Health Professionals’ Perceptions of the Contributions of Palliative Care Consultation for Patients with COVID-19 (S503)

OUTCOMES: 1. Discuss health professionals’ perceptions of the contributions of palliative care consultation in COVID-19 inpatient care 2. Recognize the effect of palliative care consultation on health professionals’ self-reported psychological distress ORIGINAL RESEARCH BACKGROUND: Palliative care (PC) programs worldwide became immediately involved in caring for patients with COVID-19 together with other health professionals. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine health professionals’ perceptions of the contributions and helpfulness of PC consultation for COVID-19 care and describe its effect on their own psychological distress. METHODS: This was a survey-based cross-sectional study of physicians, nurses, advance practice providers, and case managers at two acute care hospitals in a large hospital system in the midwestern United States. Eligible participants completed a 17-item questionnaire on demographic and work-related information, contributions and helpfulness of PC consultation, self-reported psychological distress, and likelihood of working with PC in the future. RESULTS: Of 427 health professionals invited to participate, 76 responded (18%). Among 64 eligible respondents, 72% were female, 56% were under the age 40, 40.6% were nurses, 28.1% were physicians, and 66% worked in the intensive care unit. The PC team was perceived as helpful in managing pain and other symptoms, coordinating care between providers, discussing end-of-life preferences, communicating with patients and families, and supporting the care team. Median self-reported psychological distress was 7 (range, 2-10). Twenty-five (39%) participants agreed that PC eased distress by communicating with patients, families and other professionals, providing guidance in difficult conversations, and offering companionship. Among respondents, 84% would probably work with PC in the future. CONCLUSION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, health professionals perceived working with the PC team as helpful in caring for patients and families and in easing their own psychological distress. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH, POLICY, OR PRACTICE: During the COVID-19 pandemic, health professionals perceived working with the PC team as helpful in caring for patients and families and in easing their own psychological distress. As the pandemic persists and professionals from various fields continue to care for patients, PC appears to be a valuable resource that they can call on.