End of Life Flashcards
How has the way we die changed?
Less common to die quickly
Rise in co-morbidities and frailty
What informs the perception of a good death?
Faith
Cultures
Increasingly multicultural society
Individualist society and the promotion of personal autonomy
Informed choice and anticipatory care planning
What may make a death seem “bad”?
Poor comms Perception of failure of healthcare team Distressing symptoms Sudden Catastrophic event No time to plan ahead Disagreement Place of death
What factors may enhance quality of life?
Caring attitude of staff Family visits Physical environment Maintaining control Feeling safe Art sessions Smoking?
What factors may diminish quality of life?
Loss of independence Loss of activity Pain Fear of pain Feeling like a burden
What is collusion?
Collusionrefers to a secret agreement made between clinicians and family members to hide the diagnosis of a serious or life-threatening illness from the patient
Why might a family wish to collude?
Disclosure may cause patient to lose hope
Leads to depression
Hastens the progression of illness and death
Increases risk of suicide
May cause physiological pain for the patient
Family members may not be aware of the nature and severity of illness
Family members may be in denial/conflict
Is a DNACPR form a legal document?
No
A recording of wishes
Could continuing unwanted treatment be considered battery?
Yes
