Palliative medicine Books

Book SynopsisMonitoring the Critically Ill Patient is an invaluable, accessible guide to caring for critically ill patients on the general ward. Now fully updated and improved throughout, this well-established and handy reference guide text assumes no prior knowledge and equips students and newly-qualified staff with the clinical skills and knowledge they need to confidently monitor patients at risk, identify key priorities, and provide prompt and effective care. This new edition includes the followingfive new chapters: Monitoring the critically ill child Monitoring the critically ill pregnant patient Monitoring the patient with infection and related systemic inflammatory response Monitoring a patient receiving a blood transfusion Monitoring pain Trade Review“This would be a helpful guide for nurses working in any acute setting; acute wards, coronary care, critical care outreach or the emergency department. It is also a good introductory tool for critical care nurses explaining the principles of assessment, different types of invasive monitoring and waveforms and so on.” (Nursing Times, 17 October 2012)Table of ContentsForeword vii Preface ix Contributors xi 1 Recognition and Management of the Deteriorating Patient 1 2 Assessment of the Critically Ill Patient 25 3 Monitoring Respiratory Function 39 4 Monitoring Cardiovascular Function 1: ECG Monitoring 91 5 Monitoring Cardiovascular Function 2: Haemodynamic Monitoring 115 6 Monitoring Neurological Function 154 7 Monitoring Renal Function 177 8 Monitoring Gastrointestinal Function 197 9 Monitoring Hepatic Function 209 10 Monitoring Endocrine Function 218 11 Monitoring Nutritional Status 231 12 Monitoring Temperature 244 13 Monitoring Pain 258 14 Monitoring a Patient Receiving a Blood Transfusion 267 15 Monitoring the Patient with Infection and Related Systemic Inflammatory Response 281 16 Monitoring the Critically Ill, Pregnant Patient 302 17 Monitoring the Critically Ill Child 320 18 Monitoring During Transport 336 19 Record Keeping 346 Index 355

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Book SynopsisThis “comforting…thoughtful” (The Washington Post) guide to maintaining a high quality of life—from resilient old age to the first inklings of a serious illness to the final breath—by the New York Times bestselling author of Knocking on Heaven’s Door is a “roadmap to the end that combines medical, practical, and spiritual guidance” (The Boston Globe).“A common sense path to define what a ‘good’ death looks like” (USA TODAY), The Art of Dying Well is about living as well as possible for as long as possible and adapting successfully to change. Packed with extraordinarily helpful insights and inspiring true stories, award-winning journalist Katy Butler shows how to thrive in later life (even when coping with a chronic medical condition), how to get the best from our health system, and how to make your own “good death” more likely. Butler explTrade Review“Butler’s factual, no-nonsense tone is surprisingly comforting, as are her stories of how ordinary folks confronted difficult medical decisions… Her thoughtful book belongs on the same shelf as Atul Gawande’s best-selling Being Mortal and Barbara Ehrenreich’s Natural Causes.” —The Washington Post“A roadmap to the end… combines medical, practical, and spiritual guidance.” —Kate Tuttle, The Boston Globe"A commonsense path to define what a 'good' death looks like." —USA Today“An empowering guide that clearly outlines the steps necessary to avoid a chaotic end in an emergency room and to prepare for a beautiful death without fear.” —Shelf Awareness“Straightforward, well-organized, nondepressing… Free of platitudes, Butler’s voice makes the most intimidating of processes—that of dying—come across as approachable. Her reasonable, down-to-earth tone makes for an effective preparatory guide.” —Publishers Weekly“I unwrap new books about end-of-life issues with a certain world-weariness. That changed when I received a copy of Katy Butler’s The Art of Dying Well… For all of us boomers who have wondered how we might apply what we learned from the passing of our parents, and make the process smoother -- and yes, profound -- for our children, here are some really good answers.” —Barbara Peters Smith, Sarasota Herald-Tribune“This book is filled with deep knowledge and many interesting experiences. It is a guide for staying as healthy and happy as possible while aging, and also shows how important it is to be medically informed and know our rights in the communities where we live, in order to stay in charge of our lives and therefore less afraid of the future. Katy Butler has written a very honest book. I just wish I had read it ten years ago. You can do it now!” —Margareta Magnusson, author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning“The Art of Dying Well is a guide to just that: how to face the inevitable in an artful way. Katy Butler has clear eyes and speaks plainly about complicated decisions. This book is chock-full of good ideas.” —Sallie Tisdale, author of Advice for Future Corpses“In plain English and with plenty of true stories to illustrate her advice, Katy Butler provides a brilliant map for living well through old age and getting from the health system what you want and need, while avoiding what you don't. Armed with this superb book, you can take back control of how you live before you die.” —Diane E. Meier, MD, Director, Center to Advance Palliative Care “Katy Butler has given us a much needed GPS for navigating aging and death. The Art of Dying Well is a warm, wise and straightforward guide, hugely helpful to anyone—everyone—who will go through the complex journey to the end of life.” —Ellen Goodman, Founder, The Conversation Project “No, you won’t survive your death, but you can live until the very last moment without the pain and humiliation that inevitably accompany an over-medicalized dying process. Katy Butler shows how, and I am profoundly grateful to her for doing so.” —Barbara Ehrenreich, author of Natural Causes“This is a book to devour, discuss, dog-ear, and then revisit as the years pass. Covering matters medical, practical, financial and spiritual – and, beautifully, their intersection – Katy Butler gives wise counsel for the final decades of our ‘wild and precious’ lives. A crucial addition to the bookshelves of those seeking agency, comfort and meaning, The Art of Dying Well is not only about dying. It’s about living intentionally and in community.” —Lucy Kalanithi, MD, FACP, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine“The Art of Dying Well is the best guidebook I know of for navigating the later stages of life. Katy Butler’s counsel is simple and practical, but the impact of this book is profound. A remarkable feat.” —Ira Byock, MD, author of Dying Well and The Best Care Possible, Active Emeritus Professor of Medicine, the Geisel School of Medicine at DartmouthPraise for Katy Butler and Knocking on Heaven's Door“This is a book so honest, so insightful and so achingly beautiful that its poetic essence transcends even the anguished story that it tells. Katy Butler’s perceptive intellect has probed deeply, and seen into the many troubling aspects of our nation’s inability to deal with the reality of dying in the 21st century: emotional, spiritual, medical, financial, social, historical and even political. And yet, though such valuable insights are presented with a journalist’s clear eye, they are so skillfully woven into the narrative of her beloved parents’ deaths that every sentence seems to come from the very wellspring of the human spirit that is in her." —Dr. Sherwin B. Nuland, author of How We Die: Reflections of Life's Final Chapter“Knocking on Heaven’s Door is a thoroughly researched and compelling mix of personal narrative and hard-nosed reporting that captures just how flawed care at the end of life has become." —Abraham Verghese, New York Times Book Review“This is some of the most important material I have read in years, and so beautifully written. It is riveting, and even with parents long gone, I found it very hard to put down. ... I am deeply grateful for its truth, wisdom, and gorgeous stories—some heartbreaking, some life-giving, some both at the same time. Butler is an amazing and generous writer. This book will change you, and, I hope, our society." —Anne Lamott, author of Help, Thanks, Wow"Shimmer[s] with grace, lucid intelligence, and solace." —Lindsey Crittenden, Spirituality and Health Magazine"[A] deeply felt book...[Butler] is both thoughtful and passionate about the hard questions she raises — questions that most of us will at some point have to consider. Given our rapidly aging population, the timing of this tough and important book could not be better." —Laurie Hertzel, Minneapolis Star Tribune"This braid of a book...examines the battle between death and the imperatives of modern medicine. Impeccably reported, Knocking on Heaven's Door grapples with how we need to protect our loved ones and ourselves." —More Magazine"A forthright memoir on illness and investigation of how to improve end-of-life scenarios. With candidness and reverence, Butler examines one of the most challenging questions a child may face: how to let a parent die with dignity and integrity. Honest and compassionate..." —Kirkus Reviews“Katy Butler’s science background and her gift for metaphor make her a wonderfully engaging storyteller, even as she depicts one of our saddest but most common experiences: that of a slow death in an American hospital. Knocking on Heaven’s Door is a terrible, beautiful book that offers the information we need to navigate the complicated world of procedure and technology-driven health care.” —Mary Pipher, author of Reviving Ophelia and Seeking Peace: Chronicles of the Worst Buddhist in the World"Katy Butler's new book—brave, frank, poignant, and loving—will encourage the conversation we, as a society, desperately need to have about better ways of dying. From her own closely-examined personal experience, she fearlessly poses the difficult questions that sooner or later will face us all.” —Adam Hochschild, author of King Leopold's Ghost and To End All Wars"This is the most important book you and I can read. It is not just about dying, it is about life, our political and medical system, and how to face and address the profound ethical and personal issues that we encounter as we care for those facing dying and death. [This book's] tenderness, beauty, and heart-breaking honesty matches the stunning data on dying in the West. A splendid and compassionate endeavor." —Joan Halifax, PhD, Founding Abbot, Upaya Institute/Zen Center and Director, Project on Being With Dying: Cultivating Compassion and Fearlessness in the Presence of Death"This beautifully written and well researched book will take you deep into the unexplored heart of aging and medical care in America today. With courage, unrelenting honesty, and deepest compassion, ... Knocking on Heaven’s Door makes it clear that until care of the soul, families, and communities become central to our medical approaches, true quality of care for elders will not be achieved." —Dennis McCullough, author of My Mother, Your Mother: Embracing "Slow Medicine," the Compassionate Approach to Caring"Butler’s advice is neither formulaic nor derived from pamphlets... [it] is useful, and her challenge of our culture of denial about death necessary... Knocking on Heaven’s Door [is] a book those caring for dying parents will want to read and reread. [It] will help those many of us who have tended or will tend dying parents to accept the beauty of our imperfect caregiving." —Suzanne Koven, Boston Globe"Knocking on Heaven's Door is more than just a guide to dying, or a personal story of a difficult death: It is a lyrical meditation on death written with extraordinary beauty and sensitivity." —San Francisco Chronicle"[Knocking on Heaven's Door is] a triumph, distinguished by the beauty of Ms. Butler's prose and her saber-sharp indictment of certain medical habits. [Butler offers an] articulate challenge to the medical profession: to reconsider its reflexive postponement of death long after lifesaving acts cease to be anything but pure brutality." —Abigail Zuger, MD, The New York Times -- Abigail Zuger, MD * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisThe incidence of cancer is alarmingly increasing worldwide. The major problem that the medical profession is currently facing refers to "late presentation" patients who, for the most part, have reached the terminal stage of the illness. For these people, the only treatment option left is palliative care. Various patterns of palliation have been in practice in every culture and in every ethnic group for generations. Unfortunately, we still lack significant and sustained investment in research related to the practice of palliative care. Authors from around the globe seek more investment of public and private funds to investigate ways to improve the bedside practice of palliative care. Modern palliative care concepts were established by Dame Cicely Saunders, from London, UK, right after World War II. It is only in the past 15 to 20 years that this new discipline started to develop in the developing world. However, we still lack the essential basic biological processes involved in relieving the suffering of cancer patients while receiving palliative measures throughout the trajectory of the disease. This book owes its origins in large measure to physicians and nurses in 30 countries globally, who decided to devote their time, energy, compassion and goodwill, to the promotion of palliative care in their countries and communities, yet they lack solid evidence-based data to rely upon while extending their treatment to both patients and family members. The goal, in part, is to bridge the gap between scientists and clinicians from developed countries and those in developing countries. We have been aware of the variances between cultures, traditions, beliefs and practices. I am continually struck by the seemingly diametrical views of "knowing" and cultures and the strong overlaps that might give rise to new ideas. We hope that these new volumes will serve to inspire health professionals'' and administrators'' interests and appreciation for the investment in basic and clinical research that will serve to advance our understanding of the underlying physical and emotional factors involved while extending palliative care to patients suffering from cancer and other non-communicable illnesses.

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Book SynopsisThe incidence of cancer is alarmingly increasing worldwide. The major problem that the medical profession is currently facing refers to "late presentation" patients who, for the most part, have reached the terminal stage of the illness. For these people, the only treatment option left is palliative care. Various patterns of palliation have been in practice in every culture and in every ethnic group for generations. Unfortunately, we still lack significant and sustained investment in research related to the practice of palliative care. Authors from around the globe seek more investment of public and private funds to investigate ways to improve the bedside practice of palliative care. Modern palliative care concepts were established by Dame Cicely Saunders, from London, UK, right after World War II. It is only in the past 15 to 20 years that this new discipline started to develop in the developing world. However, we still lack the essential basic biological processes involved in relieving the suffering of cancer patients while receiving palliative measures throughout the trajectory of the disease. This book owes its origins in large measure to physicians and nurses in 30 countries globally, who decided to devote their time, energy, compassion and goodwill, to the promotion of palliative care in their countries and communities, yet they lack solid evidence-based data to rely upon while extending their treatment to both patients and family members. The goal, in part, is to bridge the gap between scientists and clinicians from developed countries and those in developing countries. We have been aware of the variances between cultures, traditions, beliefs and practices. I am continually struck by the seemingly diametrical views of "knowing" and cultures and the strong overlaps that might give rise to new ideas. We hope that these new volumes will serve to inspire health professionals'' and administrators'' interests and appreciation for the investment in basic and clinical research that will serve to advance our understanding of the underlying physical and emotional factors involved while extending palliative care to patients suffering from cancer and other non-communicable illnesses.

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Book SynopsisIntegrating two decades of hospice care and social science research, this heartfelt book offers practical lessons on the transformative possibilities of end-of-life caregiving. Contemplative Caregiving is an indispensable guide for end-of-life caregivers and for anyone seeking to transform experiences of caregiving and grief. Rather than leading to burnout and despair, caring for those who are suffering and dying can enrich our lives with meaning and further our own spiritual growth and resilience. Whether you are caring for a loved one with cancer or dementia, grieving a sudden traumatic loss, or even serving time in prison, Contemplative Caregiving offers encouragement for showing up to the fullness of life in whatever those circumstances may be. Healing, compassion, and spiritual growth are available to us all, in this lifetime, right now. Baugher’s unique style of integrating social scientific research on caregiving and grief with teachings from Buddhist, contemplative Christian, and other wisdom traditions illuminates how we each can transform experiences of loss and suffering into a path of compassion. Contemplative Caregiving weaves together powerful stories from interviews with diverse hospice caregivers—Vietnam veterans, nurses, housewives, Catholic nuns, those convicted of murder—with the author’s own journey toward wholeness in the face of grief and traumatic loss, including the murder of his own mother. Through rich storytelling, teachings on compassion, and skillful contemplative exercises, Baugher invites you to join him in exploring the healing power of contemplative caregiving.

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Book SynopsisIn the Middle East, as in other countries in the developing world, there is now a wide acceptance that palliative care is an important public health issue that should be integrated into the mainstream of cancer care as well as other life-threatening diseases. Nowadays, it is recognised as a human right issue that patients and families have the right to receive this care. The WHO defined palliative care as the active total care of the patient''s body, mind and spirit; whereby health care providers need to evaluate and alleviate the patient''s physical, psychological and social distress. Such care encompasses a broad, multidisciplinary approach that includes both the family and the community and is provided in a range of settings, from the hospital, to the community health centre, to home. This unique and timely book captures the progress and vision of many dedicated groups throughout the Middle East and the USA who have been working to advocate for and develop palliative care services in the region. Each of the book''s chapters describes the efforts and challenges professionals have been experiencing as they address the palliative care needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses. Each country''s specific chapter details the current state of palliative care services and describes the various approaches that led to the development of a range of services in hospital-based sites to community and home-based care services.

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Book SynopsisConventional coping strategies can be pushed to their limits when people find themselves in situations of suffering, illness, and dying. Moved beyond their everyday consciousness, individuals often have spiritual experiences of grace and encounters with the transcendent or the divine. The author shows how care providers can support patients in their suffering and how they can recognize patients' spiritual experiences. Explaining different types of experiences of transcendence such as seeing angels or feelings of otherness and presence, this book will be of valuable use to professionals working in palliative and spiritual care, such as spiritual caregivers, therapists, nurses, and physicians. The book entails a new approach to spiritual care which opens a space of hope wherein grace may happen even amid pain, suffering, illness and dying.Trade ReviewEvery word of this rich and profound account of Renz's important and valuable research with the dying rings true. Monika is a courageous and inspirational pioneer. Her challenging work is worthy of the closest attention, extending the boundaries of human wisdom where we all need to go. -- Larry Culliford, author of ‘The Psychology of Spirituality’, and, ‘Much Ado about Something: a vision of Christian maturity’.A bold ethnographic inquiry into palliative care patients' experiences of hope and grace that transcends conventional reason, language, and cultural boundaries of the ego-based self. Hope and grace are not specific states or goals but contemplative processes of belonging with recognizable qualities that can inform compassionate palliative practices. -- Bruce L. Arnold, Ph.D., University of Calgary, Canada.There is a great value for the patient in these theological musings from this music therapist, psychotherapist, and spiritual counsellor. They have the power to lift us beyond fear and pain. Renz unravels this mode of thinking. it can assist carers and medical staff, because it facilitates the work of injecting new hope and comfort into the milieu of the dying.This book is not always an easy read, owing to its academic approach to dying. But it has a positive spin. It shows that dying and the proximity of death can flow into a close relationship with God and his holy angels. That said, it could perhaps benefit from having fewer patient-related case studies and more analytic material from Renz. -- Revd David Bryant * Church Times *Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Spirituality is Experience. 2. Between Two Worlds: The Liminal Sphere and Its Laws. 3. Hope for Grace. 4. Experience of Transcendence as Reality and Grace. 5. Experiences of Angels and Darkness. 6. Experiences of God and the Divine. 7. Being or Relationship?. 8. Spiritual Care between Psychotherapy and Pastoral Care. 9. Spiritual Care Interventions. Appendix. References.

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Book SynopsisPortrait therapy reverses the traditional roles in art therapy, utilising Edith Kramer's concept of the art therapist's 'third hand' to collaboratively design and paint their clients' portraits. It addresses 'disrupted' self-identity, which is common in serious illness and characterised by statements like 'I don't know who I am anymore' and 'I'm not the person I used to be'. This book explores the theory and practice of portrait therapy, including Kenneth Wright's theory of 'mirroring and attunement'. Case studies, accompanied by colour portraits, collages and prose-poems, provide insight into the intervention and the author highlights the potential for portrait therapy to be used with other client groups in the future.Trade ReviewThis intriguing book turns the art therapy lens in the reverse direction - the art therapist painting portraits co-created with seriously ill clients, to help revalidate their self-identities. It is a fascinating book, thoroughly researched and well written. -- Marian Liebmann, art therapistTable of ContentsForeword. Acknowledgements. Part I. Focusing the Gaze. 1. Setting the Scene: Introducing Portraiture as a 'Third Hand' Intervention. 2. Priming the Canvas: A Phenomenological Approach to Depicting Subjectivity. 3. Selecting the Medium: Portraiture as a Therapeutic Tool. Part II. Collaborative Case-Studies. 4. Portrait Therapy as a Collaborative Intervention: Paint Me This Way! 5. Increasing the Patients' Creative Capacity to Adapt to Illness. 6. Mirroring and Attunement through Portraiture: Intersubjective and Symbolic Ways of Knowing, Being and Relating. 7. Making Special, Making Meaning: Increasing the Lived Experience of Homelike-Being-in-the-World and Ontological Security. Part III. Portrait Therapy Protocol and Evaluation Methods. 8. A Therapist's Manual: The Three Phases of Portrait Therapy. 9. Making Connections: Evaluating Portrait Therapy. 10. Afterword: Drawing Conclusions. Appendix 1. Images used in the Portrait Reference Album (PRA). 2. Semi-structured end of project interview (EPI) questions used to evaluate portrait therapy. References.

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Book SynopsisThis book brings together music therapists who have worked in the challenging and rewarding world of children's palliative care. Examining techniques from working just with the breath, to technological advances in music therapy such as assistive recording and electronic downloading, it highlights the benefits music therapy can bring when working alongside children and young people. Drawing on the knowledge of expert music therapists, the book provides accessible guidance that practitioners can apply to their own work, including on professional development as part of a multi-disciplinary team, service evaluation, and managing publicity in the hospice setting. It addresses work with different client groups, such as teenagers, and discusses therapy with family members, including siblings. Music therapists and healthcare practitioners will be provided with the tools to reflect on their own professional challenges and deepen their understanding of the important role of music therapy in this sector.Trade ReviewMusic Therapy in Children's Palliative Care illustrates very strongly how music therapists use the strength of music to support children and families who are experiencing challenging and life changing circumstances. This book demonstrates how well music therapists offer the opportunity to create lasting memories when a child is dying. Both the child and the family are having to come to terms with loss. This book portrays the complexity of anticipatory grief and discusses offering a safe place to fully face and feel the pain and helplessness of bereavement. Music therapy allows children and families to express their feelings without words. I strongly believe the benefits from music therapy are unlimited creating a bond between child and family. This is only achieved by the amazing flexibility demonstrated by the music therapists in this book. I learnt a great deal when reading this book. -- Beverley Barclay MBE, Clinical Lead for ellenor's Children Hospice at Home serviceAs Patron of Jessie's Fund, I am so pleased to see this second book on music therapy and children's palliative care following in the footsteps of 'Jessie's Fund In Action'. It's heart-warming to know that this fantastic work carries on in the UK and that it continues to develop to meet the growing needs of a very complex client group. The dedicated music therapist contributors clearly love working in hospice and palliative care, and are a real inspiration - just like the children they work with. -- Maxine PeakeTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. I'm here, I'm with you, I see you, I'm listening. Working with the breath with life limited and life threatened children. 2. Balancing the Public and Private: Music Therapy in a Children's Hospice. 3. Working in the Multi-Disciplinary Team. 4. Evaluating music therapy services in children's hospices. 5. Are we singing from the same song sheet?: The scope and provision of music therapy in children's hospices. 6. Fostering the relationship between parent and child using music therapy. 7. From small beginnings: Music therapy in the community setting for children and young people with cancer. 8. Performing, sharing and celebrating life: An exploration of the value of performance in a joint music therapy and community music project in a children's hospice. 9. Continuing to Sing: Music therapy, Identity and Empowerment in Young Adult's Palliative Care. 10. The screams crashed into silence: A therapeutic songwriting project for young adults with life-limiting illnesses.

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Book SynopsisChristopher Kerr is a hospice doctor. All of his patients die. Yet he has tended thousands of patients who, in the face of death, speak of love, meaning and grace. They reveal that there is hope beyond cure as they transition to focus on personal meaning. In this extraordinary and beautiful book, Dr. Kerr shares his patients' stories and his own research pointing to death as not purely the end of life, but as a final passage of humanity and transcendence.Drawing on interviews with over 1,200 patients and more than a decade of quantified data , Dr. Kerr reveals why pre-death dreams and visions are remarkable events that bring comfort and exemplify human resilience. These are not regular dreams. Described as "more real than real," they frequently include loved ones long gone and mark the transition from distress to acceptance. These end-of-life experiences help patients restore meaning, make sense of the dying process and assist in reclaiming it as an experience in which they have a say. They also benefit the bereaved who get relief from seeing their loved ones pass with a sense of calm closure.Beautifully written with astonishing stories, this book, at its heart, celebrates the power to reclaim how we die, while soothing the bereaved who witness their loved ones go with unqualified grace.Trade ReviewThis comforting guide will reassure the dying and their loved ones while providing instructive portraits of end-of-life patients for those who work in medical and healing professions * Publisher's Weekly *Whether you have a loved one nearing the end, or are contemplating what may lie beyond this life, you'll find that Dr Kerr's book brings meaning and even beauty to our final stage. I recommend it highly for anyone with a finite lifespan * Dale Bredesen, MD *Based on deep experience, this loving, emotionally wise book will help many people find the path to love, acceptance and meaning as they face life's end * Katy Butler *This reality is shared with us by a hospice physician who, himself, learned so much from the dying. And what did he learn? That by being truly present with those who are dying, one learns how to live * James Doty, MD *A beautiful portrait of the human capacity for transcendence at the end of life. This book will inspire you reflect on the love and meaning you have experienced in your own life, and help you listen to, and be with, those nearing the end of their lives * Kelly McGonigal, PhD *[A] sympathetic and intriguing book. [Death is But a Dream is] an uplifting and reassuring work testifying to the deep restorative and spiritual - though not necessarily religious - nature of pre-death visions * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisSo much emphasis in paramedic practice is placed on saving lives, and so how can you provide the best care for patients who are approaching the end of theirs? Knowing when it is appropriate to transfer palliative and end of life patients to hospital can be challenging as there are often many complex factors at stake which can have an impact on both patients and their families. Digging deep into the ethical and clinical aspects of working with palliative patients as a paramedic, this book is the go-to resource to enable you to act within the patient's best interests and provide the most appropriate and effective care. Key features include: Twenty-four case studies covering a range of relevant topics to help apply principles to your own practice Clinical information on symptom control and pain management Written specifically for paramedics, by a range of specialist authors Designated chapters on the role of the paramedic in palliative care, palliative care emergencies and personal resilience Full-colour diagrams throughout. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all more aware of the importance of patient-centred palliative care; this book is full of tips and techniques to help you feel more confident in ensuring patients not only die 'well' but also live with dignity and comfort.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Death and Dying in Society Chapter 2: Defining Palliative Care Chapter 3: Palliative Care Emergencies Chapter 4: Symptom Management Chapter 5: Enhanced Communication Skills Chapter 6: Care of the Dying patient Chapter 7: Ethics Chapter 8: Professional Resilience Chapter 9: The Paramedic as an End of life Specialist

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Book SynopsisBy bridging the gap between conventional medical interventions and complementary approaches using aromatherapy, palliative care nurse and clinical aromatherapist, Carol Rose, demonstrates how an integrated and evidence-based approach can have the most significant impact on quality-of-life in patients with life-limiting illness.Aromatherapy is already a fundamental practice in many palliative care settings but its benefits remain under-researched and under-represented. Each chapter of this book incorporates a person-centred focus to consider the integration of various aromatherapy approaches for a range of end-of-life symptoms, alongside conventional medical options. The specificity of this approach and the emphasis of empowering patients to be involved in the process of choosing oils and applications, allows for improved results in the palliation of common symptoms.Integrating Clinical Aromatherapy in Palliative Care has a foundation in research from the patient's point of view. The result is a fresh perspective that prioritises support of patient choices, skilful communication and individualised care, alongside the judicious use of essential oils and other botanical products. Collectively, aromatherapy can completely reframe holistic care to allow for greater emotional, social and spiritual expression.Trade ReviewThe most authoritative text to date for the specialist aromatherapy world...a detailed, empathetic and dedicated path that stems from a place of rich experience, knowledge and the unwavering determination to keep the patient at the heart of every therapeutic encounter. -- Rhiannon Lewis, International Journal of Clinical AromatherapyCarol Rose carefully constellates within these pages a vital resource of clinical wisdom and compassionate expertise in aromatic palliative care. This labour of love - in terms of both practice and scholarship - is a professional object lesson in contemporary clinical aromatherapy, and will enrich and empower the aromatherapy student and clinical practitioner alike. Unreservedly recommended! -- Gabriel Mojay, Institute of Traditional Herbal Medicine and AromatherapyThis holistic, integrative resource needs to be read by every palliative care clinician. Truly inspiring. -- Jenny Coleman RN, cancer support nurse specialistCarol Rose draws on her extensive clinical experience to create a bridge between research and its applications, while keeping the individual's unique narrative at the core of all aromatherapeutic interventions. This beautifully written book transcends symptom management in the clinical domain, and it is grounded in an uncompromisingly holistic philosophy, evident in the inspiring case studies. This book will empower those experiencing cancer and terminal illness, and also their families, loved ones and caregivers, at all stages of their journey and beyond - but most importantly, Carol Rose's words will touch your heart. -- Jennifer Peace Rhind, writer, author and essential oils consultant

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Book SynopsisUse of the arts in palliative care settings is a powerful and effective way of addressing the practical, psychological, social and spiritual issues faced by service users in end-of-life care.The Creative Arts in Palliative Care uncovers the possibilities for using the creative arts and provides guidance on how to implement arts projects successfully. Part 1 focuses on designing objectives for the creative arts in palliative care - such as self-fulfilment, social participation, diversion from pain and other common symptoms - and managing creative arts services. Part 2 demonstrates the theory and principles in practice, with detailed case studies: each chapter draws on a real-life project, the approaches it employed and the outcomes achieved.This book will be essential reading for healthcare professionals, arts practitioners and all those involved in providing palliative care services.Trade Review`The book is a brave and sensible move by Hartley and Payne. Brave, in encouraging more "group think" from professions often in conflict regarding issues of funding or professional boundaries. Sensible, because the common ground for these professions, creativity, has so much to offer palliative care: a book of this kind has long been needed to celebrate and promote the potential of the work these professions do.' -- British Journal of Music Therapy, Julian O'Kelly, day hospice manager and music therapists at the Princess Alice Hospice, Esher, Surrey, UK`This book would be useful to those who are hoping to establish creative arts practices in this field in a range of locations, and would be of particular help to those who may be managing such projects and who fell they have little or no experience or expertise in this field.` -- hospice information bulletin, Kate Powis, lecturer and researcher at St Helena Hospice, ColchesterI highly recommend this book to anyone involved in palliative care: administrators, nurses, social workers, caregivers, families, creative artists, therapists, and students...This book is moving, practical, and inspiring to all those dealing with chronic illness, pain, death, and dying. -- Art TherapyThis book was incredibly informative. It strove to inform, inspire and educate 'artists' to work in palliative care, and gave the tools and strategies to us for success... I recommend this book to any creative arts therapists who wish to work in palliative care, or want to brush up on some strategies for wearing their 'business hats' and increasing their practice hours. -- Canadian Art Therapy Association JournalThis book provides a credible and informative account of the contribution of the creative arts in palliative care. It is an accessible read for those with experience in this field, and will be of interest to people studying therapeutic media beyond standard medical approaches in a palliative care context, as well as those keen to explore and understand more about the life-affirming and life-enhancing potential of creative art. -- Writing in EducationThis book is an invaluable starting point, and hopefully a catalyst for more of the kind, bridging the gap between the paucity of literature and the richness of opportunities that the creative arts offer for personal transformation, increased well-being and social inclusion in palliative care. -- European Journal of Palliative CareThe Creative Arts in Palliative Care is a forward-thinking text which integrates management, treatment and community building aspects of creative arts in palliative care. I highly recommend The Creative Arts in Palliative Care. This book is a must read for artists, therapists, volunteers, managers and directors who specialize in working with patients and caregivers who are facing end of life. -- Nordic Journal of Music TherapyThis book is a valuable resource giving information in a collection of articles that, taken together, support the justification for including creative arts in the services offered to those who are facing the end of life. -- Journal of Palliative CareTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Part I: Developing Creative Arts in Palliative Care. 1. Introduction - The Creative Arts in Palliative Care. Nigel Hartley and Malcolm Payne, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 2. Managing Creative Arts and Artists in Healthcare Settings. Nigel Hartley. 3. The Palliative Care Community - Using the Arts in Different Settings. Nigel Hartley. 4. Exhibiting, Promoting and Funding the Arts in Healthcare Settings. Nigel Hartley. 5. Research and Audit in Palliative Care Creative Arts. Malcolm Payne. Part II: Experiences of Creative Arts in Palliative Care. 6. Experiences of Creative Arts in Palliative Care - Introduction to Part II. Malcolm Payne. 7. Pottery and Painting. Lynn Harmer, St Christopher's Hospice, London; Greenwich Community College, South London. 8. Craft Work. Adrian Butchers, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 9. Digital Arts. Marion Tasker, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 10. Art Therapy. Samantha Dobbs, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 11. Community Arts. Virginia Hearth, St Christopher's Hospice, London.. 12. Beginning to Work as a Community Artist in Palliative Care. Mick Sands, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 13. Music Therapy in the Community. Tamsin Dives, St Christopher's Hospice, London. 14. Music and Music Therapy at St Christopher's Hospice - An Evaluation Study. Abi Gill, National Society for Epilepsy, Buckinghamshire. 15. Conclusion. Malcolm Payne and Nigel Hartley. Bibliography. Contributors. Suppliers. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book Synopsis…members of the caring professions need all the counselling skills that we can muster. Readers of this book will end up feeling less helpless in the face of death but we should not expect to find communication easy. “What can we say?” Once we think we know what to say we are wrong. Rather this book will help us to learn when to speak of dying and when not to, what not to say and when to keep silent and wait patiently for what gliding instructors call an 'up-draught'. We must start from wherever the other person may be and we must take the time and trouble to discover the language with which this person speaks about death and dying, the assumptions they make and their needs and wishes to speak or not to speak.– From the Foreword by Dr Colin Murray Parkes, Life President of Cruse Bereavement CareGood counselling skills are often not taught to the professionals who need them most. Compassionate and tactful communication skills can make the difference between an awkward encounter with a dying patient, and an engaging, empathic bond between two people.Louis Heyse-Moore draws on his wealth of experience as a trained counsellor and palliative medicine specialist. Covering difficult subjects such as breaking the news of terminal illness to a patient, euthanasia and the effect of working with patients on carers, Speaking of Dying is a practical guide to using counselling skills for all clinical disciplines working in palliative care, whether in a hospice, hospital or at home.Complete with a clear explanation of both counselling and medical terminology, this hands-on guide will be an invaluable companion to anyone working in palliative care.Trade Review[...] Working with patients on carers, "Speaking of Dying" is a practical guide to using counselling skills for all clinical disciplines working in palliative care, whether in a hospice, hospital or at home. Complete with a clear explanation of both counselling and medical terminology, this hand-on guide will be an invaluable companion to anyone working in palliative care. -- Counselling MagazineA worthwile work that would be of value to any professional working in pallative care. -- Nursing StandardThis is a very practical guide to counselling in the palliative care setting. It is clearly written and well set out and the experiences of the author as a trained counsellor and palliative medicine specialist shines through. -- Palliative CareA most useful text for anyone training to work in the palliative care field. -- International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care NewsIn this excellent book, Heyse-Moore draws on his experience as a practised listener and specialist in palliative medicine. -- The Church TimesThis book will be a valuable addition to both personal bookshelves and to libraries. It will be valued by those working in pallative care and also particularly by those for whom speaking of dying remains a challenge. -- Plus Quarterly Magazine of Christian Council on AgeingThe author's years of experience as a palliative medicine specialist allows for an insider's view of how to work with the dying. From how to break the news of a terminal illness to a patient to euthanasia questions and working with other healthcare providers and family members, SPEAKING OF DYING is a recommended pick for any college-level collection strong in counseling guides. -- James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief, The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by Dr Colin Murray Parkes. Introduction. PART 1: Fundamentals of Counselling Skills 1. Terminology. 2. Meeting. 3. Attending Skills. 4. Core Counselling Skills. 5. Psychological Approaches. PART 2: Palliative Care Issues 6. Breaking Bad News. 7. Working with Emotions. 8. Euthanasia. 9. Family Matters. 10. Spiritual Distress. 11. The Sick Psyche. 12. Staff Support. Conclusion. References. Recommended Reading List. Resources. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in medical science and technology are saving the lives of more children worldwide than ever. Some survive and live out a normal life expectancy, others have a life-limiting/life-threatening diagnosis where death may come early, and still others will live on well past projected life trajectories into adulthood. With so many different care pathways, children, parents and communities often find themselves facing challenges for which neither they nor their healthcare systems are prepared. This book opens a global discussion of these issues. Extending Rita Pfund's text Palliative Care Nursing of Children and Young People, it invites paediatric palliative care professionals, parents and children from around the globe to share their knowledge and experience. This book is of vital interest to palliative care professionals, parents, policy makers and academics. It is an important move towards ensuring that all children and their families, regardless of geographical location, gender, ethnicity or socio-economic class have equal and guaranteed access to comprehensive paediatric palliative care services.Table of ContentsSection 1: A Global overview. Section 2: Focusing on families — hearing the evidence. Section 3: Minimizing Crisis Points in Paediatric Palliative Care. Section 4: Supporting transitions. Section 5: Evidence / knowledge transfer into practice.

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Book Synopsis'Healthcare professionals spend much of their time listening to stories of sickness related by patients and their families. It thus seems appropriate that drama, which is primarily concerned with exploring narratives, change and crises and relies, like the clinical situation, on communication, is an ideal medium for healthcare professionals to gain new insights into care.' From the Introduction Good communication forms the heart of patient-centred care and is the cornerstone of a trusting relationship. Enhancing Compassion in End-of-Life Care Through Drama explores a broad range of plays from Greek tragedy to the present day and investigates how particular theatrical dynamics help to understand complexities in the setting of end-of-life care. It examines fresh ways to interpret the action and subtext represented on the stage and finds symmetries in a clinical context. It is ideal for use in a range of educational contexts, with practical ideas for workshops and summaries of key concepts in each chapter. This book will motivate all members of the multidisciplinary palliative care team including palliative care professionals, doctors, nurses, psychologists, spiritual advisers and social workers. Although based in the setting of palliative care, the learning points are relevant to all areas of clinical practice.Table of ContentsForeword. Introduction. Communication: King Lear. Care : The Caretaker. Connection: Journey's End. Choice: Antigone. Change: Little Eyolf. Concealment: All my Sons. Crises: Blasted. Complexity: Cloud9. Culture: Behzti. Cooperation: Drama and healthcare education. Combination: Virtue ethics: The Good Doctor. Acknowledgements.

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Book SynopsisIs there a place for palliative care within mental health? This inspirational book offers an excellent foundation for integrating best-practice specialist palliative care into serious and enduring mental health service delivery. The shared practice values and vision between these two disciplines provide an optimistic starting point from which to address the lack of palliative care service delivery in mental health practice. Focusing on the similarity in philosophy between palliative care and mental health practice, it incorporates: . person-centred practice . relationship-based connectedness . a belief in compassionate care . respect for autonomy and choice . quality-of-life issues. The book addresses the practice skills needed in preparation for competent intervention and treatment. Each chapter develops a theoretical framework which is supported by practical application. Both professionals and students of palliative care will find the interactive text and practical case studies especially valuable, as will the professional working in substance use. Its userfriendly approach will appeal to a wide range of readers in various related disciplines. 'While it could be assumed that mental health has a lot to offer palliative care, we both [feel] that palliative care could offer more to mental health practice...It is a neglected area. There is little or no literature related to palliative care within serious mental health practice, and that which does exist relates to care of the dying in terms of cancer.' From the PrefaceTrade Review'Overall this is an impressive book that has the potential to be immensely helpful to generalists as well as specialist practitioners in both fields. It will serve to open up the debate and clarify the reality surrounding the consistent misunderstandings that still exist in both areas of practice, and as such it deserves to be widely read.' Robert Becker, Independent lecturer and author in palliative care, International Journal of Palliative NursingTable of ContentsPreface. About the editors. List of contributors. Terminology. Cautionary note. Other books by the editors. Acknowledgements. Dedication. Embracing palliative care-mental health. The Tidal Model. Application of transcultural theory to practice: the Purnell Model. Ethics. Psychological impact of serious and enduring mental health. Caring relationships. Hope and coping. Spirituality. All of me: embracing sexuality as a dimension of care. Assessment. Pain management. Managing restlessness and agitation at the end-of-life. End-of-life. Living with loss. Serious substance use problems and palliative care. Looking after yourself and colleagues. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis thought provoking and highly practical book is not just about caring for the dying within mental health, but also applying the quality care and practice of palliative care within mental health practice. Multidisciplinary in its approach, it focuses on intervention, treatment, care and practice, and the similarities in practice between palliative care and mental health. This common ground is an excellent foundation for integrating palliative care into mental health care, practice and service delivery, succinctly covering all aspects of psychological, physical, social, spiritual, sexual and emotional health. Featuring authoritative contributions from international experts, each chapter develops a theoretical framework before broadening its scope to include application in practice - addressing what, when, where and why with a definite focus on implementation in practice. Self-assessment exercises, advice for further reading, ideas for reflective practice and summaries of key points are also included, aiming above all else to improve the relationships, responses, care and practice necessary to be effective in interventions and treatment with those experiencing mental health concerns and dilemmas. Ideal for all health, social, psychological, legal and spiritual care students and professionals wanting sound theoretical and practical guidance, this book is highly recommended for General Practitioners and General Practice Registrars, healthcare assistants studying NVQ and health visitors. Educationalists, managers and service developers in health and social care will also appreciate its solution-focused, practical approach.Trade Review"…a useful read for all adult and mental health nurses…"—Nursing TimesTable of ContentsPreface. About the editors. List of contributors. Terminology. Cautionary note. Other books by the editors. Acknowledgements. Dedication. Palliative care within mental health: the need. Compassion, respect and dignity. Overcoming ethical dilemmas. Overcoming cultural dilemmas. The family. End-of-life. Assessment. Pain management. The young person and suicide. Long-term mental health. Dementia, Alzheimer's and confusion. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and palliative care. Euthanasia, assisted suicide and mental health. Palliative care and substance use: special considerations. The heart of care and caring. Index.

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Book SynopsisA handbook for acupuncturists and healthcare practitioners on the use of acupuncture for end-of-life care. The book covers the major hospice and palliative care diagnoses from a Chinese medicine perspective, as well as grief and loss, and includes the roots of Chinese historical perspectives on death and dying. The acupuncturist is introduced to the working medical model of hospice care and the interdisciplinary team approach and provided with evidence-based strategies for the use the acupuncture in symptom management.Trade ReviewTorii Black has expertly combined history and modern research with ancient medical theory to create an essential resource for anyone interested in integrating acupuncture services into end-of-life care. Hospice organizations will appreciate the detailed introduction to acupuncture and herbal medicine, while acupuncture providers will find the suggested treatment protocols helpful and insightful. -- Cole Alexander, DAOM, LAc – Executive Director at Free Range HealthA must read for both new and seasoned Acupuncturists. Descriptions of the treatment protocols used to assist in the dying process are extremely valuable and can be readily utilized. A well researched reference on the systems of hospice and palliative care, Hospice and Palliative Care Acupuncture is a foundational handbook for treating hospice clients and their families. -- Whitney Madden, Lic Ac, CBHC (Certified Brain Health Coach)Evidence shows acupuncture to be both valuable and lacking as a complement to conventional palliative and hospice care. This book offers practitioners context, clinical support and the necessary language to bridge the gap in this particularly wonderful continuum of care. -- Paula McPhail, practitioner, Lic Ac, MSc(Res)Table of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Hospice and Palliative Care History/Philosophy; 2. Chinese Culture Influences Modern Death and Dying Issues; 3. East Meets West - The Face of Modern Palliative Care; 4. Palliative Performance Scale (PPS); 5. Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment of the Patients at the End of Life; 6. Channel Points for Consideration; 7. Final Thoughts; References; Glossary for Point Nomenclature

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Book SynopsisPeople with dementia need increasingly specialised support as they approach the end of life, and so too do their families and the professionals working with them. This book describes not only what can be done to ensure maximum quality of life for those in the final stages of the illness, but also how best to support those involved in caring for them.Emphasising the importance of being attuned to the experiences and needs of the person with dementia, the authors explain why and how they should be included in decisions relating to their end of life care. Practical strategies for ensuring physical and emotional wellbeing are provided, drawing on useful examples from practice and providing solutions to potential challenges that carers and family members will face. Dilemmas surrounding end of life care are explored in detail, including the moral dilemma of medical intervention, and the authors suggest ways of supporting family members through the process in terms of providing information, helping them adjust to change and loss, and involving them in their relative's care, and at how care staff can be supported through appropriate education and training, team building and information-giving.This is an essential resource for anyone who wishes to provide compassionate, person-centred care for a person with dementia as they approach the end of life, including care staff, nurses, social workers and related professionals.Trade ReviewThis splendid book contains practical information - clinical, psychological, social, legal, social, spiritual and ethical - which is combined with wisdom and background understanding so that a thoroughly holistic picture emerges. It also encourages thought about training in the complex field of end of life care for people living with dementia. -- Julian C. Hughes, RICE Professor of Old Age Psychiatry, University of BristolThis book offers concise and practical guidance on caring for people with dementia who are reaching the end of their lives, promoting dignity and the needs of lay (family and friend) and professional carers. It offers clear learning outcomes, case studies and examples of good practice to bring this knowledge into every day care. -- Dr Elizabeth Sampson, Reader, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College LondonThe care of people with advanced dementia is an increasingly important area of end-of-life care. This book provides a practical and well referenced overview of the key issues, using accessible case studies to illustrate key points. I look forward to using it in palliative care education and as an excellent source for reference. -- Jane Seymour, Professor of Palliative and End of Life Care, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of SheffieldThere are lots of books being published about dementia right now and most do add value to the body of literature available but not all are as readable and accessible as the new offering from the University of Bradford's School of Dementia Studies. [...] Murna Downs and her team should be commended for this book [...]. -- Celia Di Cicco * Princess Alice Hospice *Table of ContentsForeword. Introduction. 1. Transitions. 2. Promoting Dignity and Physical Wellbeing at the End of life. 3. Promoting Dignity and Emotional Wellbeing at the End of Life. 4. Supporting Families through Advanced Dementia and End of Life. 5. Supporting the Health and Social Care Workforce to Provide End of Life Care for People with Dementia. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe many unfounded myths and fears that surround working with people at the end of their lives are dispelled in this thoughtful book, and the authors provide both practical and emotional support for those involved in caring for dying patients. The book covers everything from the philosophy behind the practice to the diverse roles in the multi-disciplinary team, as well as current challenges and opportunities facing end of life care, with an emphasis on how therapy and arts therapies can be integrated effectively. It also looks at palliative care models that address all aspects of a patient's wellbeing and conveys the latest research and challenges in the field, bridging the gap between theory and the realities of working with patients on a daily basis. Using material from artists and therapists working in the field, the varying demands of inpatient, outpatient and home care are described, as well as the processes of bereavement, how to handle the practicalities of loss and the help that therapists can give at this stage. How artists and therapists with experience of working at the end of life can be involved in other areas of care such as supporting older people in care homes and those living with dementia is also discussed. The book also introduces the important area of health promotion, and how there is a growing responsibility to change people's attitudes towards death, dying and bereavement. Clear, practical examples are given as to how this might be achieved. Full of professional advice and career guidance, this book will be an invaluable tool for those working with patients nearing the end of life and those considering working in this area, as well as students in training.Trade ReviewThis important book describes practical ways for therapists, artists and arts therapists to set about delivering an effective professional offering in a wide variety of end of life care settings; ranging from outpatient services, inpatient units, the community and care homes and across all illnesses including dementia. The book is a pragmatic, realistic and forthright guide to the difficulties and rewards of being a rather unusual, sometimes isolated, often poorly understood professional; a sort of mythical tiger burning bright in the sometimes impenetrable forest of the efficient demands of medical and nursing structures…This is a brave book and now, more than ever, all practitioners in the field of end of life care need to initiate courageous conversations if we are to meet ever growing need. -- from the foreword by Professor Dame Barbara Monroe, Chief Executive, St Christopher's GroupHartley has produced a poignant, compelling and practical guide for therapists, artists and arts therapists who work, or wish to work, with people at the end of life. This book blends concerns about history and policy, with practical discussions about inter-professional working, self-care, and evaluation in work with dying, death, and bereavement. An essential reference for practitioners. -- Allan Kellehear, PhD, AcSS, Professor of Community Health, Middlesex University, UKIn this wonderfully honest and realistic book, Nigel Hartley uses the experience of arts therapists working in end of life care to pose crucial questions for therapists, organisations and society in building a patient-led and effective service. He faces head on the particular issues raised by the current political and economic climate, and offers a wealth of practical advice. -- Jessica Rose, psychotherapist and author of Psychology for Pastoral Contexts: A Handbook (SCM) and Sharing Spaces?: Prayer and the Counselling Relationship (DLT)Nigel Hartley's book brushes aside the mystique of music and arts therapy, showing clearly how and why they work. As well as providing a full overview of current practice, he makes positive suggestions for encouraging teamwork and communication, and his highly readable style is shot through with compassion for patients, families and therapists themselves. -- Sarah Walker PhD, broadcaster, musician and writerAn important account stemming from the Anniversary Centre at St Christopher's Hospice - open daily for 13 hours for patients, family, friends and the public. An amazing development from the traditional nurse-led 10am-3pm, Monday-Friday Day Centre. A great example of TEAM-work - Together Everyone Achieves More. For anyone who wants to get beyond the bedpan and the drug round, this is essential reading. -- Dr Robert Twycross DM FRCP, Director of palliativedrugs.com Ltd.This book would serve as a useful introduction to anyone working in end-of-life care or considering it. The first section of the book deals with history, policy and current challenges... The second part is a series of chapters that discuss most aspects of end-of-life care in a variety of settings... This is an insightful review of what working in end-of-life care is all about. Whilst directed to those from the creative arts, anyone who works in end-of-life care, or is considering it, will be better off for reading it. -- IAHPC (International Association for Hospice & Palliative Care)Table of ContentsPart 1: History, Policy and Current Challenges. 1. Introduction. 2. The Model and Philosophy of Hospice and End of Life Care. 3. Strategic and Current Challenges. Part 2: Teamwork, Communication and Working in Different Contexts. 4. Working as Part of a Multi-disciplinary Team. Tamsin Dives and Nigel Hartley. 5. Working with Inpatients. Andy Ridley and Nigel Hartley. 6. Working with Day and Outpatients. Mick Sands and Nigel Hartley. 7. Working in Community Settings. Gerry Prince and Nigel Hartley. 8. Bereavement and Loss. Gini Lawson and Nigel Hartley. Part 3: Starting Out, Looking After Yourself, Research and Development. 9. Getting Started. Roberto Sanchez-Camus and Nigel Hartley. 10. Looking After Yourself. Marion Tasker and Nigel Hartley. 11. Research and Evaluation. Giorgos Tsiris and Nigel Hartley. 12. Final Thoughts and Some Handy Hints and Tips. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis sensitive and compassionate book provides older people who are nearing the end of life and their loved ones, as well as the professionals who work with them, with a greater depth of understanding of spiritual issues surrounding death and dying. Illustrated with the experiences of many older people, it explores important themes such as grief and loss; fear; pain, distress and suffering; acceptance; transcendence; prayer; the healing of relationships; and intimacy, and shows that the final journey towards death can be one of the most spiritually meaningful times in the life of an older person - a time in which there is still hope, and in which the person who is dying and their loved ones can grow spiritually, strengthened by the difficult times they face together. Spiritual issues for older people with dementia who are nearing the end of life are also explored, as are ethical and moral issues in death and dying, and the ways in which bereaved partners and relatives may come to terms with the loss of a loved one.This concise and accessible book will be a valuable resource for those in the caring professions and a rich source of guidance and support for older people who are nearing the end of life and their families.Trade Review(...) this book provides a gentle but emotive introduction into preparing for the final journey of life. -- Journal of Community Nursing...both of these books (Spirituality and Personhood in Dementia by Albert Jewell and Palliative Care, Ageing and Spirituality by Elizabeth Mackinlay), (...) are infused with glimpse of grace and courage, can inspire the reader to give thanks and cherish all that is good, and to live life as fully as we are able, even in the midst of frailty. -- The Waythis is a book which anyone involved in this area could read with real profit - and pass on to others. Strongly recommended. -- PlusMacKinlay's skills as a nurse and priest are reflected in the simple and compassionate opening up of the questions and some of the consequent feelings that surround this important dimension of our living. -- Church TimesIn a culture that tends to assume that the only meanings that can be associated with death are profoundly negative, the idea of a good death for elderly people is not always apparent. Elizabeth MacKinlay sees things differently. In this book she teases out a different way of looking at and understanding death and dying. Death is not an enemy or even something that necessarily has to be feared. Rather, death is a meaningful movement towards a positive goal. Religion and spirituality are vital aspects for the achievement of such a goal. This book helps us all to see death and dying differently and in seeing these things differently, we can learn to practise more compassionately. -- Professor John Swinton, Chair in Divinity and Religious Studies and Professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, University of Aberdeen, ScotlandThe phrase 'a good death' seems ridiculous, but what is really meant is a good approach to death, with minimal physical pain, and the best chance of mental and spiritual calm to face the end. Not an easy task and therefore a book such as this containing helpful advice and real examples can be a useful aid to not only professionals perhaps facing palliative care for the first time, but also to families and friends who can have much to offer in bringing comfort and ease... This book, by being non-technical is also of value to the relatives and friends of those approaching the end of their mortal life. -- GoodBookStall.org.ukTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction: About growing older, dying and death. 1. Grief and loss: A part of life. 2. Fear of dying. 3. The final life career: Is this only a time of waiting for death? Or is there something more? 4. Acceptance that death will come. 5. Pain, distress and suffering. 6. Prayer. 7. Responding to meaning: symbol and ritual. 8. Transcendence in the process of death and dying. 9. Healing of relationships. 10. Intimacy and dying. 11. Dementia and dying. 12. Ethical and moral issues in death and dying. 13. The final days and hours of the journey. 14. Learning to live without my partner. Further reading. Appendices. Index.

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Book SynopsisAs someone approaches the end of their life, it is vitally important that they receive quality care and support, that their wishes are met, and that they are treated with dignity and respect. Pathways through Care at the End of Life is a comprehensive guide to providing excellent, person-centred end of life care. Following a pathway from initial conversations about end of life to care in the last days of life and after death, it covers assessing need and planning care, co-ordinating care between different agencies, and ensuring quality in different settings, such as at home, in a hospice, or in hospital. Good practice guidance on communication, ensuring the person's needs are met, support for their family and how to facilitate a good death is given. Case studies illustrate real life practice, and questions throughout each chapter encourage reflective practice. This book will be essential reading for all those working with people at the end of life, such as nurses, social workers, GPs and home carers, as well as students in these fields.Trade ReviewThis book draws on the rich experience and combined expertise of the authors to offer a resource for all those supporting people on their end of life pathway…[G]lobally we find a remarkable consistency across cultures of what people want when they are dying. They want care which manages distressing symptoms in the most effective way; they want to be treated with compassion, dignity and respect; they want to have the opportunity to set their affairs in order and to be surrounded by those people who are important to them. The implication of meeting those needs, as the core message of this book proclaims, is that end of life care is everybody's business. -- From the Foreword by Professor Sir Mike Richards, Chief Inspector of Hospitals, Care Quality Commission, UKThis clearly written and comprehensive book will be a valuable source of information and resource for any professional or student interested in improving the practical delivery of end of life care. It describes the methodologies, development and successes of the ground breaking national strategy for End of Life Care launched in England in 2008. The material is brought to life with case studies and best practice examples and reflection is encouraged through the use of 'stop and think' questions. -- Barbara Monroe, Chief Executive, St Christopher's Hospice, UKThis book provides a comprehensive, up-to-date, research-based account of multi-professional practice in end-of-life care from different professional perspectives. Its authoritative knowledge base relies on the work of the National End of Life Care Programme in England's Department of Health over several years. Its strong focus on flexible, holistic quality of care will make it valuable for specialist and general practitioners in hospital and community health and social care services. -- Malcolm Payne, consultant in social work and end-of-life care and author of Social Work in End-of-Life and Palliative CareThis book elegantly captures how the relatively new focus on 'end of life care' provides a conceptual framework with which to think in a different way about meeting these new needs and has led to change on a wide front…Readers can find interesting synopses of interdisciplinary perspectives on death, dying and epidemiological transition, together with up to date advice about best practice in care planning, communication and coordination of services; all set out in a highly accessible manner. In their discussions, the authors do not shy away from delineating new challenges ahead that will require all of us to work together to continue to transform end of life care so that it better meets the needs of all those facing death, whatever their age or diagnosis, and wherever they are cared for. -- Jane Seymour, Sue Ryder Care Professor of Palliative and End of Life Studies, University of Nottingham, UKTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. 1. The Context and Philosophy of End of Life Care. 2. Discussions as the End of Life Approaches 3. Assessing Need and Planning Care. 4. Co-ordination of Care. 5. Delivery of High Quality Care in Different Settings. 6. Care in the Last Days of Life. 7. Care after Death. 8. Quality End of Life Care for All. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisWithin the last decade music therapists have developed their work with people who have life-threatening illnesses and with those who are dying. This book presents some of that work from music therapists working in different approaches, in different countries, showing how valuable the inclusion of music therapy in palliative care has already proved to be.It is important for the dying, or those with terminal illness, that approaches are used which integrate the physical, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions of their being. The contributors to this book emphasize the importance of working not only with the patient but with the ward situation, friends and family members. By offering patients the chance to be creative they become something other than patients - they become expressive beings, and there is an intimacy in music therapy that is important for those who are suffering. Many of the contributors write in their own personal voice, providing a particular insight which will be valuable not only to other music therapists seeking to enrich their own ways of working, but to all those involved in caring for the sick and the dying. Contributors describe their work with both children and adults living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other chronic degenerative diseases.Trade ReviewMusic therapy is still in the process of establishing its role in the UK palliative care movement. On balance, this publication can only help to inspire more therapists to work in the field, and to communicate their experiences to a wider audience. The personal approach to writing adopted by many of the authors is both highly accessible and absorbing. With this publication the voice of music therapy speaks clearly, providing a highly recommended account of this exciting and challenging area of work. -- British Journal of Music TherapyIn this pioneering book, David Aldridge presents chapters by an international range of music therapists who have extended the field to include work with patients suffering from the final stages of life-limiting illness. The result is an attractive volume that charts a fresh and innovative approach to problems faced by palliative care patients which will appeal to health care professionals as well as music therapists…I woud highly recommend this book as an inspiring addition to the literature on the use of creative therapies in palliative care. It offers a well-referenced, accessible and sensitively written contribution to the field. -- European Journal of Palliative CareThis book brings together the first published volume of many music therapists working with different approaches in different countries. It provides an extremely comprehensive insight into the approaches used by music therapists working within a variety of palliative care settings and a diversity of client groups and life-threatening conditions. The text is supplemented by very moving case studies. The book indicates clearly the power of music, its effect and the associations we hold with music throughout our lives. It is a multidimensional medium which has tremendous impact on our past, present and future lives. It provides a therapeutic tool within palliative care which by its varying dimensions has a potential value for individuals who are struggling with their present life-threatening or life-limiting circumstance. It is an essential read for anyone wishing to discover the potential value of music therapy within palliative care. -- British Journal of Occupational Therapy`Here is a book for the therapist, musician or student seeking a broard perspective on the practical application of music therapy. It is written by a range of practioners working in a variety of settings, each bringing a new vision to the interested reader. All aspects of music therapy are here represented, icluding listening, performance, composition (music and words) and milieu. Examples abound of different approaches to this most personal of therapeutic strategies - whether to complement pain relief, to provide an enjoyable undertaking for patients to join with each other and with their families and friends or as a diversionary activity. The thought provoking methods described from the practioner's view allow the reader to sit on sessions of music-making with patients turned musicians in a most exciting manner. It is this readability which will encourage the non-music therapist and non-therapist musician. Here are clear descriptions of successful methods in listening to music, in performning and composing with children and with older people. Lively imprtomptu 'jam' sessions are explored, carefully recalling instrumentation's and levels of musical expertise. Planned programmes of considerable complexity are described, allowing the reader to develop an understanding of the processes involved. A patient who wants me to compile a tape of his favourite music as a parting gift for his family, or the woman who has written words for a song but needs some help in composing a special tune. These cameos of practice are well presented and organised into a readable collection. They offer sufficient detail to encourage the well endowed music therapist while having sufficent non-technical material to allow access to the less musically inclined reder. This book is well referenced, offering a clear path to follow for those wishing to learn more. The subject and author indexes allow access to any vaguely recalled part of the book. -- RostrumI would highly recommend this book as an inspiring addition to the literature on the use of creative therapies in palliative care. It is slim (160 pages), well-written and highly readable, even to those who have no previous experience in the field. -- Marie Curie NewsThis book explores music therapy's enhancement of palliative care - giving voice to nine currently unpublished Music Therapists. The writers work in many settings - hospices, hospitals, paediatric oncology wards, AIDS support centres - in diverse countries throughout the world. But this diversity blends into a harmonious and inspiring book. -- Grief MattersThis book presents clinical writing from music therapists working using different approaches in various countries. It introduces the reader to different aspects of music therapy. The book contains in-depth case discussions rather than quantitative research analysis… Although entitled Palliative Care the book covers a wide spectrum of cancer stages, degenerative illnesses, HIV/AIDS, as well as, working with children and adults. The book illustrates the different areas where Music Therapy could work as part of a multi-disciplinary team. -- Irish Social WorkerThe contributors seek to emphasise the importance of working not only with the patient but with the ward situation, friends and family members; many write in their own personal voice, offering a particular insight which will be valuable not only to other music therapists seeking to enrich their own ways of working, but to all those involved in caring for the sick and the dying. -- Progress in Palliative CareTable of ContentsIntroduction, David Aldridge. 1. Music Therapy and the Creative Act, David Aldridge, Chair of Qualitative Research in Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke, Germany. 2. Music Therapy as Milieu in the Hospice and Paediatric Oncology Ward, Tryge Aasgaard, Asistant Professor, Oslo College; Music Therapist, Ullevl, The National Hospital, Hospice Louisenberg, Oslo, Norway. 3. Lyrical Themes in Songs Written by Palliative Care Patients, Clare O'Callaghan. 4. Creativity and Communication Aspects of Music Therapy in a Children's Hospital, Beth Dun, Senior Music Therapist, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. 5. Music Therapy at the End of Life: Searching for the Rite of Passage, Bridget Hogan. 6. Music Therapy in Chronic Degenerative Illness: Reflecting the Dynamic Sense of Self, Wendy Magee. 7. Music: A Means of Comfort, Susan Weber, Music Therapist, Johannes Hospiz der Barmherzigen, Munich; Lecturer in Music Therapy, Ludwigs Maximilian University, Munich. 8. Music Therapists' Personal Reflections on Working with Those Who Are Living with HIV/AIDS: `Almost the Definition of God', Nigel Hartley, Senior Music Therapist, Sir Michael Sobell House; London Lighthouse; Nordoff Robbins Centre, London. 9. Music Therapy with HIV Positive and AIDS Patients, Lutz Neugebauer. 10. The Implications of Melodic Expression for Music Therapy with a Breast Cancer Patient, Gudrun Aldridge, Lecturer, University of Witten/Herdecke, Germany. 11. Writing and Therapy: Into a New Tongue, Rob Finlayson.

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Book SynopsisA Long Walk Home is Rachel Clark’s evocative and moving account of her treatment and experiences with health professionals in Britain and Australia while she was living with, and dying from, cancer. It includes an Epilogue by her twin sister Naomi Jefferies, and learning points for health professionals by John Hasler and David Pendleton.Table of ContentsIntroduction: orienteering and oncology. Inside out and upside down – diagnosis. Ice magic – chemotherapy. Pick 'n' mix - alternative therapies and options. Roots and roses - origins and image. All the King's horses – surgery. Tattoos and technology – radiotherapy. England's pastures green - coming home. A panoramic view - the background picture. The messages for health professionals. Epilogue.

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Book SynopsisThe quality of cancer and palliative care is going through unprecedented change and development as a result of policy initiatives. The impact of these policies on education is unparalleled and it is essential that clinicians and educationalists are aware of the policy formation processes and educational strategies that meet the demands of these changing times. This book takes a holistic approach to patient care and draws on the diverse experience in hospices and highlights best practice to present a comprehensive and practical guide. However, it does more. New topics are given an educational perspective; those with limited educational experience are given sound advice; the implication of policy change is outlined. This is an important book and one which should be read by all clinicians, educators and managers responsible for improving services in cancer and palliative care. Table of ContentsThe impact of health and social policy on cancer and palliative care education. Clinical governance in 'face to face' and 'on-line space' palliative care education. Public education. Specialist and advanced nursing practice. Post Shipman - the impact on developing education in cancer and palliative care pain management. Death anxiety and death education: a brief analysis of the key issues. Nurses perceptions of spirituality and the implications for nursing care and education. Art and artistry in practice - a reflective account. The role of psycho-neuroimmunology in cancer and palliative care education. Complementary therapies and community nurses - implications for educational planning. Cancer and palliative care - evidence-based practice. Life review - an educational perspective. Humour in cancer and palliative care: an international perspective. An overview of hospice education.

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Book SynopsisSpecifically designed to enhance your knowledge and skills within generalist palliative care, this informative textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principle areas you may encounter whilst working with adult palliative and end-of-life patients, and their families. The development of the text has been backed by Macmillan Cancer Support and each chapter has been written by a range of specialist and generalist authors. The topics covered include approaches to palliative care and symptom management in a wide range of conditions and populations, with chapters linked to case studies to encourage interactive learning and understanding. Communication skills are also highlighted to help aid confidence when engaging in open and difficult conversations. The text is in line with Scottish Palliative Care Guidelines and the NES Framework for Palliative and End of Life Care. The book may either be used as course reading for relevant training programmes, such as the Enhanced Palliative Care course, as well as by healthcare professionals hoping to develop their skills and practice. It is aimed at anyone involved in management and prescribing within non-specialist palliative care, both in hospitals and in the community, including paramedics, nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and other key health professionals.Trade ReviewPut together by contributors with high hopes and feet firmly on the ground, the Enhanced Palliative Care programme will be an invaluable resource to many and a direct benefit to many, many more who will receive care that has been influenced and improved by it. -- David Clark – Professor Emeritus, University of Glasgow.This manual is packed full of evidence-based wisdom and insight that will prove invaluable to so many people wishing to improve their palliative care practice. -- David Clark – Professor Emeritus, University of Glasgow.

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Book SynopsisIn a heartbeat, you or someone you love may be rapidly transformed from a life of health and wellness to one of critical illness. Over the past four decades, Ronald Kotler, M.D., has treated patients who have become critically ill. He has seen patients recover and go on to lead long, healthy lives. He has also treated patients who did not survive. In this medical memoir, Dr. Kotler takes readers to the frontlines of caring for critically ill patients who are “breathless”—having trouble breathing. Dr. Kotler shares compelling stories of patients who were near death or who were facing the end-of-life. He takes readers behind the scenes as he describes the importance of compassion in the care for these patients. Dr. Kotler’s inspiring stories will educate readers as well as salute doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who make up the American healthcare system.

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Book SynopsisThis volume is a practical resource for all those responsible for caring for older people across health and social care. It provides a comprehensive and holistic approach helping nurses, therapists and social care professionals to better understand the impact of ageing upon the person and wider society. A unique feature of this text is the focus upon positive ageing and the attempt to dispel and challenge some of the myths, prejudices and negative attitudes that still prevail towards ageing and older people. A key objective of the book is to introduce practitioners to some of the neglected or under-addressed aspects of ageing such as spirituality, sexuality, and LGBT.Chapters are written in an engaging and interactive style and where appropriate draw upon case studies and scenarios to maximize engagement developing competence, by informing knowledge, attitudes and skills. The text introduces the practitioner to key dimensions of what it is to be a person, physically, psychologically, socially and spiritually and how these contribute to the ageing process and can enhance the quality of life of older people.Irrespective of whether one cares for older people in an acute hospital setting or domiciliary, home care, this text will be of relevance. The material and content transcend health and social care boundaries, providing valuable, contemporary evidence that can inform and shape practice. Above all this text will encourage reflection, dialogue and engagement with some fundamental aspects of ageing, challenging, attitudes, values and behaviour so that a more positive and balanced insight towards ageing is fostered. This book will ensure that self-awareness and professional practice are enriched and informed and the practitioner has a holistic understanding of ageing that will enable them to care for older people with compassion, dignity and respect.Table of ContentsForeword: Prof. Brendan McCormackPreface Dr Wilfred McSherry, Linda Rykkje, Susan ThorntonHolistic approach/person centredDignity and respectComparing different health care settings policies across countriesChapter 1. Physiology and ageingProf. Roger Watson, UK Aims of chapter – overall purpose Learning outcomes – what the nurse/therapist will be able to do at the end of the chapterWhat the nurse should know about: Healthy ageing, Positive aging, successful ageing, Active ageingSummary of the main points for learningSuggested further studyChapter 2. Life history of older peopleSue Thornton UK Social TheoriesSociology of ageingChapter 3. Spiritual care/existential careProf Wilf McSherry & Dr Linda Rykkje Meaning, purpose and fulfillmentPersonal, Religious, spiritual beliefsChapter 4. The psychology of ageing Linn-Heidi LundeCognitive functionDementia/DepressionChapter 5. LBG/Sexuality and ageing Dawn Garrett RCN UK Attitudes towardsAddressing these issues in practiceChapter 6. Acute care settings Dr John McKay UK Frailty, comorbidity, polypharmacy, DeconditioningDelirium/DepressionChapter 7. Nutrition, thriving, mealtimes Joanne Lancaster Dietician UK Chapter 8. Continuity of careJames BrockieCarolyn GairAssessment/Care planningCommunity based settings, social care:HousingChapter 9. Palliative care and end of life care Prof Sarah Kagan USA Chapter 10. Social issues and ageing Lesley Hayes UK VulnerabilityLoneliness/IsolationSelf-neglect Positive aging Chapter 11. Legal and ethical aspects Paul Buka & David Atkinson SafeguardingMental CapacityLasting power of attorney Chapter 12. Inspection, governance and quality Prof Robert McSherry and Patrick PearceChapter 13. Contemporary developmentsMari Synnøve BergeCaring for the carerAssistive technologyThe voice of older people in research Afterword

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Book SynopsisThis open access book has been written by ten Belgian health care professionals, nurses, university professors and doctors specializing in palliative care and ethicists who, together, raise questions concerning the practice of euthanasia. They share their experiences and reflections born out of their confrontation with requests for euthanasia and end-of-life support in a country where euthanasia has been decriminalized since 2002 and is now becoming a trivial topic.Far from evoking any militancy, these stories of life and death present the other side of a reality needs to be evaluated more rigorously.Featuring multidisciplinary perspectives, this though-provoking and original book is intended not only for caregivers but also for anyone who questions the meaning of death and suffering, as well as the impact of a law passed in 2002. Presenting real-world cases and experiences, it highlights the complexity of situations and the consequences of the euthanasia law.This book appeals to palliative care providers, hematologists, oncologists, psychiatrists, nurses and health professionals as well as researchers, academics, policy-makers, and social scientists working in health care. It is also a unique resource for those in countries where the decriminalization of euthanasia is being considered. Sometimes shocking, it focuses on facts and lived experiences to challenge readers and offer insights into euthanasia in Belgium.Table of ContentsForeword Professor Eugene Wesley Ely and Professor Margaret Somerville Preface Jacques Ricot 1. The Slippery Slope Syndrome Eric Vermeer Decriminalization – Ignorance – Trivialization - Perverted sense of duty – Suffering and silence – Economic context – Psychiatric context – After euthanasia - Euthanasia of minors – Euthanasia of remorse 2. The Doctor Turned into an Instrument Dr Catherine Dopchie The therapeutic alliance 3. When Conscience Wavers. Some Reflections on the Normalization of Euthanasia in Belgium Professor Willem Lemmens The embarrassment of the law – Euthanasia: medical act or transgression? - Euthanasia as transgression – Between law and conscience – Conclusion 4. Euthanasia for Unbearable Psychological Suffering Dr An Haekens What does the law say? – Lack of prospect of improvement - Incurable disorder – Persistent and unbearable psychologic suffering – What is empathy? – Decision-making capacity – Conclusion 5. People Facing the Question of Euthanasia: Patients, Family and Friends, Health-care Workers Dr. Rivka Karplus Personal suffering - Physical suffering - Psychological suffering - Emotional and relational suffering - Existential and spiritual suffering – How can one respond to a request of euthanasia? – Reaction of family and friends – How can the medical staff act or react? 6. Surrendering to vs. Inducing Death. Artificial Feeding as Paradigm Dr Marie Frings Framework of this reflective study – Why use feeding tubes? – First approach of the ethical question – Distinguishing between ordinary and extraordinary - Three levels of ethical judgment – Conclusion 7. The Meaning of Suffering or the Meaning of Life Despite Suffering Professor Dr Benoit Beuselinck Viktor Frankl: the question of meaning at the heart of medicine – How can we apply Viktor Frankl theories to helping patients? – What happens in a country where euthanasia has been decriminalised? 8. Resisting Dr Julie Blanchard The request for euthanasia - Family pressure - Explaining euthanasia – The trap of ‘integrated palliative care' - Sedation: misunderstanding and confusion – Contradiction and ambiguity 9. Behind the Scenes of Euthanasia François Trufin Distress of the healthcare worker - Euthanasia: a ‘de-humanising’ act - When conscience competes against law and bureaucracy - Euthanasia, a stage in accepting one’s illness - Euthanasia as a wake-up call from indifference – When trust meets professional integrity Postface Professor Timothy DevosLexiconThe following authors have contributed to the book, each with one chapter:• Eric Vermeer was a practicing nurse for more than 20 years in oncology and palliative care. A teacher and psychotherapist for the last 10 years, he works with nursing students in the services of palliative care and psychiatry. An ethicist by training, he is part of an ethics committee in a neuropsychiatric hospital in Namur, Belgium.• Dr Catherine Dopchie is a medical oncologist specialized in palliative care. Author of numerous articles and conferences.• Professor Willem Lemmens is a professor of ethics and modern philosophy. He is also the president of the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Antwerp, Belgium.• Dr An Haekens is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist. She is the Chief Medical Officer of Alexianen, a psychiatric clinic in Tienen, Belgium.• Dr Rivka Karplus specialized in internal medicine, infectious diseases and haematology. Currently she works as a general practitioner and consultant in infectious diseases outside the hospital. Her interest in ethical issues was born out of the concrete reality of her work and multicultural encounters.• Dr Marie Frings is a general practitioner specializing in palliative care and clinical ethics and lives in France.• Professor Dr Benoit Beuselinck is a medical oncologist, appointed since 2010 at the Leuven University Hospitals. His research focuses on kidney carcinomas and anti-angiogenic treatments. In 2015 he was appointed professor of medicine at KU Leuven and he has a special interest in palliative care.• Dr Julie Blanchard was trained in France. She worked there in a mobile team of palliative care as well as in a palliative care unit. In Belgium since 2015 as a general practitioner, she works in a hospital mobile palliative team today in Namur, Belgium.• François Trufin is a nurse and head of a palliative care unit. He is secretary of the Palliative Care Platform of the German-speaking community in Belgium.

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Book SynopsisTextbook of Palliative Care is a comprehensive, clinically relevant and state-of-the art book, aimed at advancing palliative care as a science, a clinical practice and as an art. Palliative care has been part of healthcare for over fifty years but we still find ourselves having to explain its nature and practice to colleagues and to the public in general. Healthcare education and training has been slow to recognize the vital importance of ensuring that all practitioners have a good understanding of what is involved in the care of people with serious or advanced illnesses and their families. However, the science of palliative care is advancing and our understanding concerning many aspects of palliative care is developing rapidly. The book is divided into separate sections for ease of use. Over 100 chapters written by experts in their given fields provide up-to-date information on a wide range of topics of relevance to those providing care towards the end of life no matter what the disease may be. We present a global perspective on contemporary and classic issues in palliative care with authors from a wide range of disciplines involved in this essential aspect of care. The Textbook includes sections addressing aspects such as symptom management and care provision, organization of care in different settings, care in specific disease groups, palliative care emergencies, ethics, public health approaches and research in palliative care. This Textbook will be of value to practitioners in all disciplines and professions where the care of people approaching death is important, specialists as well as non-specialists, in any setting where people with serious advanced illnesses are residing. It is also an important resource for researchers, policy-and decision-makers at national or regional levels. Neither the science nor the art of palliative care will stand still so we aim to keep this Textbook updated as the authors find new evidence and approaches to care.Table of ContentsApproach and Nature of Palliative Care.- Quality of Life.- Global Aspects of Palliative Care.- Challenges and Future Directions of Palliative Care.- Organization of Palliative Care in Different Parts of the World.- Policies on Palliative Care in Different Parts of the World.- Palliative Care, Towards a New Definition.- Physical, Psychological/Psychiatric, Social and Spiritual Problems and Symptoms.- Pain and Pain Management.- Palliative Management of Breathlessness.- Fatigue.- Edema and Lymphedema.- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Constipation, Diarrhea, and Intestinal Obstruction.- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea and Vomiting.- Cachexia/Anorexia and Feeding Difficulties.- Mouth.- Skin Symptoms.- Swallowing Difficulties.- Sleep Difficulties.- Psychological Symptoms.- Delirium and Palliative Care.- Neurological Symptoms.- Genitourinary Symptoms.- End-of-life Symptoms.- Gastroparesis and Cancer-Related Gastroparesis.- Advance Care Planning in Palliative Care.- Prognostication in Palliative Care.- Spirituality in Palliative Care.- Access to Palliative Care.- Integrated Palliative Care: Clinical, Organizational, and Health System Perspectives.- Family Focused Care Span.- Grief and Bereavement.- Rehabilitation in Palliative Care.- Dietetics and Nutrition in Palliative Care.- Mouth Care.- Creative Art Making in Palliative Care.- Music Engagement and Therapeutic Music.- Sexuality and Intimacy.- Interprofessional Practice in Palliative Care.- Generalists and Specialist Palliative Care.- Nursing and Palliative Care.- Self-Care and Palliative Care.- End of Life Care.- Self-management in Palliative Care.- Education and Palliative Care, Overview.- Palliative Care in Rural Settings.- Home Care, Primary Care.- Palliative Care in Residential Settings.- Hospital Care.- Palliative Care in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).- Volunteers in Palliative Care.- Palliative Care and Cancer.- Palliative Care and Neurodegenerative Diseases.- Palliative Care and Stroke.- Palliative Care in Heart Failure.- Palliative care of Respiratory Disease in Primary Care.- Palliative Care and Liver Diseases.- Palliative Care in Kidney Disease.- Palliative Care and Endocrine Diseases.- Palliative Care in Chronic Illness and Multimorbidity.- Palliative care in dementia.- Dealing with a Wound in Palliative Care.- Pressure Area Management in Palliative care.- End of Life Health Care Experiences of Indigenous People and Ethnic Minorities; the example of Canada.- Palliative Care, Frailty and Older People.- Palliative Care of Pediatric Populations.- Palliative Care and Intellectual Disability.- Palliative Care of Indigenous Peoples and Peoples of Different Ethnicity.- Hypercalcemia of Malignancy.- Thromboembolism and bleeding.- Spinal Cord Compression.- Superior Vena Cava Obstruction.- Acute Cancer Pain Syndromes in Palliative Care Emergencies.- Acute Dyspnoea.- Neutropenic Sepsis.- Seizures.- Tumor Lysis Syndrome.- Suicide and Attempted Suicide.- Transfer to a Preferred Place of Death.- Challenging Family Dynamics.- Delirium as a Palliative Care Emergency.- Distinguishing and Managing Severe Psychological and Psychiatric Distress.- End-Of-Life Decisions.- Sedation and Terminal Sedation.- Nutrition and Hydration in Palliative Care.- Ethics of home-coming.- Request for Assisted Suicide.- Public Health and Epidemiological Research in Palliative Care.- Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions in Palliative Care.- Mixed Method Research in Palliative Care.- Ethics in Palliative Care Research.- Evidence based Practice in Palliative Care.- New Public Health Approaches to End of Life Care.- A public health approach to integrate palliative care into a country’s health care system: guidance as provided by the WHO.- Measuring Cost-Effectiveness in Palliative Care.- Financial Aspects of Inpatient Palliative Care.- Financial Aspects of Outpatient Palliative Care.- Serious Illness and Out-of-Pocket Spending.

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive guide thoroughly covers all aspects of neuropalliative care, from symptom-specific considerations, to improving communication between clinicians, patients and families. Neuropalliative Care: A Guide to Improving the Lives of Patients and Families Affected by Neurologic Disease addresses clinical considerations for diseases such as dementia, multiple sclerosis, and severe acute brain injury, as well discussing the other challenges facing palliative care patients that are not currently sufficiently met under current models of care. This includes methods of effective communication, supporting the caregiver, how to make difficult treatment decisions in the face of uncertainty, managing grief, guilt and anger, and treating the pain itself. Written by leaders in the field of neuropalliative care, this book is an exceptional, well-rounded resource of neuropalliative care, serving as a reference for all clinicians caring for patients with neurological disease and their families: neurologists and palliative care specialists, physicians, nurses, chaplains, social workers, as well as trainees in these areas.Trade Review“The authors have done a marvelous job identifying common gaps in the care of patients with neurological illness and offer practical advice on addressing those gaps through a palliative care approach.” (Nina Leyson Martinez, Doody's Book Reviews, March, 22 , 2019) ​Table of ContentsChapter 1. Neuropalliative Care - Introduction Section I: Disease and Symptom-Specific Considerations Chapter 2. Severe Acute Brain Injury Chapter 3. Prolonged Coma and Early Disorders of Consciousness Chapter 4. Chronic Disorders of Consciousness Chapter 5. Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders Chapter 6. Dementia Chapter 7. Multiple Sclerosis Chapter 8. Neuromuscular Diseases Chapter 9. Malignant Brain Tumors Chapter 10. Child Neurology Section II: Improving Communication and Treatment Decisions Chapter 11. Communicating Effectively Chapter 12. Prognostication Chapter 13. Improving Medical Decisions Chapter 14. Addressing and Managing Requests to Hasten Death Chapter 15. Withholding and Withdrawing Life-Sustaining Treatments Section III: Crosscutting Issues in Palliative Care Chapter 16. Hospice and End of Life Care in Neurologic Disease Chapter 17. Pain Assessment and Management Chapter 18. Spiritual Care Chapter 19. Clinician Self-Care Chapter 20. Caregiver Assessment and Support Chapter 21. Practical Implementation Strategies for Outpatient Neurology Palliative Care Chapter 22. The Future of Neuropalliative Care

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Book SynopsisCarmen Birkholz zeigt, dass die subjektiven Spiritualitätskonzepte von Pflegenden und Begleitenden wesentlich für sie selbst und für ihr Sorgehandeln in Bezug auf Menschen mit Demenz am Lebensende sind. Dazu untersucht sie in vier Pflegeeinrichtungen mit unterschiedlichem religiösem und weltanschaulichem Hintergrund die subjektiven Spiritualitätskonstruktionen und beschreibt, dass diese unabhängig von der Religionszugehörigkeit sind. Unterschiede ergeben sich nicht in erster Linie von der Personenstruktur, sondern insbesondere durch die Rolle und den jeweiligen Handlungsspielraum in der Organisation.Table of ContentsSpiritualität und Spiritual Care als offene Konzepte.- Palliative Care bei Demenz und die spirituelle Sorge.- Die Erhellung subjektiver Spiritualitätskonzepte von Sorgenden.- Logbuch als Methode zur Erforschung vulnerabler Personengruppen.

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Book SynopsisMenschen in ihrer letzten Lebensphase begleitenAlle beruflich Pflegenden und ehrenamtlich Begleitenden von schwerstkranken und sterbenden Menschen und deren Zugehörigen finden in diesem Buch die notwendigen Kenntnisse zu Themen und Fragestellungen rund um Sterben, Tod und Trauer: Prophylaxen, Therapien, Schmerzlinderung Kommunikation und Ethik Psychosoziale Betreuung Gesetzliche Grundlagen und Hinweise zur Finanzierung durch die Krankenkassen Besondere Situationen bei Kindern, Menschen im Wachkoma, mit geistigen Behinderungen und Demenz Psychosoziale Begleitung von Sterbenden und ihren Angehörigen Palliative Sedierung Besonderheiten im Sterben von Männern Palliative Care für Menschen am Rande der Gesellschaft Vom Wunsch zu Sterben und der Verantwortung der Betreuenden Suizidassistenz Existenzielle Verzweiflung Haltung im palliativen Kontext Akupressur, Hypnotherapie, Musiktherapie, Kunsttherapie, Trauer Die 7. Auflage ist komplett überarbeitet und aktualisiert.Table of ContentsSektion I – Grundlagen: Geschichte, Selbstverständnis und Zukunftsstrategien von Palliative Care. - Grundlagen -Sektion II - Der sterbende Mensch und seine Angehörigen: Wenn nichts mehr zu machen ist.- Psychosoziale Begleitung.- Biographisches Arbeiten.- Vorsorgende Verfügungen.- Ethische Entscheidungen am Lebensende.- Sterbenden Menschen begegnen.- Sektion III - Netzwerk Palliative Care: Organisationsformen.- Qualitätsmanagement.- Multidisziplinäres Arbeiten im Team.- Selbstpflege.- Sektion IV - Palliative Pflege und komplementäre Therapien: Grundlagen und Besonderheiten der Pflege.- Symptomlinderung.- Palliative Pflege bei Kindern.- Neuro-Palliative Care.- Demenz und Palliative Care.- PC bei Menschen im Wachkoma.- PC bei Menschen mit geistiger Behinderungen.- PC für Menschen am Rande der Gesellschaft.- Sektion V – Trauer: Abschiedsrituale.- Umgang mit Verstorbenen.- Bestattung.- Das Wesen der Trauer.- Das Undenkbare denken lernen.

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Book SynopsisBelgium and the Netherlands - the Low Countries - are the first countries in the world to have legalized euthanasia. Physicians who terminate life at the patient's request no longer have to fear criminal prosecution. However, end-of-life legislation in the Low Countries has provoked diverse responses and sparked vigorous and divisive ethical debate. For some, the new legislation has become a shining example; for others it is a lamentable materialization of a culture of death. A"Euthanasia and Palliative Care in the Low CountriesA" provides an overview and comparison of the legal specifics of the Belgian and Dutch Euthanasia Acts, a discussion of palliative care initiatives and an ethical examination of the new legislation. In addition, the book provides an in-depth analysis of the arguments used in the end-of-life debate and a critical examination of the positions taken by the churches. The book concludes with an overview of how Christian health-care institutions accommodate to this new legal situation.

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisPalliative care supports patients suffering from life-limiting illnesses by providing relief from physical, emotional and spiritual suffering, improving the quality of life for them and their families. It is an important component of good patient care, an integral part of the continuum of support for patients suffering with advanced cancer and end stage organ diseases. Providing good palliative care requires both sound clinical knowledge and compassion.With new chapters on end stage organ diseases, spiritual care and medical ethics, all healthcare professionals will find wisdom and practical advice in this book by the patient's bedside. The editors and contributors of the 2nd Edition of The Bedside Palliative Medicine Handbook have taken great care to provide readers with an evidence-based, updated guide to the practice of palliative medicine.

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