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Reynolds CM, Grühn D. Does time heal all wounds? An investigation of time, grief, and attitudes toward death. Death Stud 2023:1-11. [PMID: 38153434 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2297065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
When experiencing the loss of a loved one, individuals adapt and change how they understand death, how they interpret the meaning of the loss, and how they remember the deceased. In the present study (N = 164), we investigated whether the time since the loss - recent or distant - was associated with individuals' bereavement, attitudes toward death, and their meaning of death. We found that individuals who experienced a recent loss reported more grief and more negative death attitudes compared to individuals who experienced a loss more than 5 years ago. Moreover, the bereavement appeared to completely mediate the time since the loss and the individuals' attitudes about death. The findings suggest that time-dependent adaptations after a loss shifts individuals' death attitudes, grief symptoms, and thoughts about death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Grühn
- Psychology Department, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA
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2
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Peerboom FB, Friesen-Storms JH, Coenegracht BJ, Pieters S, van der Steen JT, Janssen DJ, Meijers JM. Fundamentals of end-of-life communication as part of advance care planning from the perspective of nursing staff, older people, and family caregivers: a scoping review. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:363. [PMID: 37803343 PMCID: PMC10559445 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01523-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing staff is ideally positioned to play a central role in end-of-life communication as part of advance care planning for older people. However, this requires specific skills and competences. Only fragmented knowledge is available concerning important fundamentals in end-of-life communication performed by nursing staff. OBJECTIVE This review aimed to explore the fundamentals of end-of-life communication as part of advance care planning in the hospital, nursing home and home care setting, from the perspective of the nursing staff, the older person, and the family caregiver. DESIGN Scoping review. METHODS A literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Google (Scholar) was conducted on August 20, 2022. The search strategy followed the sequential steps as described in the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual. Peer-reviewed articles of empirical research and gray literature written in English or Dutch and published from 2010 containing fundamentals of end-of-life communication as part of advance care planning from the perspective of nursing staff, older people, and family caregivers in the hospital nursing home or home care setting were considered eligible for review. RESULTS Nine studies were included, and four themes were composed, reflecting 11 categories. Nursing staff attunes end-of-life communication to the values and needs of older people to approach the process in a person-centered manner. This approach requires additional fundamentals: building a relationship, assessing readiness, timing and methods to start the conversation, communication based on information needs, attention to family relationships, a professional attitude, improving communication skills, listening and non-verbal observation skills, and verbal communication skills. CONCLUSIONS This review is the first to compile an overview of the fundamentals of end-of-life communication performed by nursing staff. Building a nursing staff-older-person relationship is the most important foundation for engaging in a person-centered end-of-life communication process. Knowing each other enables nursing staff to have a sense of older people's readiness, determine the right timing to initiate an end-of-life conversation, identify specific needs, and accurately apply (non-)verbal observation skills. end-of-life communication is not a one-time conversation, but a complex process that takes time, effort, and genuine interest in each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fran B.A.L. Peerboom
- Zuyderland Medical Center, Dr. H. van der Hoffplein 1, Sittard-Geleen, 6162 BG The Netherlands
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, 6229 GT The Netherlands
| | - Jolanda H.H.M. Friesen-Storms
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, 6229 GT The Netherlands
- Research Centre for Autonomy and Participation for Persons with a Chronic Illness, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Nieuw Eyckholt 300, Heerlen, 6419DJ The Netherlands
- Academy for Nursing, Zuyd Health, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Nieuw Eyckholt 300, Heerlen, 6419DJ The Netherlands
| | | | - Sabine Pieters
- Academy for Nursing, Zuyd Health, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Nieuw Eyckholt 300, Heerlen, 6419DJ The Netherlands
| | - Jenny T. van der Steen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care (PHEG), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Radboudumc Alzheimer Center and Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daisy J.A. Janssen
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, 6229 GT The Netherlands
- Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Research and Development, CIRO, Hornerheide 1, Horn, 6085 NM The Netherlands
| | - Judith M.M. Meijers
- Zuyderland Medical Center, Dr. H. van der Hoffplein 1, Sittard-Geleen, 6162 BG The Netherlands
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, 6229 GT The Netherlands
- Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Rosario-ramos L, Suarez K, Peña-vargas C, Toro-morales Y, Costas-muñiz R, Castro E, Torres S, Torres-blasco N. Important End-of-Life Topics among Latino Patients and Caregivers Coping with Advanced Cancer. IJERPH 2022; 19:8967. [PMID: 35897338 PMCID: PMC9330392 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19158967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
There is a known end-of-life related disparity among Latino individuals, and there is a need to develop culturally sensitive interventions to help patients and caregivers cope with advanced cancer. Latino patients and caregivers coping with advanced cancer were asked to list important end-of-life topics to culturally inform a psychosocial intervention adaptation process. A qualitative study was conducted, and semi-structured interviews were performed, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Recordings and transcriptions were reviewed and analyzed using thematic content coding. The semi-structured interview described and demonstrated intervention components and elicited feedback about each. Free listing method was used to assess important topics among Latino advanced cancer patients (n = 14; stage III and IV) and caregivers. Patients and caregivers were given a list of 15 topics and asked which topics they deemed important to integrate into the intervention. Overall, more than half of the participants considered it important to include 13 of the 15 topics related to daily activities (eight subcategories), psychosocial support (three subcategories), discussing diagnosis and support (three subcategories), and financial difficulties (one subcategory). Patient-caregivers reported importance in most end-of-life topics. Future research and intervention development should include topics related to psychosocial support, daily activities, discussing diagnosis and support, and financial difficulties.
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Johansson T, Tishelman C, Eriksson LE, Cohen J, Goliath I. Use, usability, and impact of a card-based conversation tool to support communication about end-of-life preferences in residential elder care – a qualitative study of staff experiences. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:274. [PMID: 35366816 PMCID: PMC8976536 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-02915-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Proactive conversations about individual preferences between residents, relatives, and staff can support person-centred, value-concordant end-of-life (EOL) care. Nevertheless, prevalence of such conversations is still low in residential care homes (RCHs), often relating to staff’s perceived lack of skills and confidence. Using tools may help staff to facilitate EOL conversations. While many EOL-specific tools are script-based and focus on identifying and documenting treatment priorities, the DöBra card tool is developed to stimulate reflection and conversation about EOL care values and preferences. In this study, we explore staff’s experiences of use, usability, and perceived impact of the DöBra cards in supporting discussion about EOL care in RCH settings.
Methods
This qualitative study was based on data from two participatory action research processes in which RCH staff tested and evaluated use of DöBra cards in EOL conversations. Data comprise 6 interviews and 8 group meetings with a total of 13 participants from 7 facilities. Qualitative content analysis was performed to identify key concepts in relation to use, usability, and impact of the DöBra cards in RCH practice.
Results
Based on participants’ experiences of using the DöBra cards as an EOL conversation tool in RCHs, we identified three main categories in relation to its usefulness. Outcomes of using the cards (1) included the outlining of content of conversations and supporting connection and development of rapport. Perceived impact (2) related to enabling openings for future communication and aligning care goals between stakeholders. Use and usability of the cards (3) were influenced by supporting and limiting factors on the personal and contextual level.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates how the DöBra cards was found to be useful by staff for facilitating conversations about EOL values, influencing both the content of discussion and interactions between those present. The tool encouraged reflection and interaction, which staff perceived as potentially helpful in building preparedness for future care-decision making. The combination of providing a shared framework and being adaptable in use appeared to be key features for the DöBra cards usability in the RCH setting.
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Bovero A, Tosi C, Botto R, Pidinchedda A, Gottardo F, Asta G, Torta R. A Qualitative Study to Explore Healthcare Providers' Perspectives on End-of-Life Patients' Dignity. How Can Dignity Be Defined, and Which Strategies Exist to Maintain Dignity? J Cancer Educ 2022; 37:280-287. [PMID: 32588351 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01808-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Dignity is a core topic within palliative care, and thus, it is important to get a detailed assessment of healthcare providers' (HCPs) perspectives on this subject. This study aimed to explore various HCPs' perspectives on end-of-life patients' dignity by collecting different testimonies about what dignity entails and which strategies HCPs use to maintain patients' dignity. A sample of 104 participants was interviewed using two open questions to collect qualitative data. Content analysis was performed to identify the central themes among answers. Regarding the first question ("What comes to your mind when I say "Dignity" in relation to your patients?"), nine themes emerged. The majority sampled stated that dignity means respecting the patient by considering him/her as a person in his/her entirety. Two other themes frequently emerged: "Respect the patient's will/wishes/needs" and "Self-determination/Self-expression." Concerning the second question ("Which strategies do you use to maintain patients' dignity?"), seven themes emerged. The "Caring skills" theme was most frequently identified, followed by "Empathic skills" and "Professional strategies." This study has enabled a better understanding of HCPs' perspectives on end-of-life patients' dignity. Through the interviews, HCPs were given an opportunity to reflect on dignity, possibly helping them improve their understanding of their patients' conditions and promote higher quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bovero
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy.
| | - Chiara Tosi
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Rossana Botto
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Alexa Pidinchedda
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Gottardo
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Giacomo Asta
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Riccardo Torta
- Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, University of Turin, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Gonella S, Mitchell G, Bavelaar L, Conti A, Vanalli M, Basso I, Cornally N. Interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing homes: A mixed-methods systematic review. Palliat Med 2022; 36:268-291. [PMID: 34965759 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211066733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most people with dementia transition into nursing homes as their disease progresses. Their family caregivers often continue to be involved in their relative's care and experience high level of strain at the end of life. AIM To gather and synthesize information on interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing homes and provide a set of recommendations for practice. DESIGN Mixed-Methods Systematic Review (PROSPERO no. CRD42020217854) with convergent integrated approach. DATA SOURCES Five electronic databases were searched from inception in November 2020. Published qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method studies of interventions to support family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life in nursing home were included. No language or temporal limits were applied. RESULTS In all, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data synthesis resulted in three integrated findings: (i) healthcare professionals should engage family caregivers in ongoing dialog and provide adequate time and space for sensitive discussions; (ii) end-of-life discussions should be face-to-face and supported by written information whose timing of supply may vary according to family caregivers' preferences and the organizational policies and cultural context; and (iii) family caregivers should be provided structured psychoeducational programs tailored to their specific needs and/or regular family meetings about dementia care at the end of life. CONCLUSION The findings provide useful information on which interventions may benefit family caregivers of people with advanced dementia at the end of life and where, when, and how they should be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gonella
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Gary Mitchell
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Laura Bavelaar
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alessio Conti
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Mariangela Vanalli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Ines Basso
- School of Nursing, Azienda Ospedaliera "SS Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo," Alessandria, Italy
| | - Nicola Cornally
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Bulut MB. Turkish Version of the Interpretation of Death Scale: Cultural Adaptation and Validation. J Gerontol Soc Work 2022; 65:24-44. [PMID: 33896414 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2021.1920536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to adapt and validate the Interpretation of Death Scale (IOD) in the sociocultural context of Turkey. Three samples participated in this study (n1 = 280, n2 = 254 and n3 = 45 individuals). Principal component analysis with a promax rotation showed 14 items and three factors which explained 54.33% of the total variability. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated acceptable fits. Significant correlations were found between IOD and mortality awareness and meaning in life. The reliability coefficients were also found acceptable. It can be concluded that IOD is a promising instrument in assessing the interpretation of death scores in Turkey.
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Abstract
Approximately 33% of the 1.2 million older individuals residing in nursing homes have the capacity to discuss their preferences for end-of-life care, and 35% will die within their first year in the nursing home. These conversations necessary to promote care consistent with the resident's preferences are often limited and most often occur when the resident is actively dying. The purpose of this secondary analysis was to understand the resident's perspectives on end-of-life communication in the nursing home and suggest approaches to facilitate this communication. We interviewed 46 participants (16 residents, 10 family members, and 20 staff) in a Southeast Florida nursing home from January to May 2019. The data were analyzed using descriptive and pattern coding and matrices to decipher preliminary categories and thematic interpretation within and across each participant group. Two themes emerged from this secondary analysis that residents assume others know their end-of-life preferences, and past experiences may predict future end-of-life choices. Residents and family members were willing to discuss end-of-life care. Study findings also suggested that past experiences with the end-of-life and critical illness of another could impact residents' and family members' end-of-life care decisions, and that nurses' recognition of subtle signs of a resident's decline may trigger provider-initiated end-of-life conversations. Future research should focus on strategies to promote earlier end-of-life discussions to support independent decision-making about end-of-life care in this relatively dependent population of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth M Tappen
- 1782Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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Dabar G, Akl IB, Sader M. Physicians' approach to end of life care: comparison of two tertiary care university hospitals in Lebanon. BMC Med Educ 2021; 21:592. [PMID: 34823513 PMCID: PMC8620620 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-03022-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The care of terminally ill patients is fraught with ethical and medical dilemmas carried by healthcare professionals. The present study aims to explore the approaches of Lebanese attending physicians towards palliative care, end of life (EOL) care, and patient management in two tertiary care university hospitals with distinct medical culture. METHODS Four hundred attending physicians from the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) and Hotel Dieu de France (HDF) were recruited. Participants were Medical Doctors in direct contact with adult patients that could be subject to EOL situations providing relevant demographic, educational, religious as well as personal, medical or patient-centric data. RESULTS The majority of physicians in both establishments were previously exposed to life-limiting decisions but remains uncomfortable with the decision to stop or limit resuscitation. However, physicians with an American training (AUBMC) were significantly more likely to exhibit readiness to initiate and discuss DNR with patients (p<0.0001). While the paternalistic medicinal approach was prevalent in both groups, physicians with a European training (HDF) more often excluded patient involvement based on family preference (p<0.0001) or to spare them from a traumatic situation (p=0.003). The majority of respondents reported that previous directives from the patient were fundamental to life-limiting decisions. However, the influence of patient and medical factors (e.g. culture, religion, life expectancy, age, socioeconomic status) was evidenced in the HDF group. CONCLUSION Early physician-initiated EOL discussions remain challenged in Lebanon. Paternalistic attitudes limit shared decision making and are most evident in European-trained physicians. Establishing a sound and effective framework providing legal, ethical and religious guidance is thus needed in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Dabar
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Hotel Dieu de France Hospital, Saint Joseph University, Boulevard Alfred Naccache Achrafieh, PO Box 166830, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Imad Bou Akl
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mirella Sader
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Division, Hotel Dieu de France Hospital, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Karacsony S, Martyn J, Rosenberg J, Andrews S. Exploring the attitudes, beliefs, and values of the long-term care workforce towards palliative care: A qualitative evidence synthesis protocol. Progress in Palliative Care 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2021.2000807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Karacsony
- College of Health and Medicine , University of Tasmania, Lilyfield, Australia
| | - Julie Martyn
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - John Rosenberg
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sharon Andrews
- College of Health and Medicine , University of Tasmania, Lilyfield, Australia
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Muñoz Camargo JC, Hernández-Martínez A, Rodríguez-Almagro J, Parra-Fernández ML, Prado-Laguna MDC, Martín M. Perceptions of Patients and Their Families Regarding Limitation of Therapeutic Effort in the Intensive Care Unit. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4900. [PMID: 34768420 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to determine and describe the opinion and attitudes of patients and their families regarding the limitation of therapeutic effort and advanced directives in critical patients and whether end-of-life planning occurs. Religious affiliation, education level, and pre-admission quality of life were also evaluated to determine whether they may influence decisions regarding appropriate therapeutic effort. METHODS A prospective, observational and descriptive study, approved by the center's ethical committee, was carried out with 257 participants (94 patients and 163 family members) in the intensive care unit (ICU). A questionnaire regarding the opinions of patients and relatives about situations of therapeutic appropriateness in case of poor prognosis or poor quality of life was used. The questionnaire had three sections. In the first section, sociodemographic features were investigated. In the second section, information was collected on the quality of life and functional situation before ICU admission (taking as a reference the situation one month before admission) assessed by the Karnofsky scale, Barthel index, and the PAEEC scale (Project for the Epidemiological Analysis of Critical Care Patients). The third section aimed to determine whether the family knew the patient's opinion regarding his/her end of life. RESULTS Of those interviewed, 62.2% would agree to limit treatment in case of poor prognosis or poor quality of future life. In contrast, 37.7% considered that they should fight for life, even if it is irretrievable. Only 1.6% had advanced directives registered, 43.9% of the participants admitted deterioration in their quality of life before ICU admission, 18.2% with moderate-severe deterioration. Our study shows that the higher the educational level, the lower the desire to fight for life when it is irretrievable and the greater the agreement to limit treatment. Besides, those participants not affiliated with a religion were significantly less likely to fight for life, including when irretrievable, than Catholics and were more likely to agree to limit treatment. CONCLUSIONS More than half of the participants would agree to limit treatment in the case of a poor prognosis. Our results indicate that patients do not prepare for the dying process well in advance. Religion and educational level were determining factors for the choice of procedures at the end of life, both for patients and their families.
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Sævareid TJL, Pedersen R, Magelssen M. Positive attitudes to advance care planning - a Norwegian general population survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:762. [PMID: 34334131 PMCID: PMC8327435 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06773-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Authorities recommend advance care planning and public acceptance of it is a prerequisite for widespread implementation. Therefore, we did the first study of the Norwegian public with an aim of getting knowledge on their attitudes to issues related to advance care planning. Methods An electronic survey to a nationally representative web panel of Norwegian adults. Results From 1035 complete responses (response rate 40.7%), we found that more than nine out of ten of the general public wanted to participate in advance care planning, believed it to be useful for many, and wanted to make important healthcare decisions themselves. Almost nine out of ten wanted to be accompanied by next of kin during advance care planning. Most (69%) wanted health care personnel to initiate advance care planning and preferred it to be timed to serious illness with limited lifetime (68%). Only about 9% stated that health care personnel should have the final say in healthcare decisions in serious illness. Conclusions Developing and implementing advance care planning as a public health initiative seems warranted based on the results of this study. Patient perspectives should be promoted in decision-making processes. Nevertheless, training of health care personnel should emphasise voluntariness and an individual approach to initiating, timing and conducting advance care planning because of individual variations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reidar Pedersen
- Centre for Medical Ethics, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Frederik Holsts hus, 0450, Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Magelssen
- Centre for Medical Ethics, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Frederik Holsts hus, 0450, Oslo, Norway
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13
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Andersson S, Martinsson L, Fürst CJ, Brännström M. End-of-life discussions in residential care homes improves symptom control: a national register study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021:bmjspcare-2021-002983. [PMID: 34162583 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-002983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, residential care homes (RCHs) rather than hospitals are the most common care facilities for the older adult and the place where most deaths occur in this age group. There is a lack of knowledge regarding end-of-life (EOL) discussions and how they correlate with symptoms and symptom relief. OBJECTIVE The aim was to examine the correlation between EOL discussions and symptom occurrence, symptom relief and prescriptions or PRN drugs against symptoms for care home residents. METHODS All expected deaths at RCHs from 1 October 2015 to 31 December 2016 and registered in the Swedish Register of Palliative Care were included. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to compare the RCH residents, or their family members, who had received documented EOL discussions with a physician (the EOL discussion group) and the non-EOL discussion group. RESULTS The EOL discussion group (n=17 071) had a higher prevalence of pain, nausea, anxiety, death rattles and shortness of breath reported, compared with the non-EOL discussion group (n=4164). Those with symptoms were more often completely relieved and had more often been prescribed PRN drugs against that symptom in the EOL discussion group. All differences remained significant when adjusting for age, time living in unit and cause of death. CONCLUSION The results indicate that EOL discussions are correlated with higher prevalence of symptoms, but also with better symptom relief and prescription of symptom drugs PRN when symptomatic. A possible explanation for this is that the EOL discussion can work as an opportunity to discuss symptoms and treatment for symptom relief.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Martinsson
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Carl Johan Fürst
- The Institute for Palliative Care, Lund University and Skåne Regional Council, Lund, Sweden
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14
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Kripalani S, Gaughan JP, Cerceo E. The Role of Religion in Physician Outlook on Death, Dying, and End of Life Care. J Relig Health 2021; 60:2109-2124. [PMID: 33386571 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01126-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the many roles a physician provides to their patients is compassion and comfort, which includes tending to any psychological, spiritual, and religious needs the patient has. The goal of this pilot study was to explore whether religious or spiritual values of physicians at an urban academic hospital affect how physicians care for and communicate with their patients, especially when dealing with death, dying, and end-of-life matters. After surveying 111 inpatient physicians at an academic hospital, we found that 92% of physicians are extremely or somewhat comfortable having end-of-life discussions. We also found that physician religiosity and spirituality are not necessarily required for discussing death and dying and that the religious and spiritual values of the physician do not correlate with their ability to have end-of-life conversations with the patient. We found no difference between years in practice and comfort discussing religion and spirituality, though we did find that, of the physicians who believe they are comfortable talking to patients about religion or belief systems, most of them had more than five end-of-life patients in the past 12 months. Lastly, referrals to Palliative Care or pastoral services were not impacted by the physician's religious or spiritual beliefs. Future studies can explore how religious beliefs may more subtly influence physicians' interactions with patients, patient satisfaction, and physician well-being and resilience.
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Barra M. Nobody Wants to Talk About Dying: Facilitating End-of-Life Discussions. J Contin Educ Nurs 2021; 52:287-293. [PMID: 34048300 DOI: 10.3928/00220124-20210514-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This educational study investigated the association between nursing staff and end-of-life discussions in an assisted living facility. Although mandated, these conversations often are deficient due to health care providers' limited knowledge on advance care documents. METHOD All staff underwent end-of-life training to identify their own reservations that prevent involvement with advance directive completion, develop advance directive competency, recognize the ramifications when advance directives are not documented, and role-play to experience different character viewpoints. RESULTS The group discussions and interview data were summarized into four main themes: not qualified to broach the end-of-life documents; reluctance to get involved; right place, right time, and right words; and who wants to think about death? Eleven subthemes that detailed descriptions from each category also were identified. CONCLUSION Staff acknowledged the value of in-service education to alleviate their uncertainty on the subject matter, gaining confidence, proficiency, and perspectives with end-of-life planning. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2021;52(6):287-293.].
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Frechman E, Dietrich MS, Walden RL, Maxwell CA. Exploring the Uptake of Advance Care Planning in Older Adults: An Integrative Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1208-1222.e59. [PMID: 32645455 PMCID: PMC7342022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Advance care planning (ACP) is essential to elicit goals, values, and preferences of care in older adults with serious illness and on trajectories of frailty. An exploration of ACP uptake in older adults may identify barriers and facilitators. OBJECTIVE To conduct an integrative review of research on the uptake of ACP in older adults and create a conceptual model of the findings. METHODS Using Whittemore and Knafl's methodology, we systematically searched four electronic databases of ACP literature in older adults from 1996 through December 2019. Critical appraisal tools were used to assess study quality, and articles were categorized according to level of evidence. Statistical and thematic analysis was then undertaken. RESULTS Among 1081 studies, 78 met inclusion criteria. Statistical analysis evaluated ACP and variables within the domains of demographics, psychosocial, disability and functioning, and miscellaneous. Thematic analysis identified a central category of enhanced communication, followed by categories of 1) provider role and preparation; 2) patient/family relationship patterns; 3) standardized processes and structured approaches; 4) contextual influences; and 5) missed opportunities. A conceptual model depicted categories and relationships. CONCLUSIONS Enhanced communication and ACP facilitators improve uptake of ACP. Clinicians should be cognizant of these factors. This review provides a guide for clinicians who are considering implementation strategies to facilitate ACP in real-world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Frechman
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
| | - Mary S Dietrich
- Vanderbilt University Schools of Medicine and Nursing, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rachel Lane Walden
- Vanderbilt University Eskind Biomedical Library, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Cathy A Maxwell
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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de Voogd X, Willems DL, Onwuteaka-Philipsen B, Torensma M, Suurmond JL. Community Education for a Dignified Last Phase of Life for Migrants: A Community Engagement, Mixed Methods Study among Moroccan, Surinamese and Turkish Migrants. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17217797. [PMID: 33114464 PMCID: PMC7662901 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Community engagement and -education are proposed to foster equity in access to care and to ensure dignity of migrant patients in the last phase of life, but evidence is lacking. We evaluated nine community educational interactive meetings about palliative care (136 participants totally)- co-created with educators from our target groups of Moroccan, Surinamese and Turkish migrants—with a mixed methods approach, including 114 questionnaires, nine observations, nine interviews with educators, and 18 pre- and post- group- and individual interviews with participants. Descriptive and thematic analysis was used. 88% of the participants experienced the meetings as good or excellent. Educators bridged an initial resistance toward talking about this sensitive topic with vivid real-life situations. The added value of the educational meetings were: (1) increased knowledge and awareness about palliative care and its services (2) increased comprehensiveness of participant’s wishes and needs regarding dignity in the last phase; (3) sharing experiences for relief and becoming aware of real-life situations. Community engagement and -education about palliative care for migrants effectively increases knowledge about palliative care and is a first step towards improved access to palliative care services, capacity building and a dignified last phase of life among migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xanthe de Voogd
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Postbus 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.T.); (J.L.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-6136-34476
| | - Dick L. Willems
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC Expertise Center for Palliative Care and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Bregje Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Expertise Center for Palliative Care and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Marieke Torensma
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Postbus 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.T.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Jeanine L. Suurmond
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Postbus 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.T.); (J.L.S.)
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Scholz B, Goncharov L, Emmerich N, Lu VN, Chapman M, Clark SJ, Wilson T, Slade D, Mitchell I. Clinicians' accounts of communication with patients in end-of-life care contexts: A systematic review. Patient Educ Couns 2020; 103:1913-1921. [PMID: 32650998 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Communication between patients and end-of-life care providers requires sensitivity given the context and complexity involved. This systematic review uses a narrative approach to synthesise clinicians' understandings of communication in end-of-life care. METHODS A systematic, narrative synthesis approach was adopted given the heterogeneity across the 83 included studies. The review was registered prospectively on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42019125155). Medline was searched for all articles catalogued with the MeSH terms "palliative care," "terminal care" or "end-of-life care," and "communication". Articles were assessed for quality using a modified JQI-QARI tool. RESULTS The findings highlight the centrality and complexity of communication in end-of-life care. The challenges identified by clinicians in relation to such communication include the development of skills necessary, complexity of interpersonal interactions, and ways in which organisational factors impact upon communication. Clinicians are also aware of the need to develop strategies for interdisciplinary teams to improve communication. CONCLUSION Training needs for effective communication in end-of-life contexts are not currently being met. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinicians need more training to address the lack of skills to overcome interactional difficulties. Attention is also needed to address issues in the organisational contexts in which such communication occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Scholz
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Liza Goncharov
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Nathan Emmerich
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Vinh N Lu
- College of Business and Economics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Michael Chapman
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Canberra Health Service, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
| | - Shannon J Clark
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Tracey Wilson
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA
| | - Diana Slade
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Imogen Mitchell
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Canberra Health Service, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
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