End of Life Care

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions associated with end of life care, including palliative and hospice care, symptom management, grief processes, and ethical considerations.

Palliative Care

Aims to improve the quality of life of patients by focusing on symptom management and comfort at any stage of illness.

Hospice Care

A type of palliative care that focuses on comfort and dignity for terminally ill patients, typically with a prognosis of six months or less to live.

Symptom Management

The process of alleviating symptoms such as pain, dyspnea, and delirium to enhance the patient's comfort during end of life.

Anticipatory Grief

Grief that occurs before an expected loss, often experienced by family members when a loved one is terminally ill.

Denial

A defense mechanism in which individuals refuse to accept the reality of a situation, often used in response to loss or death.

Anger

An emotional response that may be directed towards others, oneself, or a higher power, often expressed during the grieving process.

Bargaining

The stage of grief where individuals attempt to regain control or delay the inevitable loss, often making promises in exchange for a favorable outcome.

Acceptance

The stage of grief where individuals come to terms with the reality of loss and find peace, allowing for closure.

Ethical Considerations

Legal and moral guidelines that affect decision-making in end of life care, including issues like assisted suicide and withdrawal of treatment.

Post-Mortem Care

Care provided after a patient has died, focusing on dignity, respect, and fulfillment of cultural practices.