Journal of pain and symptom management
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Apr 2017
"Best Case/Worst Case": Training surgeons to use a novel communication tool for high-risk acute surgical problems.
Older adults often have surgery in the months preceding death, which can initiate postoperative treatments inconsistent with end-of-life values. "Best Case/Worst Case" (BC/WC) is a communication tool designed to promote goal-concordant care during discussions about high-risk surgery. ⋯ Surgeons can learn to use BC/WC with older patients considering acute high-risk surgical interventions. Surgeons, patients, and family members endorse BC/WC as a strategy to support complex decision making.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Apr 2017
Homeless Individuals Approaching the End of Life: Symptoms and Attitudes.
Over a million individuals in the United States experience homelessness annually and homeless individuals die at a higher rate than domiciled peers. Homeless individuals often have unique experiences at the end of life (EOL). ⋯ Homeless individuals may experience a high frequency of pain and other symptoms as they approach the EOL. Care for such individuals may require a tailored approach.