1999 Volume 13 Issue 2 Pages 60-68
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine both the attitudes among terminally ill patients with cancer and family members at the hospice clinic and the information on the hospice and palliative care given to the patients and family members. The data was collected by interviews using a questionnaire or distribution of questionnaires to be returned by mail after completion.
Thirteen (86.7%) patients and 53 (91.4%) family members returned completed responses. Patients who needed to consult the hospice clinic had many symptoms of distress, and patients tended to show progressive symptoms when family members visited the clinic without the patients. In addition to anxiety concerning pain, anxiety and worry concerning timing of admission to the hospice or palliative care unit, receiving consultation and measures taken in emergencies were also high.
Medical staff provided cancer patients and family members with information on the hospice and palliative care, but it was suggested that it was too late for them to obtain such information.
This study concluded that it is necessary for terminally ill patients with cancer and family members to receive consultation, and medical staff must provide information on the hospice and palliative care at an early stage before evaluation of the results of treatment.
