2.2 () Core concepts in palliative care

Question 1

Name EIGHT principles of Palliative care as outlined by the International Ass for Hospice & Pall Care

Answer 1

◆ Caring attitude
◆ Comprehensive inter-professional care
◆ Care excellence
◆ Consistent medical care
◆ Coordinated care
◆ Continuity of care

◆ Consideration of the individuality
◆ Cultural considerations

◆ Consent
◆ Communication

◆ Clinical context: appropriate tx
◆ Crisis prevention
◆ Choice of site of care
◆ Continued reassessment

◆ Caregiver support

Question 2

Name TWO potential goals of medical care particularly pertinent in palliative medicine

Answer 2

◆ Prolongation of survival
◆ Optimization of function
◆ Optimization of comfort

Question 3

Name TWO difficult transitions associated w/ disease progression

Answer 3

◆ shift from tx w/ potential cure to recognition that tx is palliative

◆ situation when disease modifying therapies w/ potential life prolonging survival are no longer effective
- focus of care shifts to preserving function/comfort

◆ situation when it becomes impossible to maintain both comfort & function
- goals of care shifts to prioritizing comfort above all else

Question 4

Name FIVE themes identified in a systematic review of the literature on the “good death”

Answer 4

◆ preferences for dying process
◆ tx preferences
◆ pain-free status

◆ emotional well-being
◆ family
◆ dignity
◆ life completion
◆ religiosity/spirituality
◆ quality of life

◆ relationship with health care professionals
◆ others
- culture, physical touch, pets(!), healthcare costs