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Ohbe H, Shime N, Yamana H, Goto T, Sasabuchi Y, Kudo D, Matsui H, Yasunaga H, Kushimoto S. Hospital and regional variations in intensive care unit admission for patients with invasive mechanical ventilation. J Intensive Care 2024; 12:21. [PMID: 38840225 PMCID: PMC11155017 DOI: 10.1186/s40560-024-00736-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients who receive invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in the intensive care unit (ICU) have exhibited lower in-hospital mortality rates than those who are treated outside. However, the patient-, hospital-, and regional factors influencing the ICU admission of patients with IMV have not been quantitatively examined. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used data from the nationwide Japanese inpatient administrative database and medical facility statistics. We included patients aged ≥ 15 years who underwent IMV between April 2018 and March 2019. The primary outcome was ICU admission on the day of IMV initiation. Multilevel logistic regression analyses incorporating patient-, hospital-, or regional-level variables were used to assess cluster effects by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), median odds ratio (MOR), and proportional change in variance (PCV). RESULTS Among 83,346 eligible patients from 546 hospitals across 140 areas, 40.4% were treated in ICUs on their IMV start day. ICU admission rates varied widely between hospitals (median 0.7%, interquartile range 0-44.5%) and regions (median 28.7%, interquartile range 0.9-46.2%). Multilevel analyses revealed significant effects of hospital cluster (ICC 82.2% and MOR 41.4) and regional cluster (ICC 67.3% and MOR 12.0). Including patient-level variables did not change these ICCs and MORs, with a PCV of 2.3% and - 1.0%, respectively. Further adjustment for hospital- and regional-level variables decreased the ICC and MOR, with a PCV of 95.2% and 85.6%, respectively. Among the hospital- and regional-level variables, hospitals with ICU beds and regions with ICU beds had a statistically significant and strong association with ICU admission. CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed that primarily hospital and regional factors, rather than patient-related ones, opposed ICU admissions for patients with IMV. This has important implications for healthcare policymakers planning interventions for optimal ICU resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Ohbe
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Nobuaki Shime
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-Ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hayato Yamana
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
- Data Science Center, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Goto
- TXP Medical Co., Ltd., 41-1 H1O Kanda 706, Kanda Higashimatsushita-Cho, Chiyoda-Ku, Tokyo, 101-0042, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sasabuchi
- Department of Real-World Evidence, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kudo
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
- Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroki Matsui
- Department of Health Services Research, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hideo Yasunaga
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Shigeki Kushimoto
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
- Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
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Vincent JL. Ethical issues surrounding appropriate care for older persons in the Intensive Care Unit. Panminerva Med 2024; 66:146-154. [PMID: 38536008 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.24.05089-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of older patients are being admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as the world's population ages. The biological process of ageing, senescence, results in altered ability to maintain normal homeostasis and organ function, including of the cardiovascular, immune, and neuromuscular systems. This contributes towards increased frailty in older patients, associated with functional limitations and increased vulnerability. Although widely defined using chronological age, the concept of "old age" is thus multifactorial, including biological, but also psychological and sociocultural aspects, which should all be taken into account when considering what is appropriate in terms of ICU admission and management. As for all patients, but perhaps particularly in this subgroup, decisions regarding ICU admission and treatment and the withdrawing and withholding of life support must be individualized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Louis Vincent
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium -
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Takimoto Y, Nabeshima T. The Gap in Attitudes Toward Withholding and Withdrawing Life-Sustaining Treatment Between Japanese Physicians and Citizens. AJOB Empir Bioeth 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38588396 DOI: 10.1080/23294515.2024.2336907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to some medical ethicists and professional guidelines, there is no ethical difference between withholding and withdrawing life-sustaining treatment. However, medical professionals do not always agree with this notion. Patients and their families may also not regard these decisions as equivalent. Perspectives on life-sustaining treatment potentially differ between cultures and countries. This study compares Japanese physicians' and citizens' attitudes toward hypothetical cases of withholding and withdrawing life-sustaining treatment. METHODS Ten vignette cases were developed. A web-based questionnaire was administered to 457 citizens and 284 physicians to determine whether they supported withholding or withdrawing treatment. RESULTS In a case where a patient had an advance directive refusing ventilation, 77% of the physicians and 68% of the citizens chose to withhold treatment. In a case where there was an advance directive but the patient's family requested treatment, 55% of the physicians and 45% of the citizens chose to withhold the ventilator. When a family requested withdrawal of the ventilator but patient wishes were unknown, 19% of the physicians and 48% of the citizens chose to withdraw the ventilator. However, when the patient had also indicated their wishes in writing, 49% of the physicians and 66% of the citizens chose to withdraw treatment. More physicians were prepared to withdraw dialysis (84%) and artificial nutrition (81%) at a patient's request than mechanical ventilation (49%). CONCLUSIONS A significant proportion of Japanese physicians and citizens were reluctant to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment, even in cases where the patient had indicated their wishes in writing. They were more likely to withhold than withdraw treatment, and more likely to withdraw artificial nutrition than mechanical ventilation. Japanese physicians gave significant weight to family views about treatment but were less likely to agree to withdraw treatment than citizens, indicating a potential source of conflict in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyuki Takimoto
- Department of Biomedical Ethics, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadanori Nabeshima
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Bay Urayasu Ichikawa Medical Center, Urayasu, Japan
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Fong C, Kueh WL, Lew SJW, Ho BCH, Wong YL, Lau YH, Chia YW, Tan HL, Seet YHC, Siow WT, MacLaren G, Agrawal R, Lim TJ, Lim SL, Lim TW, Ho VK, Soh CR, Sewa DW, Loo CM, Khan FA, Tan CK, Gokhale RS, Siau C, Lim NLSH, Yim CF, Venkatachalam J, Venkatesan K, Chia NCH, Liew MF, Li G, Li L, Myat SM, Zena Z, Zhuo S, Yueh LL, Tan CSF, Ma J, Yeo SL, Chan YH, Phua J. Predictors and outcomes of withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments in intensive care units in Singapore: a multicentre observational study. J Intensive Care 2024; 12:13. [PMID: 38528556 DOI: 10.1186/s40560-024-00725-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical practice guidelines on limitation of life-sustaining treatments (LST) in the intensive care unit (ICU), in the form of withholding or withdrawal of LST, state that there is no ethical difference between the two. Such statements are not uniformly accepted worldwide, and there are few studies on LST limitation in Asia. This study aimed to evaluate the predictors and outcomes of withholding and withdrawal of LST in Singapore, focusing on the similarities and differences between the two approaches. METHODS This was a multicentre observational study of patients admitted to 21 adult ICUs across 9 public hospitals in Singapore over an average of three months per year from 2014 to 2019. The primary outcome measures were withholding and withdrawal of LST (cardiopulmonary resuscitation, invasive mechanical ventilation, and vasopressors/inotropes). The secondary outcome measure was hospital mortality. Multivariable generalised mixed model analysis was used to identify independent predictors for withdrawal and withholding of LST and if LST limitation predicts hospital mortality. RESULTS There were 8907 patients and 9723 admissions. Of the former, 80.8% had no limitation of LST, 13.0% had LST withheld, and 6.2% had LST withdrawn. Common independent predictors for withholding and withdrawal were increasing age, absence of chronic kidney dialysis, greater dependence in activities of daily living, cardiopulmonary resuscitation before ICU admission, higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score, and higher level of care in the first 24 h of ICU admission. Additional predictors for withholding included being of Chinese race, the religions of Hinduism and Islam, malignancy, and chronic liver failure. The additional predictor for withdrawal was lower hospital paying class (with greater government subsidy for hospital bills). Hospital mortality in patients without LST limitation, with LST withholding, and with LST withdrawal was 10.6%, 82.1%, and 91.8%, respectively (p < 0.001). Withholding (odds ratio 13.822, 95% confidence interval 9.987-19.132) and withdrawal (odds ratio 38.319, 95% confidence interval 24.351-60.298) were both found to be independent predictors of hospital mortality on multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS Differences in the independent predictors of withholding and withdrawal of LST exist. Even after accounting for baseline characteristics, both withholding and withdrawal of LST independently predict hospital mortality. Later mortality in patients who had LST withdrawn compared to withholding suggests that the decision to withdraw may be at the point when medical futility is recognised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Fong
- FAST and Chronic Programmes, Alexandra Hospital, 378 Alexandra Road, Singapore, 159964, Singapore.
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.
| | - Wern Lunn Kueh
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Sennen Jin Wen Lew
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Choon Heng Ho
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Yu-Lin Wong
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Yie Hui Lau
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Yew Woon Chia
- Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, Department of Cardiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Hui Ling Tan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Ying Hao Christopher Seet
- Department of Neurology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Wen Ting Siow
- FAST and Chronic Programmes, Alexandra Hospital, 378 Alexandra Road, Singapore, 159964, Singapore
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Graeme MacLaren
- Cardiothoracic ICU, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, National University Heart Centre, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Rohit Agrawal
- Department of Anaesthesia, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Tian Jin Lim
- Department of Anaesthesia, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Shir Lynn Lim
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
- Pre-Hospital and Emergency Research Center, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Rd, Singapore, 16985, Singapore
| | - Toon Wei Lim
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Vui Kian Ho
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, Singapore, 544886, Singapore
- Department of Surgical Intensive Care, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Chai Rick Soh
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Duu Wen Sewa
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Chian Min Loo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Faheem Ahmed Khan
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, 1 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore, 609606, Singapore
| | - Chee Keat Tan
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, 1 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore, 609606, Singapore
| | - Roshni Sadashiv Gokhale
- Department of Intensive Care, Changi General Hospital, 2 Simei Street 3, Singapore, 529889, Singapore
| | - Chuin Siau
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changi General Hospital, 2 Simei Street 3, Singapore, 529889, Singapore
| | - Noelle Louise Siew Hua Lim
- Department of Anaesthesia and Surgical Intensive Care, Changi General Hospital, 2 Simei Street 3, Singapore, 529889, Singapore
| | - Chik-Foo Yim
- Department of Women's Anaesthesia, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Jonathen Venkatachalam
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, 90 Yishun Central, Singapore, 768828, Singapore
| | - Kumaresh Venkatesan
- Department of Anaesthesia, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, 90 Yishun Central, Singapore, 768828, Singapore
| | - Naville Chi Hock Chia
- Department of Anaesthesia, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, 90 Yishun Central, Singapore, 768828, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, 11 Mandalay Rd, Singapore, 308232, Singapore
| | - Mei Fong Liew
- FAST and Chronic Programmes, Alexandra Hospital, 378 Alexandra Road, Singapore, 159964, Singapore
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Guihong Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit Operations, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Li Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit Operations, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Su Mon Myat
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Zena Zena
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Shuling Zhuo
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, 1 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore, 609606, Singapore
| | - Ling Ling Yueh
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, 1 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore, 609606, Singapore
| | - Caroline Shu Fang Tan
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, Singapore, 544886, Singapore
| | - Jing Ma
- Division of Nursing, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Siew Lian Yeo
- Division of Nursing, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Jason Phua
- FAST and Chronic Programmes, Alexandra Hospital, 378 Alexandra Road, Singapore, 159964, Singapore
- Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
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Georgakis S, Dragioti E, Gouva M, Papathanakos G, Koulouras V. The Complex Dynamics of Decision-Making at the End of Life in the Intensive Care Unit: A Systematic Review of Stakeholders' Views and Influential Factors. Cureus 2024; 16:e52912. [PMID: 38406151 PMCID: PMC10893775 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A lack of consensus resulting in severe conflicts is often observed between the stakeholders regarding their respective roles in end-of-life (EOL) decision-making in the ICU. Since the burden of these decisions lies upon the individuals, their opinions must be known by medical, judicial, legislative, and governmental authorities. Part of the solution to the issues that arise would be to examine and understand the views of the people in different societies. Hence, in this systematic review, we assessed the attitudes of the physicians, nurses, families, and the general public toward who should be involved in decision-making and influencing factors. Toward this, we searched three electronic databases, i.e., PubMed, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health), and Embase. A matrix was developed, discussed, accepted, and used for data extraction by two independent investigators. Study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data were extracted by one researcher and double-checked by a second one, and any discrepancies were discussed with a third researcher. The data were analyzed descriptively and synthesized according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Thirty-three studies met our inclusion criteria. Most involved healthcare professionals and reported geographic variations in different timeframes. While paternalistic features have been observed, physicians overall showed an inclination toward collaborative decision-making. Correspondingly, the nursing staff, families, and the public are aligned toward patient and relatives' participation, with nurses expressing their own involvement as well. Six categories of influencing factors were identified, with high-impact factors, including demographics, fear of litigation, and regulation-related ones. Findings delineate three key points. Firstly, overall stakeholders' perspectives toward EOL decision-making in the ICU seem to be leaning toward a more collaborative decision-making direction. Secondly, to reduce conflicts and reach a consensus, multifaceted efforts are needed by both healthcare professionals and governmental/regulatory authorities. Finally, due to the multifactorial complexity of the subject, directly related to demographic and regulatory factors, these efforts should be more extensively sought at a regional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spiros Georgakis
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Elena Dragioti
- Research Laboratory Psychology of Patients, Families & Health Professionals, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Mary Gouva
- Research Laboratory Psychology of Patients, Families & Health Professionals, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
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Lewis A. International variability in the diagnosis and management of disorders of consciousness. Presse Med 2023; 52:104162. [PMID: 36564000 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2022.104162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This manuscript explores the international variability in the diagnosis and management of disorders of consciousness (DoC). The identification, evaluation, intervention, exploration, prognostication and limitation of therapy for patients with DoC is reviewed through an international lens. The myriad factors that impact the diagnosis and management of DoC including 1) financial, 2) legal and regulatory, 3) cultural, 4) religious and 5) psychosocial considerations are discussed. As data comparing patients with DoC internationally are limited, findings from the general critical care or neurocritical care literature are described when information specific to patients with DoC is unavailable. There is a need for improvements in clinical care, education, advocacy and research related to patients with DoC worldwide. It is imperative to standardize methodology to evaluate consciousness and prognosticate outcome. Further, education is needed to 1) generate awareness of the impact of the aforementioned considerations on patients with DoC and 2) develop techniques to optimize communication about DoC with families. It is necessary to promote equity in access to expertise and resources for patients with DoC to enhance the care of patients with DoC worldwide. Improving understanding and management of patients with DoC requires harmonization of existing datasets, development of registries where none exist and establishment of international clinical trial networks that include patients in all phases along the spectrum of care. The work of international organizations like the Curing Coma Campaign can hopefully minimize international variability in the diagnosis and management of DoC and optimize care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Lewis
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, United States.
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Ethical Issues in Medical Rehabilitation: The Dilemma of Who to Admit. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 101:1168-1174. [PMID: 35067558 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Ethical allocation of scare medical resources is a ubiquitous challenge in many, if not all, medical specialties. The field of physical medicine and rehabilitation is no exception and presents its own unique dilemmas. We report on a small inpatient rehabilitation unit at a large university medical center with a large catchment area representing a vast range of socioeconomic classes. The decision of whom to admit is a constant challenge. We review the existing literature regarding ethical considerations in rehabilitation department admission criteria and attempt to analyze criteria used to admit patients to a general physical medicine and rehabilitation ward. Finally, we discuss our medical center approach to the ethical dilemma of admission priority. A systemic search was conducted in six sources (PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, LILACS, Embase). Searches were limited to English language articles with no date restriction, reflecting all available data. A reviewer applied the inclusion criteria to identify relevant articles.This review highlights a number of important ethical issues in evaluation and selection criteria that may assist clinicians in improving selection procedures and standardizing access to inpatient rehabilitation. Further high-quality empirical studies and reviews of ethical admission practice with regard to rehabilitation acceptance are required.
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Rao SR, Salins N, Joshi U, Patel J, Remawi BN, Simha S, Preston N, Walshe C. Palliative and end-of-life care in intensive care units in low- and middle-income countries: A systematically constructed scoping review. J Crit Care 2022; 71:154115. [PMID: 35907272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2022.154115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Death is common in intensive care units, and integrating palliative care enhances outcomes. Most research has been conducted in high-income countries. The aim is to understand what is known about the type and topics of research on the provision of palliative care within intensive care units in low- and middle-income countries MATERIALS AND METHODS: Scoping review with nine databases systematically searched for literature published in English on palliative care in intensive care units in low- and middle- income settings (01/01/1990 to 31/05/2021). Two reviewers independently checked search results and extracted textual data, which were analyzed and represented as themes. RESULTS Thirty papers reported 19 empirical studies, two clinical case reports and six discussion papers. Papers originated from Asia and Africa, primarily using observational designs and qualitative approaches, with no trials or other robust evaluative or comparative studies. No studies directly sought data from patients or families. Five areas of research focus were identified: withholding and withdrawing treatment; professional knowledge and skills; patient and family views; culture and context; and costs of care. CONCLUSIONS Palliative care in intensive care units in low-and middle-income countries is understudied. Research focused on the specific needs of intensive care in low- and middle-income countries is required to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Rajesh Rao
- Karunashraya Institute for Palliative Care Education and Research, Bangalore Hospice Trust, Karunashraya, Bangalore, India.
| | - Naveen Salins
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India.
| | - Udita Joshi
- Karunashraya Institute for Palliative Care Education and Research, Bangalore Hospice Trust, Karunashraya, Bangalore, India
| | - Jatin Patel
- Karunashraya Institute for Palliative Care Education and Research, Bangalore Hospice Trust, Karunashraya, Bangalore, India
| | - Bader Nael Remawi
- Lancaster Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, UK.
| | - Srinagesh Simha
- Karunashraya Institute for Palliative Care Education and Research, Bangalore Hospice Trust, Karunashraya, Bangalore, India
| | - Nancy Preston
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK.
| | - Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK.
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Eleven-year retrospective study characterizing patients with severe brain damage and poor neurological prognosis -role of physicians' attitude toward life-sustaining treatment. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:79. [PMID: 35581603 PMCID: PMC9115963 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00975-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe brain hemorrhage/infarction and cardiac arrest constitute the most critical situations leading to poor neurological prognosis. Characterization of these patients is required to offer successful end-of-life care, but actual practice is affected by multiple confounding factors, including ethicolegal issues, particular in Japan and Asia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical courses of patients with severe brain damage and to assess the preference of end-of-life care for these patients in Japanese hospitals. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted between 2008 and 2018. All intracranial hemorrhage/infarction and cardiac arrest out-patients (n = 510) who were admitted to our two affiliated hospitals and survived but with poor neurologic outcomes were included. Demographic characteristics as well as prognosis and treatment policies were also assessed. Results Patients were divided into two categories; cases with absent brainstem reflex (BSR) (BSR[-]) and those with preserved BSR (BSR[ +]). The survival rate was higher and the length of hospitalization was longer in patients with BSR[ +] than in those with BSR[-]. Among three life-sustaining policies (i.e., aggressive treatment, withdrawal of treatment, and withholding of treatment), withholding of treatment was adopted to most patients. In BSR[-], the proportion of three treatment policies performed at the final decision did not differ from that at the initial diagnosis on neurological status (p = 0.432). In contrast, this proportion tended to be altered in BSR[ +] (p = 0.072), with a decreasing tendency of aggressive treatment and a modest increasing tendency of withdrawal of treatment. Furthermore, the requests from patients’ families to withdraw life-sustaining treatment, including discontinuation of mechanical ventilation, increased, but actual implementation of withdrawal by physicians was less than half of the requests. Conclusions BSR constitutes a crucial determinant of mortality and length of hospitalization in comatose patients with severe brain damage. Although the number of withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment tends to increase over time in BSR[ +] patients, there are many more requests from patients’ families for withdrawal. Since physicians has a tendency to desist from withdrawing life-sustaining treatment, more in-depth communication between medical staff and patients’ families will facilitate mutual understanding over ethicolegal and religious issues and may thus improve end-of-life care.
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Mentzelopoulos SD, Chen S, Nates JL, Kruser JM, Hartog C, Michalsen A, Efstathiou N, Joynt GM, Lobo S, Avidan A, Sprung CL. Derivation and performance of an end-of-life practice score aimed at interpreting worldwide treatment-limiting decisions in the critically ill. Crit Care 2022; 26:106. [PMID: 35418103 PMCID: PMC9009016 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-022-03971-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Limitations of life-sustaining interventions in intensive care units (ICUs) exhibit substantial changes over time, and large, contemporary variation across world regions. We sought to determine whether a weighted end-of-life practice score can explain a large, contemporary, worldwide variation in limitation decisions.
Methods The 2015–2016 (Ethicus-2) vs. 1999–2000 (Ethicus-1) comparison study was a two-period, prospective observational study assessing the frequency of limitation decisions in 4952 patients from 22 European ICUs. The worldwide Ethicus-2 study was a single-period prospective observational study assessing the frequency of limitation decisions in 12,200 patients from 199 ICUs situated in 8 world regions. Binary end-of-life practice variable data (1 = presence; 0 = absence) were collected post hoc (comparison study, 22/22 ICUs, n = 4592; worldwide study, 186/199 ICUs, n = 11,574) for family meetings, daily deliberation for appropriate level of care, end-of-life discussions during weekly meetings, written triggers for limitations, written ICU end-of-life guidelines and protocols, palliative care and ethics consultations, ICU-staff taking communication or bioethics courses, and national end-of-life guidelines and legislation. Regarding the comparison study, generalized estimating equations (GEE) analysis was used to determine associations between the 12 end-of-life practice variables and treatment limitations. The weighted end-of-life practice score was then calculated using GEE-derived coefficients of the end-of-life practice variables. Subsequently, the weighted end-of-life practice score was validated in GEE analysis using the worldwide study dataset. Results In comparison study GEE analyses, end-of-life discussions during weekly meetings [odds ratio (OR) 0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30–0.99], end-of-life guidelines [OR 0.52, (0.31–0.87)] and protocols [OR 15.08, (3.88–58.59)], palliative care consultations [OR 2.63, (1.23–5.60)] and end-of-life legislation [OR 3.24, 1.60–6.55)] were significantly associated with limitation decisions (all P < 0.05). In worldwide GEE analyses, the weighted end-of-life practice score was significantly associated with limitation decisions [OR 1.12 (1.03–1.22); P = 0.008]. Conclusions Comparison study-derived, weighted end-of-life practice score partly explained the worldwide study’s variation in treatment limitations. The most important components of the weighted end-of-life practice score were ICU end-of-life protocols, palliative care consultations, and country end-of-life legislation.
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13054-022-03971-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyros D Mentzelopoulos
- First Department of Intensive Care Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Evaggelismos General Hospital, 45-47 Ipsilandou Street, 10675, Athens, Greece.
| | - Su Chen
- D2, K Lab, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph L Nates
- Critical Care Department, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jacqueline M Kruser
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Christiane Hartog
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Klinik Bavaria, Kreischa, Germany
| | - Andrej Michalsen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, Emergency Medicine, and Pain Therapy, Konstanz Hospital, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Efstathiou
- School of Nursing, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gavin M Joynt
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Suzana Lobo
- Critical Care Division - Faculty of Medicine São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexander Avidan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Charles L Sprung
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Abstract
This article explores the ethical concept of "the equivalence thesis" (ET), or the idea that withdrawing and withholding life sustaining treatments are morally equivalent practices, within neonatology. We review the historical origins, theory, and clinical rationale behind ET, and provide an analysis of how ET relates to literature that describes neonatal mode of death and healthcare professional and parent attitudes towards end-of-life care. While ET may serve as an ethical tool to optimize resource allocation in theory, its clinical utility is limited given the complexity of end-of-life care decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lin
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | - Christy L Cummings
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Vincent JL, Creteur J. Appropriate care for the elderly in the ICU. J Intern Med 2022; 291:458-468. [PMID: 34487587 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Life expectancy is rising worldwide and increasing numbers of elderly patients are being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Because ageing is associated with changes in organ function, increased frailty, reduced activities of daily living, reduced mobility, and reduced cognition, elderly patients represent a particular subgroup of ICU patients. Ethical decisions related to the appropriateness of intensive care and/or life-sustaining interventions, the withdrawing and withholding of life support, and terminal sedation are more frequent in these patients and will be discussed in this review. Such decisions must be tailored to the individual to take into consideration personal beliefs and wishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Louis Vincent
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme University Hospital, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Creteur
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme University Hospital, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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13
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Experiences and attitudes of medical professionals on treatment of end-of-life patients in intensive care units in the Republic of Croatia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:12. [PMID: 35172834 PMCID: PMC8851755 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00752-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decisions about limitations of life sustaining treatments (LST) are made for end-of-life patients in intensive care units (ICUs). The aim of this research was to explore the professional and ethical attitudes and experiences of medical professionals on treatment of end-of-life patients in ICUs in the Republic of Croatia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among physicians and nurses working in surgical, medical, neurological, and multidisciplinary ICUs in the total of 9 hospitals throughout Croatia using a questionnaire with closed and open type questions. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to reduce data to a smaller set of summary variables. Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyse the differences between two groups and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyse the differences between more than two groups. RESULTS Less than third of participants (29.2%) stated they were included in the decision-making process, and physicians are much more included than nurses (p < 0.001). Sixty two percent of participants stated that the decision-making process took place between physicians. Eighteen percent of participants stated that 'do-not-attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitations' orders were frequently made in their ICUs. A decision to withdraw inotropes and antibiotics was frequently made as stated by 22.4% and 19.9% of participants, respectively. Withholding/withdrawing of LST were ethically acceptable to 64.2% of participants. Thirty seven percent of participants thought there was a significant difference between withholding and withdrawing LST from an ethical standpoint. Seventy-nine percent of participants stated that a verbal or written decision made by a capable patient should be respected. Physicians were more inclined to respect patient's wishes then nurses with high school education (p = 0.038). Nurses were more included in the decision-making process in neurological than in surgical, medical, or multidisciplinary ICUs (p < 0.001, p = 0.005, p = 0.023 respectively). Male participants in comparison to female (p = 0.002), and physicians in comparison to nurses with high school and college education (p < 0.001) displayed more liberal attitudes about LST limitation. CONCLUSIONS DNACPR orders are not commonly made in Croatian ICUs, even though limitations of LST were found ethically acceptable by most of the participants. Attitudes of paternalistic and conservative nature were expected considering Croatia's geographical location in Southern Europe.
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Sabouneh R, Lakissian Z, Hilal N, Sharara-Chami R. The State of the Do-Not-Resuscitate Order in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in the Middle East: A Retrospective Study. J Palliat Care 2022; 37:99-106. [PMID: 35014894 DOI: 10.1177/08258597211073228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order is part of most hospitals' policies on the process of making and communicating decisions about a patient's resuscitation status. Yet it has not become a part of our society's ritual of dying in the Middle East especially among children. Given the diversity of pediatric patients, the DNR order continues to represent a challenge to all parties involved in the care of children including the medical team and the family. METHODS This was a retrospective review of the medical charts of patients who had died in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a tertiary academic institution in Beirut, Lebanon within the period of January 2012 and December 2017. RESULTS Eighty-two charts were extracted, 79 were included in the analysis. Three were excluded as one patient had died in the Emergency Department (ED) and 2 charts were incomplete. Most patients were male, Lebanese, and from Muslim families. These patients clinically presented with primary cardiac and oncological diseases or were admitted from the ED with respiratory distress or from the operating room for post-operative management. The primary cause of death was multiorgan failure and cardiac arrest. Only 34% of families had agreed to a DNR order prior to death and 10% suggested "soft" resuscitation. Most discussions were held in the presence of the parents, the PICU team and the patient's primary physician. CONCLUSIONS The DNR order presents one of the most difficult challenges for all care providers involved, especially within a culturally conservative setting such as Lebanon. As the numbers suggest, it is difficult for parents to reach the decision to completely withhold resuscitative measures for pediatric patients, instead opting for "soft" resuscitations like administering epinephrine without chest compressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sabouneh
- American University of Beirut Medical Centre (AUBMC)
| | - Z Lakissian
- Dar Al-Wafaa Simulation in Medicine (DAWSIM), AUBMC
| | - N Hilal
- American University of Beirut Medical Centre (AUBMC)
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15
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Benbenishty J, Ganz FD, Anstey MH, Barbosa-Camacho FJ, Bocci MG, Çizmeci EA, Dybwik K, Ingels C, Lautrette A, Miranda-Ackerman RC, Estebanez-Montiel B, Plowright C, Ricou B, Robertsen A, Sprung CL. Changes in intensive care unit nurse involvement in end of life decision making between 1999 and 2016: Descriptive comparative study. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2021; 68:103138. [PMID: 34750044 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2021.103138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Comparison of nurse involvement in end of life decision making in European countries participating in ETHICUS I- 1999 and ETHICUS II- 2015. METHODOLOGY This was a prospective observational study of 22 European ICUs included in the ETHICUS-II and I. Data were collected as per the ETHICUS-I and ETHICUS-II protocols. Four questions within the ETHICUS protocols related to nurse involvement in end of life decision making were analyzed. This is a comparison of changes in nurse involvement in end of life decisions from 1999 to 2015. SETTING International e-based questionnaire completed by an intensive care clinician when an end of life decision was performed on any patient. SUBJECTS Intensive care physicians and nurses, no interventions were performed. MEASUREMENTS A 20 question survey was used to describe the decision making process, on what basis was the decision made, who was involved in the decision making process, and what precise decisions were made. RESULTS A total of 4592 cases from 22 centres are included. While there was more agreement between nurses and physicians in ETHICUS-I compared to ETHICUS-I, fewer discussions with nurses occurred in ETHICUS-II. The frequency of end of life decisions that were discussed with nurses decreased in all three regions between ETHICUS-I and ETHICUS-II. CONCLUSION Based on the results of the current study, nurses should be further encouraged to increase their involvement in end of life decision-making, especially those in southern Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Benbenishty
- Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center and School of Nursing, Israel.
| | - Freda DeKeyser Ganz
- Hadassah Hebrew University School of Nursing and Jerusalem College of Technology, Israel.
| | - Matthew H Anstey
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia; School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Australia.
| | | | - Maria Grazia Bocci
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Elif Ayşe Çizmeci
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada; Uludağ University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Knut Dybwik
- Intensive Care Unit, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
| | - Catherine Ingels
- University Hospital Gasthuisberg Clinical Division and Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Alexandre Lautrette
- Intensive Care Medicine, Gabriel-Montpied University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | | | | | | | - Bara Ricou
- Intensive Care of Geneva, Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Intensive Care, Geneva Hospital and University of Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Annette Robertsen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Charles L Sprung
- Department of Intensive Care, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Israel.
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16
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Hastening Death in Canadian ICUs: End-of-Life Care in the Era of Medical Assistance in Dying. Crit Care Med 2021; 50:742-749. [PMID: 34605780 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Since 2016, Canada has allowed for euthanasia based on strict criteria under federal medical assistance in dying legislation. The purpose of this study was to determine how Canadian intensivists perceive medical assistance in dying and whether they believe their approach to withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies has changed following introduction of medical assistance in dying. DESIGN Electronic survey. SETTING Participants were recruited from 11 PICU programs and 14 adult ICU programs across Canada. All program leaders for whom contact information was available were approached for participation. PARTICIPANTS We invited intensivists and critical care trainees employed between December 2019 and May 2020 to participate using a snowball sampling technique in which department leaders distributed study information. All responses were anonymous. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson chi-square test. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We obtained 150 complete questionnaires (33% response rate), of which 50% were adult practitioners and 50% pediatric. Most were from academic centers (81%, n = 121). Of respondents, 86% (n = 130) were familiar with medical assistance in dying legislation, 71% in favor, 14% conflicted, and 11% opposed. Only 5% (n = 8) thought it had influenced their approach to withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies. Half of participants had no standardized protocol for withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies in their unit, and 41% (n = 62) had observed medications given in disproportionately high doses during withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies, with 13% having personally administered such doses. Most (80%, n = 120) had experienced explicit requests from families to hasten death, and almost half (47%, n = 70) believed it was ethically permissible to intentionally hasten death following withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies. CONCLUSIONS Most Canadian intensivists surveyed do not think that medical assistance in dying has changed their approach to end of life in the ICU. A significant minority are ethically conflicted about the current approach to assisted dying/euthanasia in Canada. Almost half believe it is ethical to intentionally hasten death during withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies if death is expected.
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Gold A, Greenberg B, Strous R, Asman O. When do caregivers ignore the veil of ignorance? An empirical study on medical triage decision-making. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2021; 24:213-225. [PMID: 33398490 PMCID: PMC7781192 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-020-09992-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In principle, all patients deserve to receive optimal medical treatment equally. However, in situations in which there is scarcity of time or resources, medical treatment must be prioritized based on a triage. The conventional guidelines of medical triage mandate that treatment should be provided based solely on medical necessity regardless of any non-medical value-oriented considerations ("worst-first"). This study empirically examined the influence of value-oriented considerations on medical triage decision-making. Participants were asked to prioritize medical treatment relating to four case scenarios of an emergency situation resulting from a car collision. The cases differ by situational characteristics pertaining to the at-fault driver, which were related to culpability attribution.In three case scenarios most participants gave priority to the most severely injured individual, unless the less severely injured individual was their brother. Nevertheless, in the aftermath of a vehicle-ramming terror attack most participants prioritized the less severely injured individual ("victim-first").Our findings indicate that when caregivers are presented with concrete highly conflictual triage situations their choices may be based on value-oriented considerations related to contextual characteristics of the emergency situation. Philosophical and practical ramifications of our findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azgad Gold
- Forensic Psychiatry Unit, Yehuda Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat Yam, Israel
| | - Binyamin Greenberg
- Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Beer Yaakov-Ness Ziona Mental Health Center, Beer Yaakov, Israel
| | - Rael Strous
- Psychiatry Department, Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center, Bnei Brak, Israel
| | - Oren Asman
- Nursing Department, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
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18
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Zhu Y, Zhu X, Xu L, Deng M. Clinical Factors Influencing End-of-Life Care in a Chinese Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Retrospective, post-hoc Study. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:601782. [PMID: 33898354 PMCID: PMC8058173 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.601782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: End-of-life(EOL) care decision-making for infants and children is a painful experience. The study aimed to explore the clinical factors influencing the EOL care to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment (WLST) in Chinese pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Methods: A 14-year retrospective study (2006-2019) for pediatric patients who died in PICU was conducted. Based on the mode of death, patients were classified into WLST group (death after WLST) and fCPR group (death after full intervention, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Intergroup differences in the epidemiological and clinical factors were determined. Results: There were 715 patients enrolled in this study. Of these patients, 442 (61.8%) died after WLST and 273 (38.2%) died after fCPR. Patients with previous hospitalizations or those who had been transferred from other hospitals more frequently chose WLST than fCPR (both P < 0.01), and the mean PICU stay duration was significantly longer in the WLST group (P < 0.05). WLST patients were more frequently complicated with chronic underlying disease, especially tumor (P < 0.01). Sepsis, diarrhea, and cardiac attack (all P < 0.05) were more frequent causes of death in the fCPR group, whereas tumor as a direct cause of death was more frequently seen in the WLST group. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that previous hospitalization and underlying diseases diagnosed before admission were strongly associated with EOL care with WLST decision (OR: 1.6; P < 0.05 and OR: 1.6; P < 0.01, respectively). Conclusions: Pediatric patients with previous hospitalization and underlying diseases diagnosed before admission were associated with the EOL care to WLST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueniu Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Xu
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyan Deng
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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El Jawiche R, Hallit S, Tarabey L, Abou-Mrad F. Withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments in intensive care units in Lebanon: a cross-sectional survey of intensivists and interviews of professional societies, legal and religious leaders. BMC Med Ethics 2020; 21:80. [PMID: 32859185 PMCID: PMC7456082 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00525-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the attitudes and practices of intensivists working in Lebanon regarding withholding and withdrawing life-sustaining treatments (LSTs). The objectives of the study were to assess the points of view and practices of intensivists in Lebanon along with the opinions of medical, legal and religious leaders regarding withholding withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments in Lebanese intensive care units (ICU). Methods A web-based survey was conducted among intensivists working in Lebanese adult ICUs. Interviews were also done with Lebanese medical, legal and religious leaders. Results Of the 229 survey recipients, 83 intensivists completed it, i.e. a response rate of (36.3%). Most respondents were between 30 and 49 years old (72%), Catholic Christians (60%), anesthesiologists (63%), working in Beirut (47%). Ninety-two percent of them were familiar with the withholding and withdrawal concepts and 80% applied them. Poor prognosis of the acute and chronic disease and futile therapy were the main reasons to consider withholding and withdrawal of treatments. Ninety-five percent of intensivists agreed with the “Principle of Double Effect” (i.e. adding analgesia and or sedation to patients after the withholding/withdrawal decisions in order to prevent their suffering and allow their comfort, even though it might hasten the dying process). The main withheld therapies were vasopressors, respiratory assistance and CPR. Most of the respondents reported the decision was often to always multidisciplinary (92%), involving the family (68%), and the patient (65%), or his advance directives (77%) or his surrogate (81%) and the nurses (78%). The interviewees agreed there was a law governing withholding and withdrawal decisions/practices in Lebanon. Christians and Muslim Sunni leaders declared accepting those practices (withholding or withdrawing LSTs from patients when appropriate). Conclusion Withholding and withdrawal of LSTs in the ICU are known concepts among intensivists working in Lebanon and are being practiced. Our results could be used to inform and optimize therapeutic limitation in ICUs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita El Jawiche
- Anesthesia Department, Bahman Hospital, Haret Hreik, near Masjed El Hassanein, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Souheil Hallit
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon. .,INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidemiologie Clinique et Toxicologie- Liban, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Lubna Tarabey
- Institute of Social Sciences and Medical School, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Fadi Abou-Mrad
- Neurology Division and Memory Clinic, Saint Charles Hospital, Baabda, Lebanon.,Division of Medical Ethics & Forensic Medicine, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
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20
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Survey of End-of-Life Care in Intensive Care Units in Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt. HEC Forum 2020; 34:25-39. [PMID: 32789739 DOI: 10.1007/s10730-020-09423-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Studies on end-of-life care reveal different practices regarding withholding and/or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments between countries and regions. Available data about physicians' practices regarding end-of-life care in ICUs in Egypt is scarce. This study aimed to investigate physicians' attitudes toward end-of-life care and the reported practice in adult ICUs in Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt. 100 physicians currently working in several ICU settings in Ain Shams University Hospitals were included. A self-administered questionnaire was used for collection of data. Most of the participants agreed to implementation of "do not resuscitate" (DNR) orders and applying pre-written DNR orders (61% and 65% consecutively), while only 13% almost always/often order DNR for terminally-ill patients. 52% of the participants agreed to usefulness of limiting life-sustaining therapy in some cases, but they expressed fear of legal consequences. 47% found withholding life-sustaining treatment is more ethical than its withdrawal. 16% almost always/often withheld further active treatment but continued current ones while only 6% almost always/often withdrew active therapy for terminally-ill patients. The absence of legislation and guidelines for end-of-life care in ICUs at Ain Shams University Hospitals was the main influential factor for the dissociation between participants' attitudes and their practices. Therefore, development of a consensus for end-of-life care in ICUs in Egypt is mandatory. Also, training of physicians in ICUs on effective communication with patients' families and surrogates is important for planning of limitation of life-sustaining treatments.
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Lee SI, Hong KS, Park J, Lee YJ. Decision-making regarding withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment and the role of intensivists in the intensive care unit: a single-center study. Acute Crit Care 2020; 35:179-188. [PMID: 32772037 PMCID: PMC7483019 DOI: 10.4266/acc.2020.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study examined the experience of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in patients hospitalized in the intensive care units (ICUs) of a tertiary care center. It also considers the role that intensivists play in the decision-making process regarding the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 227 patients who decided to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment while hospitalized at Ewha Womans University Medical Center Mokdong between April 9 and December 31, 2018. Results The 227 hospitalized patients included in the analysis withheld or withdrew from life-sustaining treatment. The department in which life-sustaining treatment was withheld or withdrawn most frequently was hemato-oncology (26.4%). Among these patients, the most common diagnosis was gastrointestinal tract cancer (29.1%). A majority of patients (64.3%) chose not to receive any life-sustaining treatment. Of the 80 patients in the ICU, intensivists participated in the decision to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment in 34 cases. There were higher proportions of treatment withdrawal and ICU-to-ward transfers among the cases in whom intensivists participated in decision making compared to those cases in whom intensivists did not participate (50.0% vs. 4.3% and 52.9% vs. 19.6%, respectively). Conclusions Through their participation in end-of-life discussions, intensivists can help patients’ families to make decisions about withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment and possibly avoiding futile treatments for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo In Lee
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Sook Hong
- Department of Surgery and Critical Care Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Park
- Department of Neurology and Critical Care Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Joo Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Cardona M, Anstey M, Lewis ET, Shanmugam S, Hillman K, Psirides A. Appropriateness of intensive care treatments near the end of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Breathe (Sheff) 2020; 16:200062. [PMID: 33304408 PMCID: PMC7714540 DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0062-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The patient and family perspective on the appropriateness of intensive care unit (ICU) treatments involves preferences, values and social constructs beyond medical criteria. The clinician's perception of inappropriateness is more reliant on clinical judgment. Earlier consultation with families before ICU admission and patient education on the outcomes of life-sustaining therapies may help reconcile these provider-patient disagreements. However, global emergencies like COVID-19 change the usual paradigm of end-of-life care, as it is a new disease with only scarce predictive information about it. Pandemics can also bring about the burdensome predicament of doctors having to make unwanted choices of rationing access to the ICU when demand for otherwise life-saving resources exceeds supply. Evidence-based prognostic checklists may guide treatment triage but the principles of shared decision-making are unchanged. Yet, they need to be altered with respect to COVID-19, defining likely outcomes and likelihood of benefit for the patient, and clarifying their willingness to take on the risks inherent to being in an ICU for 2 weeks for those eligible. For patients who are admitted during the prodrome of COVID-19 disease, or those who deteriorate in the second week, clinicians have some lead time in hospital to have appropriate discussions about ceilings of treatments offered based on severity. KEY POINTS The patient and family perspective on inappropriateness of intensive care at the end of life often differs from the clinician's opinion due to the nonmedical frame of mind.To improve satisfaction with communication on treatment goals, consultation on patient values and inclusion of social constructs in addition to clinical prediction is a good start to reconcile differences between physician and health service users' viewpoints.During pandemics, where health systems may collapse, different admission criteria driven by the need to ration services may be warranted. EDUCATIONAL AIMS To explore the extent to which older patients and their families are involved in decisions about appropriateness of intensive care admission or treatmentsTo understand how patients or their families define inappropriate intensive care admission or treatmentsTo reflect on the implications of decision to admit or not to admit to the intensive care unit in the face of acute resource shortages during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnolia Cardona
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Australia
- Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, Australia
| | - Matthew Anstey
- Intensive Care Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Ebony T. Lewis
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | | | - Ken Hillman
- Intensive Care Unit, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Alex Psirides
- Intensive Care Unit, Wellington Regional Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand
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Experience in Rehabilitation Medicine Affects Prognosis and End-of-Life Decision-Making of Neurologists: A Case-Based Survey. Neurocrit Care 2020; 31:125-134. [PMID: 30607828 PMCID: PMC6611059 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-018-0661-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Outcome predictions in patients with acute severe neurologic disorders are difficult and influenced by multiple factors. Since the decision for and the extent of life-sustaining therapies are based on the estimated prognosis, it is vital to understand which factors influence such estimates. This study examined whether previous professional experience with rehabilitation medicine influences physician decision-making. Methods A case vignette presenting a typical patient with an extensive brain stem infarction was developed and distributed online to clinical neurologists. Questions focused on prognosis, interpretation of an advanced directive, whether to withdraw life-sustaining treatments and information on prior rehabilitation experience from the survey respondent. Results Of the participating neurologists, 77% opted for the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies (n = 70; response rate: 14.8%). This decision was not affected by age, gender, or length of clinical experience. Neurologists with experience in rehabilitation medicine tended to estimate a more positive prognosis than neurologists without, but this result was not significant (p = .13). There was an association between the intervention chosen and previous experience in rehabilitation; neurologists with experience in rehabilitation medicine opted significantly more often (31.8%) for continuing life-sustaining treatments than neurologists without such experience (8.7%, p = .04). Conclusion Our results indicate that there are subjective factors influencing decisions to limit life-sustaining treatments that are based on previous professional experience. This finding emphasizes the variability and cognitive bias of such decision processes and should be integrated into future guidelines for specialist training on end-of-life decision-making.
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Ethical content of expert recommendations for end-of-life decision-making in intensive care units: A systematic review. J Crit Care 2020; 58:10-19. [PMID: 32278227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2020.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intensive care unit health care professionals must be skilled in providing end-of-life care. Crucial in this kind of care is end-of-life decision-making, which is a complex process involving a variety of stakeholders and requiring adequate justification. The aim of this systematic review is to analyse papers tackling ethical issues in relation to end-of-life decision-making in intensive care units. It explores the ethical positions, arguments and principles. METHODS A literature search was conducted in bibliographic databases and grey literature sources for the time period from 1990 to 2019. The constant comparative method was used for qualitative analysis of included papers in order to identify ethical content including ethical positions, ethical arguments, and ethical principles used in decision-making process. RESULTS In the 15 included papers we have identified a total of 43 ethical positions. Ten positions were identified as substantive, 33 as procedural. Twelve different ethical principles emerged from the ethical arguments. The most frequently used principles are the principles of beneficence, autonomy and nonmaleficence. CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated that recommendations and guidelines designed specifically by intensive or critical care experts for intensive care units promote similar ethical positions, with minimal dissenting positions.
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Culture and personal influences on cardiopulmonary resuscitation- results of international survey. BMC Med Ethics 2019; 20:102. [PMID: 31878920 PMCID: PMC6933623 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-019-0439-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ethical principle of justice demands that resources be distributed equally and based on evidence. Guidelines regarding forgoing of CPR are unavailable and there is large variance in the reported rates of attempted CPR in in-hospital cardiac arrest. The main objective of this work was to study whether local culture and physician preferences may affect spur-of-the-moment decisions in unexpected in-hospital cardiac arrest. Methods Cross sectional questionnaire survey conducted among a convenience sample of physicians that likely comprise code team members in their country (Indonesia, Israel and Mexico). The questionnaire included details regarding respondent demographics and training, personal value judgments and preferences as well as professional experience regarding CPR and forgoing of resuscitation. Results Of the 675 questionnaires distributed, 617 (91.4%) were completed and returned. Country of practice and level of knowledge about resuscitation were strongly associated with avoiding CPR performance. Mexican physicians were almost twicemore likely to forgo CPR than their Israeli and Indonesian/Malaysian counterparts [OR1.84 (95% CI 1.03, 3.26), p = 0.038]. Mexican responders also placed greater emphasison personal and patient quality of life (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, degree of religiosity was most strongly associated with willingness to forgo CPR; orthodox respondents were more than twice more likely to report having forgone CPR for apatient they do not know than secular and observant respondents, regardless of the country of practice [OR 2.12 (95%CI 1.30, 3.46), p = 0.003]. Conclusions In unexpected in-hospital cardiac arrest the decision to perform or withhold CPR may be affected by physician knowledge and local culture as well as personal preferences. Physician CPR training should include information regarding predictors of patient outcome at as well as emphasis on differentiating between patient and personal preferences in an emergency.
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Bassford C, Griffiths F, Svantesson M, Ryan M, Krucien N, Dale J, Rees S, Rees K, Ignatowicz A, Parsons H, Flowers N, Fritz Z, Perkins G, Quinton S, Symons S, White C, Huang H, Turner J, Brooke M, McCreedy A, Blake C, Slowther A. Developing an intervention around referral and admissions to intensive care: a mixed-methods study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr07390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundIntensive care treatment can be life-saving, but it is invasive and distressing for patients receiving it and it is not always successful. Deciding whether or not a patient will benefit from intensive care is a difficult clinical and ethical challenge.ObjectivesTo explore the decision-making process for referral and admission to the intensive care unit and to develop and test an intervention to improve it.MethodsA mixed-methods study comprising (1) two systematic reviews investigating the factors associated with decisions to admit patients to the intensive care unit and the experiences of clinicians, patients and families; (2) observation of decisions and interviews with intensive care unit doctors, referring doctors, and patients and families in six NHS trusts in the Midlands, UK; (3) a choice experiment survey distributed to UK intensive care unit consultants and critical care outreach nurses, eliciting their preferences for factors used in decision-making for intensive care unit admission; (4) development of a decision-support intervention informed by the previous work streams, including an ethical framework for decision-making and supporting referral and decision-support forms and patient and family information leaflets. Implementation feasibility was tested in three NHS trusts; (5) development and testing of a tool to evaluate the ethical quality of decision-making related to intensive care unit admission, based on the assessment of patient records. The tool was tested for inter-rater and intersite reliability in 120 patient records.ResultsInfluences on decision-making identified in the systematic review and ethnographic study included age, presence of chronic illness, functional status, presence of a do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation order, referring specialty, referrer seniority and intensive care unit bed availability. Intensive care unit doctors used a gestalt assessment of the patient when making decisions. The choice experiment showed that age was the most important factor in consultants’ and critical care outreach nurses’ preferences for admission. The ethnographic study illuminated the complexity of the decision-making process, and the importance of interprofessional relationships and good communication between teams and with patients and families. Doctors found it difficult to articulate and balance the benefits and burdens of intensive care unit treatment for a patient. There was low uptake of the decision-support intervention, although doctors who used it noted that it improved articulation of reasons for decisions and communication with patients.LimitationsLimitations existed in each of the component studies; for example, we had difficulty recruiting patients and families in our qualitative work. However, the project benefited from a mixed-method approach that mitigated the potential limitations of the component studies.ConclusionsDecision-making surrounding referral and admission to the intensive care unit is complex. This study has provided evidence and resources to help clinicians and organisations aiming to improve the decision-making for and, ultimately, the care of critically ill patients.Future workFurther research is needed into decision-making practices, particularly in how best to engage with patients and families during the decision process. The development and evaluation of training for clinicians involved in these decisions should be a priority for future work.Study registrationThe systematic reviews of this study are registered as PROSPERO CRD42016039054, CRD42015019711 and CRD42015019714.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme. The University of Aberdeen and the Chief Scientist Office of the Scottish Government Health and Social Care Directorates fund the Health Economics Research Unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Bassford
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Mia Svantesson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mandy Ryan
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Nicolas Krucien
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Sophie Rees
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karen Rees
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Agnieszka Ignatowicz
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Helen Parsons
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Nadine Flowers
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Zoe Fritz
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Department of Acute Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Cambridge, UK
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gavin Perkins
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah Quinton
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | | | - Huayi Huang
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Jake Turner
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Mike Brooke
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Aimee McCreedy
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Caroline Blake
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Anne Slowther
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Aitavaara‐Anttila M, Liisanantti JH, Raatiniemi L, Ohtonen P, Ala‐Kokko T. Factors related to delayed intensive care unit admission from emergency department-A retrospective cohort study. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2019; 63:939-946. [PMID: 30883672 DOI: 10.1111/aas.13355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The delays in transferring patients from emergency department (ED) to intensive care unit (ICU) are known to be linked with several adverse events, including prolonged ICU stay and increased hospital mortality. The factors associated with delayed ICU admission include shortage of ICU beds, organizational factors, ED overcrowding, and patient-related factors, including sepsis as admission diagnosis. The aim of this study was to examine ED-related factors associated with prolonged ED stay. METHODS The study population consisted of adult patients admitted (n = 479) from ED to ICU between 31 May 2016 and 19 March 2017 in Oulu University Hospital. A patient's ED length of stay (LOS) exceeding 180 minutes was considered delayed. RESULTS Most of the patients (380, 79.3%) were admitted to the ICU within 3 hours of hospital admission. In a logistic regression analysis, odds ratios (ORs) for ED LOS > 180 minutes were as follows: for Glasgow Coma Scale score > 9, 2.73 (1.39-5.32); for thrombocytes < 100 × 109 /mmol, 6.69 (2.32-19.26); for absence of pre-arrival notification, 5.27 (3.04-9.14); and for radiological examination, 3.95 (1.72-9.10). Trauma and intoxicated patients had shorter ED LOS while patients with medical conditions had more often prolonged admissions. CONCLUSION The delays in ICU admissions were linked to therapeutic and diagnostic procedures and absence of pre-arrival notification. Patients were admitted to the ICU on the basis of diagnosis instead of clinical risk. However, the delays were not associated with worsening outcome, which indicates that sufficient care can be provided at the ED while the ICU admission is pending.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Aitavaara‐Anttila
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology Oulu University Hospital Oulu Finland
| | - Janne H. Liisanantti
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology Oulu University Hospital Oulu Finland
| | - Lasse Raatiniemi
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology Oulu University Hospital Oulu Finland
| | - Pasi Ohtonen
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology Oulu University Hospital Oulu Finland
| | - Tero Ala‐Kokko
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology Oulu University Hospital Oulu Finland
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Lai VKW, Li JCH, Lee A. Psychometric validation of the Chinese patient- and family satisfaction in the intensive care unit questionnaires. J Crit Care 2019; 54:58-64. [PMID: 31352270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the 23-item Patient Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit (PS-ICU-23) and 24-item Family Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit (FS-ICU-24) questionnaires. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients (n = 243) discharged from an intensive care unit (ICU) in Hong Kong and family members (n = 237) completed the translated questionnaires. We used confirmatory factor analysis to assess the construct validity and measurement equivalence across groups (gender, mechanical ventilation, casemix, length of stay in ICU), coefficient alpha for internal consistency (reliability) and concordance correlation coefficient (ρc) for agreement between patients' and family members' perspective on satisfaction. RESULTS A three-factor model provided a better fit than the two-factor model for both PS-ICU-23 and FS-ICU-24 questionnaires. Factorial equivalence was present across groups in both questionnaires. Internal consistency was adequate for PS-ICU-23 (coefficient alpha overall domain 0.85; care subscale, 0.83; information subscale, 0.90; decision-making process subscale, 0.67) and for FS-ICU-24 (coefficient alpha overall scale 0.86; care subscale, 0.84; information subscale, 0.89; decision-making process subscale, 0.65). Overall ICU satisfaction agreement was moderate (0.40). CONCLUSIONS Both Chinese PS-ICU-23 and FS-ICU-24 questionnaires have sound psychometric properties but family satisfaction may not be a good proxy for patient satisfaction in ICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Ka Wai Lai
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
| | | | - Anna Lee
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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Rocker G, Dunbar S. Withholding or Withdrawal of Life Support: The Canadian Critical Care Society Position Paper. J Palliat Care 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970001601s10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Rocker
- Canadian Critical Care Society Provincial Representative for Nova Scotia
| | - Scott Dunbar
- Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Law and Medical Ethics, (KCL), and Fellow in Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio, and Medical Ethicist, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Hogan H, Hutchings A, Wulff J, Carver C, Holdsworth E, Welch J, Harrison D, Black N. Interventions to reduce mortality from in-hospital cardiac arrest: a mixed-methods study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr07020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundUnchecked patient deterioration can lead to in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and avoidable death. The National Cardiac Arrest Audit (NCAA) has found fourfold variation in IHCA rates and survival between English hospitals. Key to reducing IHCA is both the identification of patients at risk of deterioration and prompt response. A range of targeted interventions have been introduced but implementation varies between hospitals. These differences are likely to contribute to the observed variation between and within hospitals over time.ObjectiveTo determine how interventions aimed at identification and management of deteriorating patients are associated with IHCA rates and outcomes.DesignA mixed-methods study involving a systematic literature review, semistructured interviews with 60 NHS staff, an organisational survey in 171 hospitals and interrupted time series and difference-in-difference analyses (106 hospitals).SettingEnglish hospitals participating in the NCAA audit.ParticipantsNHS staff (approximately 300) and patients (13 million).InterventionsEducation, track-and-trigger systems (TTSs), standardised handover tools and outreach teams.Main outcome measuresIHCA rates, survival and hospital-wide mortality.Data sourcesNCAA, Hospital Episode Statistics, Office for National Statistics Mortality Statistics.MethodsA literature review and qualitative interviews were used to design an organisational survey that determined how interventions have been implemented in practice and across time. Associations between variations in services and IHCA rates and survival were determined using cross-sectional, interrupted time series and difference-in-difference analyses over the index study period (2009/10 to 2014/15).ResultsAcross NCAA hospitals, IHCAs fell by 6.4% per year and survival increased by 5% per year, with hospital mortality decreasing by a similar amount. A national, standard TTS [the National Early Warning Score (NEWS)], introduced in 2012, was adopted by 70% of hospitals by 2015. By 2015, one-third of hospitals had converted from paper-based TTSs to electronic TTSs, and there had been an increase in the number of hospitals with an outreach team and an increase in the number with a team available at all times. The extent of variation in the uses of educational courses and structured handover tools was limited, with 90% of hospitals reporting use of standardised communication tools, such as situation, background, assessment and recommendation, in 2015. Introduction of the NEWS was associated with an additional 8.4% decrease in IHCA rates and, separately, a conversion from paper to electronic TTS use was associated with an additional 7.6% decrease. However, there was no associated change in IHCA survival or hospital mortality. Outreach teams were not associated with a change in IHCA rates, survival or hospital mortality. A sensitivity analysis restricted to ward-based IHCAs did not alter the findings but did identify an association between increased outreach team intensity in 2015 and IHCA survival.LimitationsThe organisational survey was not able to explore all aspects of the interventions and the contextual factors that influenced them. Changes over time were dependent on respondents’ recall.ConclusionsStandardisation of TTSs and introduction of electronic TTSs are associated with a reduction in IHCAs. The apparent lack of impact of outreach teams may reflect their mode of introduction, that their effect is through providing support for implementation of TTS or that the organisation of the response to deterioration is not critical, as long as it is timely. Their role in end-of-life decision-making may account for the observed association with IHCA survival.Future workTo assess the potential impact of outreach teams at hospital level and patient level, and to establish which component of the TTS has the greatest effect on outcomes.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Hogan
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Hutchings
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jerome Wulff
- Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Catherine Carver
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Holdsworth
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - John Welch
- Critical Care Outreach, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - David Harrison
- Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Nick Black
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Alsaati BA, Aljishi MN, Alshamakh SS, Banjar NS, Basharaheel HA, Alamri RS. The Concept of Do Not Resuscitate for Students in King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Indian J Palliat Care 2019; 25:544-549. [PMID: 31673210 PMCID: PMC6812427 DOI: 10.4103/ijpc.ijpc_78_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Do not resuscitate (DNR) is a medical procedure for patients who are suffering from critical, untreatable, and irreversible disease where the patient's life is predicted to end. DNR is considered a sensitive decision for patients and their relatives, as well as physicians. Aim: This study is aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of medical students and interns toward the DNR order and the factors affecting their attitude at the King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) in Jeddah. Methods: Nonintervention cross-sectional study was conducted among 429 medical students (preclinical and clinical years) and interns who were given an online questionnaire between May and June in 2016 at KAUH in 18 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results: Our study indicates that most of the participants (73.2%) were familiar with DNR order; however, more than half of them (58.3%) did not take any lecture or session on DNR. Large proportion of medical students had the opinion that attending a lecture or session on DNR would help them discuss it more skillfully with the patients and their relatives. More than half of the participants (55%) believed that there is a Fatwa that regulates DNR on the Islamic level. Conclusion: Participants, who were interns, were more familiar with the term DNR, whereas the 2nd-year medical students were less familiar with DNR. Considering the variation in the knowledge of participants about DNR, we conclude that additional lectures and sessions about DNR should be added to the medical school curriculum to make the students more confident and able in handling the DNR discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maram Nader Aljishi
- Department of Medical Students, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sunds Salah Alshamakh
- Department of Medical Students, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nujood Salah Banjar
- Department of Medical Students, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hadeel Ahmed Basharaheel
- Department of Medical Students, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rawan Saleh Alamri
- Department of Medical Students, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Medical students’ knowledge and feeling about end-of-life decisions: A national French survey. Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med 2018; 37:635-636. [DOI: 10.1016/j.accpm.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Gopalan PD, Pershad S. Decision-making in ICU - A systematic review of factors considered important by ICU clinician decision makers with regard to ICU triage decisions. J Crit Care 2018; 50:99-110. [PMID: 30502690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ICU is a scarce resource within a high-stress, high-stakes, time-sensitive environment where critically ill patients with life-threatening conditions receive expensive life-sustaining care under the guidance of expert qualified personnel. The implications of decisions such as suitability for admission into ICU are potentially dire and difficult. OBJECTIVES To conduct a systematic review of clinicians' subjective perceptions of factors that influence the decision to accept or refuse patients referred to ICU. RESULTS Twenty studies yielded 56 different factors classified into patient, physician and environmental. Common, important factors were: acute illness severity and reversibility; presence and severity of comorbidities; patient age, functional status, state-of-mind and wishes; physician level of experience and perception of patient QOL; and bed availability. Within-group variability among physicians and thought-deed discordance were demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS The complex and dynamic ICU triage decision is affected by numerous interacting factors. The literature provides some indication of these factors, but fail to show complexities and interactions between them. A decision tree is proposed. Further research should include a reflection on how decisions for admission to ICU are made, such that a better understanding of these processes can be achieved allowing for improved individual and group consistency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragasan Dean Gopalan
- Discipline of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban 4001, South Africa; Intensive Care Unit, King Edward VIII Hospital, Congella, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Santosh Pershad
- Discipline of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu Natal, 719 Umbilo Road, Durban 4001, South Africa; Intensive Care Unit, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, 800 Vusi Mzimela Road, Cato Manor, Durban, South Africa.
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Physician-related determinants of medical end-of-life decisions - A mortality follow-back study in Switzerland. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203960. [PMID: 30235229 PMCID: PMC6147437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Medical end-of-life decisions (MELD) and shared decision-making are increasingly important issues for a majority of persons at the end of life. Little is known, however, about the impact of physician characteristics on these practices. We aimed at investigating whether MELDs depend on physician characteristics when controlling for patient characteristics and place of death. Methods and findings Using a random sample (N = 8,963) of all deaths aged 1 year or older registered in Switzerland between 7 August 2013 and 5 February 2014, questionnaires covering MELD details and physicians' demographics, life stance and medical formation were sent to certifying physicians. The response rate was 59.4% (N = 5,328). Determinants of MELDs were analyzed in binary and multinomial logistic regression models. MELDs discussed with the patient or relatives were a secondary outcome. A total of 3,391 non-sudden nor completely unexpected deaths were used, 83% of which were preceded by forgoing treatment(s) and/or intensified alleviation of pain/symptoms intending or taking into account shortening of life. International medical graduates reported forgoing treatment less often, either alone (RRR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.21–0.41) or combined with the intensified alleviation of pain and symptoms (RRR = 0.44; 0.34–0.55). The latter was also more prevalent among physicians who graduated in 2000 or later (RRR = 1.60; 1.17–2.19). MELDs were generally less frequent among physicians with a religious affiliation. Shared-decision making was analyzed among 2,542 decedents. MELDs were discussed with patient or relatives less frequently when physicians graduated abroad (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.50–0.87) and more frequently when physicians graduated more recently; physician's sex and religion had no impact. Conclusions Physicians' characteristics, including the country of medical education and time since graduation had a significant effect on the likelihood of an MELD and of shared decision-making. These findings call for additional efforts in physicians' education and training concerning end-of-life practices and improved communication skills.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Published data and practice recommendations on end-of-life (EOL) generally reflect Western practice frameworks. Understanding worldwide practices is important because improving economic conditions are promoting rapid expansion of intensive care services in many previously disadvantaged regions, and increasing migration has promoted a new cultural diversity previously predominantly unicultural societies. This review explores current knowledge of similarities and differences in EOL practice between regions and possible causes and implications of these differences. RECENT FINDINGS Recent observational and survey data shows a marked variability in the practice of withholding and withdrawing life sustaining therapy worldwide. Some evidence supports the view that culture, religion, and socioeconomic factors influence EOL practice, and individually or together account for differences observed. There are also likely to be commonly desired values and expectations for EOL practice, and recent attempts at establishing where worldwide consensus may lie have improved our understanding of shared values and practices. SUMMARY Awareness of differences, understanding their likely complex causes, and using this knowledge to inform individualized care at EOL is likely to improve the quality of care for patients. Further research should clarify the causes of EOL practice variability, monitor trends, and objectively evaluate the quality of EOL practice worldwide.
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Piili RP, Lehto JT, Luukkaala T, Hinkka H, Kellokumpu-Lehtinen PLI. Does special education in palliative medicine make a difference in end-of-life decision-making? BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:94. [PMID: 30021586 PMCID: PMC6052558 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0349-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Characteristics of the physician influence the essential decision-making in end-of-life care. However, the effect of special education in palliative medicine on different aspects of decision-making in end-of-life care remains unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the decision-making in end-of-life care among physicians with or without special competency in palliative medicine (cPM). Methods A questionnaire including an advanced lung cancer patient-scenario with multiple decision options in end-of-life care situation was sent to 1327 Finnish physicians. Decisions to withdraw or withhold ten life-prolonging interventions were asked on a scale from 1 (definitely would not) to 5 (definitely would) – first, without additional information and then after the family’s request for aggressive treatment and the availability of an advance directive. Values from chronological original scenario, family’s appeal and advance directive were clustered by trajectory analysis. Results We received 699 (53%) responses. The mean values of the ten answers in the original scenario were 4.1 in physicians with cPM, 3.4 in general practitioners, 3.4 in surgeons, 3.5 in internists and 3.8 in oncologists (p < 0.05 for physicians with cPM vs. oncologists and p < 0.001 for physicians with cPM vs. others). Younger age and not being an oncologist or not having cPM increased aggressive treatment decisions in multivariable logistic regression analysis. The less aggressive approach of physicians with cPM differed between therapies, being most striking concerning intravenous hydration, nasogastric tube and blood transfusions. The aggressive approach increased by the family’s request (p < 0.001) and decreased by an advance directive (p < 0.001) in all physicians, regardless of special education in palliative medicine. Conclusion Physicians with special education in palliative medicine make less aggressive decisions in end-of-life care. The impact of specialty on decision-making varies among treatment options. Education in end-of-life care decision-making should be mandatory for young physicians and those in specialty training. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12904-018-0349-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetta P Piili
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland. .,Department of Oncology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland. .,Department of Oncology, Tampere University Hospital, Palliative Care Unit, Teiskontie 35, R-building, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Juho T Lehto
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Oncology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tiina Luukkaala
- Research and Innovation Center, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Health Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Pirkko-Liisa I Kellokumpu-Lehtinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Oncology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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Ganz FD, Sharfi R, Kaufman N, Einav S. Perceptions of slow codes by nurses working on internal medicine wards. Nurs Ethics 2018; 26:1734-1743. [DOI: 10.1177/0969733018783222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation is the default procedure during cardio-pulmonary arrest. If a patient does not want cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, then a do not attempt resuscitation order must be documented. Often, this order is not given; even if thought to be appropriate. This situation can lead to a slow code, defined as an ineffective resuscitation, where all resuscitation procedures are not performed or done slowly. Research objectives: To describe the perceptions of nurses working on internal medicine wards of slow codes, including the factors associated with its implementation. Research design: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study. Participants completed a personal characteristics questionnaire and the Perceptions and Factors of Slow Codes questionnaire designed for this study. Participants and research context: The sample was a convenience sample of nurses working on internal medicine wards in two Israeli hospitals. Ethical considerations: The study received ethical approval from both institutions, where data were collected and stored according to institutional policy. Findings: Most reported that resuscitations were conducted according to protocol (n = 90, 76.2%). Some took their time calling the code (n = 22, 18.3%), or waited by the bedside and did not perform cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (n = 45, 37.5%). Factors most associated with slow codes were poor patient prognosis (mean = 3.52/5, standard deviation = 1.27) and a low chance of patient survival (mean = 3.37/5, standard deviation = 1.21). Two-thirds (n = 76, 66.8%) reported that slow codes were done on their unit and the majority (n = 80, 69%) perceived slow codes as ethical. Discussion: This study confirms that slow codes are part of medical care on internal medicine wards, where most nurses perceive them as an ethical alternative. These perceptions are in contrast to most legal and ethical opinions expressed in the literature. Conclusion: Nurses should be educated about the legal and ethical implications of slow codes, and qualitative and quantitative studies should be conducted that further investigate its implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sharon Einav
- Shaare Zedek Medical Centre, Israel; The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
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Yildirim G, Karagozoglu S, Ozden D, Cınar Z, Ozveren H. A scale-development study: Exploration of intensive-care nurses' attitudes towards futile treatments. DEATH STUDIES 2018; 43:397-405. [PMID: 29947583 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2018.1479470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The study was conducted to determine the validity and reliability of the tool used to assess nurses' attitudes towards futility, and to explore intensive-care nurses' attitudes towards futility. Principal components analysis revealed that 18item scale was made up of four subdimensions that assess Identifying(beliefs), Decision-Making, Ethical Principles and Law, and Dilemma and Responsibilities related to futile treatments. The internal consistency of the scale was in the acceptable range, with a total Cronbach's alpha value of 0.72. Overall the results of study suggest that scale can be used as a valid and reliable assessment tool to assess nurses' attitudes towards futility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulay Yildirim
- a Cumhuriyet Universitesi Tip Fakultesi , Sivas , Turkey
| | | | - Dilek Ozden
- c Dokuz Eylul Universitesi Hemşirelik Fakültesi , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Ziynet Cınar
- a Cumhuriyet Universitesi Tip Fakultesi , Sivas , Turkey
| | - Husna Ozveren
- d Kirikkale Universitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesi, Kirikkale , Turkey
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Benoit DD, Jensen HI, Malmgren J, Metaxa V, Reyners AK, Darmon M, Rusinova K, Talmor D, Meert AP, Cancelliere L, Zubek L, Maia P, Michalsen A, Vanheule S, Kompanje EJO, Decruyenaere J, Vandenberghe S, Vansteelandt S, Gadeyne B, Van den Bulcke B, Azoulay E, Piers RD. Outcome in patients perceived as receiving excessive care across different ethical climates: a prospective study in 68 intensive care units in Europe and the USA. Intensive Care Med 2018; 44:1039-1049. [PMID: 29808345 PMCID: PMC6061457 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-018-5231-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Whether the quality of the ethical climate in the intensive care unit (ICU) improves the identification of patients receiving excessive care and affects patient outcomes is unknown. Methods In this prospective observational study, perceptions of excessive care (PECs) by clinicians working in 68 ICUs in Europe and the USA were collected daily during a 28-day period. The quality of the ethical climate in the ICUs was assessed via a validated questionnaire. We compared the combined endpoint (death, not at home or poor quality of life at 1 year) of patients with PECs and the time from PECs until written treatment-limitation decisions (TLDs) and death across the four climates defined via cluster analysis. Results Of the 4747 eligible clinicians, 2992 (63%) evaluated the ethical climate in their ICU. Of the 321 and 623 patients not admitted for monitoring only in ICUs with a good (n = 12, 18%) and poor (n = 24, 35%) climate, 36 (11%) and 74 (12%), respectively were identified with PECs by at least two clinicians. Of the 35 and 71 identified patients with an available combined endpoint, 100% (95% CI 90.0–1.00) and 85.9% (75.4–92.0) (P = 0.02) attained that endpoint. The risk of death (HR 1.88, 95% CI 1.20–2.92) or receiving a written TLD (HR 2.32, CI 1.11–4.85) in patients with PECs by at least two clinicians was higher in ICUs with a good climate than in those with a poor one. The differences between ICUs with an average climate, with (n = 12, 18%) or without (n = 20, 29%) nursing involvement at the end of life, and ICUs with a poor climate were less obvious but still in favour of the former. Conclusion Enhancing the quality of the ethical climate in the ICU may improve both the identification of patients receiving excessive care and the decision-making process at the end of life. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00134-018-5231-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- D D Benoit
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - H I Jensen
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
- Institute of Regional Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - J Malmgren
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - V Metaxa
- King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - A K Reyners
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Darmon
- Hôpital Saint-Louis and University, Paris-7, Paris, France
| | - K Rusinova
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - D Talmor
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A P Meert
- Service des soins intensifs et urgences oncologiques, Institut Jules Bordet, ULB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Cancelliere
- SCDU Anestesia e Rianimazione, Azienda and Ospedaliero Universitaria, "Maggiore della Carità", Novara, Italy
| | - L Zubek
- Semmelweis University Budapest, Budapest, Hungary
| | - P Maia
- Intensive Care Department, Hospital S.António, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - S Vanheule
- Department of Psycho-analysis and Clinical Consulting, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E J O Kompanje
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Decruyenaere
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Vandenberghe
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Vansteelandt
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - B Gadeyne
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Van den Bulcke
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E Azoulay
- Hôpital Saint-Louis and University, Paris-7, Paris, France
| | - R D Piers
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Cocconi G, Caminiti C, Zaninetta G, Passalacqua R, Cascinu S, Campione F, Todeschini R, Zani S, d'Aloia T, Migone L. National Survey of Medical Choices in Caring for Terminally ill Patients in Italy, a Cross-Sectional Study. TUMORI JOURNAL 2018; 96:122-30. [DOI: 10.1177/030089161009600120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims and background In Italy, euthanasia and assisted suicide remain illegal but have been the subject of constant debate. Such discussions, however, seem to take relatively little account of physicians' views and attitudes. Methods and study design We used an anonymous questionnaire to survey the attitudes and practices concerning euthanasia and the care of terminally ill patients of 5000 Italian physicians from among the approximately 20,000 members of seven of the most important Italian scientific societies. They were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire consisting of 15 items, which also collected demographic and professional information. Results The response rate was 23.5%, and 855 questionnaires were returned. The respondents (75% males) had a median age of 51 years and 47% practiced medicine in a hospital or university setting. The survey showed that the attitude of Italian physicians towards caring for terminal patients is generally against the practice of euthanasia insofar as 84% and 87%, respectively, would, on a theoretical basis, be unwilling to prescribe or administer lethal drugs. Only 1.2-2% of the physicians declared that they had resorted at least once to active euthanasia practices consisting of the prescription and/or direct administration of lethal drugs during their professional lives, and 0.5–0.9% during the previous year. The main factor significantly influencing the opinions and behaviors of the physicians was religion. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first Italian survey investigating the opinions and practices on euthanasia of a large sample of physicians from all over the country, belonging to various medical specialties. Our findings confirm the considerable influence of religion on physician's opinions and practice concerning end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rodolfo Passalacqua
- Medical Oncology Division, Azienda Ospedaliera “Istituti Ospitalieri”, Cremona, Italy
| | | | | | - Renata Todeschini
- Medical Oncology Division, Azienda Ospedaliera “Istituti Ospitalieri”, Cremona, Italy
| | - Sergio Zani
- Chair of Statistics, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Migone
- Chair of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Parma, Italy
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Gouda A, Alrasheed N, Ali A, Allaf A, Almudaiheem N, Ali Y, Alghabban A, Alsalolami S. Knowledge and Attitude of ER and Intensive Care Unit Physicians toward Do-Not-Resuscitate in a Tertiary Care Center in Saudi Arabia: A Survey Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2018; 22:214-222. [PMID: 29743759 PMCID: PMC5930524 DOI: 10.4103/ijccm.ijccm_523_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Only a few studies from Arab Muslim countries address do-not-resuscitate (DNR) practice. The knowledge of physicians about the existing policy and the attitude towards DNR were surveyed. Objective The objective of this study is to identify the knowledge of the participants of the local DNR policy and barriers of addressing DNR including religious background. Methods A questionnaire has been distributed to Emergency Room (ER) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) physicians. Results A total of 112 physicians mostly Muslims (97.3%). About 108 (96.4%) were aware about the existence of DNR policy in our institute. 107 (95.5%) stated that DNR is not against Islamic. Only (13.4%) of the physicians have advance directives and (90.2%) answered they will request to be DNR if they have terminal illness. Lack of patients and families understanding (51.8%) and inadequate training (35.7%) were the two most important barriers for effective DNR discussion. Patients and families level of education (58.0%) and cultural factors (52.7%) were the main obstacles in initiating a DNR order. Conclusions There is a lack of knowledge about DNR policy which makes the optimization of DNR process difficult. Most physicians wish DNR for themselves and their patients at the end of life, but only a few of them have advance directives. The most important barriers for initializing and discussing DNR were lack of patient understanding, level of education, and the culture of patients. Most of the Muslim physicians believe that DNR is not against Islamic rules. We suggest that the DNR concept should be a part of any training program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Gouda
- Department of Intensive Care, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Norah Alrasheed
- Department of Emergency Care, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Alaa Ali
- Alfaisal University, College of Medicine, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Ahmad Allaf
- Alfaisal University, College of Medicine, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Najd Almudaiheem
- Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, College of Medicine, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Youssuf Ali
- Alfaisal University, College of Medicine, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Ahmad Alghabban
- Department of Emergency Care, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Sami Alsalolami
- Department of Emergency Care, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
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Lesieur O, Genteuil L, Leloup M. A few realistic questions raised by organ retrieval in the intensive care unit. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2017; 5:S44. [PMID: 29302600 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2017.05.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Organ transplantation saves the lives of many persons who would otherwise die from end-stage organ disease. The increasing demand for donated organs has led to a renewed interest in donation after circulatory determination of death (CDD). In many countries (including France), terminally ill patients who die of circulatory arrest after a planned withdrawal of life support may be considered as organ donors under certain conditions. While having equal responsibility towards the potential donor and the persons awaiting a transplant, caregivers may experience an ethical dilemma between the responsibility to deliver the best care to the dying, and the need to retrieve the organs. Once it has been established that the patient wishes to be a donor, we assume that end-of-life care and organ donation may have convergent goals when they contribute to transforming a comfortable death into a chance of life for others in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Lesieur
- Intensive Care Unit, Saint Louis Hospital, La Rochelle, France
| | - Liliane Genteuil
- Organ Procurement Organization, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Maxime Leloup
- Intensive Care Unit, Saint Louis Hospital, La Rochelle, France
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Hung YS, Lee SH, Hung CY, Wang CH, Kao CY, Wang HM, Chou WC. Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of terminally ill patients undergoing withdrawal of mechanical ventilation. J Formos Med Assoc 2017; 117:798-805. [PMID: 29032021 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withdrawal of mechanical ventilation is an important, but rarely explored issue in Asia during end-of-life care. This study aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of terminally ill patients undergoing withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in Taiwan. METHODS One-hundred-thirty-five terminally ill patients who had mechanical ventilation withdrawn between 2013 and 2016, from a medical center in Taiwan, were enrolled. Patients' clinical characteristics and survival outcomes after withdrawal of mechanical ventilation were analyzed. RESULTS The three most common diagnoses were organic brain lesion, advanced cancer, and newborn sequelae. The initiator of the withdrawal process was family, medical personnel, and patient him/herself. The median survival time was 45 min (95% confidence interval, 33-57 min) after the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation, and 102 patients (75.6%) died within one day after extubation. The median time from diagnosis of disease to receiving life-sustaining treatment and artificial ventilation support, receiving life-sustaining treatment and artificial ventilation support to "Withdrawal meeting," "Withdrawal meeting" to ventilator withdrawn, and ventilator withdrawn to death was 12.1 months, 19 days, 1 day, and 0 days, respectively. Patients with a diagnosis of advanced cancer and withdrawal initiation by the patients themselves had a significantly shorter time interval between receiving life-sustaining treatment and artificial ventilation support to "Withdrawal meeting" compared to those with non-cancer diseases and withdrawal initiation by family or medical personnel. CONCLUSION This study is the first observational study to describe the patients' characteristics and elaborate on the survival outcome of withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in patients who are terminally ill in an Asian population. Understanding the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of mechanical ventilation withdrawal might help medical personnel provide appropriate end-of-life care and help patients/families decide about the withdrawal process earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shin Hung
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hui Lee
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Medical Foundation at Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Hung
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taiwan; Department of Hematology-Oncology, Division of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hui Wang
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Medical Foundation at Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yi Kao
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ming Wang
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Chou
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taiwan.
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Lobo SM, De Simoni FHB, Jakob SM, Estella A, Vadi S, Bluethgen A, Martin-Loeches I, Sakr Y, Vincent JL. Decision-Making on Withholding or Withdrawing Life Support in the ICU: A Worldwide Perspective. Chest 2017; 152:321-329. [PMID: 28483610 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2017.04.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many critically ill patients who die will do so after a decision has been made to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining therapy. The objective of this study was to document the characteristics of ICU patients with a decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment, including the types of supportive treatments used, patterns of organ dysfunction, and international differences, including gross national income (GNI). METHODS In this observational cohort study conducted in 730 ICUs in 84 countries, all adult patients admitted between May 8, 2012, and May 18, 2012 (except admissions for routine postoperative surveillance), were included. RESULTS The analysis included 9,524 patients, with a hospital mortality of 24%. A decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment was reported during the ICU stay in 1,259 patients (13%), including 820 (40%) nonsurvivors and 439 (5%) survivors. Hospital mortality in patients with a decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment was 69%. The proportion of deaths in patients with a decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment ranged from 10% in South Asia to 67% in Oceania. Decisions to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment were less frequent in low/lower-middle GNI countries than in high GNI countries (6% vs 14%; P < .001). Greater disease severity, presence of ≥ 2 organ failures, severe comorbidities, medical and trauma admissions, and admission from the ED or hospital floor were independent predictors of a decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment. CONCLUSIONS There is considerable worldwide variability in decisions to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatments. Interestingly, almost one-third of patients with a decision to withhold/withdraw life-sustaining treatment left the hospital alive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzana M Lobo
- Intensive Care Division, Medical School, FAMERP, Hospital de Base de S J Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Flávio H B De Simoni
- Intensive Care Division, Medical School, FAMERP, Hospital de Base de S J Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Stephan M Jakob
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Angel Estella
- Intensive Care Unit, Hospital SAS Jerez, Jerez, Spain
| | - Sonali Vadi
- Department of Critical Care, Global Hospitals, Mumbai, India
| | | | - Ignacio Martin-Loeches
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Multidisciplinary Intensive Care Research Organization (MICRO), Wellcome Trust, HRB Clinical Research, St James's University Hospital Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yasser Sakr
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Jean-Louis Vincent
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme University Hospital, Unversité Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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Syed AA, Almas A, Naeem Q, Malik UF, Muhammad T. Barriers and perceptions regarding code status discussion with families of critically ill patients in a tertiary care hospital of a developing country: A cross-sectional study. Palliat Med 2017; 31:147-157. [PMID: 27226151 DOI: 10.1177/0269216316650789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Asian societies including Pakistan, a complex background of illiteracy, different familial dynamics, lack of patient's autonomy, religious beliefs, and financial constraints give new dimensions to code status discussion. Barriers faced by physicians during code status discussion in these societies are largely unknown. AIM To determine the barriers and perceptions in discussion of code status by physicians. DESIGN Questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS This study was conducted in the Department of Medicine of The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 134 physicians who had discussed at least five code statuses in their lifetime were included. RESULTS A total of 77 (57.4%) physicians responded. Family-related barriers were found to be the most common barriers. They include family denial (74.0%), level of education of family (66.2%), and conflict between individual family members (66.2%). Regarding personal barriers, lack of knowledge regarding prognosis (44.1%), personal discomfort in discussing death (29.8%), and fear of legal consequences (28.5%) were the top most barriers. In hospital-related barriers, time constraint (57.1%), lack of hospital administration support (48.0%), and suboptimal nursing care after do not resuscitate (48.0%) were the most frequent. There were significant differences among opinions of trainees when compared to those of attending physicians. CONCLUSION Family-related barriers are the most frequent roadblocks in the end-of-life care discussions for physicians in Pakistan. Strengthening communication skills of physicians and family education are the potential strategies to improve end-of-life care. Large multi-center studies are needed to better understand the barriers of code status discussion in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan A Syed
- 1 Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Aysha Almas
- 1 Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Quratulain Naeem
- 1 Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Umer F Malik
- 2 Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, USA
| | - Tariq Muhammad
- 1 Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Chung GS, Yoon JD, Rasinski KA, Curlin FA. US Physicians' Opinions about Distinctions between Withdrawing and Withholding Life-Sustaining Treatment. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2016; 55:1596-606. [PMID: 26725047 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-015-0171-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Decisions to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment (LST) precede the majority of ICU deaths. Although professional guidelines generally treat the two as ethically equivalent, evidence suggests withdrawing LST is often more psychologically difficult than withholding it. The aim of the experiment was to investigate whether physicians are more supportive of withholding LST than withdrawing it and to assess how physicians' opinions are shaped by their religious characteristics, specialty, and experience caring for dying patients. In 2010, a survey was mailed to 2016 practicing US physicians. Physicians were asked whether physicians should always comply with a competent patient's request to withdraw LST, whether withdrawing LST is more psychologically difficult than withholding it, and whether withdrawing LST is typically more ethically problematic than withholding it. Of 1880 eligible physicians, 1156 responded to the survey (62%); 93% agreed that physicians should always comply with a competent patient's request to withdraw LST. More than half of the physicians reported that they find withdrawing LST more psychologically difficult than withholding it (61%), and that withdrawing LST is typically more ethically problematic (59%). Physician religiosity was associated with finding withdrawal more ethically problematic, but not with finding it more psychologically difficult. Physicians working in an end-of-life specialty and physicians with more experience caring for dying patients were less likely to endorse either a psychological or an ethical distinction between withdrawing and withholding LST. Most US physicians find withdrawing LST not only more psychologically difficult, but also more ethically problematic than withholding such treatment. Physicians' opinions are to some extent shaped by their religious characteristics, specialty, and levels of experience caring for dying patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace S Chung
- MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - John D Yoon
- MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | | | - Farr A Curlin
- Trent Center for Bioethics, Humanities and History of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Vincent JL, Berré J, Creteur J. Withholding and withdrawing life prolonging treatment in the intensive care unit: a current European perspective. Chron Respir Dis 2016; 1:115-20. [PMID: 16279270 DOI: 10.1191/1479972304cd021rs] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:Many deaths are now preceded by an end of life decision, particularly in the intensive care unit (ICU), but such practices vary considerably between countries, ICUs and individuals, depending on many factors including cultural and religious background, family and peer pressure and local practice. Aims:In this review, we will discuss the application of the four key ethical principles-beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy and distributive justice - to withdrawing/withholding decisions. Methods: Drawing data from several national and international studies, we then summarize the current situation across Europe regarding such practices before making some suggestions as to how we could facilitate the often difficult decision making process by improved communication between staff, patient and relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Vincent
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Free University of Brussels, Belgium.
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Svantesson M, Sjökvist P, Thorsén H, Ahlström G. Nurses’ and Physicians’ Opinions on Aggressiveness of Treatment for General Ward Patients. Nurs Ethics 2016; 13:147-62. [PMID: 16526149 DOI: 10.1191/0969733006ne861oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate agreement between nurses’ and physicians’ opinions regarding aggressiveness of treatment and to investigate and compare the rationales on which their opinions were based. Structured interviews regarding 714 patients were performed on seven general wards of a university hospital. The data gathered were then subjected to qualitative and quantitative analyses. There was 86% agreement between nurses’ and physicians’ opinions regarding full or limited treatment when the answers given as ‘uncertain’ were excluded. Agreement was less (77%) for patients with a life expectancy of less than one year. Disagreements were not associated with professional status because the physicians considered limiting life-sustaining treatment as often as the nurses. A broad spectrum of rationales was given but the results focus mostly on those for full treatment. The nurses and the physicians had similar bases for their opinions. For the majority of the patients, medical rationales were used, but age and quality of life were also expressed as important determinants. When considering full treatment, nurses used quality-of-life rationales for significantly more patients than the physicians. Respect for patients’ wishes had a minor influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Svantesson
- Centre for Nursing Science, Orebro University Hospital, Sweden.
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Myburgh J, Abillama F, Chiumello D, Dobb G, Jacobe S, Kleinpell R, Koh Y, Martin C, Michalsen A, Pelosi P, Torra LB, Vincent JL, Yeager S, Zimmerman J. End-of-life care in the intensive care unit: Report from the Task Force of World Federation of Societies of Intensive and Critical Care Medicine. J Crit Care 2016; 34:125-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2016.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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