Factors influencing the experience of the terminal phase and the grieving process: the primary caregiver’s perspective

Theoretical framework: The experience of the terminal phase and death by patients and caregivers is influenced by multiple factors. This study aimed at understanding this experience from the primary caregiver’s perspective. Objectives: To describe the factors that, from the primary caregiver’s perspective, influenced the experience of disease in the terminal phase and mourning for the death of a close person; To understand the influence of nurses’ conduct on the experience of disease in the terminal phase and mourning for the death of a close person from the primary caregiver’s perspective. Methodology: Qualitative descriptive exploratory study. Results: The following factors were valued: To Assume the Caregiver’s Role, To allow for the end-of-life/terminal phase to take place at home/near the family and Process of Care. Regarding the nurses’ conduct, the knowledge, communication and relationship established by nurses were also valued. Conclusion: In addition to expanding the implementation of specific palliative care teams, the acquisition and development of basic skills in this area by most health care professionals is essential.

Primary lymphomas of the female genital tract: imaging findings

Primary lymphomas of the female genital tract are extremely rare, and a definitive diagnosis requires correlation of the clinical, radiological, and pathological findings. Unlike nonlymphomatous malignant tumors, the treatment of lymphoma is typically nonsurgical, thus raising the possibility of lymphoma in the differential diagnosis of a pelvic mass, a radiologist can significantly change the approach to the disease. Although some imaging findings may appear nonspecific, others may suggest the possibility of lymphoma, such as the presence of one or more solid, well-defined, homogeneous masses without necrosis despite a large size or the presence of diffuse infiltration leading to organomegaly with architectural preservation. Additionally, pelvic lymphadenopathy may be evident. In this pictorial essay, we discuss the radiological appearances of gynecological primary lymphomas, grouped by organ, in ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.