Content and implementation of advance care plans: A retrospective cohort study
Laura Panozzo1, Bernadette Ward2, Pam Harvey3
1BMedSc(Hons)/MD student, Research Support Officer, Monash Rural Health, Bendigo, Vic. lepan1@student.monash.edu
Background And Objectives:
The development of advance care plans (Plans) in general practice can be time consuming. End-of-life care should reflect an individual’s documented preferences. The aim of this study was to examine the content and implementation of Plans in hospital during end-of-life care.
Methods:
A retrospective cohort study of the hospital medical records of decedents aged ≥75 years was performed to assess Plan content and implementation.
Results:
Of the 536 decedents, 52 had a Plan. There were 17 cases where life-prolonging treatment was given and contradicted preferences listed in the Plan. This included instances of intubation, surgery and curative medication.
Discussion:
General practice staff investment in advance care planning should be reflected in the utilisation of Plans and, where medically indicated, respect for patients’ preferences.
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