Aileen Collier, Katrina Breaden, Jane L. Phillips, Meera Agar, Caroline Litster, David C. Currow.
J Pain Symptom Manage. 2017 Jan;53(1):33-39.
A qualitative study of the perspectives of 20 caregivers in the palliative setting of patients on long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) for the treatment of refractory breathlessness was conducted using semi-structured interviews.
The main theme reported was that caregivers felt helpless and regarded oxygen as a life sustaining for people on LTOT and was vital in managing distressing symptoms and quality of life. However it also had financial costs and burdens including equipment, the noise from the concentrator, struggling with independence and leaving the house. The authors conclude that the possible harms of LTOT are underrated and highlight the importance of providing information and education about the appropriate use of LTOT.
Composed by Elaine Boland.