Expectations, end-of-life fears and end-of-life communication among palliative patients with cancer and caregivers: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

During serious illness, open communication with caregivers can ensure high-quality care. Without end-of-life communication, caregivers may become surrogates and decision-makers without knowing the patient's preferences. However, expectations and fears may influence the initiation of communication. The present study investigates differences between palliative patients with cancer and caregivers regarding expectations of end-of-life communication, end-of-life fears and experiences with end-of-life communication.

Design

A cross-sectional study using a semi-structured interview and a paper-based questionnaire SETTING: University Hospital in Germany.

Participants

151 participants: 85 palliative cancer patients (mean age: 62.8 years, 65.9% male) and 66 caregivers

SUBMITTER: von Blanckenburg P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9096546 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature