44. Clinical Ethics: End of Life Care

Question 1

Which of the following symptoms is not included in ways to optimize Quality of Life in advanced illnessess?

A. Hydration and nutrition
B. Pain
C. Agitation  
D. Mobility
E. Dyspnea 

SZ

Answer 1

Ans. A & D

Hydration & Nutrition and Mobility are not included.

The 5 key symptoms that should be controlled are Pain, Nausea & Vomiting, Agitation, Dyspnea, and Retained Respiratory Secretions.

Question 2

Why is opioid use low globally?

A. Lack of medication
B. Cost of medication
C. Fear of Addiction
D. Lack of physician training

SZ

Answer 2

Ans. D Lack of physician training

Although there is opioid addiction in the US, globally prescription drug abuse is low. The main reasons for low opioid use are lack of protocols, lack of training and education on pain management, and restrictive policies regarding access.

Question 3

A patient is diagnosed with an illness but retains high functioning for a long time. Suddenly, within the span of weeks, the patient is hospitalized and they become gravely ill until they suddenly die. What illness trajectory does this patient’s illness most resemble? (MG)

A. Cancer
B. Organ failure
C. Physical frailty
D. Cognitive frailty

Answer 3

A. Cancer

Question 4

You are treating a patient that has just transitioned from the palliative care phase to the hospice care phase. What key symptom do you want to address in order to optimize their quality of life as their illness progresses to death? (MG)

A. Hunger
B. Agitation
C. Thirst
D. Exercise
E. Happiness
F. Sleep

Answer 4

B. Agitation

The others are not key symptoms