A proper assessment of end-of-life issues in a Coronary Care Unit such as diagnosis of impending death or administration of palliative sedation (PS) therapy in case of unbereable sufference is essential in terms of supporting patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to clarify goals of care, promote shared decision-making process, avoid aggressive care, and achieve a good death and the best quality of life possible at the end. Uncertainty in prognostication in EOL and impending death should be faced with a multi-professional and multi-dimensional approach, where both signs and symptoms must be considered together as parts of a “bigger picture” of a forthcoming death. Compassionate and proactive communication with patients and family are essential elements in this process of EOL care for patients and families for better clinical outcomes and improving shared decision-making and support values and last wishes. The main goals of this project are: Improvement, through a shared evaluation between Cardiology and Palliative Care Teams, of the diagnosis of impending death Implementation of a proper decision-making process and administration of Palliative Sedation, base on official guidlines of Italian Association of Palliative Care.
Associazione Nazionale Medici Cardiologi Ospedalieri
