Usefulness of Palliative Prognostic Index for Patient With Advanced Cancer in Home Care Setting

Abstract

Aims:

This study aimed to clarify the accuracy of the Palliative Prognostic Index (PPI) for advanced cancer patients in home care settings.

Method:

The study included 65 advanced cancer patients who received home visiting services between April 2007 and June 2009, and who died at home or in the hospital. Using the medical records from initial home visits, we retrospectively calculated PPI scores along with sensitivity and specificity.

Results:

For 3- and 6-week survival, prognostic prediction demonstrated respective sensitivities of 55% and 63%, and specificities of 79% and 77%.

Conclusion:

The sensitivity of the PPI for advanced cancer patients in home care settings was lower than reported for those in palliative care units. Development of prognostic tools suitable for home care settings is needed.

Keywords

patient with advanced cancer home care setting prognostic prediction palliative prognostic index retrospective study palliative care home visiting service

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