Appropriate time frames for data collection in quality of life research among cancer patients at the end of life.

摘要: Longitudinal research has been recommended as the most appropriate design to ensure validity of quality life assessments. However, high attrition and non-random missing data in studies for terminal cancer patients raise questions about generalizability study, at worst they may jeopardize interpretation results. Appropriate time frames eliciting information directly from can internal external end-of-life care, allow health care professionals detect sensitively effects within shortest intervention period, make comparisons across possible. From a review literature, it is that frame interviewing their be weekly assessment schedule based on following factors: (a) median survival enrolling hospice/palliative program approximately 30 days there are substantial number who die each week; (b) final weeks life, symptoms some change dramatically; (c) period likely give clinically significant effect management 1 week after enrollment care.