When there is no cure: palliative care for the dying patient

Abstract

Acknowledging that death is a normal and inevitable process is often difficult for both physicians and patients. This article highlights by case example the type of care typically received by the terminally ill in acute care hospitals in the United States. The lack of familiarity with the core concepts of palliative care demonstrated by the medical team in this case reflects the pressing need for death education for health care professionals. We discuss the major principles of palliative care, including breaking bad news, developing a palliative care plan, planning for death, and withdrawal of artificial nutrition and hydration.