Palliative medicine
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Palliative medicine · Dec 2007
ReviewAssessing physical functioning: a systematic review of quality of life measures developed for use in palliative care.
Physical decline is experienced by all palliative care patients and affects most aspects of life. Physical functioning (PF) is therefore a crucial domain for quality of life (Qol) assessments. The purpose of this study was to review how PF assessments are performed in Qol instruments developed for palliative care ⋯ Despite its importance, PF assessment seems to be a minor part of palliative care QoL instruments. Clear definitions and conceptualization of PF are needed, as well as a consensus on relevant aspects to include in improved instruments. Performance scales already developed should be further explored with regard to content, validity and psychometric properties.
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Palliative medicine · Dec 2007
Supportive and palliative care needs of families of children with life-threatening illnesses in Western Australia: evidence to guide the development of a palliative care service.
To obtain feedback from families of children receiving palliative and supportive care about their care needs in hospital and in community settings. ⋯ Education of health professionals and parents regarding the concepts and introduction of palliative and supportive care is required. Care for children and their families should be coordinated by a multidisciplinary team in consultation with children and their families, and linked and integrated with the treating hospital in collaboration with community services. More inclusive criteria are required for community services including practical aids and respite care.
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Palliative medicine · Dec 2007
Case ReportsAkathisia and an unusual symptomatic treatment: a case report.
We present a case of medication-induced akathisia in a 47-year-old woman with metastatic carcinoma of the ovary. Severe pacing and restlessness started after commencing a subcutaneous infusion with cyclizine 150 mg, haloperidol 2.5 mg and oxycodone 20 mg. ⋯ By making changes to her medication, her symptoms resolved gradually. During the time of convalescence, she gained great symptomatic relief from using exercise pedals and it allowed her to go about usual everyday activities, such as eating and reading, while continuously treading the pedals.
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Palliative medicine · Oct 2007
Multicenter StudyHaving a difficult time leaving: experiences and attitudes of nurses with palliative sedation.
Palliative sedation is an important topic of medical and ethical debates. Although nurses often participate in its use, little is known about their attitudes and experiences. ⋯ The struggles that nurses in this study cohort experienced indicate the need for further study and may suggest the need for more nursing education and discussion about ethical aspects of palliative sedation.