Journal of palliative medicine
-
Multicenter Study
Continuous Deep Sedation for Psycho-Existential Suffering: A Multicenter Nationwide Study.
Background: There is ongoing debate on whether continuous deep sedation (CDS) for psycho-existential suffering is appropriate. Objective: We aimed to (1) clarify clinical practice of CDS for psycho-existential suffering and (2) assess its impact on patients' survival. Methods: Advanced cancer patients admitted to 23 palliative care units in 2017 were consecutively enrolled. ⋯ The survival time after CDS initiation was longer in patients receiving it for psycho-existential suffering (log-rank, p = 0.021). Conclusion: CDS was applied to patients who suffered from psycho-existential suffering, which often associated with desire or request for a hastened death. Further studies and debate are warranted to develop feasible treatment strategies for psycho-existential suffering.
-
Aim: The aim of this study is to present the experiences of cancer patients who participate in a social model palliative day care program (PDCP). This is the first research study that evaluates early integration of PDCP, from the patients' perspective, in Central and Eastern Europe. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study using five focus groups was conducted with patients cared by Hospice Casa Sperantei Foundation (HCS) in Brasov, Romania. ⋯ The themes that emerged from this study are consistent with previous international studies referring to benefits of early integration of PC throughout PDCP. Future research is needed to examine further the benefits of early integration of PDCP services for patients living with serious illnesses. Clinical Trials Registration Number 1/03.02.2020.