Palliative care traditionally focused on symptom-control in dying patients, but has recently evolved to include care of life-threatening or limiting conditions by optimising the benefits of treatment and considering other ways to improve the quality of life for patients. This is achieved through holistic consideration of physical, psychosocial and spiritual factors affecting the individual patient. The aim of this article is to explore these factors and initial management options.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
LunneyJRLynnJHoganC (2002) Profiles of older medicare decedents. Journal American Geriatric Society50(6): 1108–1112. DOI: 10.1046/j.1532-5415.2002.50268.x.
Thomas K, Wilson JA and GSF Team (2016) The gold standards framework proactive identification guidance (PIG). Available at: www.goldstandardsframework.org.uk/PIG (accessed 12 April 2018).
4.
WatsonMArmstrongPBackIet al.(2016) Palliative Adult Network Guidelines, Lisburn, Northern Ireland: London Cancer Alliance.
5.
WatsonMGannonCSadlerC (2016) European Certificate in Essential Palliative Care, Esher: Princess Alice Hospice.
