Critically Discusses the Palliative and Supportive Needs of the Patient: Advanced Diploma In Nursing Essay, NYP, Singapore

critically discusses the palliative and supportive needs of the patient and family presented within the case study.

Case Study: Mr. Lee is a 76-year-old gentleman who lives in an apartment with his wife in the city. He has 2 adult children, one lives locally and one lives in Australia. He is a retired shop owner who enjoys annual holidays and eating out in restaurants, keeping fit, and reading. He was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer 12 months ago. He has received 4 pulses of intravenous chemotherapy, which initially reduced tumor size.

Two months ago he was told that the tumor has increased in size and has been diagnosed with metastatic spread to bones including the spine and ribs. Following the diagnosis of advanced progressive disease, no further chemotherapy is to be offered. All further treatment has a palliative focus. Mr. Lee has had a recent admission into hospital following a pleural effusion which was resolved with a pleural drain.

On discharge, Mr. Lee is mobile with the use of 1 walking stick, though he spends several hours of his day in his chair or resting on his bed. He is breathless on exertion and becomes very anxious about his breathing. He is also very fatigued and his appetite is poor. His family is very anxious about his condition. The assignment will be made up of three parts, and discussion should include:

Part 1 – Identification of needs

Part 2 – Advance Care Planning

Part 3 – The challenges health care professionals may experience when supporting families facing life-limiting illness. This should consider societal, national, cultural, and professional attitudes to death and dying.