ICA9&10 - Fraility and Palliative Care

Question 1

How frailty affects outcomes

External Stressor
Response to Stressor x3
Negative Outcomes x4

Answer 1

1.) External Stressor - any minor illness or injury

2. ) Response to Stressor - depends on level of frailty
   - managing well: small dip in health but can reach previous ability
   - mild frailty: larger drop in health and unlikely to reach previous level of activity
   - severe frailty: significant drop in health and will develop other negative outcomes
3. ) Negative Outcomes - manifestations of frailty
   - delirium/dementia, falls and fractures
   - immobility which can lead to pressure sores
   - incontinence which can lead to UTIs

Question 2

What makes a good death?

Dignity and Privacy
Control
Access
Time

Answer 2

1.) Dignity and Privacy

2. ) Control - dying should still feel in control
   - where death occurs, who is present
   - pain relief, symptom control
3. ) Access - to any resource they require
   - any form of information or expertise for whatever
   - spiritual or emotional support requied
4. ) Time
   - should have time to say goodbye
   - not have life prolonged pointlessly