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Duke University researchers create decision aid tool for caregivers of patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation
Friday, 20 May 2011 15:45

Duke University researchers create decision aid tool for caregivers of patients on prolonged mechanical ventilationEach year, an estimated 300,000 patients in the U.S. are placed on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV). In order to help caregivers make decisions about these individuals' medical care, researchers from Duke University Medical Center created a new decision aid tool that integrates clinical data, prognostic estimates and treatment goals.

According to lead author Christopher Cox, who directs the medical ICU at Duke University Medical Center, the caregivers of patients at risk for PMV are sometimes required to make challenging decisions about whether to continue aggressive treatment or emphasize comfort at the expense of survival.

"The burden of life support decision-making rests on family members because of patients' severe illnesses," Cox explained. "However, the quality of this decision-making process is severely deficient."

He said that there is often poor communication between clinicians and caregivers in terms of helping patients' families understand a complicated critical illness and its associated management options.

The researchers believe that the new decision aid tool may improve the decision-making process and reduce healthcare utilization.
 

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