Palliative Care Basics
What is the primary goal of palliative care?
What is to improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing serious illness?
Alongside physicians, this healthcare professional in palliative care specializes in managing symptoms such as pain, nausea, and shortness of breath. Who is this key team member?
palliative care nurse or nurse practitioner
True or False: Palliative care focuses only on the physical aspects of a patient's well-being and doesn't involve ethical considerations.
False (Palliative care involves addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions, including ethical aspects.)
True or False: Cultural competence in palliative care only involves understanding the patient's cultural background and beliefs.
False (Cultural competence also involves adapting care to meet the patient's unique needs.)
True or False: Palliative care is only provided in hospitals.
False (Palliative care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, homes, and hospice facilities)
This mental health professional is an essential part of the palliative care team, providing emotional and psychological support to patients and their families. Who is this professional?
palliative care social worker or psychologist
In palliative care, this ethical principle emphasizes the obligation to do good and promote well-being for the patient. What is this principle called?
beneficence
Understanding and respecting diverse cultural beliefs and practices is crucial in palliative care. What is the term for the ability to provide care that is sensitive and responsive to cultural differences?
cultural competence
In addition to physical symptoms, palliative care addresses the psychological, social, and spiritual needs of patients. What term describes this comprehensive care?
holistic care
This member of the palliative care team focuses on spiritual support, helping patients and families address existential concerns and find meaning in their experiences. Who is this individual?
chaplain
What does it mean for John to be autonomous in his decision making?
It is respecting an individual's right to make decisions about their own medical care, even if those decisions are different from what the healthcare team might recommend.
This cultural concept emphasizes the extended family's involvement in decision-making and care for a seriously ill family member. What is this cultural phenomenon called?
family-centered care
The specialized medical field that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses is known as what?
palliative medicine
True or False: The palliative care team is exclusively composed of medical professionals.
False (The palliative care team is multidisciplinary and includes medical, nursing, social work, spiritual care, and other professionals.)
This ethical principle in palliative care emphasizes the duty to do no harm and to minimize potential risks when providing medical care. What is this principle called?
non-maleficence
When providing palliative care to individuals from diverse backgrounds, it's essential to consider their views on the use of traditional healing practices. What is the term for using conventional and traditional healthcare approaches?
complementary medicine
What is the specific care option that primarily focuses on providing comfort for a patient who has a prognosis of 6 or less months and is no longer on curative treatments?
hospice care
In palliative care, this professional helps patients and their families navigate complex medical decisions, treatment options, and advance care planning. Who is this specialist?
palliative care physician
In palliative care, this ethical principle involves treating all patients fairly and without discrimination, considering their unique needs and circumstances. What is this principle called?
justice
Why is it important for healthcare providers to be culturally competent in palliative care?
To ensure individualized and respectful care that meets the unique needs of diverse patients and their families