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Patterns of Suffering in Palliative Care: A Descriptive Study
Tan Seng Beng1, Tan Ting Ting1, Malathi Karupiah1
1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Omega
|February 6, 2020
Summary
This study explored suffering patterns in palliative care patients. Most patients experienced a downward trend in suffering, with nine distinct patterns identified to aid management.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Symptom Management
- Qualitative Research Methods
Background:
- Suffering is a prevalent issue in palliative care settings.
- Understanding the nuances of patient suffering is crucial for effective care.
- Previous research has not fully detailed the dynamic patterns of suffering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and categorize the diverse patterns of suffering experienced by adult palliative care patients.
- To identify key characteristics that define different suffering trajectories.
- To provide a foundation for improved suffering management strategies in palliative care.
Main Methods:
- Adult palliative care patients were recruited from the University of Malaya Medical Centre.
- Suffering scores were systematically recorded three times daily for one week.
- Statistical analysis (SPSS) and structural pattern recognition were employed to analyze data.
Main Results:
- A total of 53 patients participated in the study.
- The majority of patients (64%) exhibited a downward trend in suffering.
- Nine distinct suffering patterns (S1-S9) were identified based on intensity and fluctuation.
Conclusions:
- Suffering in palliative care is not uniform and presents in identifiable patterns.
- Recognizing these specific suffering patterns can enhance clinical assessment.
- This research offers a novel framework for personalized suffering management in palliative care.
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