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Supportive Care in Cancer

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01-03-2010 | Original Article

End-of-life research on patients’ attitudes in Germany: a feasibility study

Authors: R. Voltz, M. Galushko, J. Walisko, H. Pfaff, F. Nauck, L. Radbruch, C. Ostgathe

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 3/2010

Abstract

Introduction

So far, hardly any experience exists whether end-of-life research on patients’ attitudes towards hastened death in Germany is feasible and how it is perceived by the patients.

Materials and methods

During the initial phase of a validation study of the German version of the Schedule of Attitudes towards Hastened Death, we documented reasons for non-inclusion.

Results and discussion

Of 124 patients seen on the participating palliative care units, 18 (15%) were finally included in the study. Reasons for non-inclusion were mainly due to the clinical status of the patients; the German specific history of involuntary euthanasia during the Nazi regime did not prevent patients to participate.

Conclusion

We conclude that end-of-life research in Germany is indeed feasible, however, faces difficulties similar to the international experience.

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Title: End-of-life research on patients’ attitudes in Germany: a feasibility study
Authors: R. Voltz
M. Galushko
J. Walisko
H. Pfaff
F. Nauck
L. Radbruch
C. Ostgathe
Publication date: 01-03-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 3/2010
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-009-0654-y

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Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results and discussion

Conclusion

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