Series: Concepts in end-of-life care: palliative care medicine

Abstract

The goals of palliative care are to provide the best quality of life for the patient and family at a critical time in the patient's life. Ethical principles of patient autonomy, beneficence, and justice are very important at this time. Good communication is paramount in respecting patients' values and preferences. Appropriate surrogates, as directed by the patient, should be included in discussions and decisions. Physical, social, emotional, and spiritual suffering must be addressed.