Jacqueline M. Kruser|Michael J. Nabozny|Nicole M. Steffens|Karen J. Brasel|Toby C. Campbell|Martha E. Gaines|Margaret L. Schwarze
“Best Case/Worst Case”: Qualitative Evaluation of a Novel Communication Tool for Difficult in?the?Moment Surgical Decisions
Northwestern University|University of Wisconsin–Madison|University of Wisconsin–Madison|Oregon Health & Science University|University of Wisconsin–Madison|University of Wisconsin System|University of Wisconsin–Madison
evaluate communication tool called best caseworst case bcwc based established conceptual model shared decisionmakingfocus group studyolder adults four focus groups surgeons two focus groups using modified questions decision aid acceptability scale decisional conflict scale evaluate revise communication toolindividuals aged 60 older recruited senior centers n 37 surgeons academic private practices wisconsin n 17qualitative content analysis used explore themes concepts focus group respondents identifiedseniors surgeons praised tool unambiguous illustration multiple treatment options clarity gained presentation array treatment outcomes participants noted tool provides opportunity inthemoment preferencebased deliberation options platform discussion clinicians loved ones older adults worried format tool universally accessible people different educational backgrounds surgeons concerns tool vulnerable physicians subjective biasesthe bcwc tool novel decision support intervention may help facilitate difficult decisionmaking older adults physicians considering invasive acute medical treatments surgery