Palliative medicine
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Palliative medicine · Jul 2012
Gender differences in prevalence of depression among patients receiving palliative care: the role of dependency.
in community studies the prevalence of depression is higher in women than men; however, in palliative care settings this relationship is usually less strong, absent or reversed. ⋯ depending on others for help with basic tasks appears to contribute to the burden of depression among men with terminal illness. This gender-specific association may explain why the usual gender differences in depression prevalence are not observed in palliative care.
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Palliative medicine · Jul 2012
Randomized Controlled TrialFeasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of Dignity Therapy for older people in care homes: a phase II randomized controlled trial of a brief palliative care psychotherapy.
A pilot study of Dignity Therapy conducted with hospice patients reported high levels of self-reported benefits of the psychotherapy. ⋯ Although Dignity Therapy took longer to deliver than expected, this intervention may be a way of enhancing the end-of-life experiences of residents.
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Palliative medicine · Jul 2012
Development of a nationwide consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education in Japan: a modified Delphi method.
There is currently no consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education in Japan, although the Cancer Control Act proposed in 2007 covers the dissemination of palliative care. ⋯ A consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education was developed using a clear and innovative methodology. The final consensus syllabus will be made available for further dissemination of palliative care education throughout the country.
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Palliative medicine · Jul 2012
The personal value of being a palliative care Community Volunteer Worker in Uganda: a qualitative study.
Volunteers in palliative care play a key role, particularly in the hospice setting. The expansion of palliative care into developing countries has been accompanied by the emergence of volunteer workers, who are providing a main source of support and care for patients, many of whom never see a health professional. ⋯ This model of volunteering is clearly having an impact on the volunteers, both personally and also in terms of how they are treated in their communities. Further research to explore the long-term personal benefits of being a palliative care volunteer is recommended.
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Palliative medicine · Jul 2012
What are cancer patients' experiences and preferences for the provision of written information in the palliative care setting? A focus group study.
Whilst there is a wide range of literature pertaining to the need for excellent verbal communication within the palliative care setting, there is a paucity of research designed to identify the written informational needs of such patients. ⋯ Written information needs for this patient group vary greatly, sometimes in ways which can be predicted. Using a patient-centred approach to elicit information around an individual's coping strategies, desire for knowledge and empowerment may be helpful. The data supports a proactive approach to making available (to those who want them) clear, concise and attractive leaflets.