Browsing by Author "Tellier, Leah"

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    Exploring Awareness of a Palliative Approach: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study
    (2018-09-17) Tellier, Leah; Raffin Bouchal, Shelley; Reay, Gudrun; Shantz, Heather Davison
    Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death in Canada. Advanced cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, and advanced dementia are life-limiting conditions that would benefit from a palliative approach to care. There is minimal Canadian literature that explores healthcare providers’ knowledge and awareness of introducing a palliative approach for patients living with chronic disease. This thesis outlines a qualitative study using grounded theory methodology, to explore the knowledge, perspectives, and beliefs of healthcare professionals who care for individuals with chronic life-limiting illness. In this study, interviews were conducted to explore healthcare professionals’ understanding of a palliative approach to care, available resources, and their beliefs about introducing a palliative approach earlier in the illness trajectory for patients living with chronic disease. Data was collected and analyzed using constructivist grounded theory methodology. Findings from this study have determined the need for increased awareness of a palliative approach for patients living with chronic disease as well as the resources available for physicians and nurses to make appropriate referrals for patients who would benefit from early palliative care initiatives. In addition, the long-term objective is to decrease the amount of Emergency Department visits and acute care admissions as well as improve quality of life for patients living with chronic disease by increasing access to community palliative care resources through early referral.