New research reveals the complexities of making ‘Just in Case’ medications available for people nearing the end of life at home. Patients, informal carers and healthcare professionals interviewed for the research said their presence could cause distress as well as comfort. Some families reported difficulties persuading nurses to administer the medications to relieve suffering. The […]
Innovation and research in anticipatory prescribing: Study Day report
Anticipatory Prescribing in community End of Life Care by Dr Ben Bowers Recent innovations and research in end-of-life anticipatory prescribing practice were discussed at a national Study Day hosted by PELiCam on 21 September 2022. The national Cross-Applied Health Research Collaboration (ARC) event brought healthcare professionals and researchers together to share and discuss recent research […]
Key issues in bereavement care and anticipatory prescribing
Two new research summaries from the Palliative & End of Life Care Group in Cambridge, on anticipatory prescribing and on bereavement care, pull together the group’s latest research on those themes. The summaries uncover key issues for practitioners and policymakers, including effects of the pandemic. Anticipatory prescribing for adults at end of life […]
GP Anticipatory prescribing of “Just in Case” medication for end of life care at home: an established practice that requires careful application
GPs looking after patients close to the end of life at home prefer to prescribe ‘anticipatory medications’, also known as ‘Just in Case’ drugs, weeks ahead of likely need whenever possible, according to a new study from the Cambridge Primary Care Unit. Anticipatory medications are intended to relieve symptoms that might emerge as patients approach […]
Anticipatory syringe drivers: a step too far
The latest Gosport War Memorial Hospital inquiry has increased patient, public, and clinician awareness in the UK about syringe drivers for continuous subcutaneous delivery of opioids and other medications at the end of life. In safe hands, syringe drivers facilitate safe and effective symptom control for those no longer able to swallow or absorb tablets. […]
Appropriateness of prescriptions made in advance for patients nearing the end of life remains unknown
The prescription and dispensing of injectable medications to provide end of life symptom relief for patients approaching the end of their lives in the community, in advance of clinical need, is established practice in the UK and other countries. But a new review of the research literature reveals that this widespread practice is based on […]