Identification of the palliative phase in people with dementia: a variety of opinions between healthcare professionals

Source: BMC Palliative Care 2015, v.14:56

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Date of publication: November 2015

Publication type: Research article

In a nutshell: The objective of this study was to explore when professionals in long-term care settings consider a person with dementia in need of palliative care. The findings from this study suggest that professionals across Europe have different opinions regarding the time point when to consider a person with dementia in need of palliative care.

Length of publication:6 pages

 

Living with and dying from advanced heart failure: understanding the needs of older patients at the end of life

Source: BMC Geriatrics October 2015

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Date of publication: October 2015

Publication type: Research article

In a nutshell: Old and very old patients with advanced heart failure often do not acknowledge the seriousness and severity of the disease. Their communication with physicians predominantly focuses on curative treatment. Therefore, aspects such as self-management of the disease, dealing with emergency situations and end-of-life issues should be addressed more prominently. An advanced care planning (ACP) programme for heart disease in older people could be an option to improve patient-centred care.

Length of publication: 21 pages

 

Successful launch of North Manchester Macmillan Palliative Care Support Service

Source: Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust

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Date of publication: October 2015

Publication type: Press release

In a nutshell: The North Manchester Macmillan Palliative Care Support Service (NMMPCSS) was launched September 21 2015. The £560k service is part of the Macmillan Cancer Improvement Partnership (MCIP) and has been developed through a partnership between Macmillan Cancer Support, the Manchester Clinical Commissioning Groups, The Pennine Acute Hospitals Trust, and St Ann’s Hospice. The service provides

• Round-the-clock telephone advice, as well as visits and care in the home;
• Dedicated professionals working together with patients and carers – seven days a week from 8am to 8pm
• An open referral system for patients, carers and professionals. (Patients can refer themselves to the service)
• Help with managing problems such as pain, sickness, breathlessness, and psychological and emotional support
• Ways for people to talk about what is important to them in their care
• Extra help at home when things are difficult, bringing support to carers

 

UK quality statements on end of life care in dementia: a systematic review of research evidence

Source: BMC Palliative Care 2015 v14.:51

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Date of publication: October 2015

Publication type: Research article

In a nutshell: The importance of a palliative approach in the care of people with dementia is recognised and there are national polices to enhance current care. In the UK implementation of these polices is promoted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Dementia Quality Standards (QS). Since publication of the QS new care interventions have been developed. This article critically reviews current research evidence relevant to EOL Quality Standards. The article concludes that Quality statements relevant to EOL care are useful to advance practice however they have a limited evidence base. High quality empirical work is needed to establish that the recommendations in these statements are best practice.

Length of publication: 15 pages