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The perception of people with cancer of starting a conversation about palliative care: A qualitative interview study
Author(s) -
Scherrens AnneLore,
Cohen Joachim,
Mahieu Annick,
Deliens Luc,
Deforche Benedicte,
Beernaert Kim
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
european journal of cancer care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.849
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1365-2354
pISSN - 0961-5423
DOI - 10.1111/ecc.13282
Subject(s) - conversation , palliative care , medicine , psychological intervention , qualitative research , nursing , perception , perspective (graphical) , family medicine , psychology , social science , communication , neuroscience , artificial intelligence , sociology , computer science
Objective Communication and patient‐centred care are important determinants for timely initiation of palliative care. Therefore, we aimed to understand and explain the behaviour “starting a conversation about palliative care with a professional carer” from the perspective of people with incurable cancer. Methods A qualitative study using semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews with 25 people with incurable cancer: 13 not (yet) receiving palliative care and 12 receiving palliative care; 4 started the conversation themselves. Determinants related to the defined behaviour were matched with concepts in existing behavioural theories. Results Both positive and negative stances towards starting a conversation about palliative care with a professional carer were found. Influencing behavioural factors were identified, such as knowledge (e.g. about palliative care), attitude (e.g. association of palliative care with quality of life) and social influence (e.g. relationship with the professional carer). We modelled the determinants into a behavioural model. Conclusion The behavioural model developed helps to explain why people with incurable cancer do or do not start a conversation about palliative care with their professional carer. By targeting the modifiable determinants of the model, promising interventions can be developed to help patients taken the initiative in communication about palliative care with a professional carer.