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Momiyama S, Kakeya K, Dannoue H, Yanagi H. A Survey of Emergency Nurses' Perceptions and Practices to Support Patients' Families as Surrogate Decision Makers. J Emerg Nurs 2023; 49:899-911. [PMID: 37690019 DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Family members acting as surrogate decision makers for severely ill patients in emergency and critical care centers face psychological burdens. This study aimed to investigate the actual situation of emergency nurses' perceptions and practices to support patients' families and its structural elements. METHODS We created an original 25-item questionnaire and surveyed 164 emergency nurses from 64 emergency and critical care centers regarding their perceptions of caring for people making surrogate decisions. Participants averaged 35.6 years old and 5.1 years as emergency nurses. RESULTS Cronbach's α coefficients for importance and practice on the original questionnaire were 0.936 and 0.933, respectively. We identified 4 elements of necessary support for patient families making surrogate decisions according to emergency nurses: "collaboration in understanding the condition of the patient as well as empathetic support," "care that addresses the needs of patient's family members," "confirming the role of nurses and surrogate decision making," and "participation in meeting with a doctor and patient families." In addition, we identified 5 elements that indicate the current state of practice: "support from specialists such as nurses and other professionals," "compassionate care for family members and those who are providing support to family members," "empathetic support for family members," "support for making arrangements that address the needs of family members," and "considerations for family members." DISCUSSION According to the findings of this study, emergency nurses should coordinate with other professionals and talk with family members and physicians to increase their understanding of the need to assist in surrogate decision making. In addition, emergency nurses also need to explain to patients' relatives how to support them in surrogate decision making.
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Waseem H, Keegan J, Farrell K, Hwang DY, Oliver B, Olm-Shipman C, Pepin R, Mecchella J. Implementation of a Standardized Shared Decision-making Bundle to Improve Communication Practices in the Neurocritical Care Unit. Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200120. [PMID: 36865641 PMCID: PMC9973293 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Shared decision-making (SDM) aligns patient preferences with health care team treatment goals. This quality improvement initiative implemented a standardized SDM bundle within a neurocritical care unit (NCCU), where unique demands make existing, provider-driven SDM practices challenging. Methods An interprofessional team defined key issues, identified barriers, and created change ideas to drive implementation of an SDM bundle using the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Model for Improvement framework incorporating Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. The SDM bundle included (1) a health care team huddle pre-SDM and post-SDM conversation; (2) a social worker-driven SDM conversation with the patient family, including core standardized communication elements to ensure consistency and quality; and (3) an SDM documentation tool within the electronic medical record to ensure the SDM conversation was accessible to all health care team members. The primary outcome measure was percentage of SDM conversations documented. Results Documentation of SDM conversations improved by 56%, from 27% to 83% pre/postintervention. Average time to documentation decreased by 4 days, from day 9 preintervention to day 5 postintervention. There was no significant change in NCCU length of stay, nor did palliative care consultation rates increase. Postintervention, SDM team huddle compliance was 94.3%. Discussion A team-driven, standardized SDM bundle that integrates with health care team workflows enabled SDM conversations to occur earlier and resulted in improved documentation of SDM conversations. Team-driven SDM bundles have the potential to improve communication and promote early alignment with patient family goals, preferences, and values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hena Waseem
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - Joshua Keegan
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - Kelly Farrell
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - David Y Hwang
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - Brant Oliver
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - Casey Olm-Shipman
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - Renee Pepin
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
| | - John Mecchella
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (HW, JK, KF, BO, RP, JM); The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (HW, BO), Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; Yale School of Medicine (DYH); and University of North Carolina Medical Center (CO-S)
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Giabicani M, Arditty L, Mamzer MF, Fournel I, Ecarnot F, Meunier-Beillard N, Bruneel F, Weiss E, Spranzi M, Rigaud JP, Quenot JP. Team-family conflicts over end-of-life decisions in ICU: A survey of French physicians' beliefs. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284756. [PMID: 37098023 PMCID: PMC10128920 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Conflicts between relatives and physicians may arise when decisions are being made about limiting life-sustaining therapies (LST). The aim of this study was to describe the motives for, and management of team-family conflicts surrounding LST limitation decisions in French adult ICUs. METHODS Between June and October 2021, French ICU physicians were invited to answer a questionnaire. The development of the questionnaire followed a validated methodology with the collaboration of consultants in clinical ethics, a sociologist, a statistician and ICU clinicians. RESULTS Among 186 physicians contacted, 160 (86%) answered all the questions. Conflicts over LST limitation decisions were mainly related to requests by relatives to continue treatments considered to be unreasonably obstinate by ICU physicians. The absence of advance directives, a lack of communication, a multitude of relatives, and religious or cultural issues were frequently mentioned as factors contributing to conflicts. Iterative interviews with relatives and proposal of psychological support were the most widely used tools in attempting to resolve conflict, while the intervention of a palliative care team, a local ethics resource or the hospital mediator were rarely solicited. In most cases, the decision was suspended at least temporarily. Possible consequences include stress and psychological exhaustion among caregivers. Improving communication and anticipation by knowing the patient's wishes would help avoid these conflicts. CONCLUSION Team-family conflicts during LST limitation decisions are mainly related to requests from relatives to continue treatments deemed unreasonable by physicians. Reflection on the role of relatives in the decision-making process seems essential for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhael Giabicani
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Beaujon Hospital, DMU Parabol, AP-HP Nord, and Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Laboratoire ETREs, Paris, France
| | - Laure Arditty
- Service de Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal des Alpes du Sud, Gap, France
| | - Marie-France Mamzer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Laboratoire ETREs, Paris, France
- Unité Fonctionnelle d'Ethique Médicale, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Fournel
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France
| | - Fiona Ecarnot
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Besançon, Besançon, France
- EA3920, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Nicolas Meunier-Beillard
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France
- DRCI, USMR, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Fabrice Bruneel
- Intensive Care Unit, Versailles Hospital Center, Le Chesnay, France
| | - Emmanuel Weiss
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Beaujon Hospital, DMU Parabol, AP-HP Nord, and Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Marta Spranzi
- Center for Clinical Ethics, AP-HP, Paris and Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, Versailles, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Rigaud
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, CH de Dieppe, Dieppe, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique de Normandie, CHU de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Quenot
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Equipe Lipness, Centre de Recherche INSERM UMR1231 et LabEx LipSTIC, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
- Espace de Réflexion Éthique Bourgogne Franche-Comté (EREBFC), Dijon, France
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Fenton ATHR, Fletcher KM, Kizildag D, Borstelmann NA, Kessler D, Cronin C, Revette AC, Wright AA, Frank E, Enzinger AC. Cancer Caregivers' Prognostic and End-of-Life Communication Needs and Experiences and their Impact. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:16-25. [PMID: 36198337 PMCID: PMC9790036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer are integrally involved in communications regarding prognosis and end-of-life (EOL) planning and care. Yet little research has examined caregivers' communication experiences or the impact of these experiences on patients and caregivers at EOL. OBJECTIVES Investigate cancer caregivers' communication experiences and potential impact on patient and caregiver outcomes. METHODS Semistructured interviews with bereaved family cancer caregivers (N=19) about their communication needs and experiences as their loved one approached EOL and died. Audiotaped interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed for communication-related themes. RESULTS Caregivers described fulfilling many important communication roles including information gathering and sharing, advocating, and facilitating-often coordinating communication with multiple partners (e.g., patient, family, oncology team, hospital team). Caregivers reported that, among the many topics they communicated about, prognosis and EOL were the most consequential and challenging. These challenges arose for several reasons including caregivers' and patients' discordant communication needs, limited opportunity for caregivers to satisfy their personal communication needs, uncertainty regarding their communication needs and responsibilities, and feeling unacknowledged by the care team. These challenges negatively impacted caregivers' abilities to satisfy their patient-related communication responsibilities, which shaped many outcomes including end-of-life decisions, care satisfaction, and bereavement. CONCLUSION Caregivers often facilitate essential communication for patients with advanced cancers yet face challenges successfully fulfilling their own and patients' communication needs, particularly surrounding prognostic and end-of-life conversations. Future research and interventions should explore strategies to help caregivers navigate uncertainty, create space to ask sensitive questions, and facilitate patient-caregiver discussions about differing informational needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Deniz Kizildag
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Anna C Revette
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexi A Wright
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Fenton A, Stevens S, Cost Z, Bickford J, Kohut M, Jacobs EA, Hutchinson RN. Patients' and caregivers' experiences of hospitalization under COVID-19 visitation restrictions. J Hosp Med 2022; 17:819-826. [PMID: 35920080 PMCID: PMC9538139 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.12924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals did not allow caregiver visitation. Little is known about how caregivers' absence affected patients' care. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to describe visitation restrictions' impact on patients and their caregivers experiences. DESIGN We used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods study design. First, we randomly selected 200 adult patients with cancer or heart failure hospitalized before (n = 100) and during visitor restrictions (n = 100) and abstracted data from the electronic medical record on communication between medical teams and caregivers and the topics discussed. Results from the quantitative analysis guided our thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with a subsample of patients hospitalized during visitor restrictions and their caregivers to understand the impact of visitor restrictions on their experiences. RESULTS Compared to prerestrictions, caregivers under visitation restrictions communicated less frequently with the medical team (29% vs. 37% of hospitalized days; p = .04), fewer received discharge counseling (37% vs. 52%; p = .04), and disproportionately more had no contact with the medical team (36% vs. 17%; p < .01). Video conferencing was documented for caregivers of only five patients. Qualitative analysis revealed that both caregivers and patients experienced emotional distress, increased conflict, and decreased perception of quality of care because of visitation restrictions. CONCLUSIONS Hospital visitor restrictions significantly reduced caregivers' communication with patients' medical team, causing caregivers and patients emotional distress. Protocols that facilitate communication between caregivers and care teams may benefit caregivers who cannot be physically present at care facilities, including distance caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anny Fenton
- Division of Population SciencesDana Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Sandra Stevens
- Maine Medical CenterDivision of Palliative MedicinePortlandMaineUSA
| | - Zachary Cost
- Tufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jaime Bickford
- Maine Medical CenterDivision of Palliative MedicinePortlandMaineUSA
| | - Michael Kohut
- MaineHealth Center for Interdisciplinary Population Health ResearchPortlandMaineUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Jacobs
- Tufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- MaineHealth Center for Interdisciplinary Population Health ResearchPortlandMaineUSA
| | - Rebecca N. Hutchinson
- Maine Medical CenterDivision of Palliative MedicinePortlandMaineUSA
- Tufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- MaineHealth Center for Interdisciplinary Population Health ResearchPortlandMaineUSA
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Van Scoy LJ, Scott AM, Green MJ, Witt PD, Wasserman E, Chinchilli VM, Levi BH. Communication Quality Analysis: A user-friendly observational measure of patient-clinician communication. COMMUNICATION METHODS AND MEASURES 2022; 16:215-235. [PMID: 37063460 PMCID: PMC10104441 DOI: 10.1080/19312458.2022.2099819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Communication Quality Analysis (CQA) is a rigorous transcript-based coding method for assessing clinical communication quality. We compared the resource-intensive transcript-based version with a streamlined real-time version of the method with respect to feasibility, validity, reliability, and association with traditional measures of communication quality. Simulated conversations between 108 trainees and 12 standardized patients were assessed by 7 coders using the two versions of CQA (transcript and real-time). Participants also completed two traditional communication quality assessment measures. Real-time CQA was feasible and yielded fair to excellent reliability, with some caveats that can be addressed in future work. CQA ratings were moderately correlated with traditional measures of communication quality, suggesting that CQA captures different aspects of communication quality than do traditional measures. Finally, CQA did not exhibit the ceiling effects observed in the traditional measures of communication quality. We conclude that real-time CQA is a user-friendly method for assessing communication quality that has the potential for broad application in training, research, and intervention contexts and may offer improvements to traditional, self-rated communication measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jodi Van Scoy
- Departments of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Allison M Scott
- Department of Communication; University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - Michael J. Green
- Departments of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Pamela D. Witt
- Departments of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Emily Wasserman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Vernon M. Chinchilli
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Benjamin H Levi
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
- Department of Pediatrics Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
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How doctors manage conflicts with families of critically ill patients during conversations about end-of-life decisions in neonatal, pediatric, and adult intensive care. Intensive Care Med 2022; 48:910-922. [PMID: 35773499 PMCID: PMC9273549 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-022-06771-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intensive care is a stressful environment in which team-family conflicts commonly occur. If managed poorly, conflicts can have negative effects on all parties involved. Previous studies mainly investigated these conflicts and their management in a retrospective way. This study aimed to prospectively explore team-family conflicts, including its main topics, complicating factors, doctors' conflict management strategies and the effect of these strategies. METHODS Conversations between doctors in the neonatal, pediatric, and adult intensive care unit of a large university-based hospital and families of critically ill patients were audio-recorded from the moment doubts arose whether treatment was still in patients' best interest. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using a qualitative deductive approach. RESULTS Team-family conflicts occurred in 29 out of 101 conversations (29%) concerning 20 out of 36 patients (56%). Conflicts mostly concerned more than one topic. We identified four complicating context- and/or family-related factors: diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty, families' strong negative emotions, limited health literacy, and burden of responsibility. Doctors used four overarching strategies to manage conflicts, namely content-oriented, process-oriented, moral and empathic strategies. Doctors mostly used content-oriented strategies, independent of the intensive care setting. They were able to effectively address conflicts in most conversations. Yet, if they did not acknowledge families' cues indicating the existence of one or more complicating factors, conflicts were likely to linger on during the conversation. CONCLUSION This study underlines the importance of doctors tailoring their communication strategies to the concrete conflict topic(s) and to the context- and family-related factors which complicate a specific conflict.
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Shanks V, Guillen U, Mackley A, Sturtz W. Characterization of Spirituality in Parents of Very Preterm Infants in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Am J Perinatol 2022. [PMID: 35738287 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1749189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize the spiritual beliefs, practices, and needs of parents of very preterm infants, those born <32 weeks of gestation, in a level-III NICU and to characterize parental perception of the spiritual support received in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). STUDY DESIGN Within 14 days of their infants' birth, parents underwent a recorded semistructured interview. Responses were organized into unique themes using standard qualitative methods. Parents completed the Spiritual Involvement and Beliefs Scale (SIBS) and Spiritual Needs Inventory (SNI). RESULTS Twenty-six parents from 17 families were interviewed and provided SIBS and SNI surveys. Interviews yielded seven major themes describing parents' spirituality and support. Most parents identified themselves as spiritual (n = 14) or sometimes spiritual (n = 2). A high SIBS score was associated with Christian religion (p = 0.007) and non-White race (p = 0.02). The SNI showed ≥80% of parents reported a "frequent" or "always" need for laughter, being with family, thinking happy thoughts, and talking about day-to-day things. The most commonly mentioned sources of spiritual support were parents' connection with a higher power through their faith (n = 12) or religious activities (n = 8). Many parents reported receiving sufficient spiritual support outside of the hospital during their unique experience in the NICU. CONCLUSION Parents of infants born <32 weeks of gestation in our NICU commonly self-identified themselves as spiritual. Many parents have similar spiritual needs which are often met by sources outside of the hospital. KEY POINTS · Parents of infants born <32 weeks of gestation in our NICU commonly self-identify as spiritual.. · Many parents of preterm infants describe their spirituality as a personal experience.. · Many parents of preterm infants have similar spiritual needs.. · Many parents of preterm infants have their spiritual needs met outside of the hospital..
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Shanks
- Division of Neonatology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, Delaware
- Division of Neonatology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ursula Guillen
- Division of Neonatology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, Delaware
| | - Amy Mackley
- Division of Neonatology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, Delaware
| | - Wendy Sturtz
- Division of Neonatology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, Delaware
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Walter JK, Madrigal V, Shah P, Kubis S, Himebauch AS, Feudtner C. The Impact of a Pediatric Continuity Care Intensivist Program on Patient and Parent Outcomes: An Unblinded Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1740360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives We studied the impact of a standardized continuity care intensivists (CCIs) program on patient and family outcomes for long-stay patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), also assessing the intervention's acceptability and feasibility.
Methods A patient-level, unblinded randomized-controlled trial in a PICU at a large children's hospital. Participants included: (1) patients with ≥ 7 days PICU admission and likely to stay another 7 days; (2) their parents; (3) PICU attendings participating as continuity attendings; and (4) PICU attendings providing usual care (UC). We examined a bundled intervention: (1) standardized continuity attending role, (2) communication training course for CCI, and (3) standardized timing of contact between CCI and patient/family.
Results Primary outcome was patient PICU length of stay. Secondary outcomes included patient, parental, and clinician outcomes. We enrolled 115 parent-patient dyads (231 subjects), 58 patients were randomized into treatment arm and 56 into the UC arm. Thirteen attendings volunteered to serve as CCI, 10 as UC. No association was found between the intervention and patient PICU length of stay (p = 0.5), other clinical factors, or parental outcomes. The intervention met a threshold for feasibility of enrollment, retention, and implementation while the majority of providers agreed the intervention was acceptable with more efficient decision making. Thirty percent CCIs felt the role took too much time, and 20% felt time was not worth the benefits.
Conclusion CCI intervention did not impact patient or family outcomes. PICU attendings believed that the implementation of the CCI program was feasible and acceptable with potential benefits for efficiency of decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K. Walter
- Department of Pediatrics at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Vanessa Madrigal
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Children's National Hospital and George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States
| | - Parth Shah
- Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Sherri Kubis
- Cardiac Nursing at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Adam S. Himebauch
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Chris Feudtner
- Department of Pediatrics at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Chou TJ, Wu YR, Tsai JS, Cheng SY, Yao CA, Peng JK, Chiu TY, Huang HL. Telehealth-Based Family Conferences with Implementation of Shared Decision Making Concepts and Humanistic Communication Approach: A Mixed-Methods Prospective Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010801. [PMID: 34682545 PMCID: PMC8535301 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Smartphone-enabled, telehealth-based family conferences represent an attractive and safe alternative to deliver communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, some may fear that the therapeutic relationship might be filtered due to a lack of direct human contact. The study aims to explore whether shared decision-making model combining VALUE (Value family statements, Acknowledge emotions, Listen, Understand the patient as a person, Elicit questions) and PLACE (Prepare with intention, Listen intently and completely, Agree on what matters most, Connect with the patient’s story, Explore emotional cues) framework can help physicians respond empathetically to emotional cues and foster human connectedness in a virtual context. Twenty-five virtual family conferences were conducted in a national medical center in Taiwan. The expression of verbal emotional distress was noted in 20% of patients and 20% of family members, while nonverbal distress was observed in 24% and 28%, respectively. On 10-point Likert scale, the satisfaction score was 8.7 ± 1.5 toward overall communication and 9.0 ± 1.1 on meeting the family’s needs. Adopting SDM concepts with VALUE and PLACE approaches helps physicians foster connectedness in telehealth family conferences. The model has high participant satisfaction scores and may improve healthcare quality among the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Jung Chou
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
| | - Yu-Rui Wu
- Department of Family Medicine, Taitung Christian Hospital, Taitung 950, Taiwan;
| | - Jaw-Shiun Tsai
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- New Southbound Health Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Yi Cheng
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- New Southbound Health Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Chien-An Yao
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Kuei Peng
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- New Southbound Health Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Yuan Chiu
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- New Southbound Health Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Liang Huang
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (T.-J.C.); (J.-S.T.); (S.-Y.C.); (C.-A.Y.); (J.-K.P.); (T.-Y.C.)
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- New Southbound Health Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 66832)
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11
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Nayfeh A, Yarnell CJ, Dale C, Conn LG, Hales B, Gupta TD, Chakraborty A, Pinto R, Taggar R, Fowler R. Evaluating satisfaction with the quality and provision of end-of-life care for patients from diverse ethnocultural backgrounds. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:145. [PMID: 34535122 PMCID: PMC8449427 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00841-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently immigrated and ethnic minority patients in Ontario, Canada are more likely to receive aggressive life-prolonging treatment at the end of life in comparison to other patients. To explore this finding further, this survey-based observational study aimed to evaluate satisfaction with the quality of end-of-life care for patients from diverse ethnocultural backgrounds. Methods The End-of-Life Satisfaction Survey was used to measure satisfaction with the quality of inpatient end-of-life care from the perspective of next-of-kin of recently deceased patients at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, Ontario (between March 2012 to May 2019). The primary outcome was the global rating of satisfaction. Associations with patient ethnicity, patient religion, level of religiosity/spirituality, language/communication barriers, and location of death were assessed using univariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression. Secondary outcomes included differences in satisfaction and rates of dying in intensive care units (ICU) among patient population subgroups, and identification of high priority areas for quality-of-care improvement. Results There were 1,543 respondents. Patient ethnicities included Caucasian (68.2%), Mediterranean (10.5%), East Asian (7.6%), South Asian (3.5%), Southeast Asian (2.1%) and Middle Eastern (2.0%); religious affiliations included Christianity (66.6%), Judaism (12.3%) and Islam (2.1%), among others. Location of death was most commonly in ICU (38.4%), hospital wards (37.0%) or long-term care (20.0%). The mean(SD) rating of satisfaction score was 8.30(2.09) of 10. After adjusting for other covariates, satisfaction with quality of end-of-life care was higher among patients dying in ICU versus other locations (relative risk [RR] 1.51, 95%CI 1.05-2.19, p=0.028), lower among those who experienced language/communication barriers (RR 0.49 95%CI 0.23-1.06, p=0.069), and lower for Muslim patients versus other religious affiliations (RR 0.46, 95%CI 0.21-1.02, p=0.056). Survey items identified as highest priority areas for quality-of-care improvement included communication and information giving; illness management; and healthcare provider characteristics such as emotional support, doctor availability and time spent with patient/family. Conclusion Satisfaction with quality-of-care at the end of life was higher among patients dying in ICU and lower among Muslim patients or when there were communication barriers between families and healthcare providers. These findings highlight the importance of measuring and improving end-of-life care across the ethnocultural spectrum. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-021-00841-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayah Nayfeh
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Christopher J Yarnell
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada.,Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sinai, Health Systems, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Craig Dale
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lesley Gotlib Conn
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada.,Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Ru Taggar
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Fowler
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,H. Barrie Fairley Professorship of Critical Care at the University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Factors associated with surrogate families’ life-sustaining treatment preferences for patients at home or in a geriatric health service facility: A cross-sectional study. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:334-341. [DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521001401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Recently, end-of-life preference in palliative care has been gaining attention in Japan. The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare established the Japanese basic policy in November 2018. Patients’ decision-making is recommended; however, patients with dementia or other disorders cannot make such decisions by themselves. Thus, healthcare providers may contact surrogates and consider their backgrounds for better decision-making. Hence, the preferences of home caregivers’ and geriatric health service facility (GHSF) residents’ families on patient life-sustaining treatment (LST) were investigated.
Method
This cross-sectional study involved home caregivers’ and GHSF residents’ families in Japan. We distributed 925 self-reported questionnaires comprising items, such as the number of people living together, care duration, comprehension of doctor's explanations, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9 and Short Form (SF)-8, and families’ LST preference for patients.
Results
In all, 619 valid responses were obtained [242 men and 377 women (309 in the HOME Caregivers Group, response rate = 61.1%; 310 in the GHSF Group, response rate = 74.0%)]. LST preference was significantly associated with sex, the number of people living together, care duration, and comprehension of doctors’ explanations in the HOME Caregivers Group but was not significantly associated with the GHSF Group. Furthermore, PHQ-9/SF-8 scores were not significantly associated with LST preference.
Significance of results
There were many differences in opinions about LST preference between home caregivers’ and GHSF residents’ families. The results suggested that the burden of nursing care was greater and harder in home caregiver families, and these factors may be related to the LST preference for a patient.
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13
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Prognosticating Outcomes and Nudging Decisions with Electronic Records in the Intensive Care Unit Trial Protocol. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2021; 18:336-346. [PMID: 32936675 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.202002-088sd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Expert recommendations to discuss prognosis and offer palliative options for critically ill patients at high risk of death are variably heeded by intensive care unit (ICU) clinicians. How to best promote such communication to avoid potentially unwanted aggressive care is unknown. The PONDER-ICU (Prognosticating Outcomes and Nudging Decisions with Electronic Records in the ICU) study is a 33-month pragmatic, stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial testing the effectiveness of two electronic health record (EHR) interventions designed to increase ICU clinicians' engagement of critically ill patients at high risk of death and their caregivers in discussions about all treatment options, including care focused on comfort. We hypothesize that the quality of care and patient-centered outcomes can be improved by requiring ICU clinicians to document a functional prognostic estimate (intervention A) and/or to provide justification if they have not offered patients the option of comfort-focused care (intervention B). The trial enrolls all adult patients admitted to 17 ICUs in 10 hospitals in North Carolina with a preexisting life-limiting illness and acute respiratory failure requiring continuous mechanical ventilation for at least 48 hours. Eligibility is determined using a validated algorithm in the EHR. The sequence in which hospitals transition from usual care (control), to intervention A or B and then to combined interventions A + B, is randomly assigned. The primary outcome is hospital length of stay. Secondary outcomes include other clinical outcomes, palliative care process measures, and nurse-assessed quality of dying and death.Clinical trial registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03139838).
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14
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide a concise review of data and literature pertaining to the etiologies of conflict in the ICU, as well as current approaches to conflict management. DATA SOURCES Detailed search strategy using PubMed and OVID Medline for English language articles describing conflict in the ICU as well as prevention and management strategies. STUDY SELECTION Descriptive and interventional studies addressing conflict, bioethics, clinical ethics consultation, palliative care medicine, conflict management, and conflict mediation in critical care. DATA EXTRACTION Relevant descriptions or studies were reviewed, and the following aspects of each manuscript were identified, abstracted, and analyzed: setting, study population, aims, methods, results, and relevant implications for critical care practice and training. DATA SYNTHESIS Conflict frequently erupts in the ICU between patients and families and care teams, as well as within and between care teams. Conflict engenders a host of untoward consequences for patients, families, clinicians, and facilities rendering abrogating conflict a key priority for all. Conflict etiologies are diverse but understood in terms of a framework of triggers. Identifying and de-escalating conflict before it become intractable is a preferred approach. Approaches to conflict management include utilizing clinical ethics consultation, and palliative care medicine clinicians. Conflict Management is a new technique that all ICU clinicians may use to identify and manage conflict. Entrenched conflict appears to benefit from Bioethics Mediation, an approach that uses a neutral, unaligned mediator to guide parties to a mutually acceptable resolution. CONCLUSIONS Conflict commonly occurs in the ICU around difficult and complex decision-making. Patients, families, clinicians, and institutions suffer undesirable consequences resulting from conflict, establishing conflict prevention and resolution as key priorities. A variety of approaches may successfully identify, manage, and prevent conflict including techniques that are utilizable by all team members in support of clinical excellence.
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15
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Rath KA, Tucker KL, Lewis A. Fluctuating Code Status: Strategies to Minimize End-of-Life Conflict in the Neurocritical Care Setting. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:79-85. [PMID: 34002621 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211017872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are multiple factors that may cause end-of-life conflict in the critical care setting. These include severe illness, family distress, lack of awareness about a patient's wishes, prognostic uncertainty, and the participation of multiple providers in goals-of-care discussions. METHODS Case report and discussion of the associated ethical issues. RESULTS We present a case of a patient with a pontine stroke, in which the family struggled with decision-making about goals-of-care, leading to fluctuation in code status from Full Code to Do Not Resuscitate-Comfort Care, then back to Full Code, and finally to Do Not Resuscitate-Do Not Intubate. We discuss factors that contributed to this situation and methods to avoid conflict. Additionally, we review the effects of discord at the end-of-life on patients, families, and the healthcare team. CONCLUSION It is imperative that healthcare teams proactively collaborate with families to minimize end-of-life conflict by emphasizing decision-making that prioritizes the best interest and autonomy of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Rath
- Department of Neurocritical Care, Gardner Neuroscience Institute, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kristi L Tucker
- Section on Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Ariane Lewis
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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16
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Cohen-Mansfield J, Brill S. Regrets of family caregivers in Israel about the end of life of deceased relatives. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:720-727. [PMID: 31913052 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1709154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to clarify the content of different types of regrets or lack of regret, and the frequency of feeling regret among family caregivers who assisted their relatives during their end of life stage.Method: Seventy primary informal caregivers in Israel were interviewed (17 spouses, 52 children, and 1 cousin) concerning their regret about the end of life of their deceased relative, including a general question about regret and questions about regret concerning life-sustaining treatments. After calculating the frequency of regrets and lack of regret, we conducted a qualitative analysis, using a thematic approach to identify themes and interpret data.Results: A majority of caregivers (63%) expressed regret and about 20% expressed ambivalence involving both regret and denial of regret. Regrets pertained to care given, suffering experienced, and the caregiver's behavior towards, and relationship with the deceased, including missing opportunities to express love and caring toward relatives. Caregivers viewed almost 30% of 75 administered life-sustaining procedures as misguided. Most regrets involved inaction, such as not communicating sufficiently, or not fighting for better care.Conclusion: This article provides a comprehensive description of EoL regrets, and helps clarify the complexity of regrets, lack of regrets, and ambivalence concerning regrets, though the study is limited to one country. Analysis suggests the need for public education concerning the EoL process, and for changes within the health care system to improve communication, to improve understanding of the needs of the terminally ill, and to provide more instruction to family caregivers to help them understand EoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiska Cohen-Mansfield
- Minerva Center for Interdisciplinary Study of End of Life, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,The Herczeg Institute on Aging, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shai Brill
- Minerva Center for Interdisciplinary Study of End of Life, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Beit-Rivka Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
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17
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Robin S, Labarriere C, Sechaud G, Dessertaine G, Bosson JL, Payen JF. Information Pamphlet Given to Relatives During the End-of-Life Decision in the ICU: An Assessor-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial. Chest 2021; 159:2301-2308. [PMID: 33549600 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.01.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common in family members of patients who have died in the ICU. RESEARCH QUESTION Could a pamphlet describing the role of relatives in the end-of-life decision decrease their risk of developing PTSD-related symptoms? STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS In this assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial, 90 relatives of adult patients for whom an end-of-life decision was anticipated were enrolled. Relatives were randomly assigned to receive oral information as well as an information pamphlet explaining that the end-of-life decision is made by physicians (Group 1; n = 45) or oral information alone (Group 2; n = 45). PTSD-related symptoms were blindly assessed at 90 days following the patient's death by using the Impact of Event Scale (scores range from 0 [indicating no symptoms] to 75 [indicating severe symptoms]). Anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed by using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score (range, 0-21 [higher scores indicate worse symptoms]). RESULTS On day 90, the number of relatives with PTSD-related symptoms was significantly lower in Group 1 than in Group 2: 18 of 45 vs 33 of 45 (P = .001). The risk ratio of having PTSD-related symptoms in Group 2 compared with Group 1 was 1.8 (95% CI, 1.2-2.7). The mean Impact of Event Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores were significantly reduced in Group 1 compared with Group 2: 28 ± 10 vs 38 ± 14 (P < .001) and 13 ± 5 vs 17 ± 8 (P = .023), respectively. INTERPRETATION An information pamphlet describing the relatives' role during end-of-life decisions significantly reduced their risk of developing PTSD-related symptoms. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT02329418; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvaine Robin
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, France Université Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Cyrielle Labarriere
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Annecy Genevois Hospital, Annecy, France
| | - Guillaume Sechaud
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, France Université Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Geraldine Dessertaine
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, France Université Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Luc Bosson
- Department of Public Health, France Université Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Francois Payen
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, France Université Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
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18
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Lipnick D, Green M, Thiede E, Smith TJ, Lehman EB, Johnson R, La IS, Wiegand D, Levi BH, Van Scoy LJ. Surrogate Decision Maker Stress in Advance Care Planning Conversations: A Mixed-Methods Analysis From a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1117-1126. [PMID: 32645452 PMCID: PMC8109394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Spokespersons serving as surrogate decision makers for their loved ones report high levels of stress. Despite known benefits, advance care planning (ACP) conversations often do not occur. More information is needed to understand spokesperson stress during ACP. OBJECTIVES To explore if and how spokespersons perceive stress related to ACP conversations; compare factors related to stress; and assess whether ACP intervention impacted stress. METHODS Secondary and mixed-methods analysis with data transformation of semistructured interviews occurring during a 2 × 2 factorial (four armed) randomized controlled trial that compared standard online ACP to a comprehensive online ACP decision aid. Tools were completed by patients with advanced illness (n = 285) alone or with their spokesperson (n = 285). About 200 spokesperson interviews were purposively sampled from each of the four arms (50 per arm). RESULTS ACP conversations were reported as stressful by 54.41% (74 of 136) and nonstressful by 45.59% (62 of 136). Five themes impacting spokesperson stress were the nature of the relationship with their loved one; self-described personality and belief systems; knowledge and experience with illness and ACP conversations; attitude toward ACP conversations; and social support in caregiving and decision making. No significant differences in stress were associated with arm assignment. CONCLUSION Identifying what factors impact spokesperson stress in ACP conversations can be used to help design ACP interventions to more appropriately address the needs and concerns of spokespersons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Lipnick
- Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Michael Green
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elizabeth Thiede
- Penn State College of Nursing, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Theresa J Smith
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Erik B Lehman
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Public Health Sciences at Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rhonda Johnson
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - In Seo La
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Debra Wiegand
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin H Levi
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lauren J Van Scoy
- Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Public Health Sciences at Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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19
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Levoy K, Tarbi EC, De Santis JP. End-of-life decision making in the context of chronic life-limiting disease: a concept analysis and conceptual model. Nurs Outlook 2020; 68:784-807. [PMID: 32943221 PMCID: PMC7704858 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conceptual ambiguities prevent advancements in end-of-life decision making in clinical practice and research. PURPOSE To clarify the components of and stakeholders (patients, caregivers, healthcare providers) involved in end-of-life decision making in the context of chronic life-limiting disease and develop a conceptual model. METHOD Walker and Avant's approach to concept analysis. FINDINGS End-of-life decision making is a process, not a discrete event, that begins with preparation, including decision maker designation and iterative stakeholder communication throughout the chronic illness (antecedents). These processes inform end-of-life decisions during terminal illness, involving: 1) serial choices 2) weighed in terms of potential outcomes 3) through patient and caregiver collaboration (attributes). Components impact patients' death, caregivers' bereavement, and healthcare systems' outcomes (consequences). DISCUSSION Findings provide a foundation for improved inquiry into and measurement of the end-of-life decision making process, accounting for the dose, content, and quality the antecedent and attribute factors that collectively contribute to outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Levoy
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Elise C Tarbi
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Joseph P De Santis
- University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Coral Gables, FL
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20
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Kamran R, Dal Cin A. Designing a Mission statement Mobile app for palliative care: an innovation project utilizing design-thinking methodology. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:151. [PMID: 33023545 PMCID: PMC7542118 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00659-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eliciting individual values and preferences of patients is essential to delivering high quality palliative care and ensuring patient-centered advance care planning. Despite advance care planning conserving healthcare costs by up to 36%, reducing psychological distress of patients and caregivers, and ensuring palliative care delivery in line with patient wishes, less than 33% of adults engage in it. We aimed to develop a mobile application intervention to address the challenges related to advance care planning and improve the delivery of palliative care. METHODS Design-thinking methodology was used to develop a mobile application, in response to issues prominently identified in current palliative care literature. RESULTS Issues surrounding communication of patient values from both the patient and provider side is identified as a main issue in palliative care. We designed a mobile application intervention prototype to address this. CONCLUSIONS Our "Mission Statement" mobile application will allow patients to create a mission statement identifying what they want their care team to know about them, as well as space to identify important values and preferences. Patients will be able to evolve their mission statement and values and preferences over the course of their palliative care journey through the application. Design-thinking methodology is an effective tool to drive healthcare innovation and bridge the gap between research findings and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakhshan Kamran
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, MDCL 3114, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4 K1, Canada.
| | - Arianna Dal Cin
- Division of Plastic Surgery, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4 K1, Canada
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21
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Khan M, Nishi SE. Intervention in family care tends to mitigate the stress-related symptoms of intensive care unit patient family members. Evid Based Nurs 2020; 24:120. [PMID: 32709598 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2019-103250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khan
- School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
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22
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Krebs ED, Chancellor WZ, Beller JP, Mehaffey JH, Hawkins RB, Sawyer RG, Yarboro LT, Ailawadi G, Teman NR. Long-term Implications of Tracheostomy in Cardiac Surgery Patients: Decannulation and Mortality. Ann Thorac Surg 2020; 111:594-599. [PMID: 32619618 DOI: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2020.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term implications of tracheostomy in cardiac surgical patients are largely unknown. We sought to investigate outcomes including decannulation and long-term mortality in a population of post-cardiac surgery patients. METHODS All patients undergoing cardiac surgery at a single institution between 1997 and 2016 were evaluated for postoperative tracheostomy placement, time to decannulation, and mortality. Patients were stratified by tracheostomy placement, as well as by successful decannulation for comparison. Kaplan-Meier analysis identified time to decannulation and mortality and a Fine-Gray's competing risk regression, accounting for mortality, identified predictors of time to decannulation. RESULTS Of 14,600 total cardiac surgery patients, only 309 required tracheostomy. Patients with tracheostomy had high rates of perioperative comorbidities, including 60% with heart failure and 24% with postoperative stroke. Tracheostomy patients had high short-term and long-term mortality, with a median survival of 152 days, 1-year survival of 41%, and 5-year survival of 29.1%. Patients remained with tracheostomy in place for a median of 59 days, with a 1-year decannulation rate of 80% in living patients. Patients with older age (hazard ratio 0.98, P = .01), chronic lung disease (hazard ratio 0.66, P = .03), and preoperative or postoperative dialysis (hazard ratio 0.45, P < .01) were less likely to have their tracheostomy removed. CONCLUSIONS Tracheostomy is associated with poor long-term survival of cardiac surgery patients. However, patients who do survive have a short duration of tracheostomy with almost all surviving patients eventually decannulated. This finding provides valuable information for pre-procedural counseling for these high-risk patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Krebs
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
| | - William Z Chancellor
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jared P Beller
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - J Hunter Mehaffey
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Robert B Hawkins
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Robert G Sawyer
- Department of Surgery, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, Michigan
| | - Leora T Yarboro
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Gorav Ailawadi
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Nicholas R Teman
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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23
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Sytsma TT, Bjork LB, Jenkins SM, Chatterjee K, Piderman KM. "Slowed Down but Not Stopped": A Spiritual Life Review Intervention in Patients with Neurodegenerative Disease. THE JOURNAL OF PASTORAL CARE & COUNSELING : JPCC 2020; 74:108-114. [PMID: 32496953 DOI: 10.1177/1542305020913054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Spiritual health is important in managing and coping with chronic and debilitating illnesses, such as neurodegenerative diseases. However, few spiritual interventions have addressed this population. This article quantitatively and qualitatively evaluates outcomes of a spiritual life review in neurodegenerative diseases patients. The majority of participants improved or maintained quality of life and spiritual/emotional well-being following the intervention. Spiritual life review may be an important intervention in the comprehensive care of patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terin T Sytsma
- Department of Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, USA
| | | | - Sarah M Jenkins
- Department of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, USA
| | | | - Katherine M Piderman
- Department of Chaplain Services and Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, USA
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Moale A, Teply ML, Liu T, Singh AL, Basyal PS, Turnbull AE. Intensivists' Religiosity and Perceived Conflict During a Simulated ICU Family Meeting. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 59:687-693.e1. [PMID: 31678463 PMCID: PMC7024641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2019.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Conflict is frequently reported by both clinicians and surrogate decision makers for adult patients in intensive care units. Because religious clinicians view religion as an important dimension of end-of-life care, we hypothesized that religious critical care attendings (intensivists) would be more comfortable and perceive less conflict when discussing a patient's critical illness with a religious surrogate. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to assess if religious intensivists are more or less likely to perceive conflict during a simulated family meeting than secular colleagues. METHODS Intensivists were recruited to participate in a standardized, simulated family meeting with an actor portraying a family member of a critically ill patient. Intensivists provided demographic information including their current religion and the importance of religion in their lives. After the simulation, intensivists rated the amount of conflict they perceived during the simulation. The association between intensivist's self-reported religiosity and perceived conflict was estimated using both univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Among 112 participating intensivists, 43 (38%) perceived conflict during the simulation. Among intensivists who perceived conflict, 49% were religious, and among those who did not perceive conflict, 35% were religious. After adjusting for physician race, gender, years in practice, intensive care unit weeks worked per year and actor, physician religiosity was associated with greater odds of perceiving conflict during the simulated family meeting (adjusted prevalence ratio = 2.77, [95% CI 1.12-7.16], P = 0.03). CONCLUSION Religious intensivists were more likely to perceive conflict during a simulated family meeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Moale
- Department of Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
| | - Melissa L Teply
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tiange Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Arun L Singh
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Prisma Health Children's Hospital-Upstate, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Pragyashree Sharma Basyal
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery (OACIS) Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alison E Turnbull
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery (OACIS) Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Amass TH, Villa G, OMahony S, Badger JM, McFadden R, Walsh T, Caine T, McGuirl D, Palmisciano A, Yeow ME, De Gaudio R, Curtis JR, Levy MM. Family Care Rituals in the ICU to Reduce Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Family Members-A Multicenter, Multinational, Before-and-After Intervention Trial. Crit Care Med 2020; 48:176-184. [PMID: 31939785 PMCID: PMC7147959 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000004113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the feasibility and efficacy of implementing "Family Care Rituals" as a means of engaging family members in the care of patients admitted to the ICU with a high risk of ICU mortality on outcomes including stress-related symptoms in family members. DESIGN Prospective, before-and-after intervention evaluation. SETTING Two U.S. academic medical ICU's, and one Italian academic medical/surgical ICU. SUBJECTS Family members of patients who had an attending predicted ICU mortality of greater than 30% within the first 24 hours of admission. INTERVENTIONS A novel intervention titled "Family Care Rituals" during which, following a baseline observation period, family members enrolled in the intervention phase were given an informational booklet outlining opportunities for engagement in care of the patient during their ICU stay. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Primary outcome was symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in family members 90 days after patient death or ICU discharge. Secondary outcomes included symptoms of depression, anxiety, and family satisfaction. At 90-day follow-up, 131 of 226 family members (58.0%) responded preintervention and 129 of 226 family members (57.1%) responded postintervention. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder were significantly higher preintervention than postintervention (39.2% vs 27.1%; unadjusted odds ratio, 0.58; p = 0.046). There was no significant difference in symptoms of depression (26.5% vs 25.2%; unadjusted odds ratio, 0.93; p = 0.818), anxiety (41.0% vs 45.5%; unadjusted odds ratio, 1.20; p = 0.234), or mean satisfaction scores (85.1 vs 89.0; unadjusted odds ratio, 3.85; p = 0.052) preintervention versus postintervention 90 days after patient death or ICU discharge. CONCLUSIONS Offering opportunities such as family care rituals for family members to be involved with providing care for family members in the ICU was associated with reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. This intervention may lessen the burden of stress-related symptoms in family members of ICU patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy H Amass
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Brown University, Providence RI, USA
| | - Gianluca Villa
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Sean OMahony
- Department of Internal Medicine, Palliative Medicine Section, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James M. Badger
- Department of Psychiatry, Brown University, Providence RI, USA
| | - Rory McFadden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Palliative Medicine Section, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas Walsh
- Rhode Island Hospital, Research Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Providence RI, USA
| | - Tanis Caine
- Rhode Island Hospital, Research Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Providence RI, USA
| | - Don McGuirl
- Rhode Island Hospital, Research Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Providence RI, USA
| | - Amy Palmisciano
- Rhode Island Hospital, Research Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Providence RI, USA
| | - Mei-Ean Yeow
- Center for Palliative Care, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Raffaele De Gaudio
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - J. Randall Curtis
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mitchell M. Levy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep, Brown University, Providence RI, USA
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Willemse S, Smeets W, van Leeuwen E, Nielen-Rosier T, Janssen L, Foudraine N. Spiritual care in the intensive care unit: An integrative literature research. J Crit Care 2020; 57:55-78. [PMID: 32062288 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2020.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to review the literature for three major domains in relation to spiritual care in the ICU, namely Quality of Life (QoL), Quality of Care (QoC), and Education (E). METHOD An integrative literature research. RESULTS The 113 selected articles reveal that spirituality is an essential component of QoL and that complementary and effective spiritual care (SC) relieves distress of patients and their relatives. Furthermore, the contribution of SC to quality of care is: 1) diagnosing and addressing spiritual and emotional needs among patients and their relatives; 2) offering spiritual comfort to the patient in distress; 3) increased spiritual well-being of both patients and their relatives; 4) increased family satisfaction in general and by shared decision-making. Finally, the literature reveals the necessity to improve SC knowledge and skills of ICU healthcare professionals (IC HCPs) through relevant training courses. CONCLUSION SC contributes to QoL and QoC. The literature indicates that IC HCPs acknowledge the need to improve their SC knowledge and skills to enhance complementary, effective SC. Further research on SC as an integrated part of daily ICU care is necessary to improve QoL and QoC of patients and their relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan Willemse
- Department of Spiritual Care, VieCuri Medical Centre, P.O. Box 1926, 5900 BX Venlo, the Netherlands.
| | - Wim Smeets
- Department of Spiritual and Pastoral Care, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 21, EZ 6525 Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Evert van Leeuwen
- Department of Ethics, Philosophy and History of Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 21, EZ 6525 Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Trijnie Nielen-Rosier
- Department of Spiritual and Pastoral Care, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 21, EZ 6525 Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Loes Janssen
- Department of Surgery, Máxima Medical Centre, P.O. Box 7777, 5500 MB Veldhoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Norbert Foudraine
- Department of Critical Care, VieCuri Medical Centre, P.O. Box 1926, 5900 BX Venlo, the Netherlands.
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Shaku F, Tsutsumi M, Nakamura A, Takagi H, Otsuka T, Maruoka S. Factors Relating to Caregivers' Preference for Advance Care Planning of Patients in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 36:727-733. [PMID: 31256612 DOI: 10.1177/1049909119844517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine the preferences of home caregivers on patient advance care planning (ACP), including life-sustaining treatment (LST) and the factors relating to these preferences. BACKGROUND Personalized ACP aims to respect the autonomy and choices of terminally ill patients regarding end-of-life care. However, there have been cases wherein doctors must instead discuss ACP with surrogates (including caregivers) for various reasons such as dementia, intractable neurologic diseases, and cerebrovascular accident. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, self-written questionnaires (filled by individuals themselves) were distributed to 506 in-home caregivers in 6 Japanese prefectures; the questionnaires contained items on caregiver and patient demographics, number of people living together in a caregiver's home (aside from patients), care duration, comprehension level of doctors' explanations regarding their patient's condition, patient diseases, whether caregivers have or have not told patients about their disease, level of nursing care, and caregiver LST preference (preferred or not preferred). The questionnaire package also contained the Burden Index of Caregiver-11, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Short Form-8 Health Survey. RESULTS Valid responses were obtained from 309 caregivers. More than half of them were not sure of their patient's LST preference. Sex, number of people living together in a care home, comprehension level of doctors' explanations, and care duration were found to be the significant factors relating to caregivers' LST preference (P < .05). CONCLUSION Health providers should be cognizant of the background factors relating to caregiver ACP preference when deciding on LST for terminal patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumio Shaku
- 1 Department of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine, Nihon University Itabashi Hospital, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan.,2 Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Shuichiro Maruoka
- 1 Department of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine, Nihon University Itabashi Hospital, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan.,2 Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Pinto Taylor E, Doolittle B. Caregiver Decision-Making for Terminally Ill Children: A Qualitative Study. J Palliat Care 2019; 35:161-166. [PMID: 31722609 DOI: 10.1177/0825859719885947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many children are born with life-limiting illnesses. Medical decision-making for these children by caregivers is complex and causes significant psychosocial distress, which can be partially alleviated by effective communication with medical providers. In order for providers to support caregivers, this study explores how caregivers make decisions regarding the medical care of their terminally ill children. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted among caregivers of terminally ill children. Participation was voluntary and confidential. The institutional review board approved the protocol. Transcripts were read and coded by 2 authors using inductive, concurrent analysis to reach thematic saturation and generate common themes. RESULTS Nine interviews were completed, discussing the care of 10 children. Caregivers described decision-making as impacted by their relationships with medical providers of 2 distinct types-trusting and nontrusting. Trusting relationships were notable for a longitudinal relationship with medical staff who empowered caregivers and treated the patient primarily as a child. Nontrusting relationships were noted when the medical team objectified their child as a "patient" and appeared to withhold information. Also, nontrusting relationships occurred when caregivers felt frustration with needing to educate health-care providers about their child's illness. CONCLUSION Decision-making by caregivers of terminally ill children is complex, and supporting families in this process is a critical role of all medical providers. A trusting relationship with medical team members was identified as an effective tool for well-supported decision-making, which can potentially alleviate the suffering of the child and distress of the caregivers during this emotionally charged time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Pinto Taylor
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Benjamin Doolittle
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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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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Chen C, Michaels J, Meeker MA. Family Outcomes and Perceptions of End-of-Life Care in the Intensive Care Unit: A Mixed-Methods Review. J Palliat Care 2019; 35:143-153. [PMID: 31543062 DOI: 10.1177/0825859719874767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review was to evaluate end-of-life care (EOLC) in the intensive care unit (ICU) from the perspective of family members. Sandelowski's segregated approach from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Mixed-Methods Systematic Reviews guided this review. A search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and ProQuest databases and identified 50 papers (33 quantitative, 15 qualitative, and 2 mixed-methodology studies). Five synthesized themes (distressing emotions, shared decision-making, proactive communication, personalized end-of- life care, and valuing of nursing care) were identified. For quantitative results, study methodologies and interventions were heterogeneous and did not always improve family members' perceived quality of care and family members' psychological distress. Configuration of qualitative and quantitative data revealed ICU end-of-life interventions were ineffective because they were not guided by family members' reported needs and perceptions. To fulfill the family members' needs for the patients' EOLC in the ICU, researchers should develop a theory to explicitly explain how the family members experience ICU EOLC and implement a theory-based intervention to improve family psychological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiahui Chen
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo-The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jacqueline Michaels
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo-The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.,School of Nursing and Allied Health, SUNY Empire State College, Saratoga Springs, NY, USA
| | - Mary Ann Meeker
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo-The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES We describe the importance of interprofessional care in modern critical care medicine. This review highlights the essential roles played by specific members of the interprofessional care team, including patients and family members, and discusses quality improvement initiatives that require interprofessional collaboration for success. DATA SOURCES Studies were identified through MEDLINE search using a variety of search phrases related to interprofessional care, critical care provider types, and quality improvement initiatives. Additional articles were identified through a review of the reference lists of identified articles. STUDY SELECTION Original articles, review articles, and systematic reviews were considered. DATA EXTRACTION Manuscripts were selected for inclusion based on expert opinion of well-designed or key studies and review articles. DATA SYNTHESIS "Interprofessional care" refers to care provided by a team of healthcare professionals with overlapping expertise and an appreciation for the unique contribution of other team members as partners in achieving a common goal. A robust body of data supports improvement in patient-level outcomes when care is provided by an interprofessional team. Critical care nurses, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, respiratory care practitioners, rehabilitation specialists, dieticians, social workers, case managers, spiritual care providers, intensivists, and nonintensivist physicians each provide unique expertise and perspectives to patient care, and therefore play an important role in a team that must address the diverse needs of patients and families in the ICU. Engaging patients and families as partners in their healthcare is also critical. Many important ICU quality improvement initiatives require an interprofessional approach, including Awakening and Breathing Coordination, Delirium, Early Exercise/Mobility, and Family Empowerment bundle implementation, interprofessional rounding practices, unit-based quality improvement initiatives, Patient and Family Advisory Councils, end-of-life care, coordinated sedation awakening and spontaneous breathing trials, intrahospital transport, and transitions of care. CONCLUSIONS A robust body of evidence supports an interprofessional approach as a key component in the provision of high-quality critical care to patients of increasing complexity and with increasingly diverse needs.
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Piscitello GM, Parham WM, Huber MT, Siegler M, Parker WF. The Timing of Family Meetings in the Medical Intensive Care Unit. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:1049-1056. [PMID: 30983374 DOI: 10.1177/1049909119843133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Family meetings in the medical intensive care unit can improve outcomes. Little is known about when meetings occur in practice. We aimed to determine the time from admission to family meetings in the medical intensive care unit and assess the relationship of meetings with mortality. METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study of critically ill adult patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit at an urban academic medical center. Using manual chart review, the primary outcome was any attempt at holding a family meeting within 72 hours of admission. Competing risk models estimated the time from admission to family meeting and to patient death or discharge. RESULTS Of the 131 patients who met inclusion criteria in the 12-month study period, the median time from admission to family meeting was 4 days. Fewer than half of patients had a documented family meeting within 72 hours of admission (n = 60/131, 46%), with substantial interphysician variability in meeting rates ranging from 28% to 63%. Patients with family meetings within 72 hours were 30 times more likely to die within 72 hours (32% vs 1%, P < .001). Of the 55 patients who died in the intensive care unit, 27 (49%) had their first family meeting within 1 day of death. CONCLUSIONS Family meetings occur considerably later than 72 hours and are often held in close proximity to a patient's death. This suggests for some physicians, family meetings may primarily be used to negotiate withdrawal of life support rather than to support the patient and family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina M Piscitello
- 1 Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William M Parham
- 3 Abbott Northwestern Hospital Critical Care Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michael T Huber
- 2 MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,4 Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mark Siegler
- 1 Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William F Parker
- 1 Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Physician Approaches to Conflict with Families Surrounding End-of-Life Decision-making in the Intensive Care Unit. A Qualitative Study. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2019; 15:241-249. [PMID: 29099239 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.201702-105oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Families of critically ill patients are often asked to make difficult decisions to pursue, withhold, or withdraw aggressive care or resuscitative measures, exercising "substituted judgment" from the imagined standpoint of the patient. Conflict may arise between intensive care unit (ICU) physicians and family members regarding the optimal course of care. OBJECTIVES To characterize how ICU physicians approach and manage conflict with surrogates regarding end-of-life decision-making. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with 18 critical care physicians from four academically affiliated hospitals. Interview transcripts were analyzed using methods of grounded theory. RESULTS Physicians described strategies for engaging families to resolve conflict about end-of-life decision-making and tending to families' emotional health. Physicians commonly began by gauging family receptiveness to recommendations from the healthcare team. When faced with resistance to recommendations for less aggressive care, approaches ranged from deference to family wishes to various persuasive strategies designed to change families' minds, and some of those strategies may be counterproductive or harmful. The likelihood of deferring to family in the event of conflict was associated with the perceived sincerity of the family's "substituted judgment" and the ability to control patient pain and suffering. Physicians reported concern for the family's emotional needs and made efforts to alleviate the burden on families by assuming decision-making responsibility and expressing nonabandonment and commitment to the patient. Physicians were attentive to repairing damage to their relationship with the family in the aftermath of conflict. Finally, physicians described their own emotional responses to conflict, ranging from frustration and anxiety to satisfaction with successful resolution of conflict. CONCLUSIONS Critical care physicians described a complex and multilayered approach to physician-family conflict. The reported strategies offer insight into pragmatic approaches to achieving resolution of conflict while attending to both family and physician emotional impact, and they also highlight some potentially unhelpful or harmful behaviors that should be avoided. Further research is needed to evaluate how these strategies are perceived by families and other ICU clinicians and how they affect patient, family, and clinician outcomes.
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Butler AE, Copnell B, Hall H. The impact of the social and physical environments on parent–healthcare provider relationships when a child dies in PICU: Findings from a grounded theory study. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2019; 50:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Schmitz D, Groß D, Frierson C, Schubert GA, Schulze-Steinen H, Kersten A. Ethics rounds: affecting ethics quality at all organisational levels. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2018; 44:805-809. [PMID: 30154217 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2018-104831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Clinical ethics support (CES) services are experiencing a phase of flourishing and of growing recognition. At the same time, however, the expectations regarding the acceptance and the integration of traditional CES services into clinical processes are not met. Ethics rounds as an additional instrument or as an alternative to traditional clinical ethics support strategies might have the potential to address both deficits. By implementing ethics rounds, we were able to better address the needs of the clinical sections and to develop a more comprehensive account of ethics quality in our hospital, which covers the level of decisions and actions, and also the level of systems and processes and aspects of ethical leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Schmitz
- Department of History, Theory and Ethics in Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Dominik Groß
- Department of History, Theory and Ethics in Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Charlotte Frierson
- Department of History, Theory and Ethics in Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Henna Schulze-Steinen
- Department of Surgical Intensive Medicine and Intermediate Care, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander Kersten
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Internal Intensive Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Anstey MH, Litton E, Jha N, Trevenen ML, Webb S, Mitchell IA. A comparison of the opinions of intensive care unit staff and family members of the treatment intensity received by patients admitted to an intensive care unit: A multicentre survey. Aust Crit Care 2018; 32:378-382. [PMID: 30446268 DOI: 10.1016/j.aucc.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving shared decision-making in the intensive care unit (ICU) is challenging because of limited patient capacity, leading to a reliance on surrogate decision-makers. Prior research shows that ICU staff members often perceive that patients receive inappropriate or futile treatments while some surrogate decision-makers of patients admitted to the ICU report inadequate communication with physicians. Therefore, understanding the perceptions of both ICU staff and surrogate decision-makers around wishes for ICU treatments is an essential component to improve these situations. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to compare perceptions of ICU staff with surrogate decision-makers about the intensity and appropriateness of treatments received by patients and analyse the causes of any incongruence. METHODS A multicentred, single-day survey of staff and surrogate decision-makers of ICU inpatients was conducted across four Australian ICUs in 2014. Patients were linked to a larger prospective observational study, allowing comparison of patient outcomes. RESULTS Twelve of 32 patients were identified as having a mismatch between staff and surrogate decision-maker perceptions. For these 12 patients, all 12 surrogate decision-makers believed that the treatment intensity the patient was receiving was of the appropriate intensity and duration. Mismatched patients were more likely to be emergency admissions to ICU compared with nonmismatched patients (0.0% vs 42.1%, p = 0.012) and have longer ICU admissions (7.5 vs 3, p = 0.022). There were no significant differences in perceived communication (p = 0.61). CONCLUSIONS Family members did not share the same perceptions of treatment with ICU staff. This may result from difficulty in prognostication; challenges in conveying poor prognoses to surrogate decision-makers; and the accuracy of surrogate decision-makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H Anstey
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia; Curtin University, School of Public Health, Australia.
| | - Edward Litton
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Australia; St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Nihar Jha
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Steve Webb
- St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Monash University, Australia
| | - Imogen A Mitchell
- The Canberra Hospital, Australia; Australian National University Medical School, Australia
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Kalocsai C, Amaral A, Piquette D, Walter G, Dev SP, Taylor P, Downar J, Gotlib Conn L. "It's better to have three brains working instead of one": a qualitative study of building therapeutic alliance with family members of critically ill patients. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:533. [PMID: 29986722 PMCID: PMC6038351 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3341-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies in the intensive care unit (ICU) suggest that better communication between families of critically ill patients and healthcare providers is needed; however, most randomized trials targeting interventions to improve communication have failed to achieve family-centered outcomes. We aim to offer a novel analysis of the complexities involved in building positive family-provider relationships in the ICU through the consideration of not only communication but other important aspects of family-provider interactions, including family integration, collaboration, and empowerment. Our goal is to explore family members’ perspectives on the enablers and challenges to establishing therapeutic alliance with ICU physicians and nurses. Methods We used the concept of therapeutic alliance as an organizational and analytic tool to conduct an interview-based qualitative study in a 20-bed adult medical-surgical ICU in an academic hospital in Toronto, Canada. Nineteen family members of critically ill patients who acted as substitute decision-makers and/or regularly interacted with ICU providers were interviewed. Participants were sampled purposefully to ensure maximum variation along predetermined criteria. A hybrid inductive-deductive approach to analysis was used. Results Participating family members highlighted the complementary roles and practices of ICU nurses and physicians in building therapeutic alliance. They reported how both provider groups had profession specific and shared contributions to foster family communication, integration, and collaboration, while physicians played a key role in family empowerment. Families’ lack of familiarity with ICU personnel and processes, physicians’ sporadic availability and use of medical jargon during rounds, however, reinforced long established power differences between lay families and expert physicians and challenged family integration. Family members also identified informal interactions as missed opportunities for relationship-building with physicians. While informal interactions with nurses at the bedside facilitated therapeutic alliance, inconsistent and ad-hoc interactions related to routine decision-making hindered family empowerment. Conclusions Multiple opportunities exist to improve family-provider relationships in the ICU. The four dimensions of therapeutic alliance prove analytically useful to highlight those aspects that work well and need improvement, such as in the areas of family integration and empowerment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-018-3341-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Kalocsai
- Trauma, Emergency and Critical Care Research, Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada. .,Patient/Client and Family Education, Centre for Mental Health and Addiction, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M1, Canada.
| | - Andre Amaral
- Trauma, Emergency and Critical Care Research, Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada.,Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dominique Piquette
- Trauma, Emergency and Critical Care Research, Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada.,Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Grace Walter
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Shelly P Dev
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Paul Taylor
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - James Downar
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Palliative Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lesley Gotlib Conn
- Trauma, Emergency and Critical Care Research, Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
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Kitzinger J, Kitzinger C. Deaths after feeding-tube withdrawal from patients in vegetative and minimally conscious states: A qualitative study of family experience. Palliat Med 2018; 32:1180-1188. [PMID: 29569993 PMCID: PMC6041738 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318766430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Families of patients in vegetative or minimally conscious states are often horrified by the suggestion of withdrawing a feeding tube, even when they believe that their relative would not have wanted to be maintained in their current condition. Very little is known about what it is like to witness such a death. AIM To understand these families' experience of their relatives' deaths. DESIGN Qualitative study using in-depth narrative interviews analyzed inductively with thematic analysis. PARTICIPANTS A total of 21 people (from 12 families) whose vegetative or minimally conscious relative died following court-authorized withdrawal of artificial nutrition and hydration. All had supported treatment withdrawal. FINDINGS Interviewees were usually anxious in advance about the nature of the death and had sometimes confronted resistance from, and been provided with misinformation by, healthcare staff in long-term care settings. However, they overwhelmingly described deaths as peaceful and sometimes even as a "good death." There was (for some) a significant "burden of witness" associated with the length of time it took the person to die and/or distressing changes in their appearance. Most continued to voice ethical objections to the manner of death while considering it "the least worst" option in the circumstances. CONCLUSION Staff need to be aware of the distinctive issues around care for this patient group and their families. It is important to challenge misinformation and initiate honest discussions about feeding-tube withdrawal and end-of-life care for these patients. Families (and staff) need better support in managing the "burden of witness" associated with these deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Kitzinger
- School of Journalism, Media and Culture, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Archambault-Grenier MA, Roy-Gagnon MH, Gauvin F, Doucet H, Humbert N, Stojanovic S, Payot A, Fortin S, Janvier A, Duval M. Survey highlights the need for specific interventions to reduce frequent conflicts between healthcare professionals providing paediatric end-of-life care. Acta Paediatr 2018; 107:262-269. [PMID: 28793184 DOI: 10.1111/apa.14013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study explored how paediatric healthcare professionals experienced and coped with end-of-life conflicts and identified how to improve coping strategies. METHODS A questionnaire was distributed to all 2300 professionals at a paediatric university hospital, covering the frequency of end-of-life conflicts, participants, contributing factors, resolution strategies, outcomes and the usefulness of specific institutional coping strategies. RESULTS Of the 946 professionals (41%) who responded, 466 had witnessed or participated in paediatric end-of-life discussions: 73% said these had led to conflict, more frequently between professionals (58%) than between professionals and parents (33%). Frequent factors included professionals' rotations, unprepared parents, emotional load, unrealistic parental expectations, differences in values and beliefs, parents' fear of hastening death, precipitated situations and uncertain prognosis. Discussions with patients and parents and between professionals were the most frequently used coping strategies. Conflicts were frequently resolved by the time of death. Professionals mainly supported designating one principal physician and nurse for each patient, two-step interdisciplinary meetings - between professionals then with parents - postdeath ethics meetings, bereavement follow-up protocols and early consultations with paediatric palliative care and clinical ethics services. CONCLUSION End-of-life conflicts were frequent and predominantly occurred between healthcare professionals. Specific interventions could target most of the contributing factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie-Hélène Roy-Gagnon
- Centre de Recherche; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine; University of Ottawa; Ottawa ON Canada
| | - France Gauvin
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Hubert Doucet
- Comité de Bioéthique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Nago Humbert
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Sanja Stojanovic
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Centre de Réadaptation Marie-Enfant; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Antoine Payot
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
- Comité de Bioéthique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Éthique Clinique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Sylvie Fortin
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Comité de Bioéthique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Éthique Clinique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Annie Janvier
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Éthique Clinique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
- Soins Intensifs Néonataux; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Michel Duval
- Service d'Hématologie-Oncologie; Centre de Cancérologie Charles-Bruneau; Montréal QC Canada
- Département de Pédiatrie; CHU Sainte-Justine; Université de Montréal; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
- Unité de Consultation en Éthique Clinique; CHU Sainte-Justine; Montréal QC Canada
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Walker E, McMahan R, Barnes D, Katen M, Lamas D, Sudore R. Advance Care Planning Documentation Practices and Accessibility in the Electronic Health Record: Implications for Patient Safety. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 55:256-264. [PMID: 28943360 PMCID: PMC5794631 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2017.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Documenting patients' advance care planning (ACP) wishes is essential to providing value-aligned care, as is having this documentation readily accessible. Little is known about ACP documentation practices in the electronic health record. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to describe ACP documentation practices and the accessibility of documented discussions in the electronic health record. METHODS Participants were primary care patients at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, were ≥60 years old, and had ≥2 chronic/serious health conditions. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the prevalence of ACP documentation, including any legal forms/orders and discussions in the prior five years. We also determined accessibility of discussions (i.e., accessible centralized posting vs. inaccessible free text in progress notes). RESULTS The mean age of 414 participants was 71 years (SD ± 8), 9% were women, 43% were nonwhite, and 51% had documented ACP including 149 (36%) with forms/orders and 138 (33%) with discussions. Seventy-four participants (50%) with forms/orders lacked accompanying explanatory documentation. Most (55%) discussions were not easily accessible, including 70% of those documenting changes in treatment preferences from prior forms/orders. CONCLUSION Half of chronically ill, older participants had documented ACP, including one-third with documented discussions. However, half of the patients with completed legal forms/orders had no accompanying documented explanatory discussions, and the majority of documented discussions were not easily accessible, even when wishes had changed. Ensuring that patients' preferences are documented and easily accessible is an important patient safety and quality improvement target to ensure patients' wishes are honored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Walker
- Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, California.
| | - Ryan McMahan
- UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, California
| | - Deborah Barnes
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California; Department of Psychiatry, UCSF, San Francisco, California; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, UCSF, San Francisco, California
| | - Mary Katen
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, California
| | - Daniela Lamas
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Ariadne Labs at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard T.H. Chen School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rebecca Sudore
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California; Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, California
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Donohue PK, Norvell M, Boss RD, Shepard J, Frank K, Patron C, Crowe TY. Hospital Chaplains: Through the Eyes of Parents of Hospitalized Children. J Palliat Med 2017. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2016.0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela K. Donohue
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Matt Norvell
- Department of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Renee D. Boss
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer Shepard
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Karen Frank
- Department of Acute and Chronic Care, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Christina Patron
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Thomas Y. Crowe
- Department of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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Patient-family EoL communication and its predictors: Reports from caregivers of Latino patients in the rural U.S.-Mexico border region. Palliat Support Care 2017; 16:520-527. [PMID: 29072148 DOI: 10.1017/s147895151700092x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Family caregivers play an important role in end-of-life (EoL) decision making when the patient is unable to make his/her own decisions. While communication about EoL care between patients and family is perhaps a first step toward advance care planning (ACP)/EoL decisions, not every culture puts great value on open communication about this topic. The aims of the present study were to explore EoL communication and the aspects of communication among caregivers of Latino patients in the rural United States (U.S.)-Mexico border region. METHOD This study analyzed data from a hospice needs assessment collected from 189 family caregivers of Latino patients at a home health agency in a rural U.S.-Mexico border region. Bivariate tests and logistic regression were used to address our aims. RESULTS About half of the family caregivers (n = 96, 50.8%) reported to have ever engaged in EoL discussion with patients. Significant predictors of EoL discussion included life-sustaining treatment preference (odds ratio [OR] = 0.44, p < 0.05); knowledge of an advance directive (AD) (OR = 5.50, p < 0.01); and distrust of physicians (OR = 0.29, p < 0.01). Caregivers who preferred extending the life of their loved one even if he/she had to rely on life supports were less likely to engage in EoL communication. Also, caregivers who worried that physicians might want to stop treatments (i.e., "pull the plug") too soon were less likely to do so. Conversely, caregivers who had knowledge about ADs were more likely to engage in EoL communication. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS EoL communication is a complex process influenced by individual, social, and cultural values and the beliefs of both the patient and his/her family. Inclusion of family caregivers in the ACP process and facilitating culturally tailored EoL communication between patients and family caregivers is important.
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Turnbull AE, Chessare CM, Coffin RK, Needham DM. A brief intervention for preparing ICU families to be proxies: A phase I study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185483. [PMID: 28968409 PMCID: PMC5624606 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Family members of critically ill patients report high levels of conflict with clinicians, have poor understanding of prognosis, struggle to make decisions, and experience substantial symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress regardless of patient survival status. Efficient interventions are needed to prepare these families to act as patient proxies. Objectives To assess a brief “patient activation” intervention designed to set expectations and prepare families of adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients to communicate effectively with the clinical team. Design Phase I study of acceptability and immediate side effects. Setting and participants 122 healthcare proxies of 111 consecutive patients with a stay of ≥24 hours in the Johns Hopkins Hospital Medical ICU (MICU), in Baltimore, Maryland. Intervention Reading aloud to proxies from a booklet (Flesch-Kincard reading grade level 3.8) designed with multidisciplinary input including from former MICU proxies. Results Enrolled proxies had a median age of 51 years old with 83 (68%) female, and 55 (45%) African-American. MICU mortality was 18%, and 37 patients (33%) died in hospital or were discharged to hospice. Among proxies 98% (95% CI: 94% - 100%) agreed or strongly agreed that the intervention was appropriate, 98% (95% CI: 92% - 99%) agreed or strongly agreed that it is important for families to know the information in the booklet, and 54 (44%, 95% CI 35%– 54%) agreed or strongly agreed that parts of the booklet are upsetting. Upset vs. non-upset proxies were not statistically or substantially different in terms of age, sex, education level, race, relation to the patient, or perceived decision-making authority. Conclusions This patient activation intervention was acceptable and important to nearly all proxies. Frequently, the intervention was simultaneously rated as both acceptable/important and upsetting. Proxies who rated the intervention as upsetting were not identifiable based on readily available proxy or patient characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E. Turnbull
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery (OACIS) Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Caroline M. Chessare
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery (OACIS) Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rachel K. Coffin
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Dale M. Needham
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery (OACIS) Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Van Scoy LJ, Watson-Martin E, Bohr TA, Levi BH, Green MJ. End-of-Life Conversation Game Increases Confidence for Having End-of-Life Conversations for Chaplains-in-Training. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:592-600. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909117723619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jodi Van Scoy
- Department of Medicine and Humanities, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - Tiffany A. Bohr
- Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin H. Levi
- Department of Pediatrics and Humanities, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Michael J. Green
- Department of Medicine and Humanities, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
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Zante B, Schefold JC. Teaching End-of-Life Communication in Intensive Care Medicine: Review of the Existing Literature and Implications for Future Curricula. J Intensive Care Med 2017; 34:301-310. [PMID: 28659041 DOI: 10.1177/0885066617716057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: End-of-life (EOL) situations are common in the intensive care unit (ICU). Poor communication in respective situations may result in conflict and/or post-traumatic stress disorder in patients' next of kin. Thus, training for EOL communication seems pivotal. Primary objective of the current report was to identify approaches for educational programs in the ICU with regard to EOL communication as well as to conclude on implications for future curricula. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A literature review in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO was performed. A total of 3484 articles published between 2000 until 2016 were assessed for eligibility. Nine articles reporting on education in EOL communication in the ICU were identified and analyzed further. RESULTS: The duration of EOL workshops ranged from 3 hours to 3 days, with several different educational methods being applied. Mounting data suggest improved comfort, preparedness, and communication performance in EOL providers following specific EOL training. Due to missing data, the effect of EOL training programs on respective patients' next of kin remains unclear. CONCLUSION: Few scientific investigations focus on EOL communication in intensive care medicine. The available evidence points to increased comfort and EOL communication performance following specific individual EOL training. Given the general importance of EOL communication, we suggest implementation of educational EOL programs. When developing future educational programs, educators should consider previous experience of participants, clearly defined objectives based on institutional needs, and critical care society recommendations to ensure best benefit of all involved parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjoern Zante
- 1 Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Joerg C Schefold
- 1 Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Orford NR, Milnes S, Simpson N, Keely G, Elderkin T, Bone A, Martin P, Bellomo R, Bailey M, Corke C. Effect of communication skills training on outcomes in critically ill patients with life-limiting illness referred for intensive care management: a before-and-after study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2017; 9:e21. [PMID: 28659433 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2016-001231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the effect of a communication skills training programme on patient-centred goals of care documentation and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients with life-limiting illnesses (LLI) referred for intensive care management. METHODS Prospective before-and-after cohort study in a tertiary teaching hospital in Australia. The population was 222 adult patients with LLI referred to the intensive care unit (ICU). The study was divided into two periods, before (1 May to 31 July 2015) and after (15 September to 15December 2015) the intervention. The intervention was a 2-day, small group, simulated-patient, communication skills course, and process of care for patients with LLI. The primary outcome was documentation of patient-centred goals of care discussion (PCD) within 48 hours of referral to the ICU. Secondary outcomes included clinical outcomes and 90-day mortality. RESULTS The intervention was associated with increased documentation of a PCD from 50% to 69% (p=0.004) and 43% to 94% (p<0.0001) in patients deceased by day 90. A significant decrease in critical care as the choice of resuscitation goal (61% vs 42%, p=0.02) was observed. Although there was no decrease in admission to ICU, there was a significant decrease in medical emergency team call prevalence (87% vs 73%, p=0.009). The cancer and organ failure groups had a significant decrease in 90-day mortality (75% vs 44%, p=0.02; 42% vs 16%, p=0.01), and the frailty group had a significant decrease in 90-day readmissions (48% vs 19%, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS The intervention was associated with increased PCD documentation and decrease in the choice of critical care as the resuscitation goal. Admissions to ICU did not decrease, and although limited by study design, condition-specific trajectory changes, clinical interventions and outcomes warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil R Orford
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (DEPM), Monash University, Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Research Centre (ANZIC-RC), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sharyn Milnes
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Nicholas Simpson
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Gerry Keely
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Tania Elderkin
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Allison Bone
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Martin
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Palliative Care Unit, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Rinaldo Bellomo
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (DEPM), Monash University, Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Research Centre (ANZIC-RC), Melbourne, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Bailey
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (DEPM), Monash University, Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Research Centre (ANZIC-RC), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Charlie Corke
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Relatives of intensive care unit patients who lack or have reduced capacity to consent are entitled to information and participation in decision-making together with the patient. Practice varies with legislation in different countries. In Norway, crucial decisions such as withdrawing treatment are made by clinicians, usually morally justified to relatives with reference to the principle of non-maleficence. The relatives should, however, be consulted about whether they know what the patient would have wished in the situation. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: To examine and describe relatives' experiences of responsibility in the intensive care unit decision-making process. RESEARCH DESIGN: A secondary analysis of interviews with bereaved relatives of intensive care unit patients was performed, using a narrative analytical approach. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT: In all, 27 relatives of 21 deceased intensive care unit patients were interviewed about their experiences from the end-of-life decision-making process. Most interviews took place in the participants' homes, 3-12 months after the patient's death. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Based on informed consent, the study was approved by the Data Protection Official of the Norwegian Social Science Data Services and by the Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics. FINDINGS: The results show that intensive care unit relatives experienced a sense of responsibility in the decision-making process, independently of clinicians' intention of sparing them. Some found this troublesome. Three different variants of participation were revealed, ranging from paternalism to a more active role for relatives. DISCUSSION: For the study participants, the sense of responsibility reflects the fact that ethics and responsibility are grounded in the individual's relationship to other people. Relatives need to be included in a continuous dialogue over time to understand decisions and responsibility. CONCLUSION: Nurses and physicians should acknowledge and address relatives' sense of responsibility, include them in regular dialogue and help them separate their responsibility from that of the clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranveig Lind
- UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Norway; University Hospital of North Norway, Norway
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Family Communication about End-of-Life Decisions and the Enactment of the Decision-Maker Role. Behav Sci (Basel) 2017; 7:bs7020036. [PMID: 28590407 PMCID: PMC5485466 DOI: 10.3390/bs7020036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
End-of-life (EOL) decisions in families are complex and emotional sites of family interaction necessitating family members coordinate roles in the EOL decision-making process. How family members in the United States enact the decision-maker role in EOL decision situations was examined through in-depth interviews with 22 individuals who participated in EOL decision-making for a family member. A number of themes emerged from the data with regard to the enactment of the decision-maker role. Families varied in how decision makers enacted the role in relation to collective family input, with consulting, informing and collaborating as different patterns of behavior. Formal family roles along with gender- and age-based roles shaped who took on the decision-maker role. Additionally, both family members and medical professionals facilitated or undermined the decision-maker’s role enactment. Understanding the structure and enactment of the decision-maker role in family interaction provides insight into how individuals and/or family members perform the decision-making role within a cultural context that values autonomy and self-determination in combination with collective family action in EOL decision-making.
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50
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Turnbull AE, Hashem MD, Rabiee A, To A, Chessare CM, Needham DM. Evaluation of a strategy for enrolling the families of critically ill patients in research using limited human resources. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177741. [PMID: 28542632 PMCID: PMC5444627 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Clinical trials of interventions aimed at the families of intensive care unit (ICU) patients have proliferated but recruitment for these trials can be challenging. OBJECTIVES To evaluate a strategy for recruiting families of patients currently being treated in an ICU using limited human resources and time-varying daily screening over 7 consecutive days. METHODS We screened the Johns Hopkins Hospital medical ICU census 7 days per week to identify eligible family members. We then made daily, in-person attempts to enroll eligible families during a time-varying 2-hour enrollment period until families declined participation, consented, or were no longer eligible. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The primary outcome was the proportion of eligible patients for whom ≥1 family member was enrolled. Secondary outcomes included enrollment of legal healthcare proxies, the consent rate among families approached for enrollment, and success rates for recruiting at different times during the day and week. Among 284 eligible patients, 108 (38%, 95% CI 32%-44%) had ≥1 family member enrolled, and 75 (26%, 95% CI 21%-32%) had their legal healthcare proxy enrolled. Among 117 family members asked to participate, 108 (92%, 95% CI 86%-96%) were enrolled. Patients with versus without an enrolled proxy were more likely to be white (44% vs. 30%, P = .02), live in a zip code with a median income of ≥$100,000 (15% vs. 5%, P = .01), be mechanically ventilated (63% vs. 47%, P = .01), die in the ICU (19% vs. 9%, P = .03), and to have longer ICU stays (median 5.0 vs. 1.8 days, P<.001). Day of the week and time of day were not associated with family presence in the ICU or consent rate. CONCLUSIONS Family members were recruited for more than one third of eligible patients, and >90% of approached consented to participate. There are important demographic differences between patients with vs without an enrolled family member.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E. Turnbull
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Mohamed D. Hashem
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Cleveland Clinic, Department of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Anahita Rabiee
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - An To
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Caroline M. Chessare
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Dale M. Needham
- Outcomes After Critical Illness and Surgery Group, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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