Guidelines for Family Meetings in Palliative Care
Author Information
Author(s): Peter Hudson, Karen Quinn, Brendan O'Hanlon, Sanchia Aranda
Primary Institution: Centre for Palliative Care Education & Research, St Vincent's and The University of Melbourne
Hypothesis
How should family meetings be convened and structured in palliative care?
Conclusion
Family meetings provide an opportunity to enhance the quality of care provided to palliative care patients and their family carers.
Supporting Evidence
- Family meetings are recommended for effective communication in palliative care.
- Current practice shows variability in how family meetings are conducted.
- Most health professionals lack training in conducting family meetings.
Takeaway
Family meetings help doctors, patients, and families talk about care and make plans together, which can improve everyone's understanding and support.
Methodology
The guidelines were developed through a literature review, conceptual framework, and refinement based on expert panel feedback and focus groups.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on expert opinion rather than extensive empirical research.
Limitations
The guidelines are primarily based on expert opinion due to a lack of empirical evidence in specialist palliative care settings.
Participant Demographics
Multidisciplinary specialists from three palliative care units and three major teaching hospitals in Melbourne, Australia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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