International journal of palliative nursing
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to explore the characteristics and views of the family carers of older people with heart failure. ⋯ carers were mainly older women, often experiencing multiple health conditions. Addressing the practical and emotional support required presents a challenge for specialist palliative care in responding to calls for increased involvement in heart failure. A shared care model with liaison between specialist heart failure nurses, cardiologists, primary care teams and hospice services is advocated.
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Review
People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at the end of life: a review of the literature.
Based on 2004 data, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the world, surpassed only by cardiovascular disease, pneumonia and HIV/AIDS. The terminal trajectory of patients with COPD is distinct from that of cancer patients. ⋯ The use of a traditional cancer-based service model to predict the need for palliative care services is not helpful for people with COPD. Drastic improvements in end of life care for the people with COPD are essential, especially with the projected rise in cases over the coming years.
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Comparative Study
Palliative care and support for people with neurodegenerative conditions and their carers.
to identify and compare the needs for supportive care/palliative care services of people in Australia with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Huntington's Disease (HD) and Parkinson's Disease (PD) and the needs of their carers. ⋯ patients and carers who received more tailored services and more palliative care services were the most satisfied. Therefore, results highlight the need for tailored and flexible models of care for these groups with unique care requirements.
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Community children's nursing services are well placed to provide palliative care for children and young people living with life-limiting conditions. The provision of home support can make a real difference to the quality of life for these families. Yet families report that services are fragmented and difficult to access. ⋯ The key worker role has been identified as advantageous in co-ordinating care. The community children's nursing team is in a prime position to take on this role. Best practice is achieved through an integrated approach to service provision.