Learning modules
Activity 8: His illness progresses
Herbert's heart failure continues to progress. He's been admitted to hospital with pulmonary oedema. While in the hospital his cardiologist puts in a referral to the local specialist palliative care team.
Herbert discusses some of his main symptoms with the palliative care physician, who introduces some possible interventions for managing these symptoms.
Video
Herbert's story
Thinking points
Activity 8: His illness progresses
Thinking points
Activity 8: His illness progresses
- What symptoms does Herbert describe?
a) What are some of the causes of these symptoms?
b) What are the treatment goals? - The palliative care physician recommends both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for managing Herbert's breathlessness. Identify the supporting evidence and the likely mechanism of action for the following interventions:
- opioids
- relaxation
- fans
- activity pacing
- oxygen therapy.
- Herbert expresses some concern about taking morphine for his breathlessness.
a) Was the physician's response adequate? Give reasons for your answer.
b) What further suggestions do you have for addressing patient concerns about palliative treatments? - What other pharmacological agents might be considered to treat Herbert's breathlessness. Provide a rationale for your answer.
