title: Redefining the patient-carer model at end of life.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  While the patient-carer dyad has been broadly described, there is little exploration of patient-carer models in use.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To explore types of patient-carer models in use for those with advanced and progressive disease.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative interviews were undertaken with patients at risk of dying in the next year and their carers across three sites (residential care home, medical assessment unit, general medical unit). Thematic analysis was undertaken.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Four patient-carer models were identified. In these, the provision of care and of coordination of care services were important areas and organised differently across the patient, the carer, and alternative sources of support.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A 'one size fits all' patient-carer model is outdated and a new understanding of different types of patient-carer models are required to fully inform care delivered at end of life.
authors.affiliation: Research Assistant, Graduate School of Nursing Midwifery and Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Roses
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Parker
authors.affiliation: Deputy Head, School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.
authors.forename: Kay
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: deVries
authors.affiliation: Professor of Clinical Nursing (Critical Care), Graduate School of Nursing Midwifery and Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Capital and Coast District Health Board, Wellington.
authors.forename: Maureen A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Coombs
mesh_terms: D017028:Caregivers; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: Advanced disease; Carer; End of life; Palliative care; Patient-carer dyad