A dying patient’s pain is controlled, but she is frightened, worried about dependants, distressed by loss of meaning and unsure what changes to

Question

A dying patient’s pain is controlled, but she is frightened, worried about dependants, distressed by loss of meaning and unsure what changes to expect. Which assessment best represents holistic end-of-life care?

Accepted Answer

Assess psychological, social, spiritual and information needs alongside ongoing physical comfort

Answer

Assess spiritual need only if she belongs to an organised religion and requests a chaplain

Answer

Delay honest information until all uncertainty about the exact time of death has resolved

Answer

Treat anxiety pharmacologically before exploring communication, family, practical or existential concerns

Answer

Refer social concerns entirely to relatives while limiting clinical care to physical symptoms

Holistic Care in Dying Phase — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

A dying patient’s pain is controlled, but she is frightened, worried about dependants, distressed by loss of meaning and unsure what changes to expect. Which assessment best represents holistic end-of-life care?