Publication

Experiences of relatives with outpatient palliative care: a cross-sectional study

Journal Paper/Review - Jun 2, 2020

Units
PubMed
Doi

Citation
Fringer A, Stängle S, Bischofberger I, Büche D, Praxmarer R, Ch Ott S, Schnepp W. Experiences of relatives with outpatient palliative care: a cross-sectional study. Int J Palliat Nurs 2020; 26:230-237.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
Int J Palliat Nurs 2020; 26
Publication Date
Jun 2, 2020
Issn Electronic
2052-286X
Pages
230-237
Brief description/objective

AIM
The authors aimed to evaluate the experiences of the relatives of dying people, both in regard to benefits and special needs, when supported by a mobile palliative care bridging service (MPCBS), which exists to enable dying people to stay at home and to support patients' relatives.

DESIGN
A cross-sectional survey.

METHODS
A standardised survey was performed, asking 106 relatives of dying people about their experiences with the MPCBS (response rate=47.3%). Descriptive statistics were analysed using SPSS 23.

FINDINGS
Many relatives (62.5%) reported that their dying relations when discharged from a facility to stay at home were not symptom-free. The MPCBS helped relatives maintain home care, and this was reported to be helpful. Support provided by the MPCBS made it easier for 77.6% of relatives to adjust care as soon as situations changed, and helped ensure that symptoms could be better controlled, at least for 68.2% of relatives. Younger relatives felt more encouraged by the MPCBS to care for their relatives dying at home.