Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following is NOT a source of help for someone struggling with grief?
Which of the following is NOT a source of help for someone struggling with grief?
Bereavement support can only be found through professional grief counsellors.
Bereavement support can only be found through professional grief counsellors.
False
Name one of the key considerations when reflecting on patient care at the end of life.
Name one of the key considerations when reflecting on patient care at the end of life.
What the patient would want.
Support for those dealing with grief can be accessed through _______ grief support systems.
Support for those dealing with grief can be accessed through _______ grief support systems.
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Match the following resources with their respective focus:
Match the following resources with their respective focus:
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Which of the following symptoms is associated with neurological decline in dying patients?
Which of the following symptoms is associated with neurological decline in dying patients?
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Arrhythmias in dying patients signal a decrease in cardiac output.
Arrhythmias in dying patients signal a decrease in cardiac output.
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What type of document outlines a patient’s wishes regarding their care at the end of life?
What type of document outlines a patient’s wishes regarding their care at the end of life?
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Patients exhibiting confusion may be showing signs of ______.
Patients exhibiting confusion may be showing signs of ______.
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Match the following symptom to its associated system:
Match the following symptom to its associated system:
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What is the primary focus of communication when breaking bad news to patients and their families?
What is the primary focus of communication when breaking bad news to patients and their families?
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Contact numbers for healthcare providers are essential for immediate support during a patient's crisis.
Contact numbers for healthcare providers are essential for immediate support during a patient's crisis.
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Which kind of care notes can be found on scene when accessing a patient's Urgent Care Plan?
Which kind of care notes can be found on scene when accessing a patient's Urgent Care Plan?
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The document used to express a patient's medical treatment preferences when they lack capacity is known as an ______.
The document used to express a patient's medical treatment preferences when they lack capacity is known as an ______.
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What is a common symptom of end-of-life cachexia?
What is a common symptom of end-of-life cachexia?
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Which of the following are common symptoms experienced by patients at the end of life? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following are common symptoms experienced by patients at the end of life? (Select all that apply)
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It is important to take regular observations of the dying patient to ensure their comfort.
It is important to take regular observations of the dying patient to ensure their comfort.
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What is the purpose of delivering bad news in small chunks?
What is the purpose of delivering bad news in small chunks?
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Family support should include encouraging touching and _______.
Family support should include encouraging touching and _______.
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Match the following types of support with their descriptions:
Match the following types of support with their descriptions:
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What is a key aspect of managing symptoms in a dying patient?
What is a key aspect of managing symptoms in a dying patient?
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It is acceptable to use the patient’s name when talking about them with their family.
It is acceptable to use the patient’s name when talking about them with their family.
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What should caregivers be aware of regarding the dying patient's ability to hear?
What should caregivers be aware of regarding the dying patient's ability to hear?
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Study Notes
Advance Care Planning (ACP) Support
- ACP documents include Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) and Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT).
- Assessment of a patient’s best interests and capacity are crucial in ACP decisions.
Accessing Patient’s ACPs
- Urgent Care Plans (UCP) can contain critical notes and DNACPR (Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) notifications.
- UCPs can also be accessed from care home records and notes from district nursing or palliative care teams.
Recognition of Dying Person
- Signs of dying include neurological changes like confusion, agitation, and dulled senses; respiratory issues such as fluid buildup and hypoxia; and cardiac irregularities like arrhythmias.
- Assessments should check for cachexia, mottled skin, and irregular breathing patterns.
Communication and Breaking Bad News
- Establish patient/family understanding of the diagnosis by asking what they have been told.
- Deliver difficult news in small, digestible segments and address emotional responses sensitively.
Common Symptoms in Dying Patients
- Patients may experience pain, agitation, nausea, and breathlessness.
- Symptom management includes non-pharmacological methods (e.g., reassurance and environmental control) and pharmacological approaches as prescribed.
Supporting the Dying Patient
- Provide comfort through physical touch, reassurance, and maintaining a peaceful environment.
- Respect spiritual or religious needs and minimize unnecessary medical observations.
Supporting the Family
- Encourage family members to express emotions and engage with the dying patient.
- Discuss signs of approaching death, such as changes in breathing and lack of fluid intake, to prepare families for what's to come.
Summary of End-of-Life Care
- Consider the potential end-of-life status and consult advance care plans to guide decisions.
- Involvement of the GP or specialist teams is vital for comprehensive care.
- Reflect on bereavement processes and emotional support systems available for families.
Resources and Support
- Access resources provided by local EoLC coordinators, educational sessions, and LAS guidance on advance care planning and management of dying patients.
- For queries or support, contact the LAS Macmillan EoLC Team.
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Description
This quiz focuses on advanced care planning and guidance for clinicians, patients, and family members involved in end-of-life care. Explore essential checklists and documentation that support effective communication and decision-making in critical times. Gain insights into patient interests and capacity concerning advanced care plans.
