8 Using the patient dignity question in a specialist palliative care unit: assessing the impact on staff

<h3>Background</h3> The Patient Dignity Question (PDQ) asks patients, ‘What do I need to know about you as a person to take the best care of you that I can?’ Responses create a holistic view of the patient, facilitate conversations about dignity, and enhance person-centred care (Chochinov et al., 2002). Literature supports the positive impact of the PDQ on patients, staff, and families (McDermott, 2019). This Quality Improvement (QI) project aims to evaluate the impact of the PDQ responses on staff in an 18-bed palliative unit. <h3>Method</h3> QI methodology with a Plan-Do-Study-Act approach was employed to implement the PDQ as best practice. Staff teaching sessions on personhood were conducted with prior knowledge assessed through Pre-PDQ questionnaires. Staff responses were recorded in Post-PDQ questionnaires. A multidisciplinary focus group explored the PDQ’s influence on different healthcare roles. <h3>Results</h3> Thematic analysis of focus group data revealed a primary theme: the impact of the PDQ. Five sub-themes were generated: PDQ as a tool for best practice, multidisciplinary perspectives on person-centred care, staff fulfilment and resilience, communication within therapeutic relationships, and practicalities of continuing. Quotes included ‘…should be doing this already…’ (doctor),’…seeing people as people helps us…’ (nurse),’…more value added into your work…’ (nurse). 63% of Pre-PDQ respondents, were unfamiliar with the PDQ. 100% of Post-PDQ respondents supported the PDQ’s continuation in practice and highlighted the benefits ‘…knowing more can help ease difficult conversations…’ and ‘…a worthwhile intervention…has lasting benefit for patient…’. <h3>Conclusion</h3> This simple yet powerful question offers multidisciplinary benefits and ensures patients are recognised as individuals. The PDQ positively impacts palliative care staff by strengthening therapeutic relationships, enhancing communication and promoting person-centred care. It supports staff resilience and job satisfaction by fostering an environment that upholds patient dignity. Results demonstrate a high level of enthusiasm for continued PDQ use.