Definition of terms In the past complementary therapies were described as “unconventional therapies” rarely used by orthodox medical professionals. Now, with increased use and understanding of these therapies, the term…

Grief Grief is multidimensional. It has an impact on behaviour, emotions, cognitive processes, physical health, social functioning, and spiritual beliefs. A major loss forces people to adapt their assumptions about…

Why is good communication necessary? Effective communication is essential in all clinical care. In palliative care, professionals need good communication skills to be aware of the patient’s unspoken concerns. They…

Constipation Prevalence Constipation is the infrequent and difficult passage of small hard faeces. About 80% of patients in palliative care will require laxatives. Constipation Definition Infrequent hard stools Associated symptoms…

Home care Ninety percent of the final year of life is spent at home, no matter where the patient eventually dies. Home is a special place, a state of mind,…

Oral hygiene The importance of providing regular oral care cannot be overstated. Oral hygiene measures should be performed at least twice a day, if they are to benefit the patient….

Support from family and friends Three quarters of patients receive care at home from informal carers in the last months of life. Patients without cancer are less likely than those…

Managing nausea and vomiting Adequate relief of these symptoms requires systematic assessment of the patient to diagnose the most likely cause(s). If the cause can be reversed—for example, with surgery…