Journal of palliative medicine
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Family conferences (FCs) may be important in communication. There is limited evidence about their value in palliative medicine. We examined specific information needs of patient-identified spokespersons (SP) and if the needs were met by a subsequent FC. Further data were collected on FC attendee characteristics, changes in SP distress, and SP assessment of FC value. ⋯ The FC attracted multiple participants; usually sons and daughters. Duration was typically 45 minutes and usually at the bedside. Nearly all SPs found the concept valuable both before and after the FC. Distress decreased or remained stable in most SPs. Most of their self-identified information needs were met. Thematic analysis of qualitative data supported the value of FC. Formal FCs are powerful and important communication tools in advanced cancer.
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As people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PWIDD) are living longer and experience chronic health conditions, there is greater likelihood that direct care workers (DCWs) will need to provide palliative care services. ⋯ The results indicate some intellectual and developmental disability service agencies and DCWs are not equipped to care for PWIDD with palliative care needs, and DCWs try to meet PWIDD palliative care needs through individual efforts and peer support. These findings can inform training development for DCWs, as well as necessary organizational efforts to support DCWs.