Effects of a Home-Based Palliative Care Model on Patient Outcomes and Caregiver Burden at a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effects of a home-based palliative care model on patient outcomes, specifically focusing on the alleviation of physical, psychosocial, and spiritual suffering, as well as the information provided and the caregiving burden of family caregivers. The study was conducted at the Karunruk palliative care excellent center, Srinagarind hospital, and involved a purposive sample of 32 participants selected based on specific criteria. The care model included home visits, daily telemedicine follow-ups,                   a 24-hour consultation system, and a home health record manual, with continuous care provided until the patient’s death. Data were collected using a palliative care outcome scale for caregivers version and the Zarit caregiver burden assessment tool before and on days 3 and 7 after participation, and care was provided until the patient’s death. Data analysis included frequency distribution, percentages, means, and standard deviations, with comparisons of mean scores using Generalized linear models and multiple comparison statistics. 

            The resulst show that after implementing the care model, the mean scores for palliative care outcomes were significantly lower on days 3 and 7 compared to before the intervention, with statistical significance at the .05 level. Additionally, the mean score for caregiver burden was significantly lower on day 7 compared to before the intervention, with statistical significance at the .05 level. Therefore, the home-based palliative care model for End-of-life patient resulted in improved care outcomes, reduced physical, psychosocial suffering for patients, and better information and quality of care for family caregivers, ultimately reducing the caregiving burden.