Pain and Symptom Management in Palliative Care

Catalog description

This course provides an overview of the assessment and management of pain and other symptoms commonly experienced in those with serious advanced illness and the terminally ill. Palliative care’s focus on optimizing quality of life will be discussed within the context of patient and family-centered care and common care settings. Students will learn about palliative care basics of assessment, medication, and treatment management, including special factors involved in the use of opioids. Special emphasis will be placed on behaviors, family dynamics, racial equity, environmental, psychosocial, societal and spiritual factors. Theories and practice of communication skills will be discussed as an important foundation for assessment and ongoing management. Recommended Prerequisites: IPE 501 and IPE 502 with a minimum grade of B-. Minimum passing grade is B-.