title: Effects of Constraints and Consequences on Plan Complexity in Conversations About End-of-Life Care.
abstract: The current study assessed the role of health care provider constraints and perceived consequences on plan complexity for conversations with patients about end-of-life care. Meta-goal constraints, perceived consequences associated with conversational engagement and planning theory provides the basis for research questions and hypotheses posed. Findings suggested that while the meta-goals of efficiency and politeness were each recognized as important, providers indicated greater concern for politeness during patient interactions concerning treatment options. Reported constraints had no impact on plan complexity. Perceived consequences of conversational engagement were predominantly positive and concerned the patient. Findings may enhance the understanding of social workers in their educational role regarding the potential training needs of health care team members in palliative care contexts.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Communication Studies , California State University, Long Beach , Long Beach , California , USA.
authors.forename: Jessica
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Russell
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D032722:Advance Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012947:Social Work / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000458:organization & administration*
keywords: communication; end-of-life care planning; health care planning; treatment decisions