End-of-life care pathways

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Healthcare Management
• Quality Improvement

Background:

• Integrated care pathways (ICPs) are increasingly utilized in end-of-life care.
• Existing literature suggests ICPs can enhance care delivery for terminally ill patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on the application and impact of integrated care pathways in end-of-life care.
• To identify key benefits and outcomes associated with ICP implementation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on integrated care pathways for end-of-life care.
• Synthesis of findings from descriptive and outcome-focused research.

Main Results:

• ICPs, such as the Liverpool Care Pathway, are associated with improved standardization, continuity, and collaboration in interdisciplinary teams.
• Previous studies indicate enhanced symptom assessment, goal documentation, guideline adherence, and pain control.
• Recent research is predominantly descriptive, but highlights potential for improved care processes.

Conclusions:

• Integrated care pathways offer a framework for promoting best practices and standardizing care for dying patients.
• These pathways can improve documentation and facilitate outcome measurement.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the effects and outcomes as ICP use expands.