Palliative Care Tips

July Tip:

Did you know ...

Nurses often report fear of causing respiratory depression in their client when dosing with opioids to efficacy in a palliative/end-of-life situation. 

Consider: Respiratory depression is RARE when opioid doses are titrated up appropriately. If respiratory rate is less than 8/minute, and the client is not actively dying medical intervention is required.

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June Tip:

Did you know ...

A comprehensive pain assessment must include:

Location: include radiation
Intensity: worst, least, average, etc.
Quality: burning, aching, dull, stabbing, tingling, etc.
Pattern: onset and duration, constant or intermittent, etc.
Aggravating factors: posture, movement, activities, etc.
Relieving factors: position, rest, alternative therapies
Effect on quality of life: sleep, activities, etc.
Medication history: efficacy, adverse effects, etc.

 Consider:  What does that mean for your clients whose pain you are assessing? Has it been assessed completely to be able to manage it well? Please refer to the RNAO Best Practice Guideline for Pain Assessment. For a link to the RNAO website and the practice guidelines, please click here.

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