Next of Kin Perceptions of End of Life Care: An Investigation of Open-Ended Survey Responses to the VA’s Bereaved Family Survey (GP738)

• Published in: Journal of pain and symptom management 2020-07, Vol.60 (1), p.268-268
• Main Authors: Gray, Caroline, PhD, Yefimova, Maria, PhD RN, McCaa, Matthew, MSOT OTR/L, Goebel, Joy, PhD RN FPCN, Shreve, Scott, DO, Giannitrapani, Karleen, PhD, Lorenz, Karl, MD, MSHS
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Anesthesia; Appreciation; Bereavement; Best practice; End of life decisions; Hospice care; Narratives; Next of kin; Pain Medicine; Palliative care; Personal information; Polls & surveys; Qualitative research; Quality assessment; Quality management; Respondents; Restaurants; Rites & ceremonies; Sympathy; Veterans
• ISSN: 0885-3924; 1873-6513
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.04.165

Objectives Develop fuller and more nuanced understanding of family needs at end of life Consider ways that findings may inform quality improvement efforts and best practices at VA and other organizations. Importance. Although bereaved family surveys are routinely used quantitatively for quality assessment, open-ended, narrative responses often are not systematically analyzed, despite their potential for detailed, personal information about the receipt of care. Indepth analysis of narrative responses to bereaved family surveys allows researchers to identify opportunities for improving end-of-life care delivery. Objective(s). Based on qualitative analysis of responses to the Bereaved Family Survey (BFS), identify areas where the VA is excelling in delivering high quality end of life care for Veterans, as well as identify areas that may need further attention. Method(s). We analyzed over 6000 responses from 2017 to BFS open-ended questionnaire items. Using descriptive qualitative methods, we found several notable themes. Results. Overall, respondents were impressed with the level of care provided at VA facilities, and praised VA employees for their commitment and dedication. Respondents noted their appreciation of ceremonies that honored the life of the Veteran. Respondents recommended consistent provision of booklets that include information about benefits provided upon the Veteran's passing as well as recommendations for local lodging, restaurants, and funeral arrangements. Staff expressions of condolence, including sympathy