Paramedics are often the first port of call for those requiring
emergency medical attention and therefore frequently encounter patients
who are receiving palliative or end of life care. As professionals whose
training focuses on saving lives, how can paramedics help patients who
are approaching the end of theirs?
Palliative and End of Life Care for Paramedics provides a comprehensive
overview of palliative and end of life care and how it fits in with the
role of the paramedic. Bringing together a range of authors, including
paramedics and palliative care specialists, the book covers relevant
aspects of caring for patients at the end of life. Topics include
philosophy, ethics and psychosocial factors as well as how to deal with
palliative care emergencies, symptom control and caring for the dying
patient. It also covers enhanced communication skills and how to support
relatives and loved ones along with a chapter on professional resilience
as a paramedic and coping with death.
Putting end of life care within the context of the paramedic role, the
book also contains case study scenarios which allow the reader to apply
theory to their practice. It is essential reading for all those hoping
to better understand the complexities of caring for patients approaching
the end of life.
