The needs and supportive networks of the dying: an assessment instrument and mapping procedure for hospice patients.
If institutional systems that provide end-of-life care are to survive the demands of managed care, they will need to tie together methods of assessing the needs of the dying, leading to a new understanding of the functioning of a patient's existing helping networks. This paper presents the preliminary findings of a research project conducted at a Midwest hospice. The study utilized a cross sectional correlational survey of patients' needs via the Early Risk and Resiliency Inventory (ERRI), while mapping their helping networks with a Circles of Care Ecomap. It addressed the question, "What is the relationship between the needs of the dying and the formal and informal support provided?" Study findings supported the contention that higher need patients utilized the more expensive institutional services rather than relying on available natural networks; and statistical analysis of the study instrument suggested the creation of a new conceptual domain of psychospiritual need.
Early
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BP
Catholic University of America, National Catholic School of Social Service, Washington DC, USA.
Smith
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ED
Todd
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Beem
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T
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology; D019058:Community Networks; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D017051:Hospice Care / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007484:Iowa; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017146:Models, Organizational; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012944:Social Support; D012948:Social Work Department, Hospital; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires / Q000592:standards*