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Flashcards in PDF - EOL Deck (5)
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1
Q

Goal palliative care?

A

Relieve suffering, improve quality of life

2
Q

How long should hospice last?

A

Less than six months

3
Q

Characteristics ALS patient at end of life?

A
  1. Younger and older adults, some w/o other medical problems
  2. Cognitive functions preserved throughout
  3. Preserved bowel and bladder function
  4. Terminal state of bed-bound paralysis, too weak to eat or breathe
4
Q

How to most ALS opt to die?

A

Death by respiratory failure or pneumonia at home

- Alleviate anxiety of dyspnea: benzodiazepines

5
Q

Presentation persistent vegetative state?

A
  • Preserved brainstem & spinal cord function
  • Appears “awake,” moves eyes after several days of sleep-like coma
  • May move limbs, especially after painful stimuli, moans or mumbles
  • Cortical responsiveness or communication never returns