Brit J Hosp Med
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It is sometimes not possible to relieve symptoms adequately in dying patients. When all other remedies have failed, sedation can be a useful means to relieve terminal suffering. When used appropriately, palliative sedation does not, and should not, shorten life.
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Delirium occurs in up to 50% of general hospital inpatients and is even more common in terminal illness. It is associated with a high morbidity and mortality, regularly missed and importantly is often either preventable or treatable.
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Breathlessness remains a common and significant problem in palliative care. This article reviews the most commonly used interventions and discusses strategies to improve this symptom.