044 – Hospice Medications & What to do if You’re Concerned

Show Notes

In This Episode:

Dr. K addresses a reader’s concerns about the morphine and lorazepam (brand name Ativan) that were given to her relatives with dementia, while on hospice. She covers:

Common end of life symptoms, and which symptoms are common in people with advanced Alzheimer’s
How morphine is usually used at the end of life, to manage problems such as pain and shortness of breath
Why it’s usually possible to use morphine to control symptoms without “hastening” death
Why it’s unclear that lorazepam should be used as often as it is, in hospice care
How to choose a good hospice provider
How to be proactive, to avoid problems and misunderstandings with the hospice team
What you can do, if you’re concerned about the care a loved one is receiving while on hospice

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Show Notes

In This Episode:

Related Resources:

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