Development of the conversation tool “I-HARP for COPD” for early identification of palliative care needs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to develop the conversation tool “I-HARP for COPD” for timely identification of palliative care needs in Dutch patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods An iterative and participatory research design was used to develop “I-HARP for COPD”. There were 2 phases to the development of “I-HARP for COPD”: content development and testing. A review of current literature, parallel focus groups, and a questionnaire among experts were used to develop the content of “I-HARP for COPD”. “I-HARP for COPD” was then assessed by health-care professionals (HCPs) in clinical practice for understanding, difficulty, and relevance. Results A total of 46 HCPs, 6 patients, 1 informal caregiver, and 1 bereaved informal caregiver participated in this study. “I-HARP for COPD” included 14 screening questions, additional in-depth questions, and recommendations to address identified needs. The content of “I-HARP for COPD” was accepted by 86.2% of the HCPs. Significance of results “I-HARP for COPD” was successfully developed for providing guidance in the palliative care of Dutch patients with COPD and their informal caregivers. By supporting HCPs with “I-HARP for COPD”, they are better able to timely identify and direct palliative care needs.