"Turkish Validation of the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale in Palliative Care"

Launched by ISTINYE UNIVERSITY · Apr 3, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a tool called the Respiratory Distress Observation Scale (RDOS) that helps healthcare providers assess breathing difficulties, known as dyspnea, in patients who cannot communicate, such as those who are too ill or have cognitive impairments. The researchers are working to create a Turkish version of the RDOS to ensure it is reliable and valid for use in Turkey. This tool has already been adapted in other languages but is new to Turkish patients.

To participate in this study, individuals must be 18 years or older and have a serious health condition like lung cancer, chronic kidney failure, or heart failure that causes breathing difficulties. Participants need to be staying in a palliative care unit for at least one day and be willing to take part in the study, either personally or through family consent. Those who are completely dependent on a ventilator or have certain brain disorders are not eligible to join. By participating, individuals will help improve ways to assess and manage breathing issues in patients who cannot speak for themselves, ultimately enhancing their care.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged 18 years or older,
• • Diagnosed with lung or pleural cancer, chronic kidney failure, congestive heart failure, COPD, asthma, or pneumonia, and experiencing dyspnea,
• • Specifically referred for treatment of dyspnea,
• • Residing in a palliative care unit for at least 1 day,
• • Willing to participate in the study, either personally or through consent from a family member.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Completely dependent on a ventilator,
• • Diagnosed with a central nervous system disorder (Quadriplegia, Bulbar ALS).