The Family Communication Study: A randomized trial of prospective pediatric palliative care consultation, study methodology and perceptions of participation burden.

ABSTRACT:

Background

To describe the study methods, baseline characteristics and burden of study procedures of an intervention designed to reduce family stress symptoms through early support from the palliative care team. Length of stay of ≥8days was the trigger for early palliative care involvement.

Methods

Cluster-randomized trial with children as the unit of randomization. Up to 3 family members per child were recruited. Family stress symptoms were recorded at baseline, discharge from the ICU, and 3months post-enrollment. Questionnaire burden was assessed on a 1-10 point scale at each time point and open-ended comments were analyzed to describe the participants' experience in the study.

Results

380 family members of 220 children (control=115 children and 204 family members;

SUBMITTER: Starks H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4969115 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature