End-of-Life Experiences for Cancer Patients Dying in Hospital with COVID-19.
Philippa McFarlaneAngela HalleyYukie KanoNicola WadeSophie WilsonJoanne DroneyPublished in: Journal of patient experience (2022)
Despite a wealth of research regarding COVID-19, little evidence exists about cancer patients' specific needs and experiences at end-of-life. This study retrospectively describes the care of 34 hospitalised cancer patients dying with COVID-19. The palliative care needs of patients were described. The main domains of end-of-life care service provision were evaluated including treatment of pain and other symptoms, communication and decision making at end-of-life and level of involvement of the palliative care team. Physical symptoms were managed with relatively low doses of end-of-life medications. High levels of patient and family anxiety, however, highlight the complexity of death from a stigmatised disease. Prompt acknowledgement of the vulnerability of advanced cancer patients with COVID-19 can facilitate proactive symptom management, anticipatory communication and enhance family support.
Keyphrases
- palliative care
- advanced cancer
- coronavirus disease
- sars cov
- mental health
- end stage renal disease
- healthcare
- decision making
- sleep quality
- chronic kidney disease
- ejection fraction
- newly diagnosed
- physical activity
- chronic pain
- prognostic factors
- respiratory syndrome coronavirus
- neuropathic pain
- pain management
- spinal cord injury
- patient reported outcomes
- spinal cord
- patient reported
- emergency department
- acute care
- depressive symptoms
- replacement therapy
- drug induced