Pallative care Flashcards
1
Q
How to minimise drug interactions in elderly patients?
A
Get an accurate drug history including details on reasons why a patient is taking a particular medication, and whether they still need it or not
Ask the patients if they have noticed any adverse side effects
Use lowest possible dose that provides benefit for shortest required duration
2
Q
Key principles of palliative care?
A
Provides relief from pain & other distressing symptoms
Intends neither to hasten or postpone death
Offers support system to help family cope during patients illness & their own bereavement
3
Q
Common symptoms associated w/ late stage of dying?
A
Pain
Breathlessness
Urinary incontinence
Skin colour changes
