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 'Palliative and Supportive Care' source. Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:19:58 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438064&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104409%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 22104409 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438064 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:50:14 +0100 5438064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438063&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104410%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Boettger S, Breitbart W Abstract Objective:The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of aripiprazole in the treatment of delirium in hospitalized cancer patients, and to examine differential responses based on delirium subtypes.Method:We conducted an analysis of 21 hospitalized cancer patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) who had been evaluated and treated for delirium with aripiprazole, using an MSKCC Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved Clinical Delirium Database. Measures used were the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS), the Karnofsky Scale of Performance Status (KPS), and side effect rating at baseline (T1), 2-3 days (T2), and 4-7 days (T3). All measurements were integrated into the routine clinical care of patien... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438063 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:50:04 +0100 5438063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438062&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104411%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bialer PA, Kissane D, Brown R, Levin T, Bylund C Abstract Objective:The purpose of this study was to develop a communication skills training (CST) module for oncology healthcare professionals on how to more effectively respond to patient anger. We also sought to evaluate the module in terms of participant self-efficacy and satisfaction.Method:The development of this module was based on a systematic review of the literature and followed the Comskil model previously used for other doctor-patient CST. Using an anonymous 5-point Likert scale, participants rated their pre-post self-efficacy in responding to patient anger as well as their satisfaction with the course. Data were analyzed using a paired sample t test.Results:During the academic years 2006-2009, 275 oncology health... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438062 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:53 +0100 5438062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438061&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104412%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to develop a clinically relevant tool to assess parental engagement in decision making and planning for seriously ill children during palliative care consultations. Although little is known about the structure and process of planning meetings between parents and providers, less is known about the nature of parental engagement as it relates to decision making ability in pediatric end-of-life care. Using attachment and caregiving as a framework, this study clarified important dimensions of parental engagement.Method:Using a multi-phase, template-matching technique, both literature and pediatric palliative care consultation data were analyzed, iteratively reviewed, matched, and categorized to create a measure of parental engagement. The attachment paradigm serv... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438061 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:43 +0100 5438061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438060&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104413%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines the views and opinions of staff from a larger study exploring the palliative and end-of-life care needs of patients with progressive long-term neurological conditions (PLTNC).Method:Eighty staff, in a range of professions from three types of care services provided to people with PLTNC in England, took part in 14 focus groups and 3 individual interviews. Sites included six long-term residential neurological care centers, an inpatient service at an urban hospice, and a multi-disciplinary outpatient service for people with Huntington's disease.Results:Findings show a concordance between the views of staff from across the three types of participating services. Staff placed particular emphasis on teamwork, support from community-based resources, and developing rapport with... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438060 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:32 +0100 5438060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438058&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104414%26dopt%3DAbstract This study evaluates the impact of a 10-bed inpatient palliative care unit (PCU) on medical intensive care unit (MICU) mortality and length of stay (LOS) for terminally ill patients following the opening of an inpatient PCU. We hypothesized that MICU mortality and LOS would be reduced through the creation of a more appropriate location of care for critically ill MICU patients who were dying.Method: We performed a retrospective electronic database review of all MICU discharges from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2009 (5,035 cases). Data collected included MICU mortality, MICU LOS, and mean age. The PCU opened on January 1, 2008. We compared location of death for MICU patients during the 2-year period before and the 2-year period after the opening of the PCU.Results: Our data showed th... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438058 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:21 +0100 5438058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438057&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104415%26dopt%3DAbstract This study compared the prevalence of anxiety and depression as measured on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) in palliative care patients being treated at home with those being treated as inpatients.Method:The participants were palliative care patients being treated at home (n = 46) and palliative care inpatients (n = 46). Subjects were assessed for functionality on the Karnofsky Performance Status Scale (KPS) and anxiety and depression were measured on the HADS.Results:The results showed that ~20% of all patients were depressed and anxious as measured on the HADS, regardless of the cutoff criteria. There was no significant difference in depression and anxiety between the two groups when socioeconomic status and functionality were controlled for. Functionality, as measur... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438057 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:11 +0100 5438057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438056&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104416%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lustbader D, Pekmezaris R, Frankenthaler M, Walia R, Smith F, Hussain E, Napolitano B, Lesser M Abstract Objective:The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a palliative medicine consultation on medical intensive care unit (MICU) and hospital length of stay, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) designation, and location of death for MICU patients who died during hospitalization.Method:A comparison of two retrospective cohorts in a 17-bed MICU in a tertiary care university-affiliated hospital was conducted. Patients admitted to the MICU between January 1, 2003 and June 30, 2004 (N = 515) were compared to MICU patients who had had a palliative medicine consultation between January 1, 2005 and June 1, 2009 (N = 693). To control for disease severity, only patients in both ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438056 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:49:01 +0100 5438056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438055&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104417%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the literature concerning how PTSD may affect the end of life and proposes an intervention model based on a palliative care philosophy. PMID: 22104417 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438055 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:48:51 +0100 5438055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438054&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104418%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mundle RG Abstract In this article I analyze two brief case studies to propose that a "spiritual strength story" has five defining characteristics: (1) it is brief; (2) it is ontological; (3) it uses symbols and metaphors; (4) it is a "big story" or meta-narrative with a positive spiritual and/or religious focus that informs other narrative data; and (5) most conspicuously of all, it repeats. Cultivating awareness of the "spiritual strength" narrative type can help to improve the quality of inter-professional patient-centered care teamwork and understanding, especially in regard to the reflexive, embodied, and relational aspects of palliative and end-of-life care. PMID: 22104418 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438054 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:48:41 +0100 5438054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438053&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104419%26dopt%3DAbstract "Doctor, what did I do to deserve this?". Palliat Support Care. 2011 Dec;9(4):425-7 Authors: Ramondetta L, Zaid TM, Wallace AM PMID: 22104419 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438053 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:48:31 +0100 5438053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438052&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104420%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Smith B PMID: 22104420 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438052 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:48:21 +0100 5438052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438051&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22104421%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Floriani CA PMID: 22104421 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438051 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:48:11 +0100 5438051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140546&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838944%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rich BA PMID: 21838944 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140546 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:25 +0100 5140546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140545&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838945%26dopt%3DAbstract The "La Caixa" Foundation and WHO Collaborating Center Spanish National Program for enhancing psychosocial and spiritual palliative care for patients with advanced diseases, and their families: Preliminary findings. Palliat Support Care. 2011 Sep;9(3):239-49 Authors: Gómez-Batiste X, Buisan M, González MP, Velasco D, de Pascual V, Espinosa J, Novellas A, Martínez-Muñoz M, Simón M, Calle C, Lanaspa J, Breitbart W Abstract Objective:The psycho-social needs of patients with advanced chronic illness and their families include emotional, spiritual, and bereavement care. With a funding initiative by the La Caixa Foundation and design by the WHO Collaborating Center, we developed and implemented a program for the comprehensive care of terminally-ill individuals and their fami... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140545 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:21 +0100 5140545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140544&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838946%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Milberg A, Strang P Abstract Objective:Resilience in relation to coping with stress, loss, and bereavement has recently received increased attention. The aim of the current study was to describe aspects that are experienced as a protection against powerlessness and/or helplessness during advanced palliative home care (APHC) or as a help when coping with such perceptions.Method:Both family members during ongoing APHC and family members 3-9 months after the patient's death responded (in total, N = 233; response rate 72%) to a postal questionnaire with mainly open-ended questions. The text responses were analyzed using Manifest Content Analysis.Results:Protection against powerlessness and helplessness had been facilitated by a stable patient condition, the patient coping we... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140544 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:17 +0100 5140544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140543&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838947%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Henriksson A, Benzein E, Ternestedt BM, Andershed B Abstract Objective:The aim of the study was to describe family members' experiences of content, structure, and approach of a potential intervention including a support group program for family members of persons with life-threatening illness.Method:The study was a pilot project in a developmental phase in which a potential intervention, a support group program, was investigated. The design of the study was qualitative descriptive. Twenty-nine family members were interviewed by telephone after taking part in the program. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.Results:The results indicate that the support group program could work as an acceptable and useful intervention for family members. The progr... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140543 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:13 +0100 5140543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140542&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838948%26dopt%3DAbstract This study assessed whether home visits by clergy or laity provide benefits to seriously ill patients who may have difficulty attending religious services.Method:A cross-sectional study design nested in an observational epidemiologic cohort study was used. The regionally representative sample of patients had metastatic lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer (n = 70); Class III and IV congestive heart failure (n = 70); or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with hypercapnea (n = 70) and were observed regarding clergy-laity support in their natural environments. Dependent variable: 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale. Independent variable: A one-item question measuring how much helpful support patients received from clergy or other persons from church, ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140542 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:09 +0100 5140542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140541&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838949%26dopt%3DAbstract This study also highlights the need for continued research in this area as there appears to be a lack of evidence on the meaning of hope for healthcare professionals, and, in particular, understanding hope in the context of palliative and end-of-life care delivery. PMID: 21838949 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140541 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:05 +0100 5140541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140540&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838950%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wallerstedt B, Benzein E, Andershed B Abstract Objective:To describe enrolled nurses' (ENs') experiences of working in a sitting service for dying patients at home (SSH).Method:The ENs who participated in this study had permanent jobs in community care/ primary care, but were also employed part time in a special home-sitting service organization in a municipality in the south of Sweden. Data were collected by four focus group interviews with 17 enrolled nurses. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data.Results:Care-giving in SSH was a balancing act between a sense of security and a feeling of vulnerability. Feeling secure and valued and that one is developing both professionally and personally, stemmed from working in partnership, whereas a feeling of vulne... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140540 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:23:01 +0100 5140540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140539&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838951%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews current literature and examines three unique case studies. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using content analysis, a qualitative analytic approach for reporting combined subject responses.Results:Participants included one 37-year-old man with multiple polyps in his stomach and a family history of stomach cancer, one 18 year-old man with a confirmed CDH1 mutation and a family history of stomach cancer, and one 33-year-old man with confirmed metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma. Subjective patient experience was categorized into: (1) making the decision, (2) treatment impact, and (3) life after TG. Prior to surgery, all patients carefully evaluated their perceived risk compared to the treatment consequences and indicated that a certain event triggered their decisio... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140539 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:53 +0100 5140539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140538&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838952%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions/significance of research:As a direct consequence of assuming the caregiver role, cancer family caregivers in the palliative, hospice, and bereavement phases are at increased risk for physical and mental morbidity. Often, the psychological burden of the caregiver exceeds that of the critically ill patient. It is possible that distressed caregivers have a deleterious influence on patient well-being. This review demonstrates the need to develop research standards, especially regarding measurement instruments, so that caregiver research can mature and interventions can be developed to support family caregivers. PMID: 21838952 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140538 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:48 +0100 5140538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140537&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838953%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Railsback L Abstract Control of symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, is central to palliative care. Self-induced vomiting in a middle-aged male patient with a life-limiting abdominal malignancy provided a challenge in diagnosis and management. This case report discusses diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. PMID: 21838953 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140537 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:40 +0100 5140537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140536&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838954%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 21838954 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140536 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:33 +0100 5140536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140535&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838955%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rousseau P PMID: 21838955 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140535 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:24 +0100 5140535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140534&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21838956%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jaffe BS PMID: 21838956 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140534 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:22:07 +0100 5140534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575887&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352612%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Borasio GD PMID: 21352612 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575887 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575886&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352613%26dopt%3DAbstract This study provides new evidence on its acceptability and effectiveness for patients with advanced cancer. PMID: 21352613 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575886 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575885&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352614%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Merluzzi TV, Philip EJ, Vachon DO, Heitzmann CA Objective:Little attention has been given to assessing the importance of self-care and communication in the caregiving setting, especially caregiving for those who are terminally ill. The Caregiver Inventory (CGI), a measure of self-efficacy for caregiving that includes these two dimensions, was subjected to psychometric analyses.Method:One hundred and thirty-three primary caregivers completed the CGI; of those, 81 also completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI), and a measure of caregiver tasks (ADLR-CG). Based on home visits, social workers also rated the caregiver tasks required (ADLR-SW). Exploratory Factor Analysis, as well as reliability and validity analyses were conducted.Results:Fit indi... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575885 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575883&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352615%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mhaidat NM, Ai-Sweedan SA, Alzoubi KH, Alazzam SI, Banihani MN, Yasin MO, Massadeh MM Objective:Depression is common among chronically ill patients and their relatives. In this article, we investigated the prevalence of depression among relatives of cancer patients in Jordan, and studied the relation between several socio-demographic, disease- and treatment-related factors, together with the occurrence of depression among those relatives.Method:A cross-sectional survey study was conducted at a major university hospital in Jordan. Relatives of cancer patients were interviewed for socio-demographic information, and medical records were checked for information about disease and treatment of patient. Psychological status of the relative was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety &amp... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575883 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575878&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352616%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Manicom C Objective: A 3-year review of the place of death of patients from a private oncology unit in Cape Town explores the length of time patients spent in acute care hospital beds, under the oncologist's care, prior to their death. Implications for improved staff training, patient support, and family education are identified.Method: This is an exploratory quantitative study that captures details of place of death and particulars of length of acute care hospital stay for cancer patients of a private oncology unit. Data was gathered from 424 patient files, from January 2006 to December 2008, and is interpreted using simple descriptive statistics.Results: Of the 424 recorded deaths, the average age at death was 66.09 years, with lung and bronchial cancer accounting for the le... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575878 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575877&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352617%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Olsson L, Ostlund G, Strang P, Grassman EJ, Friedrichsen M Objective:The experience of hope among cancer patients in palliative care is important information for healthcare providers, but research on the subject is sparse. The aim of this article was to explore how cancer patients admitted to palliative home care experienced the significance of hope and used hope during 6 weeks throughout the last phase of their life, and to assess their symptoms and hope status during 6 weeks throughout the last phase of their lives.Method:Eleven adult patients with cancer participated in 20 interviews and completed seven diaries. The participants were recruited from two palliative care units in the southeast of Sweden. The method used was Grounded Theory (GT), and analysis was based on the c... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575877 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575876&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352618%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Swetenham K, Hegarty M, Breaden K, Grbich C Objective:This qualitative study aimed to describe the skill sets that experienced palliative care clinicians possess when managing refractory suffering.Method:Thirteen tape recorded semi-structured interviews and four online questionnaires were completed by participants with at least two years clinical palliative care experience. The research team undertook cross sectional thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews.Results:In the face of refractory suffering, team cohesion was identified as a key requirement to support the interdisciplinary team. However, team cohesion was found to be undermined by philosophical differences between team members, a paradigm shift concerning cure versus care and individual opinions regarding the ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575876 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575875&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352619%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Schjolberg TK, Dodd M, Henriksen N, Rustoen T Objective:The aims of this study of women with breast cancer were: to describe the levels of hope and compare hope scores for these patients with a sample from the general Norwegian population; to describe the relationship between hope and fatigue; and finally to evaluate the effect of demographic and clinical characteristics and fatigue on hope.Method:A total of 160 Norwegian outpatients with cancer and fatigue (>2.5 on a 0-10 scale) completed the Herth Hope Index (HHI), Fatigue Questionnaire (FQ), and Self-administered Comorbidity Questionnaire (SCQ).Results:The mean age of the women was 55.3 years (SD = 9.4), 81% lived with someone, and 67% were employed. The most common comorbidities were back pain (42%), osteoarthritis (2... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575875 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575874&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352620%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reports on the recorded content of ACP discussions. The extent to which patients want to engage in ACP is variable, and support and training are needed for health professionals to initiate such discussions. Our findings do not fully support the current United Kingdom policy of introducing ACP early in life-threatening disease. PMID: 21352620 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575874 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575873&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352621%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gilbertson-White S, Aouizerat BE, Jahan T, Miaskowski C Objective:The findings from several studies suggest that palliative care patients with advanced cancer experience multiple symptoms, and that these symptoms may be related to demographic and clinical factors as well as to patient outcomes. However, no systematic review has summarized the findings from studies that assessed multiple symptoms, predictors, and outcomes in these patients. The purposes of this review, focused on palliative care patients with advanced cancer, are to: 1) describe the relationships among multiple symptoms; 2) describe the predictors of multiple symptoms; and 3) describe the relationships between multiple symptoms and patient outcomes.Method:Comprehensive literature searches were completed using t... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575873 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575872&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352622%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Akechi T, Okuyama T, Sagawa R, Uchida M, Nakaguchi T, Ito Y, Furukawa TA Objective:Social anxiety disorder is one of the most popular psychiatric disorders in the general population and is also well known as a very common comorbid psychiatric disorder among patients with major depression. On the other hand, social anxiety disorder has been termed "the neglected anxiety disorder" because its diagnosis is often missed. Furthermore, the potential impact of social anxiety disorder on the psychological distress of cancer patients has not been reported.Method:We encountered two cancer patients with refractory depression after cancer diagnosis, in whom comorbid social anxiety disorder was unexpectedly detected during a subsequent follow-up.Results:To the best of our knowledge, this i... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575872 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575871&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352623%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Biro D PMID: 21352623 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575871 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575870&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21352624%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Smith B PMID: 21352624 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575870 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4575870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026032&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20880414%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wein S PMID: 20880414 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026032 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026045&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875202%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: O'Hara RE, Hull JG, Lyons KD, Bakitas M, Hegel MT, Li Z, Ahles TA Objective:Caregivers of patients with advanced cancer experience physical and emotional strain that can raise their own risk for morbidity and mortality. This analysis was performed to determine whether ENABLE II, a patient-focused palliative care intervention that increased patients' quality of life, reduced symptom intensity, and lowered depressed mood compared to usual care, would affect caregiver burden.Method:Caregivers of patients with advanced cancer from the parent study completed a caregiver burden scale and patients completed quality of life, symptom intensity, and depressed mood measures. Data were collected at baseline, 1 month, and every 3 months thereafter until patient death or the study ended. De... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026045 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026044&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875203%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Travado L, Grassi L, Gil F, Martins C, Ventura C, Bairradas J, Objective:In the last decade, some attention has been given to spirituality and faith and their role in cancer patients' coping. Few data are available about spirituality among cancer patients in Southern European countries, which have a big tradition of spirituality, namely, the Catholic religion. As part of a more general investigation (Southern European Psycho-Oncology Study - SEPOS), the aim of this study was to examine the effect of spirituality in molding psychosocial implications in Southern European cancer patients.Method:A convenience sample of 323 outpatients with a diagnosis of cancer between 6 to 18 months, a good performance status (Karnofsky Performance Status > 80), and no cognitive deficit... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026044 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026043&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875204%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Penderell A, Brazil K Objective:Much is known about the important role of spirituality in the delivery of multidimensional care for patients at the end of life. Establishing a strong physician-patient relationship in a palliative context requires physicians to have the self-awareness essential to establishing shared meaning and relationships with their patients. However, little is known about this phenomenon and therefore, this study seeks a greater understanding of physician spirituality and how caring for the terminally ill influences this inner aspect.Method:A qualitative descriptive study was used involving face-to-face interviews with six practicing palliative care physicians.Results:Conceptualized as a separate entity from religion, spirituality was described by particip... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026043 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026042&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875205%26dopt%3DAbstract This study attempted to transform the common practice into a methodology for collecting data that could be used as a platform to assess the quality of hospital care near the end of life. In this review, the residents were asked not only "what care was delivered appropriately?" but "what could we have done?" to relieve the patient's and family's suffering.Results:The results showed that the mortality review process could be used to assess care at the end of life. It also showed that those patients who received a PCC received better care. Symptoms were addressed at a significantly higher rate for those patients who received a PCC than for those who did not. Specifically, these were symptoms of pain (75% vs. 51%, p <.0001), dyspnea (75% vs. 59%, p < 0.0001), nausea (28% vs. 18%, p... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026042 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026041&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875206%26dopt%3DAbstract This study aimed to clarify the differential contributions of situational and individual factors to burnout symptoms experienced by two independent groups of specialist oncology nurses working in oncology hospital units or in hospices.Method:The study involved a group of specialist oncology nurses working in hospital oncology units (n = 59) and a group of specialist oncology nurses working in hospices (n = 33). Participants were invited to provide demographic data, and indicate the clinical setting in which they worked and their work experience; the Italian versions of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) (a measure of burnout symptoms), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) (a measure of anxiety and depression), and the Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) (a measure... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026041 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026040&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875207%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Janssen AL, Macleod RD Objective:This project sought to better understand the nature of medical care from the perspective of people approaching the end of life.Method:We asked 13 people who were dying (and a family member for each) to describe their care and the ways in which doctors' behavior fosters or inhibits the feeling that they were cared for as individuals. Interviews took a phenomenological approach. Data analysis was thematic.Results:Examples used by participants as evidence of care varied widely and showed the potentially complex nature of quality care. Participants' descriptions reflect the many ways people can impart and experience care as unique individuals in the medical context. They also provide clear examples of what uncaring behaviour looks and feels like.Si... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026040 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026039&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875208%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Grainger MN, Hegarty S, Schofield P, White V, Jefford M Objective:Discussing the transition from active anti-cancer treatment to palliative care can be difficult for cancer patients and oncology health professionals (OHP). We developed a brief communication skills workshop to assist OHP with these conversations, and examined satisfaction with the workshop and perceived confidence regarding these discussions.Method:Interactive workshops were conducted by trained facilitators and included cognitive, behavioral, and experiential components. The major component of the workshop involved role-plays with trained actors (simulated patients). Participants completed an evaluation questionnaire.Results:Sixty-two OHP participated in workshops. Overall, participants were highly satisfied w... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026039 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026038&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875209%26dopt%3DAbstract This study aims to explore their contribution to impaired quality of life (QOL), beyond that of depression and anxiety, in a cancer cohort.Method:In a cross-sectional design, an ambulatory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cohort completed a psychological battery that included the Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories, the SF-36 Health Survey, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACT), the Looming Cognitive Style Questionnaire (LCSQ), and the Looming Cancer measure.Results:The Looming Cancer measure correlated significtly with overall QOL (FACT-G, p = 0.005). This effect was largely due to the contribution of emotional QOL (Mental Component Score: SF-36, p = 0.001; FACT-emotional, p = 0.001) and functional QOL (FACT-functional, p = 0.001). Loomi... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026038 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026037&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875210%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gil F, Costa G, Pérez FJ Objective:The purpose of this study was to assess the psychological care needs of cancer patients throughout the healthcare process: after diagnosis, after medical treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy) and during follow-up.Method:A total of 703 ambulatory cancer patients were assessed in this study. The inclusion period was from April 1, 2005 to April 30, 2007. The first psychological scales used were the 14-item Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS), which has two sub-scales for anxiety (7 items) and for depression (7 items). All patients with a score ≥14 were assessed through the Structured Clinical Interview for Psychiatric Disorder (SCID-I) of the DSM-IV. All data were compared with sociodemographic and medical characteris... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026037 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026036&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875211%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Floriani C, Schramm FR The purpose of this article is to characterize the notion of a "good death" both historically and conceptually, grounding the philosophy of the modern hospice movement. This concept encompasses elements originating in ancient societies, such as peasant societies, where death was prepared for and shared socially, with ethical and aesthetic elements originating from Ancient Greece. These Greek elements emerged from a "journey of struggle" and can be recognized in the current day as a journey to cope with illness. From this conceptualization emerged a category of "good death" (kalothanasia), adding to the expertise of advocates of the modern hospice movement, who seek to revive a process of dying that is socially ritualized. However, this is challenging in ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026036 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026035&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875212%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Onishi H, Wada M, Wada T, Wada M, Ishida M, Kawanishi C, Mizuno K, Ito H, Narabayashi M, Sasaki Y Objective:Akathisia is a common adverse effect of antipsychotics and, less commonly, antidepressants. Akathisia can cause great discomfort and is often described by the patient as a most distressing sensation; however, the condition is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. In oncological settings, neuroleptics and antidepressants that induce akathisia are also administered. However, reports of akathisia in oncology settings are few and a case of akathisia in a bedridden patient has not been reported as far as we know.Case report:A 72-year-old man with esophageal cancer who could not sit down or stand up was administered 5 mg/day haloperidol to relieve agitation as a symptom of ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026035 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026034&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875213%26dopt%3DAbstract "I'm glad I have cancer" Palliat Support Care. 2010 Sep 28;:1-2 Authors: Rousseau P PMID: 20875213 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026034 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026033&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875214%26dopt%3DAbstract This article shows how muddling these concepts causes researchers to make claims that their findings do not support, and it ends in suggesting that future research must include universal measures of the concept of religion/spirituality in order to investigate further the role of interventions in the spiritual care of people living with cancer. PMID: 20875214 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026033 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026061&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875167%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 20875167 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026061 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026060&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875168%26dopt%3DAbstract This article demonstrates patients' participation in end-of-life care as it was noted in the patients' documentation. Demographic variables such as age, gender, and residence did not differ between those who participated and those who did not. Patients with dementia and disorientation were separated from those who were not disoriented. There was no information about the wishes of the patients with dementia and disorientation and they were not described as participating in care and treatment. Cognitive intact patients were participating significant more often. These patients had also more symptom describes in the records. These results can indicate that a patient's participation depends upon either the patient's cognitive capability or the healthcare professionals' competence to communicate... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026060 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026059&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875169%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Patterson P, Rangganadhan A Objective:Research into parental loss has led to an understanding of the types of reactions and responses that children, and to a lesser extent adolescents and young adults, have when a parent dies. Only limited studies, however, have directly investigated the psychosocial needs of young people during this period. The aim of the current study was to identify and better understand the needs of adolescents and young adults who have lost a parent to cancer, and to ascertain the extent to which these needs had been met.Method:As the study is exploratory in nature, a qualitative questionnaire was used to explore the needs and unmet needs of adolescents and young adults who have had a parent die of cancer. Sixty-two parentally bereaved young people aged 1... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026059 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026058&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875170%26dopt%3DAbstract This study suggests that among older adults, the probability of completing ADs is related to personal requests by health care providers, educational level, and exposure to advance care planning media campaigns. PMID: 20875170 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026058 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026057&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875171%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stajduhar KI, Martin W, Cairns M Objective:Family members who take on the role of caregiving for someone who is dying begin bereavement after being emotionally and physically taxed by the caregiving experience. The course of bereavement is influenced by a number of factors, including health problems, financial concerns, social support, and family relationships. This paper reports on findings from a secondary analysis of qualitative data from a study examining family caregiver coping in end-of-life cancer care, to describe, from the perspectives of bereaved family caregivers, their perspectives on what made their grief difficult.Method:Qualitative data from three focus groups with family caregivers (n = 19) and two focus groups with health professionals (n = 14) wer... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026057 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026056&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875172%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Asai M, Akizuki N, Akechi T, Nakano T, Shimizu K, Umezawa S, Ogawa A, Matsui Y, Uchitomi Y Objective:The purpose of this study is to identify psychiatric disorders and stress factors experienced by staff members in cancer hospitals who were referred to psychiatric consultation service, and to investigate the association between psychiatric disorders and stress factors.Method:A retrospective descriptive study using clinical practice data on staff members referred to psychiatric consultation service, obtained for 8 years, was conducted at two National Cancer Center Hospitals in Japan. Psychiatric disorders were identified according to DSM-IV. Stress factors were extracted from a chief complaint at the initial visit in medical charts, using a coding approach, and grouped as job s... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026056 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026055&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875173%26dopt%3DAbstract This article summarizes the findings from a 3-year independent evaluation of a regional Child Bereavement Service (CBS). The service was commissioned by a Primary Care Trust in Northern England, and funded by a British cancer charity, Macmillan Cancer Support. The need for a CBS was recognized by members of a Palliative Care Group who identified a gap in local services for bereaved children, who may be susceptible to short/long-term psychiatric/psychological disorders. The service was established to offer support for professionals working with bereaved children and their family.Method:Interventions provided by the service included pre/post bereavement support, individual work with the child and/or family, and group work. An evaluation (2004-2007), was conducted to inform service developmen... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026055 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026054&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875174%26dopt%3DAbstract This article investigates its feasibility as a support delivery vehicle for patients in their follow-up phase, and also investigates patients' sense of abandonment related to their care setting.Method:A close collaboration was set up between GGPCPC psychologists and European Institute of Oncology (IEO) psychologists. Education and awareness sessions regarding the importance of such a source of psychological support were conducted by IEO psychologists with nurses, secretaries, and receptionists. IEO psychologists input monthly data, recorded on specific paper-tabs by GGPCPC psychologists for each call received by the phone center between March 2007 and March 2009, into a SPSS database.Results:Four hundred and thirty individuals contacted the center mainly to receive psychological support du... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026054 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026053&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875175%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Molassiotis A, Zheng Y, Denton-Cardew L, Swindell R, Brunton L Objective:The aim of this study was to explore the symptom experience of patients with cancer, identify changes in symptoms over time, and explore the congruence of symptom reports between patients and their informal caregivers.Method:This was a prospective longitudinal evaluation of symptoms over 1 year from start of treatments (T1) using the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale. Assessments and follow up took place at 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3) and 12 months (T4). A heterogeneous sample of 100 patients with cancer participated, providing 325 assessments over time. Furthermore, 82 caregivers also participated, providing 238 dyadic patient-caregiver assessments over the same time.Results:The most commonly occurring,... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026053 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026052&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875176%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sévigny A, Cohen SR, Dumont S, Frappier A Objective:To encourage communication and contribute to the palliative care movement's need for interdisciplinary care, this article offers to explore the stance of volunteers on two fundamental concepts, "health" and "illness," as well as their related understanding of "palliative care." Volunteers' understandings are then compared with the concepts put forth by the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) in its "Model to Guide Hospice Palliative Care."Method:Focus groups with volunteers, and individual interviews with coordinators from five selected palliative care community action organizations from across Canada, are used. A total of 65 participants from three Canadian provinces were interviewed.Results:Participants ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026052 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026051&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875177%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bravell ME, Malmberg B, Berg S Objective:The aim of this study was to describe the last year of life of a sample of the oldest old, focusing on care trajectories, health, social networks, and function in daily life activities.Method:Data originated from the NONA study, a longitudinal study of 193 individuals among the oldest old living in a Swedish municipality. During this longitudinal study, 109 participants died. Approximately one month after their death, a relative was asked to participate in a telephone interview concerning their relative's last year of life. One hundred two relatives agreed to participate.Results:Most of the elderly in this sample of the oldest old (74.5%) died at an institution and the relatives were mostly satisfied with the end-of-life care. The oldes... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026051 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026050&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875178%26dopt%3DAbstract This study has demonstrated the power of being involved in everyday life activities. The proposed model, explaining individuals' desire to continue to live an active life despite a progressive loss of functioning, can provide a model to help the reasoning of professionals when supporting patients in their everyday life. PMID: 20875178 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026050 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026049&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875179%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this article is to explore and analyze the therapeutic value of hope. The phenomenon of hope will be explored through the analysis and application of Dufault and Martocchio's Multidimensional Model of Hope (MMH) to a clinical scenario. Factors determining hope in cancer patients as well as interventions that can foster hope in dying patients will be identified. Discussion includes examination of literature gaps, relevance to nursing practice, and practical strategies to engender hope and thereby enhance quality of life (QOL) in advanced cancer patients. PMID: 20875179 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026049 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026048&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875180%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kasven-Gonzalez N, Souverain R, Miale S Objective:Occupational and physical therapists can have a significant impact on the quality of life of terminally ill cancer patients. In the critical care setting, rehabilitation is often overlooked. However, occupational and physical therapists work with critically-ill patients to create realistic and meaningful goals for improving comfort, mobility, socialization skills, and ability to care for oneself regardless of disease state and medical status. The following case report describes rehabilitation intervention with a young woman diagnosed with osteosarcoma and leukemia during the final stage of her life.Method:This case report highlights the use of patient-centered goals and the importance of close collaboration between the patient,... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026048 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026047&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875181%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McLoughlin K PMID: 20875181 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026047 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026046&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20875182%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Heneson N PMID: 20875182 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026046 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4026046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3680437&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20557666%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cohen LM PMID: 20557666 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3680437 Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3680437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3680436&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20557667%26dopt%3DAbstract This study qualitatively assesses the coping strategies of parents who care for a child with cancer.Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 French and English families who had had a child diagnosed with cancer in the last ten years in two Eastern Canadian provinces. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded with a focus on parental coping strategies.Results: Using coping behaviors as described and categorized in the Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response (FAAR) model as a foundation, we found that families used a variety of appraisal-, emotion-, and problem-focused coping. Appraisal-focused coping strategies involved trying to stay "positive" and "making positive comparisons." Problem-focused coping involved behaviors such as being an advocate for the child and se... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3680436 Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3680436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3680435&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20557668%26dopt%3DAbstract Discussions about assisted ventilation and timing should be tailored to each individual and undertaken periodically. PMID: 20557668 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3680435 Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3680435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412654&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20338090%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wein S PMID: 20338090 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412654 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3412654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408865&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20331914%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rodriguez KL, Bayliss NK, Jaffe E, Zickmund S, Sevick MA Objective:The FAMCARE Scale was originally designed to measure family satisfaction with advanced cancer care. The current study evaluated the instrument's psychometric qualities when used in the long-term care (LTC) setting.Method:In a prospective cohort study in 2004, the 20-item instrument was administered via telephone to family members of 51 patients receiving LTC in Veterans Affairs facilities. Satisfaction scores on a 5-point Likert scale were used for factor analysis and internal consistency evaluation.Results:Although 16 patients were in geriatric palliative care and 35 were in nursing home care, scores of their family members did not vary based on care unit. The total satisfaction score was high, with a mean (SD... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408865 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3408865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399678&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307361%26dopt%3DAbstract This study addressed factors physicians employ in their communication of a terminal diagnosis and a hospice referral to Hispanic patients.Method:The research method used was an exploratory qualitative in-depth semi-structured interview with thematic analysis. The interviews were with ten physicians in Central Florida. The interviews were conducted in Spanish and/or English with physicians who serve terminally ill Hispanic patients.Results:The findings provide vital information on factors that impact communication of diagnosis and hospice referral. Themes emerged relating to role of family members and end-of-life decision-making. Language barriers and limited knowledge of cultural factors and beliefs impacted communication related to end-of-life decisions. Gaps in training and education for... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399678 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399677&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307362%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wada T, Wada M, Wada M, Onishi H Objective:Although delirium is a common psychiatric complication in cancer patients, it is often not accurately recognized. To date, the characteristics and outcome of misrecognized patients are unclear in the cancer setting. This retrospective study was planned to determine the recognition by oncologists at the psychiatric consultation, characteristics, reversibility and outcome of misrecognized patients with delirium.Method:We reviewed charts of 60 patients diagnosed with delirium by the psycho-oncologists who were referred to the psychiatric consultation by the oncologists. Information about demographics, initial assessment by the oncologists, delirium subtype, precipitating factors, intervention for delirium, reversibility, and final status... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399677 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399676&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307363%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Barnes J, Kite S, Kumar M Objective:Delirium is a clinical syndrome that is known to be under recognized by palliative care teams. A wide variation in reported prevalence may reflect differences in definitions and assessment methods, patient characteristics, and study design. The aim of this study was to test an intervention to improve recognition of delirium in the inpatient palliative care setting.Method:We conducted a retrospective palliative care notes review of documented prevalence of delirium among 61 patients referred to the Specialist Palliative Care Advisory Team (SPCT). Subsequently, training in the use of the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) was provided to the SPCT and a prospective survey of the prevalence of delirium measured by the CAM was undertaken with the ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399676 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399675&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307364%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Carlsson ME Objective:The aim of this study was to explore the significance of fatigue among relatives of palliative patients.Method:This pilot study has a descriptive and cross-sectional design and is the report of four open-ended questions focusing on the relatives' experiences of fatigue. The study population consisted of relatives of patients who were cared for in palliative care settings either at home or in an institution in Uppsala County during a specific day.Results:The relatives were very tired and identified worries, uncertainty, the patient's suffering, and many demands as the causes for the fatigue. The most obvious consequences of the tiredness were a lack of motivation, feelings of insufficiency and apathy, and putting their own interests aside. Many relatives e... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399675 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399674&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307365%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Farquhar M, Higginson IJ, Fagan P, Booth S Objective:Breathlessness is the most common devastating symptom of advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Breathlessness Intervention Service (BIS) is a multidisciplinary service that uses both pharmacological and non-pharmacological evidence-based interventions to reduce the impact of the symptom. The results of a Phase II evaluation of the service are reported.Method:Pretest - posttest analysis of non-randomized data was performed for 13 patients with severe advanced COPD referred to BIS.Results:Mean VAS-Distress scores (primary outcome measure) decreased (improved) for the group between baseline and follow up suggesting a clinically significant improvement: 6.88 (SD = 2.50) to 5.25 (SD = 2.99). At an individual ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399674 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399673&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307366%26dopt%3DAbstract This study sought to ascertain the most commonly-unmet needs of emerging adults with cancer, in various stages of time-since-treatment, and to investigate links to psychological functioning.Method:Using an earlier version of a needs-based questionnaire, presently under development, as well as additional items developed specifically for this age group, the ten most unmet needs were determined for 63 emerging adults in each of the following three groups: those on or within one year since treatment; those between one and five years since treatment; and those beyond five years since treatment. Psychological functioning was measured by the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21).Results:On average, participants rated 17.7 of the 132 needs as unmet. The 10 most unmet needs for each group... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399673 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399672&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307367%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Savery CA, Egbert N Objective:The purpose of this study is to examine traits of hospice volunteers that facilitate their success in this informal caregiving role, with the larger goal of alleviating the family caregiver burden and providing additional support to the hospice patient. To achieve this goal, a new scale was developed to tap into how hospice volunteers view their patient advocacy role.Method:Participants were 136 trained hospice volunteers from the Midwest who had direct contact with hospice patients. Volunteers mailed anonymous surveys that included measures of argumentativeness, locus of control, attitudes toward patient advocacy, and key demographic items. A new scale was developed to measure patient advocacy by hospice volunteers called the Hospice Volunteer as... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399672 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399671&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307368%26dopt%3DAbstract This study describes place of death (home or hospital) and potential influencing factors (cause of death, age, gender, occupation, and district of residence).Method:We collected the death records for years 2005 and 2006 for all adult non-traumatic deaths that occurred in Botswana, described them, and looked for associations using bivariate and multivariate analyses.Results:The evaluable sample consisted of 18,869 death records. Home deaths accounted for 36% of all deaths, and were predominantly listed with "unknown" cause (82.3%). Causes of death for hospital deaths were HIV/AIDS (49.7%), cardiovascular disease (13.8%), and cancer (6.6%). The mean age at the time of all deaths was 53.2 years (SD = 20.9); with 61 years (SD = 22.5) for home deaths and 48.8 years (SD = 18.6) for hospital deat... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399671 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399670&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307369%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pesut B, Robinson CA, Bottorff JL, Fyles G, Broughton S Objective:The aim of this research project was to gain an understanding of the experiences of rural cancer patients who commute to an urban cancer center for palliative care.Method:The study utilized a mixed method design. Fifteen individuals with a palliative designation participated in semi-structured interviews and filled out the Problems and Needs in Palliative Care Questionnaire.Results:Qualitative findings included three major themes: cultures of rural life and care, strategies for commuting, and the effects of commuting. Participants valued their rural lifestyles and gained significant support from their communities. Strategies included preparing for the trip with particular attention to pain management, making the... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399670 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399669&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307370%26dopt%3DAbstract This article explores the semantics of the word hospice - the seal of identity of modern hospice movement - and attempts to integrate the meaning of hospitality into the modern hospice movement, understood as unconditional reception. Therefore, the article analyzes the concept of unconditional hospitality, developed by Jacques Derrida and that of ethical responsibility proposed by Emmanuel Levinas based on the phenomenological experience of the other. From this point of view, these two concepts tie in with the meaning of hospice, bringing substantial grounding elements to the hospice movement for the construction of a protective ethos. PMID: 20307370 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399669 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399668&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307371%26dopt%3DAbstract Surgical intensive care unit (ICU) delirium: A "psychosomatic" problem? Palliat Support Care. 2010 Mar 23;:1-5 Authors: Reich M, Rohn R, Lefevre D Objective:Intensive Care Unit (ICU) delirium is a common complication after major surgery and related among other potential medical precipitants to either pre-existing cognitive impairment or the intensity and length of anesthesiology or the type of surgery. Nevertheless, in some rare situations, an organic etiology is not always found, which can be frustrating for the medical team. Some clinicians working in an intensive care unit have a reluctance to seek another hypothesis in the psychological field.Method:To illustrate this, we report the case of a 59-year-old woman who developed a massive delirium during her intensive care unit ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399668 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399667&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20307372%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McLean LM, Hales S Objective:The primary objective of this article is to elucidate the significance of psychosocial distress and risk in a sub-population of end-stage cancer patients and their spouse caregivers who present with an especially challenging attachment style and histories of childhood trauma. The case study presented highlights the need to both identify and offer an empirically validated couple-based intervention, along with a multi-disciplinary team approach over the trajectory of the illness and at end of life.Method:A validated marital protocol (emotionally focused couple therapy [EFT]) is modified for this population and conducted by an EFT-trained psychologist as part of a pilot investigation as to the feasibility and effectiveness of EFT for the terminal canc... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399667 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3399667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291358&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163754%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 20163754 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291358 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291357&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163755%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wellisch DK, Cohen MM Objective:Exploration of complicated grief focusing on the relationship of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complicated grief in a population of women at high risk for developing breast cancer. Special reference is made to women who have experienced a material death.Method:We reflected on the clinical attributes of the Revlon UCLA High Risk Clinic population in terms of their own perceived risk of developing breast cancer. For part of our population, their perceived risk was coupled with their reactions to the loss of their mothers to breast cancer. We compared and contrasted this pattern of reactions to those described by Licihtenthal et al. (2004) in their developmental review of complicated grief as a distinct disorder.Results:We concluded tha... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291357 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291356&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163756%26dopt%3DAbstract This study points to the importance of having access to professional care when it is needed, to complement and support the next of kin when his or her own resources and strength falter. This also includes support to enable the next of kin to remain involved in the care of his or her loved ones, thereby fulfilling their own wishes. PMID: 20163756 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291356 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291355&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163757%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective was therefore to design a training program that addressed this deficit and was easily accessible to hospital staff.Method:. A training package was developed to train staff in the recommended skills. A literature review of teaching modalities and the effectiveness of different formats was conducted. A four-session program was developed, to be administered by staff at Tiers 3 and 4 of the model, such as clinical psychologists and counsellors.Results:Over 3 years, 255 sets of data were collected from staff who attended the course. Precourse, postcourse, and 6-month follow-up data were collected through the use of confidence questionnaires, developed from the literature. The data show a significant improvement in staff confidence across all domains measured, including confidence ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291355 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291354&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163758%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yazdani S, Evan E, Roubinov D, Chung PJ, Zeltzer L Objective:A longitudinal pediatric palliative care curriculum was introduced into the pediatric residency program at the University of California, Los Angeles. The present study explores the possible effects of this curriculum on the interns' self-assessed comfort levels regarding caring for children with life-threatening conditions.Methods:A newly created assessment tool was administered to interns in order to rate their comfort regarding pediatric palliative care at the beginning and conclusion of their intern year.Results:Twenty-two of the 29 interns completed this survey. Baseline data indicated 55% of the interns had some experience with taking care of a dying pediatric patient during their medical school training, and 79... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291354 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291353&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163759%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Forzoni S, Perez M, Martignetti A, Crispino S Objective:Art therapy has been shown to be helpful to cancer patients at different stages in the course of their illness, especially during isolation for bone marrow transplantation, during radiotherapy treatment, and after treatment. The aim of this study is twofold: (1) to assess whether patients during chemotherapy sessions perceive art therapy as helpful and (2) to outline in which way art therapy is perceived as helpful.Method:157 cancer patients attending an Oncology Day Hospital (Siena, Italy) met the art therapist during their chemotherapy sessions. The art therapist used the same art therapy technique with each patient during the first encounter ("free collage"); afterward the relationship would evolve in different ways ac... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291353 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291352&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163760%26dopt%3DAbstract This study showed that the PCCT performed comprehensive assessments on referred patients and provided extra support. No patient's QOL 1 week after referral was improved with the exception of insomnia. Referring staff highly evaluated the activities of the PCCT. In the evaluation of PCCTs, further research about the variation of clinical activities of PCCTs, their applicability, and benefit is needed. PMID: 20163760 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291352 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291351&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163761%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to explore health care staff's opinions about what existential issues are important to patients with cancer and staff's responsibility when existential issues are raised by patients.Method:Four focus group interviews were conducted with health care staff (N = 23) at an in-patient hospice, on an oncology ward, on a surgical ward, and with a palliative home health care team. The focus group interviews focused on two questions, first, about health care staff's opinions about patients' important existential questions and, second, about health care staff's responsibility when existential issues are raised by the patient. The interviews were taperecorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by qualitative content analysis into subcategories and categories.Results:F... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291351 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291350&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163762%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Robinson JA, Crawford GB Objective:Palliative care clinicians and researchers often seek information about patients from informants. This research examines the extent of agreement between information from patients and family caregivers who were asked to serve as collateral sources of information about the patient.Method:Sixty-six patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers participated in the study. Two measurement contexts were examined: Direct observation of patients' cognitive performance (Mini-Mental State Examination) was compared with carers' subjective reports about patients' everyday cognition (Cognitive Decline subscale of the Psychogeriatric Assessment Scale), and subjective reports about patient depression were compared between patients and carers who ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291350 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291349&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163763%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Olsson AG, Markhede I, Strang S, Persson LI Objective:The aim of this study was to examine health-related quality of life (HRQoL), individual QoL, anxiety and depression in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their next of kin in relation to patients' physical function over time.Methods:35 patients and their next of kin were studied using the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), Schedule for Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life-Direct Weighting (SEIQoL-DW), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and patients also by the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised and the Norris scale every fourth to sixth month, one to four times.Results:Changes were found over time in both patients and their next of kin in the SF-36 but not in... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291349 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291348&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163764%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Thompson GN, Chochinov HM Objective:To deliver quality care at the end of life, understanding the impact of various changes and life transitions that occur in older age is essential. This review seeks to uncover potential sources of distress in an elder's physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being to shed light on the unique challenges and needs facing this age group.Methods:Papers relating to older adults (aged 65 years and older or a mean age of 65 years and older) with advanced/terminal cancer receiving palliative, hospice, or end-of-life care published after 1998 were reviewed.Results:Older adults with advanced cancer have unique needs related to changes in their physical, psychological, social, and spirituals well-being. Changes in each of these domains off... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291348 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291347&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163765%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ishida M, Onishi H, Wada M, Wada T, Wada M, Uchitomi Y, Nomura S Objective:The death of a person is a stressful event. Such stress affects the physical and psychological well-being of the bereaved. As an associated mental disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD) is common. Some dream of the deceased, and these dreams are called bereavement dreams. Some MDD patients also experience dreams. These two types of dreams are sometimes difficult to differentiate. The dream of the bereaved might be only a bereavement-related dream, yet it might be a symptom of MDD. Herein, we report one patient who had distressing dreams after the death of her mother.Methods:A 63-year-old woman was referred for psychiatric consultation because of generalized fatigue and insomnia. Questioning her about... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291347 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291346&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20163766%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Foster TL PMID: 20163766 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291346 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3291346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033268&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939301%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wein S PMID: 19939301 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033268 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:54 +0100 3033268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033267&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939302%26dopt%3DAbstract This article presents qualitative intervention responses.Method:We conducted a three-armed randomized control trial to evaluate the effects of preparation and life completion discussion on health outcomes in patients with advanced serious illness. Hospice-eligible subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) intervention (life completion discussion intervention), (2) attention control (relaxation meditation), and control (no intervention). Subjects in the intervention arm met with a facilitator three times. Session 1 focused on life story, Session 2 on forgiveness, and Session 3, on heritage and legacy.Results:Eighteen subjects participated in the pilot intervention interviews. Subjects from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds completed the intervention with equal facility.... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033267 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:51 +0100 3033267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033266&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939303%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the impact of BWD on the participants.Methods:Ninety-five BWD participants completed an anonymous online survey; 40 completed a confidential open-ended telephone interview.Results:Four main themes-the power of presence, cultivating balanced compassion, recognizing grief, and the importance of self-care-emerged in the interviews and were supported in the survey data. The interviewees considered BWD's contemplative and reflective practices meaningful, useful, and valuable and reported that BWD provided skills, attitudes, behaviors, and tools to change how they worked with the dying and bereaved.Significance of results:The quality of presence has the potential to transform the care of dying people and the caregivers themselves. Cultivating this quality within themselves... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033266 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:45 +0100 3033266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033265&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939304%26dopt%3DAbstract This study identified underlying organizational challenges, cultural and professional issues, academic program development challenges, administrative duties, and therapeutic interventions that determined the success of oncology spiritual care programs in practice.Significance of results:Although spiritual care services have developed as a profession and become recognized as a service within oncology and palliative care, organizational and operational issues were underrecognized yet significant factors in the success of oncology spiritual care programs. Spiritual care programs that were centrally located within the cancer care center, reported and provided guidance to senior leaders, reflected a multifaith approach, and had an academic role were better resourced, utilized more frequently, a... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033265 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:42 +0100 3033265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033264&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939305%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sutherland N Objective:Female partners of cancer patients are at high risk for psychological distress. However, the majority of studies have focused on measurement of female partners' psychological distress during diagnosis and early treatment. There is a gap in the literature with regard to qualitative studies that examine the experiences of female partners of spouses with cancer during the transition to end-of-life care. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the meaning of being in transition to end-of-life care among female partners of spouses with cancer.Methods:An interpretive phenomenological approach based on Gadamer's (1960/1975) philosophy was used to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon of end-of-life transition. Eight female partners from two... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033264 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:39 +0100 3033264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033263&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939306%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study is to explore family caregiver accounts of their experiences within the health care system and with individual providers.Methods:A thematic analysis of secondary qualitative data was performed. Data are from a subsample of bereaved and current family caregivers (N = 31) in a prior study of coping in end-of-life cancer situations. Data from these participants referring to experiences with health care providers was thematically coded and the concept of "security" was used as an analytic lens to facilitate conceptual development and exploration.Results:Considered together, the findings can be viewed as manifestations of a need and desire for security in palliative family caregiving. Specifically, family caregivers' accounts illustrate the importance of feeling secu... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033263 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:36 +0100 3033263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033262&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939307%26dopt%3DAbstract "Caring as if it were my family": Health care aides' perspectives about expert care of the dying resident in a personal care home. Palliat Support Care. 2009 Dec;7(4):449-457 Authors: McClement S, Wowchuk S, Klaasen K Objective:A qualitative pilot study was conducted to identify and describe expert behaviors in care of the dying resident in a personal care home setting from the perspective of health care aides (N = 5) nominated by their peers as demonstrating excellence in end-of-life care.Methods:Data was collected through audio-taped semi-structured interview, and transcribed verbatim using constant-comparative analysis procedures.Results:The over-arching theme emerging from the data was "caring as if it were my family." Subsumed within this main theme included the sub-themes... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033262 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:33 +0100 3033262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033261&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939308%26dopt%3DAbstract "The healthy me appears": Palliative cancer patients' experiences of participation in a physical group exercise program. Palliat Support Care. 2009 Dec;7(4):459-467 Authors: Paltiel H, Solvoll E, Loge JH, Kaasa S, Oldervoll L Objective:Tentative results from a pilot study showed that patients with advanced cancer were willing and able to take part in a group exercise intervention. Limited knowledge exists, though, about the meaning and significance of such programs. The purpose of the present study was to understand the meaning of such an intervention for the individual participant and thereby to provide knowledge for shaping future clinical practice.Methods:Thirty-four palliative cancer patients with a life expectancy of less than 1 year completed a 6-week group exercise progr... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033261 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:30 +0100 3033261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033260&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939309%26dopt%3DAbstract This study aims to explore and understand how people with advanced cancer create meaning and handle everyday life through activity.Methods:A purposive sample of seven participants was recruited from a larger study. Data were collected through qualitative interviews and participant observations conducted in the participants' home environments while they were engaged in activities to which they assigned particular value. Interpretive analysis was conducted using narrative theory and relevant literature.Results:The study shows how people in conditions of advanced cancer fashion narratives useful for handling everyday life with advanced cancer. A meta-narrative of "saying goodbye in a good way" provided an overall structure for the participants as they attempted to create desired narratives ne... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033260 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:26 +0100 3033260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033256&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939310%26dopt%3DAbstract This article aims to highlight potentially high levels of childhood sexual abuse within Cancer and Palliative Care Service users.Methods:During a routine audit, data was collated to quantify a perceived high level of disclosure of pre-existing psychological trauma within the palliative care caseload of a Macmillan Children and Families Therapist. Families comprised adults (generally parents or step-parents), one of whom was terminally ill or recently deceased who had direct responsibility for children and young people aged under 20 years old. Each family had at least two members using the service for advice, emotional support or counselling.Results:A childhood sexual abuse rate of 33% for women and 10% for men was revealed. Of 59 families, 49% had one or more members who had experienced ch... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033256 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:22 +0100 3033256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033249&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939311%26dopt%3DAbstract This study analyzes cartoons from The New Yorker in an effort to categorize contemporary notions of death as well as establish the correlation between societal events related to dying and death and the overall percent of death-related cartoons in this media. PMID: 19939311 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033249 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:19 +0100 3033249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033245&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939312%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Boettger S, Passik S, Breitbart W Objective:To examine differences in the phenomenological characteristics of delirium superimposed on dementia compared to those observed in delirious patients without dementia, based on the rating items of the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS).Methods:We conducted an analysis of a prospectively collected clinical delirium database utilized to record and monitor the care of delirious patients treated at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). Sociodemographic, medical variables, and MDAS total score and individual item ratings were analyzed in respect to differences between delirium in the demented (DD) versus delirium in the nondemented (ND).Results:We were able to examine data collected on 100 delirious patients: 82 ND patient... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033245 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:16 +0100 3033245 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033244&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939313%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mackinnon CJ Objective:Women are largely responsible for providing care to terminally ill family members at home. The goal of this review is to conceptualize diverse women's experiences in palliative home care from feminist, multicultural, and social justice perspectives.Methods:Peer-reviewed manuscripts were identified using the following databases: CIMAHL, psycINFO, and pubMED. The following search terms were used: women/mothers/daughters, Caregiving, family caregivers, feminism, culture, multiculturalism, and palliative home care. Article reference lists were also reviewed. The majority of penitent articles which formed the basis for the arguments presented were drawn from nursing, medicine, and counseling psychology scholarship.Results:The application of feminist, multicul... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033244 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:13 +0100 3033244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033243&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939314%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Macleod AD A lightening, or clearing, of the mental state in the hours or days before death, particularly in those delirious, is occasionally noted by those caring for the dying. Similar phenomena have been described in the natural world and in classical literature. This brief period of lucidity is generally followed by a rapid terminal decline. The author reports on his experience with six cases illustrating this phenomenon. The increasing use of palliative sedation may diminish the possibility of lightening up before death occurring. The theoretical concepts of Hughlings Jackson may provide an explanation for this phenomenon. PMID: 19939314 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033243 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:10 +0100 3033243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033241&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939315%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kaufman H PMID: 19939315 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033241 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:07 +0100 3033241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033240&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19939316%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Killick A PMID: 19939316 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033240 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:56:05 +0100 3033240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856065&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788767%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 19788767 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856065 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856064&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788768%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Holland J, Poppito S, Nelson C, Weiss T, Greenstein M, Martin A, Thirakul P, Roth A Elderly patients with cancer face unique physical and psychiatric challenges in coping with their illness. Optimal psychosocial therapy for older cancer patients requires recognizing certain enhanced psychological capacities such as coping better with illness, which is associated with older age. This strength can be combined with the most appropriate cognitive coping strategies to develop a model intervention. This paper describes such a model, which integrates Erik Erikson's eighth and final psychosocial developmental life stage, in which the task is to achieve ego integrity (equanimity) or to experience despair (sadness, regrets), with Susan Folkman's cognitive coping paradigm, which utilizes... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856064 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856063&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788769%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Petrin K, Bowen DJ, Alfano CM, Bennett R OBJECTIVE: The combination of a difficult early diagnosis, few treatment options, and high mortality rate could make the experience of pancreatic cancer different from the experience of other cancers, both for patients and families. To design effective interventions for families with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, there is need for a model of family members' adjustment to cancer that is specific to these unique aspects of pancreatic cancer. METHOD: Trained clinical interviewers and a genetic counselor conducted phone interviews with 22 first-degree relatives-parents, siblings, and offspring-from a pool of participating family members. The interview transcripts were analyzed using qualitative coding methods. RESULTS: Participants expr... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856063 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856062&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788770%26dopt%3DAbstract This study assessed whether better prediction is achieved using generic (SF-36) HRQoL measures or cancer-specific (EORTC QLQ-C30) measures that include symptoms. METHOD: Fifty-four lung and 46 colorectal patients comprised the sample. Ninety-four died before study conclusion. EORTC QLQ-C30 and SF-36 scores and demographic and clinical information were collected at baseline. Follow-up was 5 years. Deaths were flagged by the Office of National Statistics. Cox regression survival analyses were conducted. Surviving cases were censored in the analysis. RESULTS: Univariate analyses showed that survival was significantly associated with better EORTC QLQ-C30 physical functioning, role functioning, and global health and less dyspnea and appetite loss. For the SF-36, survival was significantly assoc... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856062 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856061&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788771%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shinn EH, Taylor CL, Kilgore K, Valentine A, Bodurka DC, Kavanagh J, Sood A, Li Y, Basen-Engquist K OBJECTIVE: Women with ovarian cancer face a poor prognosis, with prolonged periods of treatment but relatively high levels of physical functioning. Their thoughts and feelings regarding the prospect of dying are complex and have not been adequately studied. Various demographic, medical and psychosocial factors were examined to determine their independent associations with fear of dying and hopelessness in a cross-sectional design. METHOD: Two hundred fifty-four ovarian cancer patients were assessed at the beginning of a new chemotherapy regimen. Separate logistic regressions were performed for worry about dying and loss of hope. For each analysis, psychosocial variables were ent... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856061 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856060&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788772%26dopt%3DAbstract This study used a content analysis of interviews to chronologically examine psychological response of cancer patients seeking medical consultation at three points in time. RESULTS: Patients at the time of their first outpatient breast cancer consultation experience negative feelings before the examination, directly influenced by the suspicion of cancer. These include anxiety and worries, fear, evasion, depression, and impatience. These tendencies do not change at the time of consultation. However, in addition to negative feelings, some people also possess positive feelings, either simultaneously or at a different point in time. Further, many patients tend to talk at length about psychological responses before seeking treatment, understanding the process they went through to come to seek tr... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856060 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856059&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788773%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nolan MT, Hughes MT, Kub J, Terry PB, Astrow A, Thompson RE, Clawson L, Texeira K, Sulmasy DP OBJECTIVE: Several studies have reported high levels of distress in family members who have made health care decisions for loved ones at the end of life. A method is needed to assess the readiness of family members to take on this important role. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop and validate a scale to measure family member confidence in making decisions with (conscious patient scenario) and for (unconscious patient scenario) a terminally ill loved one. METHODS: On the basis of a survey of family members of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) enriched by in-depth interviews guided by Self-Efficacy Theory, we developed six themes within family decision ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856059 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856058&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788774%26dopt%3DAbstract This article presents a validation study of the Demoralization Scale, a 24-item, 5-point response questionnaire developed by Kissane et al. in 2004 to assess demoralization in advanced cancer patients. METHOD: One hundred Irish inpatients with advanced palliative cancer completed the Demoralization Scale and measures of depression, hopelessness, quality of life, and personal hopefulness. RESULTS: Principal component analysis of the Demoralization Scale yielded four similar factors found by Kissane et al. (2004), namely, loss of meaning, dysphoria, disheartenment, and sense of failure. A new factor, the hopelessness factor, was also found in the current study. The reliability of the five factors was good, ranging from .72 to .93. Contrary to the findings of Kissane et al.'s (2004) study, di... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856058 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856057&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788775%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Blondeau D, Dumont S, Roy L, Martineau I OBJECTIVE: The induction of sedation at the end of life is a much debated practice and not very documented. The goal of this study was to explore the practice from both a clinical and ethical point of view. METHODS: Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 19 Quebec physicians working in palliative care. RESULTS: Doctors' first priority was their patients, not patients' families. Clinically, the therapeutic aim of sedation was strictly to relieve suffering on the part of the patient. Ethically, getting the patient's consent was imperative. The family's consent was only required in cases of incapacity. Generally, sedation and euthanasia were seen as two distinct practices. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH: There are still v... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856057 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856056&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788776%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abu-Saad Huijer H, Dimassi H, Abboud S OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians and nurses on Palliative Care (PC) in Lebanon, across specialties. METHOD: We performed a cross-sectional descriptive survey using a self-administered questionnaire; the total number of completed and returned questionnaires was 868, giving a 23% response rate, including 74.31% nurses (645) and 25.69% physicians (223). RESULTS: Significant differences were found between medical and surgical nurses and physicians concerning their perceptions of patients' and families' outbursts, concerns, and questions. Knowledge scores were statistically associated with practice scores and degree. Practice scores were positively associated with continuing educat... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856056 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856055&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788777%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ando M, Morita T, Ahn SH, Marquez-Wong F, Ide S OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the primary concerns of terminally ill cancer patients in a Short-Term Life Review among Japanese, Koreans, and Americans to develop intervention programs to be tailored to patients in other countries. METHOD: Twenty Japanese, 16 Korean, and 7 American terminally ill cancer patients who were in the hospice wards of general Christian hospitals in each country participated in this study. Medical staff members (nurses, social workers, clinical psychologists) performed Short-Term Life Review Interviews with each patient. Patients reviewed their lives in the first session, the interviewers made simple albums for each patient in the week following the first session, and patients and i... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856055 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856054&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788778%26dopt%3DAbstract This study explored the experiences, perspectives, and reflections of five nurse-specialists in palliative home care, whose dual role includes caring for patients in their daily practice as well as sharing their knowledge, skills, expertise, and experiences with other home care nurses in the community. METHODS: A qualitative research design, incorporating face-to-face semistructured interviews, was used. Interviews were based on open-ended questions such as: "What is your experience in providing palliative home care to patients and their families? How do you feel about sharing your expertise and experiences with home care nurses?" Data were content analyzed using the constant comparative method. RESULTS: Three major themes and a number of subthemes emerged: (1) acknowledging one's own limi... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856054 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856053&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788779%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this review is to describe the current status of research on hope in palliative care. METHODS: Integrative review was conducted to determine current knowledge on the topic. CINAHL and PubMed MEDLINE databases were used to find the articles relevant to this review. The data consisted of 34 articles on hope and palliative care published in peer-reviewed journals. A qualitative approach utilizing content analysis was used in this review. RESULTS: There are at least two overarching themes of patients' hope in the palliative context: "living with hope" and "hoping for something" which however are not separate contents. Several instruments for measuring hope in a palliative context have been produced. However, future research is needed to gather further validity evidence for the... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856053 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2856052&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19788780%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rousseau P PMID: 19788780 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2856052 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2856052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548716&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538795%26dopt%3DAbstract The spiritual domain of palliative care: who should be "spiritual care professionals"? Palliat Support Care. 2009 Jun;7(2):139-41 Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 19538795 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548716 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548715&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538796%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rosenzweig MQ, Wiehagen T, Brufsky A, Arnold R OBJECTIVE: Disparities in breast cancer survival and treatment for African American and low income women are well documented, yet poorly understood. As care for women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) evolves to a chronic care model, any inequities in optimal treatment and management of symptoms must also be identified and eliminated. The purpose of this study was to explore how race and income status influence women's experiences with MBC, particularly the management of symptoms, by describing the perceived challenges and barriers to achieving optimal symptom management among women with MBC and exploring whether the perceived challenges and barriers differed according to race or income. METHOD: Quantitative techniques were used... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548715 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548714&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538797%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gysels MH, Higginson IJ OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the factors that mediate the caregiving experience of informal carers at home, which could inform about ways of supporting them in their caregiving role. Our objective was to investigate the caring experience of carers for patients with an advanced progressive illness (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], heart failure, cancer, or motor neuron diseases [MND]), who suffer from breathlessness. METHODS: A purposive sample of 15 carers was selected. They were recruited via the patients they cared for (who suffered from COPD, cancer, MND, or heart failure) from the hospital and the community. Data were collected through semistructured, in-depth interviews. All were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The analysis... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548714 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548713&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538798%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dumont I, Kissane D OBJECTIVE: Family therapy has developed several approaches to framing questions within family meetings, but few of these techniques have been adapted for palliative care. We focus on the application of questioning techniques from systemic family therapy to palliative care. More specifically, we describe and give examples of the model of asking questions developed by Karl Tomm (1988) through its application in Family Focused Grief Therapy (FFGT), a preventive intervention delivered to high-risk families during palliative care and bereavement. METHODS: First, the type of questions used across the course of therapy is explored based on the interventive questioning model. Then, a case example is provided to demonstrate the use and adaptation of this model in a ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548713 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548711&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538799%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gueguen JA, Bylund CL, Brown RF, Levin TT, Kissane DW OBJECTIVE: To develop a communication skills training module for health care professionals about how to conduct a family meeting in palliative care and to evaluate the module in terms of participant self-efficacy and satisfaction. METHODS: Forty multispecialty health care professionals from the New York metropolitan area attended a communication skills training module at a Comprehensive Cancer Center about how to conduct a family meeting in oncology. The modular content was based on the Comskil model and current literature in the field. RESULTS: Based on a retrospective pre-post measure, participants reported a significant increase in self-efficacy about their ability to conduct a family meeting. Furthermore, at least 93% o... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548711 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548709&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538800%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Philip J, Gold M, Schwarz M, Komesaroff P OBJECTIVE: To explore patients' understanding of decision making in the treatment of advanced cancer and to determine the factors they believe important to these processes in their care. METHODS: Surveys were distributed to consecutive outpatients with advanced malignancy attending a comprehensive cancer treatment center. RESULTS: Patients believed that the medical condition (94%), their doctors' experience (81%), and the medical literature (73%) are the most important factors for decisions made in their care. They also value their relationship with the doctor (63%) and their own (the patients') values (63%), and just over a third considered their family's values and the doctors' personality important. Most did not believe the doctors'... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548709 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548707&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538801%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wong WK, Ussher J, Perz J OBJECTIVE: Many studies have identified negative and distressing consequences experienced by informal cancer carers, but less attention has been given to positive and beneficial aspects of caring. This qualitative study examined the positive aspects of caring as subjectively constructed by bereaved informal cancer carers, a group of individuals who are in a position to make sense of their caring experiences as a coherent whole. METHOD: Twenty-three bereaved informal cancer carers were interviewed, and their accounts were analyzed using a thematic analytical approach from a phenomenological perspective. RESULTS: The participants were able to identify positive and beneficial aspects of caring. These included the discovery of personal strength, through a... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548707 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548705&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538802%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Carter PA, Mikan SQ, Simpson C OBJECTIVE: In 2008 over two million family caregivers will become bereaved. The vast majority of these caregivers have provided 'round-the-clock care for a period ranging from months to years. Bereaved family caregivers report insomnia symptoms that persist beyond 1 year, longer than what is seen in bereaved noncaregivers, placing them at increased risk of depression and complicated grief. Despite some rewarding elements, caregiving is a stressful and exhausting role that often requires the caregiver to restructure his or her life around the needs of the patient. Once the patient dies, the structure is lost. Cognitive behavioral therapy interventions are effective in providing structure. This pilot study explored the feasibility of a two-session ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548705 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548703&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538803%26dopt%3DAbstract This study has a descriptive, comparative, and cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of relatives of all patients cared for in palliative care settings in Uppsala County during a specific day. Relatives completed a questionnaire consisting of the Multidimensional Fatique Inventory (MFI-20) and questions from the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) and Karolinska Sleep questionnaire (KSQ). RESULTS: Relatives (n = 56) scored high on every dimension on the MFI-20 scale. Two significant negative correlations were found to exist between age and fatigue, with younger relatives reporting more mental fatigue (p < .01) and more reduced activity (p < .01) than older relatives. Relatives of patients in institutional care had higher values concerning mental fatigue (p < .01) and reduced ... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548703 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548701&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538804%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Paddison JS, Temel JS, Fricchione GL, Pirl WF OBJECTIVE: Fatigue is currently recognized as an undertreated symptom in cancer. To date the association between fatigue and inflammatory activation has not been examined in patients with advanced cancer. Our exploratory investigation considered whether variations in routinely available hematological parameters relate to the severity of fatigue reports. METHODS: Fatigue, white blood cell differential, and hemoglobin concentration were assessed in 44 Stage IIIb and IV non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Days of survival and the relative timing of treatment discontinuation were also recorded. Relationships between fatigue intensity and length of survival and between fatigue and hematological variables were examined using bin... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548701 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548699&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538805%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: O'Callaghan C, Magill L OBJECTIVE: Oncologic work can be satisfying but also stressful, as staff support patients and families through harsh treatment effects, uncertain illness trajectories, and occasional death. Although formal support programs are available, no research on the effects of staff witnessing patients' supportive therapies exists. This research examines staff responses to witnessing patient-focused music therapy (MT) programs in two comprehensive cancer centers. METHOD: In Study 1, staff were invited to anonymously complete an open-ended questionnaire asking about the relevance of a music therapy program for patients and visitors (what it does; whether it helps). In Study 2, staff were theoretically sampled and interviewed regarding the personal effects of witne... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548699 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548697&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538806%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Okuyama T, Endo C, Seto T, Kato M, Seki N, Akechi T, Furukawa TA, Eguchi K, Hosaka T OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between cancer patients' reluctance for emotional disclosure to their physician and underrecognition of depression by physicians. METHODS: Randomly selected ambulatory patients with lung cancer were evaluated by the Hospital Depression and Anxiety Scale (HADS), and those with scores over the validated cutoff value for adjustment disorder or major depressive disorder were included in this analysis. The data set included the responses to the 13-item questionnaire to assess four possible concerns of patients in relation to emotional disclosure to the treating physician ("no perceived need to disclose emotions," "fear of the negative impact of emotional di... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548697 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548695&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538807%26dopt%3DAbstract This article highlights the importance of caring for a family when one member has a life-threatening illness, and describes the applicability of Family Systems Theory and its major tenets to the palliative cancer population. METHODS: A MedLine and CINAHL search of Family Systems Theory related papers was conducted. RESULTS: Research studies that have been done fail to capture the view of the entire family system, often limiting the perspectives of the family to one single member. The concepts of holism, balance, boundaries, and hierarchal subsystems must be addressed in the care of any family, including those who have a family member who is dying. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS: A Family Systems Theory framework can be useful in helping health care providers, and particularly nurses, deliver opti... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548695 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548693&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538808%26dopt%3DAbstract This article is a literature report on grief issues for health care professionals, undertaken to identify Japanese nurses' grief experience when they work in palliative care units. Health care professionals' grief experience and its impact have not been well understood or identified as a significant issue in Japan. METHODS: Published articles relating to this study were searched using electronic catalogues such as CINAHL and PsycINFO, books, and research publications. Key words used for the search were "grief," "palliative care," "nurse," "staff support," and "Japan." Both English and Japanese were used for the literature search in order to collect information regarding nurses' grief and support systems in Japan and elsewhere. The literature search covered the period 1990-2006 inclusive. R... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548693 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2548691&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19538809%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Reich M, Gaudron C, Penel N OBJECTIVE: The belief that cancer inevitably leads to a dreadful and painful death is widespread. This may contribute to society's cancerophobia and denial with subsequent frequent delays in seeking medical attention and treatment for suspected cancer. Cancerophobia is an active behavior of fear of cancer that can lead to repeated medical examination without giving full reassurance to the patient. Denial is a mechanism of defense that usually helps the patient to cope with painful, threatening, overwhelming, or awkward thoughts. When it turns out to be ineffective and pathological, it can cause either delay or avoidance in seeking treatment for symptoms relevant for a true malignancy and will lead inexorably to death if not cured. METHOD: To illustr... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2548691 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2548691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962693&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006585%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breitbart W PMID: 19006585 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Palliative and Supportive Care) Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962693 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:22 +0100 1962693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962692&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006586%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Utne I, Miaskowski C, Bjordal K, Paul SM, Jakobsen G, Rustøen T ABSTRACTObjective:The aims of this study were to describe hope in a sample of hospitalized oncology patients in pain and to determine if various demographic, clinical, and pain characteristics were related to hope. In addition, the individual item and total Herth Hope Index (HHI) scores for these oncology inpatients with pain were compared with those from the general Norwegian population.Method:Oncology inpatients in pain (n = 225) were recruited from the Norwegian Radium Hospital. The research instruments included the HHI, the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Data were analyzed using descriptive stati... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962692 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:19 +0100 1962692 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962691&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006587%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ando M, Morita T, Lee V, Okamoto T ABSTRACTObjective:The present study investigated what types of transformation terminally ill cancer patients experienced from diagnosis until the terminal stage, what meanings terminally ill cancer patients attributed to their illness, and whether or not those who attributed positive meaning to their illness achieved high levels of spiritual well-being as a preliminary study.Method:Ten terminally ill cancer patients in the hospice wards of two general hospitals participated. A clinical psychologist conducted a semistructured interview with the patients individually for about 60 min. Patients completed the FACIT-Sp and HADS before the interview and talked about the meanings of cancer experience. The contents of the interviews were analyzed qua... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962691 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:16 +0100 1962691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962690&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006588%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to determine DNR utilization patterns and whether their use is increasing.Methods:A retrospective database analysis (2000-2005) of DNR data for 206,437 patients, the entire patient population at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), was performed.Results:The hospital recorded, on average, 4,167 deaths/year. In 2005, 86% of inpatient deaths had a DNR, a 3% increase since 2000 (p < .01). For patients who died outside the institution (e.g., hospice), 52% had a DNR, a 24% increase over 6 years (p < .00001). Adult inpatients signed 53% of DNRs but 34% were signed by surrogates. The median time between signing and death was 0 days, that is, the day of death. Only 5.5% of inpatient deaths had previously signed an outpatient DNR. Here, the median tim... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962690 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:12 +0100 1962690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962689&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006589%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Anderson BA, Kralik D ABSTRACTObjective:The decision to receive palliative care at home brings with it the complexity of managing a medication regime. Effective symptom control is often directly linked to medication management and relies on access to medications at all times. In home-based palliative care practice, polypropylene syringes of medications may be drawn up and left in clients' domestic refrigerators for subcutaneous administration by carers to provide immediate relief for symptoms such as pain and nausea. However, although there has been some discussion in the literature about the need for ready access to medications for symptom control of clients receiving care in the community, the feasibility of this practice has received scant attention. The aim of this article... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962689 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:09 +0100 1962689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962688&cid=s_37894_78_f&fid=37894&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19006590%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ford DW, Nietert PJ, Zapka J, Zoller JS, Silvestri GA ABSTRACTObjective:Most patients diagnosed with lung cancer present with advanced stage disease and have a poor chance of long-term survival. Despite the advantages of hospice care for lung cancer patients, many are enrolled late in the course of their illness or not at all. We sought to identify reasons for this pattern.Method:A list of perceived barriers to hospice enrollment was generated and used to create two self-administered surveys, one for physicians and one for caregivers. After focus group testing, the finalized instruments were mailed to physicians in South Carolina and to caregivers of lung cancer patients who died under hospice care with a local hospice between 2000 and 2004.Results:Fifty-three caregivers and 2... Palliative and Supportive Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962688 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:43:05 +0100 1962688