Comfort care
Formal Definition
End-of-life care focused on symptom relief and dignity rather than disease treatment. Often synonymous with hospice.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Transitioning to comfort care" — means shifting from curative to palliative intent.
Example
""After the oncology conversation, the family decided to pursue comfort care. We're stopping all treatments, removing the IV, and getting hospice involved for home support. The patient is resting peacefully.""
Clinical Context
Comfort care is a philosophy, not just a DNR. It means managing pain, dyspnea, and anxiety as the primary goals. Morphine and scopolamine are your main tools. Food and fluids at this stage are optional.
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