End-of-Life

Question 1

Define closed awareness when it comes to end of life?

Answer 1

The patient is unaware of pending death, however others know

This stage indicates a lack of awareness on the part of the patient while others around them are conscious of their condition.

Question 2

What is suspected awareness when it comes to end of life?

Answer 2

Patient suspects something is wrong, and attempts to find out

In this stage, the patient has an inkling about their condition and seeks confirmation or more information.

Question 3

Define the mutual pretense level of end of life awareness.

Answer 3

Patient and family are both aware, yet both remain in denial

This stage involves a shared understanding of the situation, but both parties choose to ignore it.

Question 4

What characterizes the open level of end of life awareness?

Answer 4

Patient and family are both aware and accepting

In this stage, there is full acknowledgment of the situation, allowing for open discussions about death.

Question 5

What is the greatest fear surrounding death?

Answer 5

Pain

This fear often influences how individuals approach the topic of death and their end-of-life decisions.

Question 6

What is Palliative care?

Answer 6

Comprehensive care for patients whose disease is not responsive to cure but death may not be immediate; aims to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.

Appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness.

Question 7

What is Hospice care?

Answer 7

A coordinated program of interdisciplinary care and services provided to terminally ill patients and their families viewed as one unit

Focuses on impending death and requires acceptance of death.

Question 8

What are barriers to Improving End-of-Life Care

Answer 8

Cure
Financial Criteria
Discomfort (of healthcare providers with addressing issues of death)
Denial