End of Life Care

This comprehensive module explores essential principles and guidelines for end-of-life care. It discusses the advantages and risks of Advance Care Planning and Directives, anticipatory medication, DNACPR, and symptom management. The course also examines cultural perspectives on death, spiritual wellness, and handling difficult inquiries

• End of Life Care vs. Palliative Care: End of life care is specialized support for those in the final stages of life, focusing on comfort and quality of life. Palliative care, while similar, is broader, offering relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness at any stage, not just the end of life.
• Advance Care Planning (ACP) and Advance Directives: ACP involves making decisions about the healthcare you would want to receive if you’re unable to speak for yourself. Advance directives are legal documents that record these wishes. Benefits include ensuring your healthcare preferences are known and can reduce stress for family. Risks might involve family disagreements or the challenge of predicting future health preferences.
• Cultural Sensitivity in Death and Dying: Different cultures have unique views on death and dying, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive conversations. Understanding and respecting these differences ensures compassionate and appropriate care.
• Handling Challenging Questions: Respond to difficult inquiries about death and dying with honesty, empathy, and professionalism. Providing clear, compassionate information can help ease the concerns of patients and families.
• Spiritual Wellbeing: Initiating conversations about spiritual needs helps address the holistic wellbeing of those at the end of their lives, offering comfort and peace.
• Managing Common Symptoms at End of Life: Effective management includes addressing pain, soothing agitation and distress, maintaining oral health, managing nausea or vomiting, stimulating appetite and thirst, and alleviating shortness of breath.
• Anticipatory Medication: This involves prescribing medications in advance to manage expected symptoms, ensuring comfort. Advantages include prompt symptom relief; disadvantages may include risks of overmedication or side effects.
• DNACPR (Do Not Attempt CPR): This directive prevents CPR in the event of cardiac arrest, respecting the patient’s wishes for natural end of life processes.
• NHS Continuing Healthcare Fast Track Tool: This tool facilitates rapid access to healthcare funding for those with urgent medical needs due to a terminal condition, ensuring timely and appropriate care.
• Post-Death Care: Providing care after a patient has died involves respecting the body, supporting the family, and completing necessary legal and healthcare documentation, ensuring dignity in death.
• Understanding Grief: Recognize the diverse ways individuals grieve and offer guidance to bereavement support services, acknowledging the personal nature of the grieving process.