In This Episode:
Dr. K addresses a reader’s concerns about the morphine and lorazepam (brand name Ativan) that were given to her relatives with dementia, while on hospice. She covers:
- Common end of life symptoms, and which symptoms are common in people with advanced Alzheimer’s
- How morphine is usually used at the end of life, to manage problems such as pain and shortness of breath
- Why it’s usually possible to use morphine to control symptoms without “hastening” death
- Why it’s unclear that lorazepam should be used as often as it is, in hospice care
- How to choose a good hospice provider
- How to be proactive, to avoid problems and misunderstandings with the hospice team
- What you can do, if you’re concerned about the care a loved one is receiving while on hospice
Related episode:
043 – How Hospice Helps at the End of Life, & Hospice for Alzheimer’s
Related Resources:
- Q&A: Hospice in Dementia, Medications, & What to Do If You’re Concerned
- Canadian Virtual Hospice: Does morphine make death come sooner?
- National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization: Choosing a Quality Hospice Worksheet
- Initial Hospice Admission & Comfort Med Orders
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