Experiences of Surrogate Decision-Makers for Veterans
Author Information
Author(s): Berry-Stoelzle Maresi, Murray Sarah, Karr Daniel, Walkner Tammy, Alexander Bruce
Primary Institution: Iowa City VA Medical Center
Hypothesis
Veterans and their emergency contacts face challenges in medical decision-making during hospital admissions.
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for better support and preparation for emergency contacts making medical decisions for hospitalized veterans.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher social connections with the healthcare team lead to more confidence in decision-making.
- Preparation often involves discussions about terminal decisions with the veteran.
- Experience in medical decision-making correlates with higher preparedness.
- Lower confidence in decision-making is associated with feelings of isolation.
Takeaway
When veterans are in the hospital, their family or friends often have to make health decisions for them, and this study shows they need more help and information to do that well.
Methodology
Mixed-methods study with semi-structured interviews of emergency contacts of hospitalized veterans.
Participant Demographics
Veterans and their emergency contacts who had been hospitalized at a VAMC.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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