module 9

Question 1

whats the difference between pallative care and end of life care?

Answer 1

• end of life care refers to 12 months prior to death
• pallative assiting with the effects of life threatening illnesses

Question 2

key principles of pallative care

Answer 2

1. family and significant others
2. promotes holistic care
3. used early in the course of an illness
4. disease modifying treatments
5. can be provided in any setting

Question 3

what is the palliative approach (primary model of care)

Answer 3

• when the cure is not an option
• focus on management of symptoms with promoting quality of life
• the level of palliative care is low to moderate
• goal - provide, comfort, holistic and person centered care

Question 4

what is specialized palliative care provision (tertiary)

Answer 4

• required to manage complex symptoms or groups of symptoms
• the level of palliative care required is moderate to high
• referral to mulitdisciplinary palliative care team
• goal - assessment and management of complex symptom

Question 5

what is end of life care (terminal care)

Answer 5

• care during the final stages of life
• involves the final days or weeks of life
• goal - focus on physical, emotional and spiritual comfort and support for the family.

Question 6

what are the possible symptoms managed by palliative care team?

Answer 6

1. pain
2. incontinence
3. nausea
4. bowel problems
5. fatigue
6. disturbed sleep
7. diminished appetitie
8. dyspnoea

Question 7

what are non pharmacological meidicines to assist with symptom management in palliative care?

Answer 7

1. aromatherapy - relief of nausea
2. massage - relaxation and stress relief
3. mindfulness meditation - improves sleep, mood and stress
4. music therapy - improves pain and mood
5. chinese medicines

Question 8

what are some medications used to assist with symptom management in palliative care?

Answer 8

1. analgesics - pain - morphine
2. antimetics - pain and nausea
3. laxatives/ aperients - constipation
4. steroids - reduce pain/ inflammation
5. antidepressants
6. neroleptics - delirium