Journal of pain and symptom management
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Nov 2014
Randomized Controlled TrialA randomized trial of the effectiveness of topical "ABH Gel" (Ativan(®), Benadryl(®), Haldol(®)) vs. placebo in cancer patients with nausea.
The topical gel known as "ABH gel," comprising lorazepam (Ativan(®)), diphenhydramine (Benadryl(®)), and haloperidol (Haldol(®)), is frequently used to treat nausea because of its perceived efficacy, relatively low cost, and ease of use in the home setting. There are limited scientific data on this medication, however. Recent pilot studies showed no absorption of the active ingredients of the gel, prompting further prospective studies into the cause of the perceived efficacy in the clinical setting. ⋯ ABH gel in its current formulation should not be used in cancer patients experiencing nausea.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Nov 2014
Comparative StudyImproving communication on hope in palliative care. A qualitative study of palliative care professionals' metaphors of hope: grip, source, tune, and vision.
Hope is important in palliative care. However, palliative care professionals' perspectives on hope are not well understood. Metaphors of hope are a way of better understanding these perspectives. ⋯ Our findings help to increase the understanding of hope and contribute to improving communication skills in palliative care professionals.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Nov 2014
Pain assessment using the critical-care pain observation tool in chinese critically ill ventilated adults.
The psychometric properties of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) need to be tested in general intensive care unit patient populations in China. ⋯ The CPOT has good psychometric properties and can be used as a reliable and valid instrument for pain assessment in Chinese critically ill ventilated adults.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Nov 2014
Case ReportsEthical considerations in the management of analgesia in terminally ill pediatric patients.
Research has demonstrated the significant symptom burden present at the end of life of terminally ill children. Medicine has always viewed the relief of pain and suffering as a fundamental human right and a moral and ethical obligation. At the end of life, pain and dyspnea are symptoms commonly experienced by both adults and children. ⋯ We describe a case in which parents prevent a young patient from receiving adequate pain management during the course of a terminal illness. We discuss the importance of recognizing the barriers to opioid use and the ethical ramifications of failing to find common ground with the family. We highlight parental responsibilities and limitations of parental authority in decision making for their child.