Authors
- Jenny Fox1,
- Patsy Yates1,
- Carol Windsor1,
- Shirley Connell1
- Queensland University of Technology (QUT)1
2015
Excerpt
Objective
Navigating the transition to palliative care in an acute care setting is a complex process. This study explores the transition process to inform an understanding of the contextual conditions within which the transition is constructed and negotiated.
Method
A theoretical framework drawing on a dual interpretive and critical tradition inormed the research. Modified grounded theory methods facilitated data generation from and analysis of 29 interviews with patients, family carers and health professionals thus ensuring a broadly based view of the complexities of the transition process.
Results
A lack of clarity in the construction and positioning of palliative care within an acute setting creates an added level of complexity for patients and carers. Becoming 'palliative' is not a defined event and nor is there unanimity around referral to a palliative care service. As such, ambiguity and tension contributed to difficulties in negotiating the transition process.
Conclusions
The findings point to uncertainty around scopes of practice in the transition to palliative care. The challenge lies in recognising patient and carer priorities within an increasingly specialised health care system. The findings will inform service development and the need for stronger and more coherent partnerships between consumers and health professionals in developing care pathways.
Navigating the transition to palliative care in an acute care setting is a complex process. This study explores the transition process to inform an understanding of the contextual conditions within which the transition is constructed and negotiated.
Method
A theoretical framework drawing on a dual interpretive and critical tradition inormed the research. Modified grounded theory methods facilitated data generation from and analysis of 29 interviews with patients, family carers and health professionals thus ensuring a broadly based view of the complexities of the transition process.
Results
A lack of clarity in the construction and positioning of palliative care within an acute setting creates an added level of complexity for patients and carers. Becoming 'palliative' is not a defined event and nor is there unanimity around referral to a palliative care service. As such, ambiguity and tension contributed to difficulties in negotiating the transition process.
Conclusions
The findings point to uncertainty around scopes of practice in the transition to palliative care. The challenge lies in recognising patient and carer priorities within an increasingly specialised health care system. The findings will inform service development and the need for stronger and more coherent partnerships between consumers and health professionals in developing care pathways.