A research synthesis of quasi and experimental studies about palliative care nursing in Thailand

Abstract

Objectives The objective of the study was to synthesize existing quantitative evidence on palliative care intervention among patients with various types of illness in Thailand. Methods A synthesis of quasi and experimental studies published between 2010-2020 was conducted. The sample included theses and research articles that focused on nursing therapeutic therapeutic nursing. programs and which utilized a quasi or experimental study design. The main research instrument was a coding sheet developed by the researchers to record characteristics of the studies that met the inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed by frequency and percentage Results The study found seven studies that were included in literature reviews. Of the seven studies, one was classified as level 2.B and other six were classified as level 2.C. The outcomes of these existing nursing therapeutic programs specific focuses of the therapeutic nursing studies were quality of life (2 studies, 28.5%), symptom management in patients with advanced cancer (1 study, 14.3%), measurement of palliative care behavior (1 study, 14.3%), measurement of self-adaptation (1 study, 14.3%), measurement of quality of nursing care (1 study, 14.3%), and perceived symptom distress and quality of care (1 study, 14.3%). There were four types of interventions for caring patients and families during periods of palliative care: structured information programs, concrete nursing care programs, teaching and counseling programs, and family participation programs. Conclusion The findings of this study could be utilized as empirical evidence in developing clinical practice guidelines for patients in need of palliative care related to the patients’ health problems, symptoms, and needs.