Journal of palliative medicine
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Little is known about the practice of palliative sedation (PS) in Germany. This paper presents an analysis of sedation-related data obtained from the German standardized core documentation system (HOPE) for palliative care patients. ⋯ This study reveals a first insight into the use and practice of PS in German PCU and H. For a more detailed systematic survey into the course of decision-making and procedures, a new complementary optional module on PS is being developed by the HOPE group.
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To map children's palliative care (CPC) around the world and to and survey the learning needs of respondents. ⋯ This is a descriptive uncontrolled study so any apparent differences between respondent sub-groups require further validation. The study provides insight into who is providing CPC across the world, and highlights the multi-disciplinary nature of CPC. It raises questions about how we can best support colleagues in resource-limited settings. It suggests further study is required into the nature of regional demand for CPC, the best places to resource and provide CPC, the nature of professionals' training needs, the most effective ways to train and deliver CPC care, the best ways for professionals to support each other, and effective ways to share resources and knowledge across the world.
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To determine whether a prognostic index could predict one-week mortality more accurately than hospice nurses can. ⋯ Although nurses can often identify patients who will die within 7 days, a simple model based on available clinical information offers improved accuracy and could help to identify those patients who are at high risk for short-term mortality.