Why is there an increased potential for pneumothorax in lung cancer patient?
cancer → cavity forms in the lung → potential for pneumothorax
What cancer drugs can have SEs on:
A. Respiratory system (e.g. pneumonitis, fibrosis)
B. Cardiac system (e.g. cardiotoxicity)
Respiratory: Bleomycin, Methotrexate, Cyclophosphamide
Cardiac: Herceptin
Why do we need to ask about hormonal treatment for cancer?
Hormonal treatment (e.g. prostate and breast cancer) → increase the risk of clots
What PPC and PPD mean?
PPC - preferred place of care
PPD - preferred place of death
What factors influence which investigations to perform? (in palliative care)
Investigation and management are influenced by the clinical scenario
- Underlying diagnosis and prognosis
- Benefits vs risks of investigation and management
- Performance Status
- Patient wishes and preferences; PPC , PPD
- Reversibility
- Appropriateness of hospitalisation
Driving advice whilst taking strong opioids
- Should not drive for at least five days after firs dose (when starting taking) of opioids
*sometimes longer is needed
Do not drive if:
- feeling drowsy
- extra doses of strong opioids have been taken (do not drive the same day as extra short-acting dose has been taken)
- if other extra drugs causing drowsiness are added e.g. hayfever tablets
When can a patient start driving after first starting treatment with strong opioids?
If a patient does not feel drowsy and has been taking opioids for five days
Does a patient need to inform DVLA about being on strong opioids?
No
