Evaluating a palliative care program: methodology and limitations

J Palliat Care. 1996 Summer;12(2):23-33.

Abstract

The article describes an evaluation of a palliative care service in a regional and tertiary care facility. The service components are described. The four outcomes chosen for evaluation were: (a) symptom relief; (b) satisfaction with care for patients/families; (c) utilization of community resources; (d) good nursing morale and low staff stress. Quality of life was measured using a symptom distress scale; satisfaction using an adapted Kristjanson FAMCARE scale; community resources with opinion and satisfaction surveys; and staff morale and stress with the Maslach Bumout Inventory and Latack's Coping Questionnaire. Results showed that overall symptom distress was reduced. Patients/families were generally satisfied, with some areas needing attention. Physicians were generally satisfied and believed patients/families benefited from the psychosocial support, respite, and education/information. Nurses felt they had the time, energy, resources and support to give quality care.

MeSH terms

  • Community Health Services / statistics & numerical data
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Family / psychology
  • Hospitals, Teaching
  • Humans
  • Nova Scotia
  • Nursing Evaluation Research
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Palliative Care*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Quality of Life
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Surveys and Questionnaires