Home values and experiences navigation track (HomeVENT): Supporting decisions about pediatric home ventilation

Abstract

Objective: To pilot feasibility and acceptability of HomeVENT, a systematic approach to family-clinician decision-making about pediatric home ventilation. Methods: Parents and clinicians of children facing home ventilation decisions were enrolled at 3 centers using a pre/post cohort design. Family interventions included: 1) a website describing the experiences of families who previously chose for and against home ventilation 2) a Question Prompt List (QPL); 3) in-depth interviews exploring home life and values. Clinician HomeVENT intervention included a structured team meeting reviewing treatment options in light of the family's home life and values. All participants were interviewed one month after the decision. Results: We enrolled 30 families and 34 clinicians. Most Usual Care (14/15) but fewer Intervention (10/15) families elected for home ventilation. Families reported the website helped them consider different treatment options, the QPL promoted discussion within the family and with the team, and the interview helped them realize how home ventilation might change their daily life. Clinicians reported the team meeting helped clarify prognosis and prioritize treatment options. Conclusions: The HomeVENT pilot was feasible and acceptable. Innovation: This systematic approach to pediatric home ventilation decisions prioritizes family values and is a novel method to increase the rigor of shared decision-making in a rushed clinical environment.

Keywords

• Home ventilation
• Children with medical complexity
• Decision-making