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American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®, Vol. 19, No. 6, 392-396 (2002)
DOI: 10.1177/104990910201900609

Family distress in palliative medicine: A pilot study of the Family APGAR Scale

Ruth D. Powazki, MSW

Department of Social Work, The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, Cleveland Clinic/Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Declan Walsh, MSc, FACP, FRCP (Edin)

The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, Cleveland Clinic/Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio

The family is essential to patients with advanced cancer. Family and caregiver distress, however, can impair optimal care and support of the patient. A five-item questionnaire, the Family APGAR Scale, was evaluated to determine family functioning levels of selected patients. The APGAR Scale has five components for measuring family functioning: Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve. Fifty consecutive patients admitted to a palliative medicine inpatient unit were reviewed for a pilot study. Eligibility requirements included admission to the unit for the first time, and the ability to speak English and give informed consent. Fifteen patients and 11 primary care-givers participated. Despite the small sample, some significant family functioning issues were identified. Completing the study later with a larger sample will provide information that will help the multidisciplinary team better meet the needs of both patient and family.

Key Words: palliative care • family satisfaction • Family APGAR Scale • care-givers • psychosocial issues


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American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, September 1, 2004; 21(5): 365 - 371.
[Abstract] [PDF]