Journal of palliative medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effect of intrathecal dexmedetomidine on spinal morphine analgesia in patients with refractory cancer pain.
Systemic administration of dexmedetomidine has been shown to reduce opioid consumption and improve analgesia satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of intrathecal dexmedetomidine on spinal morphine analgesia in patients with refractory cancer pain. ⋯ Intrathecal administration of dexmedetomidine and morphine reduced the morphine consumption in patients with refractory cancer pain. There were no serious side effects.
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Informal caregivers play a critical role in the provision of care to hospice patients. The care they provide often impacts their physical and psychological well-being. ⋯ Beyond satisfaction with hospice services, the direct impact of standard hospice care on caregivers remains uncertain. Caregiver intervention studies have demonstrated promising outcomes signifying a need for additional investigations into hospice-specific interventions that improve caregiver outcomes. Additional research and resources are needed to assist hospice caregivers, with the ultimate goal of minimizing their psychiatric and physical morbidity and enhancing their caregiving and subsequent bereavement processes.