The terminally ill patient

Bravo M.; Echeverria, C.; Goic, A; Kottow, M; Lavados M.; Mosso L.; Perez M.; Quintana, C.; Rojas A.; Rosselot, E; Serani, A; Taboada, P; Trejo C.

Abstract

The classification of a patient as terminally ill is based on an expert diagnosis of a severe and irreversible disease and the absence of an effective available treatment, according to present medical knowledge. Terminal diseases must not be confused with severe ones, since the latter may be reversible with an adequate and timely treatment. The physician assumes a great responsibility at the moment of diagnosing a patient as terminally ill. The professional must assume his care until the moment of death. This care must be oriented to the alleviation of symptoms and to provide the best possible quality of life. Also, help must be provided to deal with personal, legal and religious issues that may concern the patient.

Más información

Título según WOS: The terminally ill patient
Título de la Revista: REVISTA MEDICA DE CHILE
Volumen: 128
Número: 5
Editorial: SOC MEDICA SANTIAGO
Fecha de publicación: 2000
Página de inicio: 547
Página final: 552
Idioma: Spanish
Notas: ISI