Patients’ Perceived Outcome of Specialist Palliative Care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana
Published: 2021-11-08
Page: 284-290
Issue: 2021 - Volume 4 [Issue 1]
Gladys Anyane *
Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, 00233, Ghana.
Rasheed Ofosu-Poku
Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, 00233, Ghana.
Alberta Delali Dzaka
Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, 00233, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To explore the outcome of specialist palliative care services from the perspective patients at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana.
Study Design: Qualitative exploratory study
Place and Duration of Study: Palliative Care Unit, Family Medicine Directorate, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, from 7th May to 28th May 2019.
Methodology: Ten (10) patients with advanced cancer were recruited from the palliative care unit using purposive sampling technique. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis done.
Results: Two (2) main themes and four (4) sub-themes were identified. Patients reported renewed sense of hope, enhanced self-dignity, improved symptom control and appreciation with care as the outcome of specialist palliative care services.
Conclusion: Palliative care improves the quality of life of patients by improving symptom control and helping them have enhanced self-dignity and sense of hope.
Keywords: Palliative care, cancer, outcome, dignity, hope