Medication Needs, Goals and Preferences
As people get closer to the end of life, their medication needs, goals, and preferences can change. It is important to check these regularly to make sure the person's care matches their wishes and needs.
- Not assessing properly: If the person’s medication is not changed to match their needs and goals, the care may not be right,
- Not managing symptoms well: If symptoms are not controlled, the person may suffer more than needed.
- Personal bias: Sometimes personal beliefs might influence the choice of medication, which may not be best for the person.
- Worry about dosing: Worrying about giving the wrong dose can lead to hesitation and stress.
- Regular checks: Make sure to regularly check the person’s medication needs during the palliative phase. Plan ahead with the proscribing professional to make sure pain medication is ready when needed.
- Use the right tools: Use the correct tools to assess the person’s changing needs.
- Update care plans: Ensure the person’s care plan, including any Advance Care planning documents, are updated and reflects their current needs and wishes. These plans should be easy for staff to access.
- Stay informed about medication types and double-check medication and dose with a colleague or doctor, keeping clear records of medication and doses.
- Reduce personal bias by following care plans and guidelines and respecting the person’s preference when explaining options available to them.
- Track changes: Watch how the person responds to any changes in medication and write it down clearly in their care records.
- Ask for feedback: Ask everyone involved in the person’s care (family, carers, health workers) for feedback. If there are any issues, solve them quickly to ensure the person’s care is always right.
Regular assessment is needed
Regular checks are important in palliative care to make sure the person’s medication, care needs, and goals are up to date.
Assessing medication needs, symptoms and side effects should be part of a wholistic care plan that looks at the person’s overall health, comfort, and wishes.
This is an expectation of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s Strengthened Quality Standards and a recommendation within the National Palliative Care Standards for All Health Professionals and Aged Care Services.
As death approaches, a person's medication needs can change quickly
In the final days of life, a person’s health can decline rapidly, and their symptoms may worsen or change. Their treatment goals, medication options, and needs can also shift. Regular checks and planning ahead help ensure they receive the right medication when needed.
Reassessing when death is near and preparing for sudden changes in symptoms will support effective medication management.