Journal of palliative medicine
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Objective: The completion rates of advance treatment preferences in patients with hematologic malignancies are low. To improve these rates, the modifiable factors associated with completion need to be determined. This study aimed to examine the associations of patient attitudes toward, and knowledge about, advance directives (ADs) with the patient-caregiver dyadic completion of advance treatment directive surveys. ⋯ Conclusions: The patient-caregiver dyads in the setting of hematologic malignancy had a moderately high concordance with chemotherapy but were not associated with other treatment options. A higher level of AD knowledge and HSCT were associated with dyadic completion of the AD survey. Educational support is important to increase knowledge regarding ADs through ongoing palliative discussions among hematologic patients and their caregivers.
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Palliative care (PC) teams are increasingly being called upon to provide care earlier and more remote from end of life. Because much of the field has grown out of hospice and geriatric care, most teams have little to no experience caring for pregnant women or their fetuses when serious or life-threatening illness strikes. ⋯ Truly comprehensive PC extends throughout the life span, from conception to death, regardless of age. Accordingly, increased knowledge of the unique needs of these vulnerable groups will enhance our ability to provide care across this continuum.
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Since its creation, the Czech Republic has developed an advanced health system and social system. Life expectancy at birth has increased by an average of 7 years in only 20 years. However, polymorbidity and multicausality have now become topics of concern. ⋯ Focusing only on terminal illness care is insufficient. Beginning in 2005-2006, we have worked to create a system of education and clinical services in specialized palliative care in the health and social system. This article seeks to describe the leadership steps of this systemic change in the Czech Republic with the objective of helping others make the same journey.