A Simple Checklist for Providers
In keeping with the goals of palliative care, the goal of treating palliative emergencies is to
- provide care that aligns with the patient’s and caregiver’s wishes
- improve or maintain quality of life.
The focus of care planning may shift from
“What can be done?” to
“What is appropriate for this patient in this particular situation?”
It is important to think about the benefits, limitations, consequences and feasibility of all treatment options. When considering treatment options, health care providers should reflect on the following questions:
- Will treatment improve the patient’s quality of life?
- With treatment, what is the possibility for improvement in function?
- Will treatment decrease the symptoms?
- Is prolonged life (more time) something the patient wants and will treatment achieve this?
- How does the treatment support the patient’s care wishes (e.g. whether they would want to be admitted to hospital)?
- Do the patient’s caregivers have a clear understanding of the treatment and what to expect?
Checklist: Palliative Care Emergencies
As a result of declining health and progressive illness, it is likely that patients receiving palliative care in the home could potentially experience a palliative care emergency. Emergencies in the home can be very distressing for patients and their family and friends who provide care.
This checklist helps guide care providers in anticipating and preparing for a palliative care emergency in the home. You can also download it here
Know your patient’s goals and wishes for care.
- Ask the patient if they have an Advance Care Plan.
- Confirm whether a Do Not Resuscitate order is in place.
Know which emergencies a patient may be at risk for (based on their diagnosis)
- Ask the patient’s primary care provider or palliative care specialist what emergencies they anticipate.
Know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of common emergencies
- Assess the patient’s symptoms during every visit.
- Consider the signs and symptoms specific to the emergencies the patient is at risk for.
Help the patient and caregiver understand that emergencies may happen and what to expect
- Find out the caregiver’s ability to cope with an emergency.
- Help the caregiver build confidence to respond to emergencies.
- Approach the conversation sensitively and be aware that it might make them more worried.
Ensure all members of the care team know who to call for help
- Note who to contact during normal working hours and after hours.
Ensure the plan for dealing with potential emergencies is clear and accessible to everyone
- Organize non-pharmacological measures for patients at risk of palliative care emergencies.