Non-Opioid and Adjuvant Analgesics This didactic provides an overview of non-opioid and adjuvant analgesics used in palliative care, emphasizing practical strategies for selecting and titrating these medications to manage complex pain syndromes. These agents are crucial tools for addressing pain through mechanisms distinct from opioids, often providing better relief for neuropathic or mixed pain while…

Diarrhea Common Causes: Treatment Strategies: Constipation Etiologies: Treatment Principles: Malignant Bowel Obstruction (MBO) Clinical Presentation: Treatment Considerations: Key Takeaway:Bowel symptoms in palliative care are multifactorial. Early identification of etiology and tailored pharmacologic interventions can significantly improve quality of life. Patient-centered case-based decision-making is crucial, particularly in the setting of malignancy and high opioid use. Resources…

This educational session focuses on nausea and vomiting etiologies and developing rationale for management. Key Causes of Nausea in Serious Illness Nausea is common in patients with advanced cancer, particularly GI and gynecologic malignancies. Causes may be multifactorial, including: Pathophysiology Highlights The chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and vomiting center in the medulla coordinate nausea. Key…

This workshop provides a practical framework for opioid decision-making in palliative care, with a focus on assessing pain, initiating opioids, adjusting therapy, and managing side effects. Pain Assessment and Communication Effective opioid management begins with a thorough pain assessment using standardized scales and mnemonics. Providers should explore: Opioid Selection and Dosing Different opioids vary in…

This educational session focuses on recognizing the stages of imminent dying, managing symptoms, and addressing family concerns with empathy and clinical clarity. Stages of Imminently Dying Pain Assessment and Management at EOL Pain is reported in ~80% of dying patients. Assessment must rely on nonverbal indicators such as restlessness, facial grimacing, or vital sign changes,…