Assessment and management of common gastro-intestinal symptoms in patients with palliative diagnoses
Megan Sellick
Objectives
1. Attendees will be able to identify and assess common gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, constipation) in patients with palliative diagnoses. 2. Attendees will be able to formulate an appropriate treatment plan for these common GI symptoms in a variety of settings (home, hospital, hospice care unit). 3. Attendees will be able to discuss the anorexia-cachexia syndrome of cancer with patients and their caregivers, and gain an understanding of the role of artificial nutrition in patients with life-limiting illness.
Brief Abstract
Patients with life-limiting illnesses, particularly cancer, commonly experience several gastro-intestinal symptoms. This back-to-basics seminar will focus on recognizing, assessing, and managing nausea, emesis, constipation, and appetite disturbances. We will also raise awareness that each of these affects oral intake, weight stability, quality of life, performance status, and has psychosocial consequences.