflikte erfordern vielschichtige Lösungsansätze, wie zum Beispiel themenspezifische Fort- und Weiterbildungsprogramme wie auch regional-strukturelle Konzepte einer gesundheitlichen Versorgungsplanung.
Collapse
|
15
|
Vogt J, Beyer F, Sistermanns J, Kuon J, Kahl C, Alt-Epping B, Stevens S, Ahlborn M, George C, Heider A, Tienken M, Loquai C, Stahlhut K, Ruellan A, Kubin T, Dietz A, Oechsle K, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, van Oorschot B, Thomas M, Ortmann O, Engel C, Lordick F. Symptom Burden and Palliative Care Needs of Patients with Incurable Cancer at Diagnosis and During the Disease Course. Oncologist 2021; 26:e1058-e1065. [PMID: 33687742 PMCID: PMC8176980 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [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] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although current guidelines advocate early integration of palliative care, symptom burden and palliative care needs of patients at diagnosis of incurable cancer and along the disease trajectory are understudied. Material and Methods We assessed distress, symptom burden, quality of life, and supportive care needs in patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer in a prospective longitudinal observational multicenter study. Patients were evaluated using validated self‐report measures (National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer [DT], Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy [FACT], Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life [SEIQoL‐Q], Patients Health Questionnaire‐4 [PHQ‐4], modified Supportive Care Needs Survey [SCNS‐SF‐34]) at baseline (T0) and at 3 (T1), 6 (T2), and 12 months (T3) follow‐up. Results From October 2014 to October 2016, 500 patients (219 women, 281 men; mean age 64.2 years) were recruited at 20 study sites in Germany following diagnosis of incurable metastatic, locally advanced, or recurrent lung (217), gastrointestinal (156), head and neck (55), gynecological (57), and skin (15) cancer. Patients reported significant distress (DT score ≥ 5) after diagnosis, which significantly decreased over time (T0: 67.2%, T1: 51.7%, T2: 47.9%, T3: 48.7%). The spectrum of reported symptoms was broad, with considerable variety between and within the cancer groups. Anxiety and depressiveness were most prevalent early in the disease course (T0: 30.8%, T1: 20.1%, T2: 14.7%, T3: 16.9%). The number of patients reporting unmet supportive care needs decreased over time (T0: 71.8 %, T1: 61.6%, T2: 58.1%, T3: 55.3%). Conclusion Our study confirms a variable and mostly high symptom burden at the time of diagnosis of incurable cancer, suggesting early screening by using standardized tools and underlining the usefulness of early palliative care. Implications for Practice A better understanding of symptom burden and palliative care needs of patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer may guide clinical practice and help to improve the quality of palliative care services. The results of this study provide important information for establishing palliative care programs and related guidelines. Distress, symptom burden, and the need for support vary and are often high at the time of diagnosis. These findings underscore the need for implementation of symptom screening as well as early palliative care services, starting at the time of diagnosis of incurable cancer and tailored according to patients’ needs. Guidelines recommend early integration of palliative care in the treatment of patients with advanced cancer. This study assessed distress, symptom burden, quality of life, and supportive care needs in patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer to facilitate future implementation of more effective palliative care services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Vogt
- Leipzig University Medical Center, University Cancer Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Franziska Beyer
- Leipzig University Medical Center, University Cancer Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jochen Sistermanns
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kliniken Maria Hilf, Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | - Jonas Kuon
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahl
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Stevens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kliniken Essen Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Miriam Ahlborn
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Klinikum Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Christian George
- Department of Gynecology, Klinikum Südstadt Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Andrea Heider
- 3rd Department of Medicine, Klinikum Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Maria Tienken
- Leipzig University Medical Center, University Cancer Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Carmen Loquai
- Skin Cancer Center Rhein-Main, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kerstin Stahlhut
- Hematology Oncology and Palliative Care Clinic, Immanuel Klinik und Poliklinik Rüdersdorf, Rüdersdorf, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Ruellan
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Thomas Kubin
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Traunstein, Traunstein, Germany
| | - Andreas Dietz
- ENT Department, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Regensburg, Caritas Hospital St. Josef, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Engel
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics and Epidemiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Florian Lordick
- Leipzig University Medical Center, University Cancer Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Roch C, Heckel M, van Oorschot B, Alt-Epping B, Tewes M. Screening for Palliative Care Needs: Pilot Data From German Comprehensive Cancer Centers. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1584-e1591. [PMID: 33571007 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Guidelines recommend several screening tools to identify patients with complex palliative needs. This diversity and lack of structural recommendations offer a wide scope for implementing screening. Against this background, the current status of implementation at German Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) funded by the German Cancer Aid has not yet been investigated. METHODS e-mail survey of the 17 hospital sites of the 13 CCCs. The questionnaire asked for structural characteristics of the centers as well as preconditions of the screening process. Structurally established screening procedures (one item) and standardized workflows, modes of performance, screening tools (four items), modes of training how to screen, and responsibilities (two items) were assessed. RESULTS In a 2-month period, 15 hospital sites responded; seven hospital sites conducted a palliative care needs (PCN) screening. Only one hospital site carried out PCN screening in almost all oncology departments, but only with the distress thermometer. Other hospital sites determined palliative needs by assessing physical symptoms using the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale or the Minimal Documentation System, and two hospital sites combined tools to determine both physical and psychological stress. The type of screening varied from paper-pencil-based to tablet computer-based documentation. The main barriers to implementation were identified as a lack of human resources and a lack of structural conditions. CONCLUSION There is a lack of consensus among palliative care specialists and oncologists in the CCCs supported by the German Cancer Aid in PCN screening as well as of structured guidelines and the professional association. Structural requirements should be adapted to these needs, which include both technical and human resources. A combined psycho-oncologic and palliative care screening might help to formulate best practice recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Roch
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, CCC Mainfranken, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Maria Heckel
- Department of Palliative Medicine, CCC Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Center for Palliative Medicine, CCC Mainfranken, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Heidelberg University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mitra Tewes
- West German Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Harnischfeger N, Rath HM, Ullrich A, Alt-Epping B, Letsch A, Thuss-Patience P, Bokemeyer C, Oechsle K, Bergelt C. Evaluation of a communication skills training to facilitate addressing palliative care related topics in advanced cancer patients: study protocol of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (PALLI-KOM). Palliat Care 2020; 19:67. [PMID: 32398130 PMCID: PMC7218622 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Early integration of palliative care concurrently to standard cancer care is associated with several benefits for patients and their caregivers. However, communication barriers on part of the caring physicians often impede a timely referral to palliative care. This study describes the protocol of the evaluation of a communication skills training aiming to strengthen the ability of physicians to address palliative care related topics adequately and early during disease trajectory. Methods We will implement a communication skills training and evaluate it within a prospective, multi-centered, two-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT), which will be conducted at four sites in Germany. Eligible subjects are all physicians treating patients with advanced cancer in their daily routine. An intervention group (IG) receiving a group training will be compared to a wait-list control group (CG) receiving the training after completion of data collection. At pre- and post-measurement points, participants will conduct videotaped conversations with standardized simulated patients (SP). Primary outcome will be the external rating of communication skills and consulting competencies addressing palliative care related topics. Secondary outcomes on core concepts of palliative care, basic knowledge, attitudes, confidence and self-efficacy will be assessed by standardized questionnaires and self-developed items. A further external assessment of the quality of physician-patient-interaction will be conducted by the SP. Longitudinal quantitative data will be analyzed using covariate-adjusted linear mixed-models. Discussion If the communication skills training proves to be effective, it will provide a feasible intervention to promote an earlier communication of palliative care related topics in the care of advanced cancer patients. This would help to further establish early integration of palliative care as it is recommended by national and international guidelines. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00017025 (date of registration: 4 June 2019).
Collapse
|
18
|
Alt-Epping B, Scherg A. Decision-making towards the end of life - in which way does clinical and ethical reasoning enter QB 13 in palliative medicine? GMS J Med Educ 2019; 36:Doc82. [PMID: 31844654 PMCID: PMC6905365 DOI: 10.3205/zma001290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Göttingen, Germany
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Palliativmedizin, AG Bildung, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexandra Scherg
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Palliativmedizin, AG Bildung, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kuon J, Vogt J, Mehnert A, Alt-Epping B, van Oorschot B, Sistermanns J, Ahlborn M, Ritterbusch U, Stevens S, Kahl C, Ruellan A, Matthias K, Kubin T, Stahlhut K, Heider A, Lordick F, Thomas M. Symptoms and Needs of Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer: Early Prevalence Assessment. Oncol Res Treat 2019; 42:650-659. [PMID: 31634889 DOI: 10.1159/000502751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known on symptom burden, psychosocial needs, and perception of prognosis in advanced lung cancer patients at the time of diagnosis, although early assessment is strongly recommended within the setting of daily routine care. METHODS Twelve study sites cross-sectionally assessed symptoms and psychosocial needs of patients suffering from newly diagnosed incurable lung cancer. Assessment comprised NCCN distress thermometer, FACT-L, SEIQoL-Q, PHQ-4, and shortened and modified SCNS-SF-34 questionnaires. Additional prognostic information from both patients and physicians were collected. RESULTS A total of 208 patients were evaluated. Mean age was 63.6 years, 58% were male, 84% suffered from stage IV lung cancer, and 71% had an ECOG performance status of 0-1. Mean distress level was 5.4 (SD 2.5), FACT-L total score was 86 (21.5), and TOI 50.5 (14.9). PHQ-4 was 4.6 (3.3), and shortened and modified SCNS-SF-34 showed 9 (8.7) unmet needs per patient. According to their physicians' perspective, 98.1% of patients were reflecting on and 85.2% were accepting incurability, while 26.5% of patients considered the treatment to be of curative intent. CONCLUSION Our findings emphasize substantial domains of symptom burden seen in newly diagnosed, incurable lung cancer patients. Oncologists should be aware of these features and address prognostic issues early in the disease trajectory to facilitate opportunities to improve coping, advance care planning, and appropriate integration of palliative care, thus improving quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Kuon
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany,
| | | | - Anja Mehnert
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Sistermanns
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kliniken Maria Hilf, Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | - Miriam Ahlborn
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Klinikum Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Susanne Stevens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kliniken Essen Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahl
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Ruellan
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Stadtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Kathrin Matthias
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Kubin
- Department of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Traunstein, Traunstein, Germany
| | - Kerstin Stahlhut
- Ambulatory of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Immanuel Klinik und Poliklinik Rüdersdorf, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Heider
- Department of Medicine 3, Klinikum Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | | | - Michael Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sobanski PZ, Alt-Epping B, Currow DC, Goodlin SJ, Grodzicki T, Hogg K, Janssen DJA, Johnson MJ, Krajnik M, Leget C, Martínez-Sellés M, Moroni M, Mueller PS, Ryder M, Simon ST, Stowe E, Larkin PJ. Palliative care for people living with heart failure: European Association for Palliative Care Task Force expert position statement. Cardiovasc Res 2019; 116:12-27. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Contrary to common perception, modern palliative care (PC) is applicable to all people with an incurable disease, not only cancer. PC is appropriate at every stage of disease progression, when PC needs emerge. These needs can be of physical, emotional, social, or spiritual nature. This document encourages the use of validated assessment tools to recognize such needs and ascertain efficacy of management. PC interventions should be provided alongside cardiologic management. Treating breathlessness is more effective, when cardiologic management is supported by PC interventions. Treating other symptoms like pain or depression requires predominantly PC interventions. Advance Care Planning aims to ensure that the future treatment and care the person receives is concordant with their personal values and goals, even after losing decision-making capacity. It should include also disease specific aspects, such as modification of implantable device activity at the end of life. The Whole Person Care concept describes the inseparability of the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of the human being. Addressing psychological and spiritual needs, together with medical treatment, maintains personal integrity and promotes emotional healing. Most PC concerns can be addressed by the usual care team, supported by a PC specialist if needed. During dying, the persons’ needs may change dynamically and intensive PC is often required. Following the death of a person, bereavement services benefit loved ones. The authors conclude that the inclusion of PC within the regular clinical framework for people with heart failure results in a substantial improvement in quality of life as well as comfort and dignity whilst dying.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Z Sobanski
- Palliative Care Unit and Competence Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Spital Schwyz, Waldeggstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen Georg August University, Robertkochstrasse 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - David C Currow
- University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Ultimo, Sydney, 2007 New South Wales, Australia
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah J Goodlin
- Department of Medicine-Geriatrics, Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Patient-cantered Education and Research, 3710 SW US Veterans Rd, Portland, 97239 OR, USA
| | - Tomasz Grodzicki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gerontology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-531 Kraków, Śniadeckich 10, Poland
| | | | - Daisy J A Janssen
- Department of Research and Education, CIRO, Hornerheide 1, 6085 NM Horn, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, 6229 GT, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Miriam J Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Małgorzata Krajnik
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Skłodowskiej-Curie 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Carlo Leget
- University of Humanistic Studies, Chair Care Ethics, Kromme Nieuwegracht 29, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, C/ Dr. Esquerdo, 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Matteo Moroni
- S.S.D. Cure Palliative, sede di Ravenna, AUSL Romagna, Via De Gasperi 8, 48121 Ravenna, Italy
| | - Paul S Mueller
- Mayo Clinic Health System, Mayo Clinic Collage of Medicine and Science, 700 West Avennue South, La Crosse, 54601 Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mary Ryder
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Ireland St. Vincent’s University Hospital Dublin,Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty of the Universityof Cologne, Köln, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Cologne/Bonn (CIO), Medical Faculty ofthe University of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse 62, 50924 Köln, Germany
| | | | - Philip J Larkin
- Service des soins palliatifs Lausanne University Hospital, CHUV, Centre hospitalier univeritaire vaudois, Lausanne Switzerland
- Institut universitaire de formation et de recherche en soins – IUFRS, Faculté de viologie et de medicine – FBM, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Background: Clinical ethics committees have been broadly implemented in university
hospitals, general hospitals and nursing homes. To ensure the quality of
ethics consultations, evaluation should be mandatory. Research question/aim: The aim of this article is to evaluate the perspectives of all people
involved and the process of implementation on the wards. Research design and participants: The data were collected in two steps: by means of non-participating
observation of four ethics case consultations and by open-guided interviews
with 28 participants. Data analysis was performed according to grounded
theory. Ethical considerations: The study received approval from the local Ethics Commission (registration
no.: 32/11/10). Findings: ‘Communication problems’ and ‘hierarchical team conflicts’ proved to be the
main aspects that led to ethics consultation, involving two factors:
unresolvable differences arise in the context of team conflicts on the ward
and unresolvable differences prevent a solution being found. Hierarchical
asymmetries, which are common in the medical field, support this vicious
circle. Based on this, minor or major disagreements regarding clinical
decisions might be seen as ethical conflicts. The expectation on the
clinical ethics committee is to solve this (communication) problem, but the
participants experienced that hierarchy is maintained by the clinical ethics
committee members. Discussion: The asymmetrical structures of the clinical ethics committee reflect the
institutional hierarchical nature. They endure, despite the fact that the
clinical ethics committee should be able to detect and overcome them.
Disagreements among care givers are described as one of the most difficult
ethically relevant situations and should be recognised by the clinical
ethics committee. On the contrary, discussion of team conflicts and clinical
ethical issues should not be combined, since the first is a mandate for team
supervision. Conclusion: To avoid dominance by physicians and an excessively factual character of the
presentation, the case or conflict could be presented by both physicians and
nurses, a strategy that strengthens the interpersonal and emotional aspects
and also integrates both professional perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gabriella Marx
- Gabriella Marx, Department of General
Practice/Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf,
Martinistraße 52, W37, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
|
23
|
Emons G, Steiner E, Vordermark D, Uleer C, Bock N, Paradies K, Ortmann O, Aretz S, Mallmann P, Kurzeder C, Hagen V, van Oorschot B, Höcht S, Feyer P, Egerer G, Friedrich M, Cremer W, Prott FJ, Horn LC, Prömpeler H, Langrehr J, Leinung S, Beckmann MW, Kimmig R, Letsch A, Reinhardt M, Alt-Epping B, Kiesel L, Menke J, Gebhardt M, Steinke-Lange V, Rahner N, Lichtenegger W, Zeimet A, Hanf V, Weis J, Mueller M, Henscher U, Schmutzler RK, Meindl A, Hilpert F, Panke JE, Strnad V, Niehues C, Dauelsberg T, Niehoff P, Mayr D, Grab D, Kreißl M, Witteler R, Schorsch A, Mustea A, Petru E, Hübner J, Rose AD, Wight E, Tholen R, Bauerschmitz GJ, Fleisch M, Juhasz-Boess I, Lax S, Runnebaum I, Tempfer C, Nothacker MJ, Blödt S, Follmann M, Langer T, Raatz H, Wesselmann S, Erdogan S. Interdisciplinary Diagnosis, Therapy and Follow-up of Patients with Endometrial Cancer. Guideline (S3-Level, AWMF Registry Number 032/034-OL, April 2018) - Part 2 with Recommendations on the Therapy and Follow-up of Endometrial Cancer, Palliative Care, Psycho-oncological/Psychosocial Care/Rehabilitation/Patient Information and Healthcare Facilities. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018; 78:1089-1109. [PMID: 30581199 PMCID: PMC6261739 DOI: 10.1055/a-0715-2964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Summary The first German interdisciplinary S3-guideline on the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer was published in April 2018. Funded by German Cancer Aid as part of an Oncology Guidelines Program, the lead coordinators of the guideline were the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) and the Gynecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) of the German Cancer Society (DKG). Purpose Using evidence-based, risk-adapted therapy to treat low-risk women with endometrial cancer avoids unnecessarily radical surgery and non-useful adjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. This can significantly reduce therapy-induced morbidity and improve the patient's quality of life as well as avoiding unnecessary costs. For women with endometrial cancer and a high risk of recurrence, the guideline defines the optimal extent of surgical radicality together with the appropriate chemotherapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy if required. An evidence-based optimal use of different therapeutic modalities should improve the survival rates and quality of life of these patients. This S3-guideline on endometrial cancer is intended as a basis for certified gynecological cancer centers. The aim is that the quality indicators established in this guideline will be incorporated in the certification processes of these centers. Methods The guideline was compiled in accordance with the requirements for S3-level guidelines. This includes, in the first instance, the adaptation of source guidelines selected using the DELBI instrument for appraising guidelines. Other consulted sources included reviews of evidence, which were compiled from literature selected during systematic searches of literature databases using the PICO scheme. In addition, an external biostatistics institute was commissioned to carry out a systematic search and assessment of the literature for one part of the guideline. Identified materials were used by the interdisciplinary working groups to develop suggestions for Recommendations and Statements, which were then subsequently modified during structured consensus conferences and/or additionally amended online using the DELPHI method, with consent between members achieved online. The guideline report is freely available online. Recommendations Part 2 of this short version of the guideline presents recommendations for the therapy of endometrial cancer including precancers and early endometrial cancer as well as recommendations on palliative medicine, psycho-oncology, rehabilitation, patient information and healthcare facilities to treat endometrial cancer. The management of precancers of early endometrial precancerous conditions including fertility-preserving strategies is presented. The concept used for surgical primary therapy of endometrial cancer is described. Radiotherapy and adjuvant medical therapy to treat endometrial cancer and uterine carcinosarcomas are described. Recommendations are given for the follow-up care of endometrial cancer, recurrence and metastasis. Palliative medicine, psycho-oncology including psychosocial care, and patient information and rehabilitation are presented. Finally, the care algorithm and quality assurance steps for the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer are outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Günter Emons
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eric Steiner
- Frauenklinik, GPR Klinikum Rüsselsheim am Main, Rüsselsheim, Germany
| | - Dirk Vordermark
- Radiotherapy, Universität Halle (Saale), Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christoph Uleer
- Facharzt für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Nina Bock
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Paradies
- Konferenz Onkologischer Kranken- und Kinderkrankenpflege, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universität Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Aretz
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universität Bonn, Zentrum für erbliche Tumorerkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Volker Hagen
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, St.-Johannes-Hospital Dortmund, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisziplinäres Zentrum Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Höcht
- Xcare, Praxis für Strahlentherapie, Saarlouis, Germany
| | - Petra Feyer
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerlinde Egerer
- Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Heinrich Prömpeler
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jan Langrehr
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Gefäß- und Viszeralchirurgie, Martin-Luther-Krankenhaus, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Rainer Kimmig
- Women's Department, University Hospital of Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anne Letsch
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Hämatologie und Onkologie, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Reinhardt
- Klinik für Nuklearmedizin, Pius Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Jan Menke
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marion Gebhardt
- Frauenselbsthilfe nach Krebs e. V., Erlangen, Erlangen/Forchheim, Germany
| | - Verena Steinke-Lange
- MGZ - Medizinisch Genetisches Zentrum, München und Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Campus Innenstadt, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Nils Rahner
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Werner Lichtenegger
- Frauenklinik Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alain Zeimet
- Frauenheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Volker Hanf
- Frauenklinik Nathanstift - Klinikum Fürth, Fürth, Germany
| | - Joachim Weis
- Stiftungsprofessur Selbsthilfeforschung, Tumorzentrum/CCC Freiburg, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Mueller
- Universitätsklinik für Frauenheilkunde, Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Rita K Schmutzler
- Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alfons Meindl
- Frauenklinik am Klinikum rechts der Isar, München, Germany
| | - Felix Hilpert
- Mammazentrum, Krankenhaus Jerusalem, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joan Elisabeth Panke
- Medizinischer Dienst des Spitzenverbandes Bund der Krankenkassen e. V., Essen, Germany
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Strahlenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, CCC ER-EMN, Universitäts-Brustzentrum Franken, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Timm Dauelsberg
- Winkelwaldklinik Nordrach, Fachklinik für onkologische Rehabilitation, Nordrach, Germany
| | - Peter Niehoff
- Strahlenklinik, Sana Klinikum Offenbach, Offenbach, Germany
| | - Doris Mayr
- Pathologisches Institut, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Dieter Grab
- Frauenklinik Klinikum Harlaching, München, Germany
| | - Michael Kreißl
- Klinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Universitätsklinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Witteler
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | | | | | - Edgar Petru
- Frauenheilkunde, Med. Univ. Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jutta Hübner
- Klinikum für Innere Medizin II, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Edward Wight
- Frauenklinik des Universitätsspitals Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Reina Tholen
- Deutscher Verband für Physiotherapie, Referat Bildung und Wissenschaft, Köln, Germany
| | - Gerd J Bauerschmitz
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Fleisch
- Landesfrauenklinik, HELIOS Universitätsklinikum Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ingolf Juhasz-Boess
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde, Geburtshilfe und Reproduktionsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes und Medizinische Fakultät der Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Sigurd Lax
- Institut für Pathologie, Landeskrankenhaus Graz West, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Clemens Tempfer
- Marien Hospital Herne - Universitätsklinikum der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Herne, Germany
| | | | | | - Markus Follmann
- Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft, Office des Leitlinienprogrammes Onkologie, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Langer
- Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft, Office des Leitlinienprogrammes Onkologie, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heike Raatz
- Institut für Klinische Epidemiologie & Biostatistik (CEB), Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Saskia Erdogan
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Emons G, Steiner E, Vordermark D, Uleer C, Bock N, Paradies K, Ortmann O, Aretz S, Mallmann P, Kurzeder C, Hagen V, van Oorschot B, Höcht S, Feyer P, Egerer G, Friedrich M, Cremer W, Prott FJ, Horn LC, Prömpeler H, Langrehr J, Leinung S, Beckmann MW, Kimmig R, Letsch A, Reinhardt M, Alt-Epping B, Kiesel L, Menke J, Gebhardt M, Steinke-Lange V, Rahner N, Lichtenegger W, Zeimet A, Hanf V, Weis J, Mueller M, Henscher U, Schmutzler RK, Meindl A, Hilpert F, Panke JE, Strnad V, Niehues C, Dauelsberg T, Niehoff P, Mayr D, Grab D, Kreißl M, Witteler R, Schorsch A, Mustea A, Petru E, Hübner J, Rose AD, Wight E, Tholen R, Bauerschmitz GJ, Fleisch M, Juhasz-Boess I, Sigurd L, Runnebaum I, Tempfer C, Nothacker MJ, Blödt S, Follmann M, Langer T, Raatz H, Wesselmann S, Erdogan S. Interdisciplinary Diagnosis, Therapy and Follow-up of Patients with Endometrial Cancer. Guideline (S3-Level, AWMF Registry Nummer 032/034-OL, April 2018) - Part 1 with Recommendations on the Epidemiology, Screening, Diagnosis and Hereditary Factors of Endometrial Cancer. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018; 78:949-971. [PMID: 30364388 PMCID: PMC6195426 DOI: 10.1055/a-0713-1218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary
The first German interdisciplinary S3-guideline on the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer was published in April 2018. Funded by German Cancer Aid as part of an Oncology Guidelines Program, the lead coordinators of the guideline were the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) and the Gynecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) of the German Cancer Society (DKG).
Purpose
The use of evidence-based, risk-adapted therapy to treat low-risk women with endometrial cancer avoids unnecessarily radical surgery and non-useful adjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. This can significantly reduce therapy-induced morbidity and improve the patientʼs quality of life as well as avoiding unnecessary costs. For women with endometrial cancer and a high risk of recurrence, the guideline defines the optimal surgical radicality together with the appropriate chemotherapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy where required. The evidence-based optimal use of different therapeutic modalities should improve survival rates and the quality of life of these patients. The S3-guideline on endometrial cancer is intended as a basis for certified gynecological cancer centers. The aim is that the quality indicators established in this guideline will be incorporated in the certification processes of these centers.
Methods
The guideline was compiled in accordance with the requirements for S3-level guidelines. This includes, in the first instance, the adaptation of source guidelines selected using the DELBI instrument for appraising guidelines. Other consulted sources include reviews of evidence which were compiled from literature selected during systematic searches of literature databases using the PICO scheme. In addition, an external biostatistics institute was commissioned to carry out a systematic search and assessment of the literature for one area of the guideline. The identified materials were used by the interdisciplinary working groups to develop suggestions for Recommendations and Statements, which were then modified during structured consensus conferences and/or additionally amended online using the DELPHI method with consent being reached online. The guideline report is freely available online.
Recommendations
Part 1 of this short version of the guideline presents recommendations on epidemiology, screening, diagnosis and hereditary factors, The epidemiology of endometrial cancer and the risk factors for developing endomentrial cancer are presented. The options for screening and the methods used to diagnose endometrial cancer including the pathology of the cancer are outlined. Recommendations are given for the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of hereditary forms of endometrial cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Günter Emons
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eric Steiner
- Frauenklinik, GPR Klinikum Rüsselsheim am Main, Rüsselsheim, Germany
| | | | - Christoph Uleer
- Facharzt für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Hildesheim, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Nina Bock
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Paradies
- Konferenz Onkologischer Kranken- und Kinderkrankenpflege, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universität Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Aretz
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universität Bonn, Zentrum für erbliche Tumorerkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Volker Hagen
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, St.-Johannes-Hospital Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisziplinäres Zentrum Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Höcht
- Xcare, Praxis für Strahlentherapie, Saarlouis, Saarlouis, Germany
| | - Petra Feyer
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerlinde Egerer
- Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Heinrich Prömpeler
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jan Langrehr
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Gefäß- und Viszeralchirurgie, Martin-Luther-Krankenhaus, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Rainer Kimmig
- Women's Department, University Hospital of Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anne Letsch
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Hämatologie und Onkologie, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Reinhardt
- Klinik für Nuklearmedizin, Pius Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Germany, Münster, Germany
| | - Jan Menke
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marion Gebhardt
- Frauenselbsthilfe nach Krebs e. V., Erlangen, Erlangen/Forchheim, Germany
| | - Verena Steinke-Lange
- MGZ - Medizinisch Genetisches Zentrum, München und Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Campus Innenstadt, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Nils Rahner
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Werner Lichtenegger
- Frauenklinik Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alain Zeimet
- Frauenheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Volker Hanf
- Frauenklinik Nathanstift - Klinikum Fürth, Fürth, Germany
| | - Joachim Weis
- Stiftungsprofessur Selbsthilfeforschung, Tumorzentrum/CCC Freiburg, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Mueller
- Universitätsklinik für Frauenheilkunde, Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Rita K Schmutzler
- Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alfons Meindl
- Frauenklinik am Klinikum rechts der Isar, München, Germany
| | - Felix Hilpert
- Mammazentrum, Krankenhaus Jerusalem, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joan Elisabeth Panke
- Medizinischer Dienst des Spitzenverbandes Bund der Krankenkassen e. V., Essen, Germany
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Strahlenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, CCC ER-EMN, Universitäts-Brustzentrum Franken, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Timm Dauelsberg
- Winkelwaldklinik Nordrach, Fachklinik für onkologische Rehabilitation, Nordrach, Germany
| | - Peter Niehoff
- Strahlenklinik, Sana Klinikum Offenbach, Offenbach, Germany
| | - Doris Mayr
- Pathologisches Institut, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Dieter Grab
- Frauenklinik Klinikum Harlaching, München, Germany
| | - Michael Kreißl
- Universitätsklinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Witteler
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Germany, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Edgar Petru
- Frauenheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jutta Hübner
- Klinikum für Innere Medizin II, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Edward Wight
- Frauenklinik des Universitätsspitals Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Reina Tholen
- Deutscher Verband für Physiotherapie, Referat Bildung und Wissenschaft, Köln, Germany
| | - Gerd J Bauerschmitz
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Fleisch
- Landesfrauenklinik, HELIOS Universitätsklinikum Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ingolf Juhasz-Boess
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde, Geburtshilfe und Reproduktionsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes und Medizinische Fakultät der Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Lax Sigurd
- Institut für Pathologie, Landeskrankenhaus Graz West, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Clemens Tempfer
- Marien Hospital Herne - Universitätsklinikum der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Herne, Germany
| | | | | | - Markus Follmann
- Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft, Office des Leitlinienprogramms Onkologie, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Langer
- Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft, Office des Leitlinienprogramms Onkologie, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heike Raatz
- Institut für Klinische Epidemiologie & Biostatistik (CEB), Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Saskia Erdogan
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Gärtner J, Alt-Epping B, Daun M. Palliative Care: Nicht erst am Lebensende – eine praxisorientierte Diskussion der aktuellen Evidenz. Therapeutische Umschau 2018; 75:123-126. [DOI: 10.1024/0040-5930/a000977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung. Patienten mit nicht heilbaren und fortschreitenden neurologischen, internistischen, onkologischen und anderen Erkrankungen leiden schon bei Diagnosestellung unter teils massiven Einschränkungen der Lebensqualität durch körperliche Symptome (z. B. Schmerz und Luftnot) sowie durch psychische, soziale und spirituelle Belastungen. Palliative Care dient als umfassendes Unterstützungskonzept dem bestmöglichen Erhalt individueller Lebensqualität und umfasst mehr als nur die Betreuung in der letzten Lebensphase, im Sinne einer «End of Life Care». Ärzte und andere Berufsgruppen aller Fachrichtungen sollten daher grundlegende Massnahmen und Basiswissen der Palliative Care beherrschen und schon früh im Erkrankungsverlauf anwenden. Dazu gehören u. a. Grundfertigkeiten palliativer Schmerztherapie und Symptomkontrolle, aber auch pflegerische, psychosoziale, ethische und kommunikative Kompetenzen. Die Kooperation mit anderen medizinischen Berufsgruppen und therapeutisch Tätigen sollte sich an den spezifischen Bedürfnissen der Palliativpatienten orientieren. Nicht zuletzt braucht es die Bereitschaft, spezialisierte palliativmedizinische Dienste bei besonders belasteten Patienten in komplexen Situationen aktiv einzubeziehen. Der frühzeitige Einbezug palliativmedizinischen Denkens und Handelns ist eine Aufgabe aller Fachdisziplinen und Berufsgruppen des Gesundheitswesens im Rahmen der allgemeinen Palliative Care. Zusätzlich zu dieser allgemeinen Palliative Care ist auch eine Mitbetreuung durch multiprofessionelle Teams der spezialisierten Palliative Care möglich. Dieses ist zum Beispiel für den Bereich der häuslichen Versorgung (in Deutschland: Spezialisierte Ambulante Palliativversorgung (SAPV)) etabliert und gemäss einer aktuellen Meta-Analyse in Bezug auf Lebensqualität und Symptomlast der Patienten sowie der Ermöglichung eines Versterbens im häuslichen Umfeld sehr hilfreich. Allerdings erfolgt eine häusliche Mitbetreuung durch die spezialisierte Palliative Care selten in frühen Erkrankungsstadien. Eine andere Meta-Analyse konnte zeigen, dass Patienten in Krankenhäusern (Ambulanzen und Stationen) besonders dann von der Mitbetreuung durch spezialisierte multiprofessionelle Palliative Care-Teams (in Deutschland: Palliativdienste) in Bezug auf ihre Lebensqualität profitieren, wenn deren Integration frühzeitig im Erkrankungsverlauf stattfindet. Eine konkrete Mitbehandlung aller Patienten mit inkurablen Grunderkrankungen durch die spezialisierte Palliative Care ist im Alltag allerdings weder praktikabel noch zielführend. Vielmehr ist es angezeigt, die besonders belasteten oder unter komplexen Symptomen und Problemen leidenden Patienten frühzeitig zu identifizieren und diese Patienten entsprechend zu unterstützen. Dazu werden Indikatoren für den Einbezug spezialisierter Palliative Care verwendet. Ebenso bedarf es der Kenntnis von Schnittstellen zu den jeweiligen vorhandenen regionalen Versorgungsstrukturen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marion Daun
- Palliativzentrum Hildegard, Basel
- Klinik für Hämatologie, Onkologie und Palliativmedizin, Sektionsleitung Palliativmedizin, Rems-Murr-Klinikum, Winnenden
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Alt-Epping B, Haas AL, Jansky M, Nauck F. Symptomlinderung durch Tumortherapie? Schmerz 2018; 32:90-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s00482-018-0270-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
27
|
Andreas S, Alt-Epping B. Advance care planning in severe COPD: it is time to engage with the future. ERJ Open Res 2018; 4:00009-2018. [PMID: 29479536 PMCID: PMC5814759 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00009-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Advance care planning should be part of our clinical routine in severe COPD http://ow.ly/Cshs30i8FS9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Andreas
- Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Lung Clinic Immenhausen, Immenhausen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pabinger I, Alt-Epping B, Demarmels Biasutti F, Langer F, Wörmann B, Riess H. Venöse Thrombembolien bei Tumorpatienten. Hamostaseologie 2017; 31:281-90; quiz 291-2. [DOI: 10.5482/ha-1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
SummaryVenous thrombembolism (VTE) is one of the most frequent complication in cancer patients. The current options in prophylaxis and therapy have to be balanced against the risks of major bleeding and the burden for the patients. The Gesellschaft für Thrombose- und Hämostaseforschung, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Palliativmedizin and the German speaking Societies of Hematology and Oncology have recently published guidelines on VTE in cancer patients. Recommendations include diagnostics, individual prophylaxis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Pabinger
- Medizinische Universität Wien, Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin I, Klinische Abteilung für Hämatologie und Hämostaseologie, Wien.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Isermeyer L, Ilse B, Marx G, Seidemann S, Jünger J, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. [Implementing the Cross-Disciplinary Subject Palliative Care - Lecture's Perspective]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2017; 142:e167-e174. [PMID: 29145675 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-115776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction In 2009, palliative care was introduced as a mandatory subject in the undergraduate medical curriculum in Germany. Despite all efforts to integrate this subject into the curriculum, research suggests substantial differences and deficits in the quality of education between the medical schools. The aim of this research was to find out promoting as well as impedimental aspects of implementing palliative care in the medical training program. By this, a suitable framework in terms of content and structure for palliative care teaching should be extracted. Methods We performed guided interviews with 15 of the in total 36 lecturers responsible for the implementation of palliative care teaching at their respective medical schools. We focused on content, design and methods of implementation within the palliative care curriculum. Data was evaluated by content analysis according to Meuser and Nagel. Results We found that a lack of recognition of this subject within the medical faculties, coupled with entrenched structures of an already packed syllabus, were considered to be most relevant for the given heterogeneity in the implementation process. Deficits in personnel, financial and time resources also contributed to the perceived deficits. Faced with these difficulties, inner- and cross-faculty teamwork and support, extracurricular activities as well as external funds have proven to be important resources. Discussion To promote the implementation process, medical faculties need established palliative care structures that meet the interests and needs of the students more effectively. Analysis of structural needs (for instance, the amount of apprenticeships and teachings units) would be an important step to prove political claims. Moreover, the development of suitable and resource-saving teaching and assessment methods should be promoted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Isermeyer
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Benjamin Ilse
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| | - Gabriella Marx
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Stephanie Seidemann
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - Jana Jünger
- Institut für medizinische und pharmazeutische Prüfungsfragen, Mainz, Deutschland
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Benze G, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B, Gianni G, Bauknecht T, Ettl J, Munte A, Kretzschmar L, Gaertner J. PROutine: a feasibility study assessing surveillance of electronic patient reported outcomes and adherence via smartphone app in advanced cancer. Ann Palliat Med 2017; 8:104-111. [PMID: 29156896 DOI: 10.21037/apm.2017.07.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In advanced cancer, quality of life (QoL) is a major treatment goal. In order to achieve this, the identification of suffering by screening for patient-reported-outcomes (PROs, i.e., symptoms) is of utmost importance. The use of paper-pencil questionnaires is associated with significant shortcomings due to missing data, recall bias and transcription errors. Other than that, the electronic recording of PROs by mobile Health (mHealth) offers a number of advantages. The aim of this study was to test whether the routine assessment of PROs via a newly developed smartphone application (MeQoL®) is feasible. METHODS A prospective, uncontrolled, multi-center, feasibility trial was performed in adult outpatients with advanced, solid cancer. Patients under anti-cancer therapy and with regular outpatient visits were eligible. Patients daily recorded the degree of perceived distress (NCCN Distress Thermometer®), pain intensity {average and worst [numerical rating scale (NRS), 0-10]}, the number of breakthrough pain episodes (BPE) and ten questions from a modified version of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS). Weekly, five questions concerning different domains of QoL from the short-form 8 (SF-8) questionnaire were obtained. Also, patients recorded the intake of their opioid rescue medication. According to the main scope of the trial (feasibility), no primary endpoint was defined. Rather, the following main feasibility criteria were assessed: missing data, drop-out- and acceptance-rate, patient satisfaction, patients' judgement of practicability, patients' and physicians' suggestions for improvement and basic clinical and demographic data of the participating patients. The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (ID: DRKS00008761). RESULTS In three German cancer centers, 40 patients {female: 28 (70%); average age, 57 years [range, 27-73 years; standard deviation (SD), 12]} were included. As three devices were lost on transport, 37 devices could be evaluated. The median investigation period per device was 99.5 days (SD, 31). Patient adherence in using the smartphone app to document their distress and symptoms was high and missing data were low: In median daily reviews were performed on 70 (SD, 29) of these days (70%) and median weekly recordings were 13 weeks (87%). Most often, patients recorded symptom intensity (89%, MIDOS) and distress (85%, NCCN thermometer). On feedback forms, patients reported a good to very good user friendliness of MeQoL® and a high motivation to use this tool again. CONCLUSIONS Even though participants were asked to record PROs rather frequently (daily), missing data were low and patient satisfaction was high. Having in mind the findings of other working groups, such routine implementation of mHealth solutions may substantially improve outcomes of cancer therapy and increase the value of trials' findings. For the individual patient, MeQoL® allows for monitoring adherence to pharmacotherapy and can facilitate patient guidance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gesine Benze
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | | | - Johannes Ettl
- Departement of Gynecology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Munte
- Departement of Gynecology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Luisa Kretzschmar
- Department of Gynecology, Charité-University Medical Center Berlin CVK, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Gaertner
- Center for Palliative Care Hildegard, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kaiser F, Rudloff LV, Vehling-Kaiser U, Hollburg W, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. Palliative home care for patients with advanced haematological malignancies-a multicenter survey. Ann Hematol 2017. [PMID: 28638954 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-017-3045-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Patients with advanced haematological malignancies in non-curative settings suffer from complex physical symptoms and psychosocial distress, comparable to patients with solid tumour entities. Nevertheless, numerous problems at the interface between haematology and palliative home care have been described. From January 2011 until October 2014, we performed a retrospective, multicenter analysis of all patients with haematological malignancies (ICD 10: C81-C95) being treated by the respective specialized palliative home care (SAPV) team. Three SAPV teams were surveyed. Disease entity, physical symptoms, psychosocial distress, number of hospital admissions, therapeutic interventions and other items were analysed descriptively. Of 3,955 SAPV patients, 1.8% (n = 73) suffered from haematological malignancies. Main problems were deterioration of general condition, pain or psychological problems. Thirty-seven percent developed new symptoms during SAPV, mainly pain, psychological distress or deterioration of general status. In 33%, patients were referred to hospital, mainly due to deterioration of general condition or pain. Seventy percent died within 3 months after beginning SAPV care; 83% died at home or in a nursing home. Patients suffering from advanced haematological malignancies were statistically underrepresented in SAPV, and SAPV was installed rather at the very last days of life. By far, more patients were able to die outside a hospital as compared to reference cohorts of haematological patients not being treated in SAPV. The spectrum of documented problems is comparable to other patient cohorts being treated in SAPV; therefore, the options and benefits of palliative home care should be incorporated in palliative haematological treatment concepts more vigorously and consequently.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Kaiser
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - L V Rudloff
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - W Hollburg
- PalliativPartner Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - F Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - B Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
|
33
|
Simon S, Altfelder N, Alt-Epping B, Bausewein C, Weingärtner V, Voltz R, Ostgathe C, Radbruch L, Lindena G, Nauck F. Charakteristika von Palliativpatienten mit Atemnot. Pneumologie 2017; 71:40-47. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-112837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Simon
- Institut für Palliative Care, Oldenburg
| | | | - B. Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen
| | | | | | - R. Voltz
- Zentrum für Palliativmedizin, Uniklinikum Köln
| | - C. Ostgathe
- Palliativmedizinische Abteilung, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, CCC EMN, Erlangen
| | - L. Radbruch
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Bonn
| | | | - F. Nauck
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Simon ST, Kloke M, Alt-Epping B, Gärtner J, Hellmich M, Hein R, Piel M, Cornely OA, Nauck F, Voltz R. EffenDys-Fentanyl Buccal Tablet for the Relief of Episodic Breathlessness in Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Multicenter, Open-Label, Randomized, Morphine-Controlled, Crossover, Phase II Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 52:617-625. [PMID: 27693898 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2016.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 01/22/2016] [Revised: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Episodic breathlessness is a frequent and burdensome symptom in cancer patients but pharmacological treatment is limited. OBJECTIVES To determine time to onset, efficacy, feasibility, and safety of transmucosal fentanyl in comparison to immediate-release morphine for the relief of episodic breathlessness. METHODS Phase II, investigator-initiated, multicenter, open-label, randomized, morphine-controlled, crossover trial with open-label titration of fentanyl buccal tablet (FBT) in inpatients with incurable cancer. The primary outcome was time to onset of meaningful breathlessness relief. Secondary outcomes were efficacy (breathlessness intensity difference at 10 and 30 minutes; sum of breathlessness intensity difference at 15 and 60 minutes), feasibility, and safety. Study was approved by local ethics committees. RESULTS Twenty-five of 1341 patients were eligible, 10 patients agreed to participate (four female, mean age 58 ± 11, mean Karnofsky score 67 ± 11). Two patients died before final visits and two patients dropped-out because of disease progression leaving six patients for analysis with 61 episodes of breathlessness. Mean time to onset was for FBT 12.7 ± 10.0 and for immediate-release morphine 23.6 ± 15.1 minutes with a mean difference of -10.9 minutes (95% CI = -24.5 to 2.7, P = 0.094). Efficacy measures were predominately in favor for FBT. Both interventions were safe. Feasibility failed because of too much study demands for a very ill patient group. CONCLUSION The description of a faster and greater relief of episodic breathlessness by transmucosal fentanyl versus morphine justifies further evaluation by a full-powered trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Clinical Trial Unit in Palliative Care, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Cologne/Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Marianne Kloke
- Department of Palliative Medicine with Institute of Palliative Care, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jan Gärtner
- Clinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Hellmich
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Rebecca Hein
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Maren Piel
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Clinical Trial Unit in Palliative Care, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Cologne/Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (CTCC), ZKS Köln, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Clinical Trial Unit in Palliative Care, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Cologne/Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Simon ST, Altfelder N, Alt-Epping B, Bausewein C, Weingärtner V, Voltz R, Ostgathe C, Radbruch L, Lindena G, Nauck F. [Characteristics of patients with breathlessness - results of the german hospice and palliative care evaluation]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2016; 141:e87-95. [PMID: 27176070 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-106678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breathlessness is a common and distressing symptom in patients with advanced life-limiting disease. The aim of this study was to describe demographical and clinical characteristics of patients with breathlessness in Germany. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of hospice and palliative care inpatient data from 2006 to 2008. The Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation (HOPE) is an annual prospective German survey, that includes a validated 16-item symptom-and-problem checklist (severity score 0-3). Characteristics of patients with or without breathlessness were compared in a pure descriptive manner. Interpretation of given p-values takes the error inflation due to multiple testing into account. RESULTS Breathlessness was recorded in 2860/5320 (53.8 %) patients (mean age 67.2 years (SD 12.4), 51.4 % female, 93.6 % malignant disease (female / male lung cancer 15.7/29.5 %, breast cancer 20.3/0.3 %, colon 10.3/8.7 %)). Breathless patients compared with those without breathless ness had a significantly worse functional status (ECOG 3-4: 78.4 % vs. 70.8 %, p < 0.001), suffered from a larger number (11.1 vs. 9.5, p < 0.001) of symptoms and the symptoms were of higher intensity (except confusion). Breathless patients had a higher risk to die during inpatient stay (43.5 % vs. 32.4 %, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Based on this large sample of hospice and palliative care inpatients, breathlessness is associated with a high symptom burden and shortened survival. Breathless patients need more attention in health care.
Collapse
|
36
|
Alt-Epping B, Seidel W, Vogt J, Mehnert A, Thomas M, van Oorschot B, Wolff H, Schliephake H, Canis M, Dröge LH, Nauck F, Lordick F. Symptoms and Needs of Head and Neck Cancer Patients at Diagnosis of Incurability - Prevalences, Clinical Implications, and Feasibility of a Prospective Longitudinal Multicenter Cohort Study. Oncol Res Treat 2016; 39:186-91. [PMID: 27160588 DOI: 10.1159/000445307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the physical symptoms and psychosocial burden of patients at the time of diagnosis of an incurable situation, although cancer treatment guidelines demand early assessment and integration of palliative care concepts, beginning from the diagnosis of incurability. METHODS Therefore, we initiated a prospective longitudinal multicenter cohort study assessing the symptoms and needs of patients suffering from incurable cancer (various entities), from the time of diagnosing incurability (i.e., before palliative anticancer treatment was initiated) and in 3-monthly intervals thereafter, by using validated self-reporting tools. Here, we focus on patients with head and neck cancer and present preliminary results on symptoms and need prevalences, on clinical implications, and on the feasibility of a methodologically complex assessment procedure in a particularly vulnerable study population. RESULTS 22 patients completed the first visit. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance scores and most physical symptoms and psychosocial items varied between the extremes, from a virtually uncompromised condition to extremely perceived symptoms and needs. If intense face-to-face study support was provided, the study concept proved to be feasible, despite the complexity of assessment, problems in interdisciplinary and patient communication, comorbidities, and early death from complications. CONCLUSIONS The striking variability in the perceived symptom and need intensities requires a highly individualized approach. For clinical purposes, a less complex screening procedure would be desirable, in order to enable a routine, early and comprehensive support, including palliative care services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Gx00F6;ttingen, Gx00F6;ttingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Specialized palliative home care ("Spezialisierte Ambulante Palliativversorgung", SAPV) denotes an intensified, multi-professional support system at home for patients suffering from complex symptoms and needs associated with severe and advanced illness. In 2007, a change in legislation guaranteed SAPV to any patient (covered by public health insurance) in need of specialized palliative care. Despite further specifications by federal institutions, SAPV has been transferred into German clinical practice in a very regionally diverse manner. This contribution describes the legislative and conceptual framework of SAPV, the financial and clinical aspects, and its future perspectives for the comprehensive palliative care of patients with complex demands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert Koch Str 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland,
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ilse B, Alt-Epping B, Kiesewetter I, Elsner F, Hildebrandt J, Laske A, Scherg A, Schiessl C. Undergraduate education in palliative medicine in Germany: a longitudinal perspective on curricular and infrastructural development. BMC Med Educ 2015; 15:151. [PMID: 26383546 PMCID: PMC4574529 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-015-0439-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2009, palliative medicine became an integrated and compulsory part of undergraduate training in Germany by legislation. After a transitional period, all medical faculties were required to provide adequate teaching with an according examination and certification procedure. In parallel, we conducted bi-annual surveys on all medical faculties in Germany to examine for potential discrepancies between the implementation process and their intended consequences on teaching time and content. METHODS Four consecutive bi-annual surveys (2006, 2008, 2010, 2012) of all 36 medical faculties in Germany were performed, using purposively for this study developed questionnaires. Likert scales and closed questions were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS Medical Faculty response rate increased from 50 % in 2006 to 88.9 % in 2012. Teaching coordinators in palliative medicine primarily had an anesthesiology or internal medicine background. There was a noted increase over time of the involvement of specialized palliative care units (PCUs) as providing the setting for education. The number of faculties that were able to offer a complete 16 weeks of training in palliative medicine during the "final year" rose steadily. In addition, increased patient-centered teaching formats have been implemented over time. The faculties which offered innovative teaching formats with actors as patients (standardized patient interaction) increased, as did the total number of mandatory examinations. The number of faculties that provided compulsory teaching in a condensed manner within a single academic year increased sharply from 3 of 31 responding faculties in 2010 to 19 of 32 responding faculties in 2012. CONCLUSIONS Until now, teaching conditions and structures in palliative medicine in Germany have proven to be extraordinarily heterogeneous. Although professorships ("Chairs") in palliative medicine proved to be particularly beneficial and supportive in curricular and structural development, only a minority of faculties provide leading academic positions in palliative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ilse
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Isabel Kiesewetter
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Munich University Hospital, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Munich University Hospital, Munich, Germany.
| | - Frank Elsner
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Johanna Hildebrandt
- Vestische Children's Hospital, University of Witten/ Herdecke, Datteln, Germany.
| | - Alexander Laske
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
- Sana Arztpraxen Rügen, Bergen, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Scherg
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany.
| | - Christine Schiessl
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
- Algesiologikum - Pain Center, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Nauck F, Alt-Epping B, Benze G. [The current situation of palliative medicine in Germany--clinical implications, education and research]. Anasthesiol Intensivmed Notfallmed Schmerzther 2015; 50:36-46. [PMID: 25634376 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-100205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Palliative medicine (or palliative care, referring to its multi-professional character) denotes a comprehensive care concept for patients suffering from incurable and progressive disease, and their relatives. Specialized support structures are necessary, including (inpatient) palliative care units, (inpatient) consultation services, and (outpatient) specialized palliative home care services. Further, research and education is mandatory in order to gain and to spread this particular expertise and attitude. This contribution focuses on the current situation and on the development of palliative care structures in Germany.
Collapse
|
40
|
Erlenwein J, Geyer A, Schlink J, Petzke F, Nauck F, Alt-Epping B. Characteristics of a palliative care consultation service with a focus on pain in a German university hospital. BMC Palliat Care 2014; 13:45. [PMID: 25276095 PMCID: PMC4177373 DOI: 10.1186/1472-684x-13-45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A minority of patients with incurable and advanced disease receive specialised palliative care. Specialised palliative care services that complement the care of difficult and complex cases ought to be integrated with services that deliver general care for most patients. A typical setting in which this integrative concept takes place is the hospital setting, where patients suffering from incurable and advanced disease are treated in many different departments. The aim of the study is to investigate the profile and spectrum of a palliative care consultation service (PCCS) at a German university hospital with special reference to pain therapy. Methods We retrospectively analysed the PCCS documentation of three years. Results Most patients were referred from non-surgical departments, 72% were inpatients, and 28% were outpatients. 98% of the patients suffered from cancer. Counselling in pain therapy was one of the key aspects of the consultation: For 76% of all consulted patients, modifications of the analgesic regimen were recommended, which involved opioids in 96%. Recommendations on breakthrough-pain medication were made for 70% of the patients; this was an opioid in most cases (68%). The most commonly used opioid was morphine. For 17% of the patients, additional diagnostic procedures were recommended. Besides pain management palliative care consultation implied a wide range of recommendations and services: In addition to organising home care infrastructure, palliative care services supported patients and their families in understanding the life-limiting diseases. They also coordinated physical therapy and social and legal advice. Conclusion This survey clearly shows that for a consultation service to support patients with incurable or advanced disease, a multi-disciplinary approach is necessary to meet the complex requirements of a needs-adapted palliative care in inpatient or outpatient settings. Timely integration of palliative expertise may support symptom control and may give the required advice to patients, their carers, and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Erlenwein
- Department of Pain Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Almut Geyer
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Julia Schlink
- Department of Pain Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frank Petzke
- Department of Pain Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Center for Anesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
|
42
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is one of the most prevalent and distressing symptoms of patients suffering from cancer. In the field of oncology comprehensive expertise is pursued not only with respect to the administration of anticancer treatment but to all fields that relate to the needs of cancer patients. However, the results of studies have revealed persisting and relevant deficits in pain therapy in the setting of oncology. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey was performed involving all members of the German Society for Hematology and Medical Oncology (DGHO) with respect to training and continuing education in pain therapy, the relevance for routine oncology and knowledge, to determine the level of expertise in pain therapy and the assessment of tumor-specific therapy. RESULTS A total of 183 out of 1,962 questionnaires could be evaluated. Oncologists are often engaged in pain therapy and 80 % of the respondents perceived themselves as being primarily responsible for pain control. Education and assessment were identified as barriers to sufficient pain therapy. Case vignettes revealed only few relevant therapeutic misinterpretations. CONCLUSION This first survey of German oncologists exploring expertise in cancer pain therapy, showed similar problems in education and pain assessment as previous international studies. Despite the claimed responsibility for pain management, there were a small but relevant number of oncologists who showed serious therapeutic misinterpretations in case studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Alt-Epping
- Klinik für Palliativmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland,
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Simon ST, Altfelder N, Alt-Epping B, Bausewein C, Weingärtner V, Voltz R, Ostgathe C, Radbruch L, Lindena G, Nauck F. Is breathlessness what the professional says it is? Analysis of patient and professionals’ assessments from a German nationwide register. Support Care Cancer 2014; 22:1825-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-014-2131-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
44
|
Alt-Epping B, Lohse C, Viebahn C, Steinbüchel NV, Benze G, Nauck F. On death and dying - an exploratory and evaluative study of a reflective, interdisciplinary course element in undergraduate anatomy teaching. BMC Med Educ 2014; 14:15. [PMID: 24467685 PMCID: PMC3914734 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6920-14-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teaching in palliative care aims not only at providing students with specialized knowledge in symptom therapy in advanced disease, but also at developing a professional attitude consistent with the principles and philosophy of palliative care. Reflecting about one's own or the patient's death and dying is considered essential for empathic patient care. In medical education the dissection course is often the first encounter with the issue of death and dying and represents a significant emotional challenge to many medical students.Against this background we implemented a new course element in preparation for the dissection course, offering opportunity to reflect own experiences with death and dying and providing support in finding a balance between authentic empathy and pragmatic action towards deceased persons. We discuss issues such as dignity and professional distance and reason whether guided support for medical students regarding these issues might influence their future attitude as doctors caring for their patients. METHODS In tandem, we performed a formal evaluation of the seminar and explored the students' experiences with death and dying, their expectations and fears in the run-up to the dissection course and their attitude towards dissection. RESULTS This article describes the structure and the concept of this new interdisciplinary course element and presents the results of the formal course evaluation as well as the explorative part of the accompanying research. Medical students had broad experiences with death and dying even before the dissection course. 89.1% of students had worried about some kind of emotional stress during the dissection course before, but 61.7% stated to have actually perceived emotional stress afterwards. The willingness to donate one's own body for anatomy purposes decreased significantly during the course. The given room for reflection and discussion was appreciated by the students, who felt that the effects of this seminar might be of use even beyond the dissection course. CONCLUSION This new course element successfully assisted medical students during the dissection room experience and gave opportunity to reflection and discussion on death and dying. The accompanying research confirmed the demand for support and gave insight into experiences, emotions and attitudes of medical students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Constanze Lohse
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Viebahn
- Department of Anatomy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nicole von Steinbüchel
- Department of Medical Psychology and Sociology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gesine Benze
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
The study aimed to explore the subjective need of healthcare professionals for ethics consultation, their experience with ethical conflicts, and expectations and objections toward a Clinical Ethics Committee. Staff at a university hospital took part in a survey (January to June 2010) using a questionnaire with open and closed questions. Descriptive data for physicians and nurses (response rate = 13.5%, n = 101) are presented. Physicians and nurses reported similar high frequencies of ethical conflicts but rated the relevance of ethical issues differently. Nurses stated ethical issues as less important to physicians than to themselves. Ethical conflicts were mostly discussed with staff from one’s own profession. Respondents predominantly expected the Clinical Ethics Committee to provide competent support. Mostly, nurses feared it might have no influence on clinical practice. Findings suggest that experiences of ethical conflicts might reflect interprofessional communication patterns. Expectations and objections against Clinical Ethics Committees were multifaceted, and should be overcome by providing sufficient information. The Clinical Ethics Committee needs to take different perspectives of professions into account.
Collapse
|
46
|
Benze G, Geyer A, Alt-Epping B, Nauck F. [Treatment of nausea and vomiting with 5HT3 receptor antagonists, steroids, antihistamines, anticholinergics, somatostatinantagonists, benzodiazepines and cannabinoids in palliative care patients : a systematic review]. Schmerz 2012; 26:481-99. [PMID: 22983450 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-012-1235-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various recommendations exist for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in palliative care but only few studies and even less systematic reviews look into antiemetic therapy for patients receiving palliative care. OBJECTIVES This systematic review aims to analyze the current evidence for antiemetic treatment with 5HT3 receptor antagonists, steroids, antihistamines, anticholinergics, somatostatin analogs, benzodiazepines and cannabinoids in palliative care patients with far advanced cancer not receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), progressive heart failure, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or multiple sclerosis (MS). Results regarding evidence of treatment with prokinetic and neuroleptic agents will be published separately. METHODS The electronic databases PubMed and EmBase were systematically searched for studies (published 1966-2011) dealing with antiemetic therapy in palliative care and electronic retrieval was completed by manual searching. Studies with patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, pediatric studies and studies published in languages other than English or German were excluded. Studies addressing therapy with 5HT3 receptor antagonists, steroids, antihistamines, anticholinergics, somatostatin analogs, benzodiazepines or cannabinoids were identified and selected for this systematic review. RESULTS In the general search 75 relevant studies were found. Of those 36 addressed 5HT3 receptor antagonists, steroids, antihistamines, anticholinergics, somatostatin analogs, benzodiazepines and cannabinoids, 13 considered 5HT3 receptor antagonists, 10 somatostatin antagonists, 9 steroids, 5 cannabinoids, 4 anticholinergics, 1 antihistamines and none benzodiazepines. Furthermore six systematic reviews exist. Evidence for any drug used as an antiemetic is low. Concerning 5HT3 receptor antagonists data are insufficient for recommendations on the treatment of patients with AIDS and MS due to the small size of included patient groups. For patients with cancer contradictory results were published: the larger studies showed a positive effect of 5HT3 receptor antagonists and better efficacy, as compared to metoclopramide, dexamethasone and neuroleptics. Heterogeneous results were found for steroids, with a positive trend for patients with cancer. Data are insufficient for antihistamines. Studies prove effectiveness of butylscopolammonium in the treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by malignant gastrointestinal obstruction, whereas octreotide is superior to butylscopolammonium. Regarding benzodiazepines for symptom control of nausea and vomiting in palliative care patients no studies were detected. Cannabinoids were found to relieve nausea and vomiting in patients with cancer and AIDS but with notable side effects. Furthermore, the studies compared cannabinoids to less recent antiemetic drugs but not, for example to 5HT3 receptor antagonists. Regarding symptom control of nausea and vomiting in patients with COPD, progressive heart failure and ALS no studies were undertaken in patients receiving palliative care. CONCLUSIONS In palliative care patients with nausea and vomiting 5HT3 receptor antagonists can be used if treatment with other antiemetics, such as metoclopramide and neuroleptics is not sufficient. There is a trend that steroids in combination with other antiemetics improve symptom relief. Cannabinoids rather have a status as a second line antiemetic. In cases of nausea and vomiting caused by malignant gastrointestinal obstruction octreotide showed the best and butylscopolammonium bromide the second best results. Concerning antihistamines and benzodiazepines insufficient data was found. Recommendations in the literature are mainly based on studies in patients with cancer. The overall strength of evidence is low. More well designed studies in palliative care patients are needed in order to provide evidence-based therapy. The English full text version of this article will be available in SpringerLink as of November 2012 (under "Supplemental").
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Benze
- Abteilung Palliativmedizin, Zentrum Anaesthesiologie, Rettungs- und Intensivmedizin, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Alt-Epping B, Stäritz AE, Simon ST, Altfelder N, Hotz T, Lindena G, Nauck F. What is special about patients with lung cancer and pulmonary metastases in palliative care? Results from a nationwide survey. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:971-7. [PMID: 22731513 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2011.0434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced lung cancer constitute a special focus in palliative care not only for epidemiological or prognostic reasons, but also because their symptom burden is felt to be widespread and difficult to treat. This study describes disease-specific characteristics and the symptom burden of patients with advanced incurable lung cancer, comparing them with patients suffering from other diseaseentities. METHODS A secondary analysis of the nationwide Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation (HOPE) was performed, by focussing on inpatient hospice and palliative care unit patients and by using descriptive methods. RESULTS From 2006 to 2008, 5487 inpatients were registered, 874 of which were diagnosed with lung cancer and 1884 with pulmonary metastases. Symptoms such as weakness, tiredness, or pain were most prevalent in all subgroups. Dyspnea was significantly more prevalent in all patients with different kinds of pulmonary tumor manifestations; confusion was significantly more prevalent in patients with lung cancer. Dyspnea could not be treated as effectively as pain or nausea. Confusion and nursing problems worsened during the observation period. Dyspnea and confusion were associated with increased risk of death during the observational period. CONCLUSION The symptom pattern of patients with lung cancer is characterized by dyspnea and confusion--symptoms that are difficult to treat until discharge and that imply a worse prognosis. Therefore, increased research on the pathophysiology and treatment of dyspnea and confusion is required, and efforts in advance care planning and anticipation of dyspnea and confusion as a critical symptom in patients with lung cancer should be reinforced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ilse B, Hildebrandt J, Posselt J, Laske A, Dietz I, Borasio GD, Kopf A, Nauck F, Elsner F, Wedding U, Alt-Epping B. Palliative Care teaching in Germany - concepts and future developments. GMS Z Med Ausbild 2012; 29:Doc47. [PMID: 22737202 PMCID: PMC3374143 DOI: 10.3205/zma000817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following recent modifications of the Medical Licensure Act (ÄApprO) in the year 2009, palliative care was introduced as a compulsory 13(th) cross-disciplinary subject (Q13) in the undergraduate curriculum. Its implementation must have taken place before the beginning of the final year ('practical year') in August 2013 and has to be substantiated for the medical exams taking place in October 2014. Very diverse structures pertaining to palliative care teaching were described in previous surveys at various medical faculties in Germany. As a result, the current and future plans and concepts related to content and exams of a mandatory Q13 course at the respective faculty sites should be ascertained. METHODS Since 2006, the German Medical Students' Association (bvmd) has been carrying out a bi-annual survey at all medical faculties in Germany regarding the current situation of teaching in the field of palliative care. After designing and piloting an online survey in May 2010, a one-month online survey took place. The data was assessed using a descriptive approach. RESULTS 31 of 36 medical faculties took part in the survey. At the time of questioning, 15 faculties already taught courses according to the requirements of the new ÄApprO; at three sites the Q13 is yet to be introduced commencing in 2012. A teaching curriculum for Q13 already existed at 15 faculty sites, partly based on the curricular requirements of the German Association for Palliative Medicine (DGP). Six sites described an implementation process as yet without an independent curriculum. Most of the faculties aim for 21-40 course hours, which will for the most part be provided as lectures, seminars or less often in more assisted and intense formats. The majority of the participating faculties intend an examination containing multiple choice questions. At 8 universities there is an independent Chair for palliative medicine (5 more are planned); this was linked with a higher degree of mandatory teaching in alignment with the requirements of the ÄApprO. A broad spectrum of educationally-involved occupational groups, specialist disciplines and external co-operating partners, were mentioned. CONCLUSION The infrastructural prerequisites of the present curricular concepts and the degree of implementation of the Q13 according to the requirements of the new ÄApprO diverge significantly among the various medical faculties. The efforts made to produce a qualitatively high standard of teaching with regard to the multifaceted questions concerning the support for severely and terminally ill patients is as much reflected in the survey, as the special implications of an independent Chair for palliative medicine for the implementation of the requirements by law. The participation of various occupational groups in this survey as well as the broad spectrum of those involved highlights the interdisciplinary and multi-professional dimension of teaching in palliative care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Ilse
- Jena University, Medical faculty, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Simmenroth-Nayda A, Alt-Epping B, Gágyor I. Breaking bad news - an interdisciplinary curricular teaching-concept. GMS Z Med Ausbild 2011; 28:Doc52. [PMID: 22205910 PMCID: PMC3244731 DOI: 10.3205/zma000764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2011] [Revised: 07/04/2011] [Accepted: 07/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: The concerns of patients suffering from life-threatening disease and end-of-life care aspects have gained increasing attention in public perception. The increasing focus on palliative medicine questions can be considered to be paradigmatic for this development. Palliative medicine became a compulsory subject of the undergraduate curriculum in Germany to be implemented until 2013. The preexisting conditions and qualifications at the medical faculties vary, though. We describe the conceptual process, didactic background, and first experiences with the new interdisciplinary course “Delivering bad news” as a compulsory part of the palliative medicine curriculum. Methods: Since autumn 2009, this course has been taught at the University Medical Center Göttingen, consisting of two double lessons in the final year of medical education. Considering the curriculum-based learning goals in Göttingen, the focus of this course is to impart knowledge, attitudes and communication skills relating to “bad news”. Results: Although the seminar requires adequate staff and is time-consuming, students have accepted it and gave high marks in evaluations. In particular, the teachers’ performance and commitment was evaluated positively. Discussion and Conclusions: We describe the first experiences with a new course. Didactic structure, theoretical contents, role-plays and usage of media (film, novel) are well- suited to communicate topics such as “bad news”. Additional experiences and evaluations are necessary. According to the progressive nature of learning, it might be worthwhile to repeat communication- centered questions several times during medical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Simmenroth-Nayda
- Georg August Universität Göttingen, Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Göttingen, Deutschland.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Alt-Epping B, Pache S, Lindena G, Nauck F. Anticancer therapies in specialized palliative care--a multicenter survey. Support Care Cancer 2011; 20:2385-9. [PMID: 22198166 PMCID: PMC3430838 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-011-1349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anticancer therapies gain increasing attention and discussion in specialized palliative care institutions. Frequency, indication, attitude of team members, and modes of these therapies implemented in specialized palliative care settings are still under investigation. METHODS Descriptive analysis of the nationwide Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation 2007 that collected data from palliative medicine, hospice care, and oncology institutions concerning the use of anticancer therapies. RESULTS Three thousand one hundred eighty-four patients from 67 palliative care units, eight oncology wards, and other in- and outpatient institutions were registered. Two hundred eleven therapeutic interventions, mostly i.v. chemotherapy (28.9%), have been documented in all institutions except from inpatient hospices. Although all institutions were asked to keep records from "palliative patients", those patients treated in oncology services differed from patients on palliative care units with respect to prognosis, therapeutic intention (symptom control versus tumor remission), and team attitude. DISCUSSION Anticancer therapies are incorporated into palliative care concepts. The described differences in palliative patients that are treated in specialized palliative care as compared to oncology services will have to be discussed with regard to selection of patients for specialized palliative care and the range of suitable treatment modalities in palliative care concepts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|