Clinical nurse specialists in palliative care. Part 1. A description of the Macmillan Nurse caseload

摘要: Macmillan Nurses play a significant role in specialist palliative care services the UK, providing direct and indirect to patients with complex needs their families. Existing literature shows developing understanding of role; however, little detailed data exist regarding clinical work that they undertake. This paper provides evidence from major evaluation study, commissioned by Cancer Relief. It reports methods collection for study then goes on use describe caseload Nurses. Between September 1998 October 1999, team researchers worked alongside 12 teams period 8 weeks each team. Prospective were gathered all new referrals within 8-week period. included demographic details, timing referral, nature purpose contacts, interventions, recorded case notes Nurse records. Where possible, date death was obtained patients. A total 814 referred during (range 45– 114 per site). The most common reasons referral emotional patient (57%), pain control (27%), other physical symptoms (33%). Thirteen cent died 1 week while 40% 6 weeks; thus, proportion is focused at end life. also noteworthy one-third still alive, indicating some are being cared earlier illness trajectory. On average, received two or more ‘face-to-face’ visits follow-up phone calls would appear have been successful getting access relevant As any service set adapt develop setting. Whilst it clearly important development be tailored local conditions, diversity suggests cases, stronger guidance, partnership both Relief core providers, may justified.