Alleviating pain and suffering at the end of life

Abstract

This dissertation firstly seeks to clarify differences between pain and suffering. A review is carried out to learn more about ways to alleviate pain and suffering at the end of life using previous studies on the topic. In chapter one pain and suffering are clearly defined and distinguished. Furthermore the dying experience is understood better by taking into consideration the views of the dying patient, the relatives and also the nurses and doctors. Moving on to ways of assessing pain and suffering in chapter two. Finally, chapter three focuses on how nurses and doctors can aid in managing pain and alleviate suffering. The best tool for communicative patients was identified, rating the pain from 0-10. On the other hand no gold standard tool is chosen for cognitively impaired patients however proxy reporting can be considered reliable. Furthermore the behaviour scale tool, critical care observation tool and non-verbal pain scale tool are accepted for sedated patients who cannot self-report pain. Moreover, myths surrounding opioid use are discussed and debunked. Music therapy, virtual therapy and pet therapy are highlighted for their effectiveness in managing pain alongside other analgesics for better quality of life in dying patients. Empathy and spiritual care by a chaplain or a spiritual leader are considered beneficial in the alleviation of suffering. Finally, if all of the methods discussed to alleviate pain and suffering are fruitless, continuous sedation is ethically preferred from physician assisted suicide to stop pain and suffering at the end of life.