J Palliat Care
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This prospective descriptive study investigated pain characteristics in 20 outpatients with endstage liver disease (ESLD) who were approaching the end of life, described variability in pain between and within patients, and described the pharmacological and nonpharmacological pain management strategies used. The instruments we utilized were the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and the self-care behaviour (SCB) log for pain. ⋯ The top three pain-relieving behaviours reported by patients were "taking pain medication," "taking a nap," and "asking for help." Pain medication intake-differed between patients who were pursuing a liver transplant and those who were not eligible for one. If we are to effectively improve care for ESLD patients, it is essential that we understand the ways in which these patients experience pain and the pain management strategies they employ.
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By examining clinical parameters associated with survival time and analyzing patients' survival times using prognostic scores, this study aimed to provide helpful information related to the treatment of terminal cancer patients. ⋯ Performance decline is a major factor affecting survival time. The PaP is the most useful tool for predicting four-week survival, with an optimal value of over 10.
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Refractory breathlessness is a common and distressing symptom among patients receiving palliative care. Improvements in the assessment and management of refractory breathlessness are dependent on further research. In this article, we have outlined research topics on which to base future work.
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Multicenter Study
Factors associated with fulfilling the preference for dying at home among cancer patients: the role of general practitioners.
This study aimed to explore clinical and care-related factors associated with fulfilling cancer patients' preference for home death across four countries: Belgium (BE), The Netherlands (NL), Italy (IT), and Spain (ES). ⋯ Those who develop policy to facilitate home death need to examine available resources for primary end-of-life care.
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It is difficult to provide optimal care to people with advanced cancer presenting to emergency departments (EDs). Recent data suggest that the ED environment, the skills and priorities of treating staff, and the lack of clear communication related to goals of care contribute to the difficulty. By exploring the views of emergency, palliative care (PC), and oncology clinicians on the care of these patients, this study aimed to describe potential solutions. ⋯ The provision of care to patients with advanced cancer in the ED occurs across sites, across disciplines, and across teams. To make improvements to care, we must address these complexities. The improvements suggested in this study place the patient (and the patient's family) at the centre of care.