Asia-Pacific journal of clinical oncology
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Asia Pac J Clin Oncol · Oct 2018
Observational StudyEnd-of-life care of oncology inpatients: Are we getting it right?
To examine the current patterns of end-of-life care of medical oncology patients dying in an Australian tertiary acute hospital setting in order to determine potential areas for improvement. ⋯ There was a high level of documented resuscitation plans, comfort care plans and recognition of dying. However, active interventions were common within 48 h of death, and comfort care plans and recognition of dying often occurred late. These data indicate a gap between documenting a resuscitation plan and providing timely and appropriate end-of-life care. Understanding the gaps in delivering appropriate care provides an opportunity for improving end-of-life care.
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Asia Pac J Clin Oncol · Oct 2018
High neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts poor prognosis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy.
To evaluate the role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a prognostic marker in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy. ⋯ A high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio at treatment initiation is a negative predictive marker for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy.
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Asia Pac J Clin Oncol · Oct 2018
A mixed methods analysis of experiences and expectations among early-career medical oncologists in Australia.
A viable and sustainable medical oncology profession is integral for meeting the increasing demand for quality cancer care. The aim of this study was to explore the workforce-related experiences, perceptions and career expectations of early-career medical oncologists in Australia. ⋯ Perceived diminished employment opportunities in the medical oncology profession, and shifting expectations to be "more qualified," have increased uncertainty among junior medical oncologists in terms of their future career prospects. Structural factors relating to adequate funding of medical oncology positions may facilitate or inhibit progressive change in the workforce and its sustainability. Workforce planning and strategies informed by findings from this study will be necessary in ensuring that both the needs of cancer patients and of medical oncologists are met.
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Asia Pac J Clin Oncol · Oct 2018
Strong opioid prescription in cancer patients in their final year of life: A population-based analysis using a Taiwanese health insurance database.
Pain assessment and management have been important criteria in hospital accreditation in Taiwan since 2007. We used a Taiwanese health insurance database to determine factors influencing patterns of strong opioid use in cancer patients in their final 12 months of life. ⋯ Strong opioid prescriptions varied among patients with different cancer diagnoses and physicians. Information from this study can guide efforts to improve patient and physician education about cancer pain management.