MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:56:52 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5594134&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F11%2F2 This study is, to our knowledge, one of the most comprehensive evaluations of a region-based palliative care intervention program. This study has 3 unique aspects: 1) it measures a wide range of outcomes, including quality of care and quality of life measures specifically designed for palliative care populations, whether patients died where they actually preferred, the changes in physicians and nurses at a regional level; 2) adopts qualitative studies along with quantitative evaluations; and 3) the intervention is without a fundamental change in health care systems. A comprehensive understanding of the findings in this study will contribute to a deeper insight into how to develop community palliative care.Trial RegistrationUMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), Japan, UMIN000001274. (So... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5594134 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5594134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5569806&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F11%2F1 Conclusion: This was the first survey on professionals' views on OM in Africa. It showed that the APCA African POS was the most frequently OM used. Training and support are needed to help professionals utilise OM in palliative care, and OMs have an ongoing and important role in palliative care in Africa. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5569806 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5569806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5448050&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F21 We describe the design and rationale of a randomized, controlled trial to assess the efficacy of 10 weeks of web-based caregiver alerts and tailored advice for helping a patient manage symptoms related to chemotherapy. The study aims to test the primary hypothesis that patients whose caregivers receive alerts and tailored advice will report less frequent and less severe symptoms at 10 and 14 weeks when compared to patients in the control arm; similarly, they will report better physical function, fewer outpatient visits and hospitalizations related to symptoms, and greater adherence to chemotherapy. 300 patients with solid tumors undergoing chemotherapy at two Veteran Administration oncology clinics reporting any symptom at a severity of greater than or equal to 4 and a willing informal car... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5448050 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5448050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5448052&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F19 Conclusion: This study identifies medical students' limited confidence and knowledge base in palliative care in 2 German universities, and underlines the importance of providing a mandatory palliative care curriculum. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5448052 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5448052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5448051&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F20 Conclusions: The contribution of the PIRg supported a successful recruitment process that exceeded response rates of other studies in care homes. It safeguarded residents during the conduct of research on a sensitive topic and helped in validating the interview data gathered by the researchers through the discussion groups facilitated by the PIRg. There were power differentials that persisted and affected PIRg participation. The study has showed the value of developing job descriptions and a more formal means of setting out respective expectations. Future research may wish to elicit the views of focal participants in such studies about the mediation of research by public involvement in research. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5448051 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5448051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376752&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F18 Conclusions: Further work is required to establish how information may be adequately recorded, revised and transferred across services to ensure that patients' preferences in relation to end of life care and place of death are, as far as possible, achieved. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376752 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376753&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F17 Conclusions: Continuation of home care is influenced by patients' age, gender, will, and use of home-visit nursing. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376753 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376754&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F16 Conclusions: The inclusion of a pharmacist in a community palliative care team lead to an increase in the medication-related knowledge and skills of its members, improved patients' medication management, and minimised related errors. The model of care created can potentially be duplicated by other palliative care services, although its cost-effectiveness was unable to be accurately tested within the study. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376754 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5331505&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F15 Conclusion: Integrated palliative care is needed, that makes use of all appropriate therapeutic options, collaborative efforts from health, social care professionals, patients and caregivers, and therapies that acknowledge the dynamic interrelation of the body, mind and spirit. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5331505 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5331505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5246972&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F14 Background: Overuse of anti-cancer therapy is an important quality-of-care issue. An aggressive approach to treatment can have negative effects on quality of life and cost, but its effect on survival is not well-defined. Methods: Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare database, we identified 7,879 Medicare-enrolled patients aged 65 or older who died after having survived at least 3 months after diagnosis of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) between 1991 and 1999. We used Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, propensity scores, and instrumental variable analysis (IVA) to compare survival among patients who never received chemotherapy (n=4,345), those who received standard chemotherapy but not within two weeks prior to death (n=3,235), and those who ... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5246972 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5246972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117907&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F13 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117907 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4932952&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F11 This study will determine the effectiveness of an intervention that aims to respond to the urgent need for innovative programs to target depression in the palliative care setting. The expected outcome of this study is the validation of an evidence-based training program to improve staff recognition and appropriate referrals for depression, as well as improve psychosocial support for depressed patients and their family members.Trial Registration: ACTRN12610000183088 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4932952 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4932952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4871239&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F10 Conclusions: The range of expert ratings was broad, indicating discordance in the views of experts. Direct comparative data from randomised controlled trials are needed to strengthen the evidence-base and achieve clarity on how best to detect and treat depression in this setting. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4871239 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4871239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4828347&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F9 Conclusions: This study shows that the BDI in combination with a single item question eight weeks post loss may be used for clinical screening for risk of developing complicated grief after six months. The feasibility and clinical implications of the screening tool has to be tested in a clinical setting. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4828347 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4828347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4820081&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F8 Conclusions: Programmes were reported to be successful because they integrated symptom control with practical and emotional care, education, and spiritual care. Holistic palliative care can be delivered effectively in the face of poverty, but a public health approach is needed to ensure equitable provision. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4820081 Wed, 11 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4820081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4631153&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F7 Conclusions: The findings indicate the potential of the type of family meeting reported for use in the spiritual and psychosocial care of people receiving palliative care and their families. However further research is needed to explore its application to more culturally diverse groups and its longer term impact on family members. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4631153 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4631153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4565577&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F6 Conclusions: The data support or complement the findings from quantitative research. The review prompts a reconsideration of the assumption that in Africa the extended family care for the sick, and that people prefer home-based care. The review identifies areas relevant for a research agenda on socio-cultural issues at the EoL in sub-Saharan Africa. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4565577 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4565577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4544569&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F3 Conclusions: Dying at home was more likely when both the patient and the family had expressed such preferences, than when the patient alone or the family alone had done so, in both cancer and non-cancer patients. Health care professionals should try to elicit the patient's and family's preferences on where they would wish to die, following which they should then take appropriate measures to achieve this outcome. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4544569 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4544569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4544568&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F4 Discussion time, which was conducted by the head carer of the department, concerned the clinical situation of the patient based on the shared responses.DiscussionDuring team meetings, the "card sorting" method was quickly adopted by professionals as a tool to assist with discussion beyond the context of the study. The participants were not compelled to mention their feelings in relation to a case, and it is significant that the anonymity which we tried to maintain so that each person felt "listened to" without value judgement was very often discarded by the individuals themselves. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4544568 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4544568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4535733&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F2 Conclusions: This analysis presents a first national estimate of the palliative inpatient population. Our results confirm that hospitals play a major role at the end-of-life, with one out of ten inpatients identified as a "palliative" patient. These data also demonstrate the complexity of the palliative population and the substantial diversity of care that they can require. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4535733 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4535733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4405234&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F10%2F1 Conclusion: Patients' perceptions of end-of-life needs are multidimensional, often ambiguous and uncertain. Mixed methodology appears to hold considerable promise for unpacking both the occurrence and prevalence of cognitive structures represented by verbal encoding that constitute patients' narratives. Communication is a key currency for delivering optimal palliative care. Therefore understanding the domains of needs that emerge from patient-based vocabularies indicate potential for: (1) developing more comprehensive clinical-patient needs assessment tools; (2) improved patient-clinician communication; and (3) moving toward a theoretical model of human needs that can emerge at the end of life. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4405234 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4405234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4158717&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F23 Conclusions: Although the basic knowledge of physicians was adequate, there seemed to be a lack of knowledge in several areas, which can be a barrier for good pain management at the end of life. From this study four areas emerge, in which it seems likely that an improvement can improve the quality of pain management at the end of life for many patients in the Netherlands: 1)palliative sedation; 2)expected effect of opioids on survival; and 3) opioid rotation. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4158717 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4158717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4081616&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F22 Conclusions: Symptom burden and low functional status did not restrain patients from participation in the study. Finding a control for a visible intervention is challenging and needs careful consideration to what is acceptable to patients. The preliminary evidence of effectiveness of the HHF could not be proved. Patients often stopped using the HHF but a small group seemed to benefit which was not necessarily related to a relief in breathlessness. Therefore, more work is necessary on selecting and identifying those who might benefit from the HHF.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01123902 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4081616 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4081616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3993071&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F21 Conclusion: Based on patients' and professionals' reaction to the DT Question Protocol, and based on the preliminary proportion of participants accepting DT, the DT question protocol - with minor adaptations - appears to be a manageable, acceptable and relevant intervention for Danish patients admitted to palliative care. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3993071 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3993071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3965120&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F20 Conclusions: The EAPC framework would have benefited from taking a clearer stand on some ethically controversial issues regarding intolerable suffering and refractory symptoms and regarding the relation between continuous deep palliative sedation at the end of life and euthanasia. In this text, we identify and discuss these issues in the hope that an ensuing discussion will clarify the EAPC's standpoint. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3965120 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3965120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3953536&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F19 Conclusions: Patients and their families with a Turkish or Moroccan background often have different ideas about 'good care' from their Dutch care providers. As many of them are aiming at cure until the end of life, they find 'good palliative care' a contradiction in terms. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3953536 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3953536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3861653&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F18 Conclusion: Out-of-hours services need to be mindful of the needs of the GPs they employ, in particular relating to the palliative care they provide in this setting. Other healthcare professionals should aim to keep their local out-of-hours service informed about palliative care patients they may be called to see. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3861653 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3861653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3805589&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F16 Conclusions: Satisfaction with professional home care was relatively high, but physicians were rated less favourable than nurses. There were deficits especially with respect to physicians' communicative and supportive skills. Further analyses are necessary to provide more detailed information about quality of care in different care settings and for distinct groups. Predictors of good care, as well as obstacles to it, must be further investigated. In the long run, a follow-up survey must be conducted to compare quality of home care before and after the structural changes in Germany. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3805589 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3805589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3686835&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F15 Conclusions: False beliefs about the use of morphine exist among the studied groups. There seems to be a need for developing information campaigns on pain management and the use of morphine targeting. Better training and more information of HP might also be needed. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3686835 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3686835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3676104&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F14 Conclusions: Dose escalation is uncommon in subjects with intermittent exposure to opioids.For subjects with continuous exposure to opioids who have cancer, doses rise substantially with time. For those without cancer, doses remain relatively stable for the first 2 years of use, but subsequently increase. Seven percent of subjects with no cancer diagnosis will be exposed to daily doses of 180 mg or more of morphine equivalent at some point. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3676104 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3676104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662333&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F13 Conclusion: Basic knowledge of palliative care is important in promoting physicians' positive attitudes toward collaboration with hospital-based PCTs. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662333 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3662333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3640582&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F12 Background: Models of palliative care delivery develop within a social, cultural, and political context. This paper describes the 30-year history of the National Tumor Association (ANT), a palliative care organization founded in the Italian province of Bologna, focusing on this model of home care for palliative cancer patients and on its evaluation. Methods: Data were collected from the 1986-2008 ANT archives and documents from the Emilia-Romagna Region Health Department, Italy. Outcomes of interest were changed in: number of patients served, performance status at admission (Karnofsky Performance Status score [KPS]), length of participation in the program (days of care provided), place of death (home vs. hospital/hospice), and satisfaction with care. Statistical methods included linear and... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3640582 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3640582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629212&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F11 Conclusions: Altogether, the high commitment to this survey reflects the relevance of the issue for paediatricians working in general practice. Education in basic palliative care competence and communication skills was seen as an important prerequisite for the engagement in paediatric palliative home care. A local network of specialist support on site and a 24/7 on-call service are necessary in order to facilitate the implementation of basic palliative care by paediatricians in their own practice. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629212 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3629212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3621263&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F10 Conclusions: Predominant barriers were seen in the lack of clear legal and financial regulations which take into account the specific challenges of palliative care in children and adolescents, as well as in a shortcoming of specialist services for a local based care provision throughout the federal country. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3621263 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3621263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3617532&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F9 Conclusion: Home is generally considered the preferred place of death but haematology patients usually die in hospital. This has implications for patients who may not be dying where they wish, and also health commissioners who may be funding costly end-of-life care in inappropriate acute hospital settings. More research is needed about preferred place of care for haematology patients, reasons for hospital deaths, and how these can be avoided if home death is preferred. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3617532 Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3617532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3548997&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F8 Conclusions: Realizing palliative patients' needs for complex packages of treatment and social support, in a seamless, cost-effective manner, are major drivers of the impetus for network-integrated care. The framework proposed is a first step to guide evaluation to inform the development of appropriate strategies to further promote collaboration within the PCN and, ultimately, optimal palliative care that meets patients' needs and expectations. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3548997 Sun, 09 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3548997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3515078&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F7 CONCLUSION: The willingness to participate in the telephone interview was high and indicates a strong interest in the subject. Also, exposure to the study appeared to increase willingness to participate, since many men who initially could see obstacles to participation, actually participated in the epidemiological questionnaire survey. However, approximately one third of the men who initially identified obstacles to participation remained negative toward participation throughout the study period. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3515078 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3515078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3507846&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F5 Conclusion: The emerging theory provides a foundation for future research. Significant transitions identified in this study may serve as a focus for improving delivery of palliative and end of life care in rural areas. Improved understanding of the transitions experienced by advanced cancer palliative care patients and their families, as well as the psychological processes involved in adapting to the transitions, will help health care providers address the unique needs of this vulnerable population. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3507846 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3507846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3407911&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F3 DiscussionData Collection began January 2009 and is expected to be completed within 2 years time. Monthly meetings with data collectors and site collaborators have been instrumental in revisions to the original study protocol such as identifying and adding additional study sites.Trial Registration; Clinical Trials.Gov. NCT01081301 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3407911 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3407911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3163494&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F9%2F2 DiscussionThe study will determine whether the routine, systematic and regular use of the Guidelines and NAT: PD-C in a range of clinical settings is a feasible and effective strategy for facilitating the timely provision of needs based care.Trials registration: ISRCTN21699701 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3163494 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3163494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3128906&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F20 Conclusions: Most Flemish acute hospitals have developed a policy on end-of-life practices. However, communication, training and the education of health care providers about these policies is not always provided, and quality assessment tools are used in less than half of the hospitals. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3128906 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3128906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110878&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F19 Conclusions: Although most GPs reported that they transferred information about their terminally ill patients to the GP co-operative, the content of this information varies considerably. Only 21% of the GPs, working out of hours as a locum, were satisfied with the quality of the information transferred. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110878 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084531&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F18 Conclusions: Our study indicates that dying at home is positively associated with a higher likelihood that the bereaved relative will evaluate the palliative pathway at home as successful. The absence of any significance of involvement of CNs may be ascribed to the variables for involvement chosen in the study. More research is needed on CNs' impact on palliative pathways. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084531 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3084531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036900&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F17 Conclusions: GPs frequently fail to transfer information about their palliative care patients to the GP co-operatives. Locums working at the GP co-operative are thus required to provide palliative care in complex situations without receiving adequate informationGPs should be encouraged and trained to make this information available to the GP co-operatives. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036900 Sat, 28 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3036900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2958549&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F16 Conclusions: The SOS-V is an instrument for measuring the unbearability of suffering in end-stage cancer patients with good content validity and psychometric properties, which is feasible to be used in practice. This structured instrument makes it possible to identify and study unbearable suffering in a quantitative and patient-oriented way. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2958549 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2958549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796152&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F14 Conclusions: The results of this extension study suggest that long-term repeated dosing with once-daily OROS(R) hydromorphone can be beneficial in the continuing management of persistent, moderate-to-severe cancer pain. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796152 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2796152 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796153&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F13 Conclusions: While some of the identified gaps can only be met by long term funding and policy change, educational tools for use in training programs in PC for health professionals, which focus on the utilisation of EPC Medicare items in palliative care planning, the development of advance care plans and good communication between members of multidisciplinary teams, which include the GP, may enhance after hours service provision for patients receiving palliative care at home. The role of locums in after PC is an area for further research (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796153 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2796153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2778091&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F12 Conclusions: It appears that there is level III evidence showing BKP is a well-tolerated, relatively safe and effective technique that provides early pain relief and improved functional outcomes in patients with painful neoplastic spinal fractures. BKP also provided long-term benefits in terms of pain and disability. However, the methodological quality of the original studies prevents definitive conclusions being drawn. Further investigation into the use of BKP for spinal fractures in cancer patients is warranted. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2778091 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2778091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2625589&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F10 Conclusions: The reason why potentially meaningful improvement measures are considered to be not very feasible in Germany may be the existence of barriers resulting from the high degree of fragmentation of health care provision and responsibilities. In overcoming these barriers and further improving palliative care it may be helpful that the basic understanding of the palliative care approach seems to be quite homogenous among the different groups. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2625589 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2625589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2579961&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F9 Conclusions: This study adds to the evidence that fast-track randomised controlled trials are feasible and acceptable in evaluations of palliative care interventions for patients with non-malignant conditions. Reasonable response rates and low attrition rates were achieved. Further, with adequate preparation of the research and randomisation teams, clinicians, and responders, and effective liaison with the clinicians, single-blinding proved possible. Methods were identified to reduce unblinding through careful attention to the type of data collected at unblinded measurement points; the content of interviews should be carefully considered when designing blinded-trial protocols.Trial registration:Clinical Trials.gov NCT00711438 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2579961 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2579961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2552695&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F8 Conclusions: CHF patients with ejection fraction [greater than or equal to]45% also require palliative care. Our conservative criteria suggest a point prevalence of 2.7% of patients having both ejection fraction [less than or equal to]45% and palliative care needs, although this may be a conservative estimate. We present evidence-based referral criteria from the larger multi methods study. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2552695 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2552695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506208&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F7 Conclusions: General practitioners are the central health professionals in the delivery of palliative care for older people. They should however be encouraged to involve specialized services such as palliative care teams where necessary. With the German health care reform of 2007, a legal framework has been created that allows for this. As far as its realization is concerned, it must be ensured that the spotlight remains on the needs of the patients and not on policy conflicts and rivalries between health care professionals. Older people might particularly benefit if "talking" medicine and time-consuming care were properly catered for, financially and organizationally, in the health care system. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506208 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506209&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F6 DiscussionOur findings suggest that an absence of discussion about end of life care wishes with family members or health professionals is a barrier to advance care planning. Carers' perceptions about prioritising making the dying person comfortable can be in conflict with doctors' decisions to treat. Whilst carers report a range of strategies adopted in response to bereavement there is a need for continued support for vulnerable carers after the death of the person with HF. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506209 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506209 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2423246&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F5 DiscussionDignity Therapy is brief, can be delivered at the bedside and may help both patients and their families. This detailed exploratory research shows if it is feasible to offer Dignity Therapy to patients with advanced cancer, many of whom are likely to be in the terminal stage of their illness, whether it is acceptable to them and their families, if it is likely to be effective, and determine whether a Phase III RCT is desirable. Trial registration: Current Controlled Clinical Trials: ISRCTN29868352 (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2423246 Sat, 16 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2423246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2144267&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F8%2F1 Conclusion: The profile of patients with access to palliative care must become more diversified. Among other recommendations, equal access to opiates in nursing homes and in home health services, palliative care at an earlier stage and the systematic use of symptom management scales when resorting to opiates have to become of prime concern. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2144267 Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2144267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1996060&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F18 Conclusion: A large number of GPs were happy with the service provision of the palliative care services in this area. They suggested that 3 out of 4 terminally ill patients needed specialist input. Views of services were largely positive, and reasons for non referral were unrelated to previous experience of the specialist services. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1996060 Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1996060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1847582&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F16 Conclusion: More than one third of the patients in a Department of Internal Medicine were defined as palliative, and the majority of the patients in this palliative group reported severe symptoms. There is a need for skills in symptom control on medical wards. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1847582 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1847582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1824361&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F15 Conclusion: The results from this study identified important issues whenever spouses take an active part in medical treatment and physical care of critically ill patients in palliative care. The results question the previous research that active involvement of family care givers could be harmful and add preconditions to a positive outcome. More research into these preconditions is needed. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1824361 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1824361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1716849&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F13 Conclusions: Cochrane reviews in palliative care are well performed, but fail to provide good evidence for clinical practice because the primary studies are few in number, small, clinically heterogeneous, and of poor quality and external validity. They are useful in highlighting the weakness of the evidence base and problems in performing trials in palliative care. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1716849 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1716849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1695775&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F11 Conclusions: Emergency calls were more likely to occur if the patients were not being attended by our palliative care team. Because of the lack of correlation between MCS-12 and the number of emergency calls, the MCS-12 cannot indicate that acutely stressful situations triggered the calls. However, we conclude that special palliative care programs can reduce psychosocial strain in family caregivers. Therefore, the number of emergency calls may be reduced and this fact allows more palliative patients to die at home. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1695775 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1695775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1679189&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F10 Conclusions: The results of the reliability study demonstrated that PPS is a reliable tool. The validity study found that most experts did not feel a need to further modify PPS and, only two experts requested that some performance status measures be defined more clearly. Areas of PPS use include prognostication, disease monitoring, care planning, hospital resource allocation, clinical teaching and research. PPS is also a good communication tool between palliative care workers. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1679189 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1679189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1554329&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F4 This study aims to determine whether the quality of clinicians' decision support can be improved with a brief, theory-based, skills-building intervention.TheoryThe Ottawa Decision Support Framework (ODSF) guides an evidence based, practical approach to assist clinicians in providing high-quality decision support. The ODSF proposes that decisional needs [personal uncertainty, knowledge, values clarity, support, personal characteristics] strongly influence the quality of decisions patients make. Clinicians can improve decision quality by providing decision support to address decisional needs [clarify decisional needs, provide facts and probabilities, clarify values, support/guide deliberation, monitor/facilitate progress].Methods/DesignThe efficacy of a brief education intervention will be a... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1554329 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1554329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1409447&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F4 This study aims to determine whether the quality of clinicians' decision support can be improved with a brief, theory-based, skills-building intervention. Theory: The Ottawa Decision Support Framework (ODSF) guides an evidence based, practical approach to assist clinicians in providing quality decision support. The ODSF proposes that decisional needs [uncertainty, knowledge, values clarity, support, personal characteristics] strongly influence the quality of decisions patients make. Clinicians can improve the quality of those decisions by providing decision support to address decisional needs [clarify decisional needs, provide facts, probabilities, clarify values, support/guide deliberation, monitor/facilitate progress]. Methods: The efficacy of a brief education intervention will be ass... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1409447 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1409447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1363592&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F3 Conclusions: For patients with non-small cell lung cancer or mesothelioma, the Cybex NORM dynamometer provides an acceptable and reliable method of assessing muscle strength and work done. Muscle function appears to be relatively well preserved in this group and it appears feasible to explore interventions which aim to maintain or even improve this. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1363592 Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1363592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1264973&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F2 Conclusion: To optimize the care of patients who wish to be informed and aware during their disease, it is important that the health care staff recognizes potential obstacles to the awareness of patients in order to minimize such obstacles. The physicians could improve their communication with patients with life-threatening diseases, and avoid having a narrow focus on the treatment calendar. The patients could be encouraged to have a more proactive attitude in their communication with their physician. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1264973 Thu, 28 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1264973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1153732&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F7%2F1 Conclusion: Relatives experience insufficient palliative care mainly due to organizational and cultural problems among professionals. Palliative care in primary care in general needs improvement and attention should be drawn to the "professionalization" of the relatives and the need to strike a balance between their needs, wishes and resources in end-of-life care and bereavement. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1153732 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1153732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1014749&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F6%2F7 Conclusions: Several important themes underlie the experiences of brain cancer patients and their caregivers. It is important to consider these when managing these patients and to respect not only their autonomy but also the complex interpersonal toll that a malignant diagnosis can have. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1014749 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1014749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=644315&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F6%2F5 DiscussionAlthough participating physicians value the increase in knowledge they receive from PAMINO, the effects on patients remain unclear. If the evaluation reveals a clear benefit for patients' quality of life, a larger-scale implementation of the program is considered. Trial registration The study was registered at 'current controlled trials (CCT)', registration number: ISRCTN78021852. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=644315 Tue, 29 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 644315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=528899&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F6%2F3 Conclusion: The best estimate is that one person in 35 with an epidural catheter in place for 74 days for relief of cancer pain can be expected to have a deep epidural infection, and that about 1 in 500 may die of infection-related causes. This is a most uncertain estimate given the limited nature of the evidence. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=528899 Wed, 04 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100 528899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470177&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F6%2F2 Conclusion: We observed similar scores in the original BPI interference scores (pain influence on function) compared with the revised BPI interference scores (decreased function in general). This finding might imply that the BPI interference scale measures are partly responded to as more of a global interference measure. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470177 Fri, 09 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100 470177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=404108&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F6%2F1 Conclusion: To several patients there was an unmet need for information about the progressing disease and the approaching death. To optimize the care of these patients it seems important that the physician is aware of patients' need for information even when the news is bad. Knowing the patient's information strategy could probably function as a key for the physician to communicate with patients on these matters. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=404108 Wed, 24 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0100 404108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347924&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F5%2F7 We report here a novel protocol for the evaluation of a new palliative care service in this context.Methods/DesignUsing the MRC Framework for the Evaluation of Complex Interventions we modelled a new palliative care and neurology service for patients severely affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We conducted qualitative interviews with patients, families and staff, plus a literature review to model and pilot the service. Then we designed a delayed intervention randomised controlled trial to test its effectiveness as part of phase II of the MRC framework. Inclusion criteria for the trial were patients identified by referring clinicians as having unresolved symptoms or psychological concerns. Referrers were advised to use a score of greater than 8 on the Expanded Disability Scale was a bench... BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347924 Mon, 02 Oct 2006 06:00:00 +0100 347924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347925&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F5%2F4 Conclusion: Our data suggest there is some variation in the number of transitions associated with the demographics and diagnoses of patients. Associations with gender and age require further exploration as does the contribution of caregiver supports and symptom issues. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347925 Tue, 30 May 2006 06:00:00 +0100 347925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347926&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F5%2F3 Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that the selected measures can usefully be incorporated into population-based surveys and evaluation tools needed to monitor palliative care and used in settings with high HIV/AIDS prevalence. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347926 Mon, 20 Mar 2006 07:00:00 +0100 347926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347927&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F5%2F2 Conclusion: The pattern of the place of death has not only been determined by social and demographic characteristics of the decedent, but also associated with the medical service in the community. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347927 Thu, 09 Mar 2006 07:00:00 +0100 347927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347928&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F5%2F1 Conclusion: Symptoms which are alleviated by simple treatments are common. The patients in whom symptoms recur need a responsive home based care service. Population based estimates of incidence and duration of disease and the visit work load allow an assessment of home based care needs in an urban setting in Africa. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347928 Fri, 10 Feb 2006 07:00:00 +0100 347928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347929&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F4%2F7 Conclusion: The AKPS is a useful modification of the KPS that is more appropriate for clinical settings that include multiple venues of care such as palliative care. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347929 Sat, 12 Nov 2005 07:00:00 +0100 347929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347930&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F4%2F6 Conclusion: The finding of rising proportions of cancer deaths in institutions with increasing age suggests a need to ensure that appropriate high quality care is available to this growing section of the population. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347930 Sat, 08 Oct 2005 06:00:00 +0100 347930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=347931&cid=s_34042_78_f&fid=34042&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1472-684X%2F4%2F5 Conclusion: The acupuncture technique used in this trial is unlikely to have effects on dyspnea importantly larger than placebo for patients with advanced cancer. (Source: BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles) BMC Palliative Care - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=347931 Thu, 18 Aug 2005 06:00:00 +0100 347931