PSYCHOLOGICAL ISSUES WITH TERMINALLY ILL PATIENTS

Terminally ill patients may be sophisticated and/or demanding health care consumers they also may be bitter, cynical, and difficult to engage in conversation. Terminally ill patients often are on complicated drug regimens requiring detailed instruction and monitoring. Treat terminally ill patients with respect and work with them to achieve optimal therapeutic efficacy within the complexities of their illnesses and the health care environment. Terminally ill patients may need help dealing withcomplex medication regimens. Terminally ill patients need close monitoring and reassurance about their medication regimens. Some terminally ill patients require large and frequent doses of narcotics work with the patient and the patient’s family to legitimize the use of these medications and minimize the hassles associated with obtaining narcotics.