Applied Sciences of Oncology (ASO) - Patient Care

This course is part of The Applied Sciences of Oncology (ASO) distance-learning course.AimTo provide an understanding of (1) the assessment and management of cancer pain and (2) the principles of palliative care, so that the oncologist can improve the quality of life of her/his patients, especially those with incurable progressive disease.ObjectivesUpon completion, participants should be able to:Discuss the pathophysiology of cancer pain.Assess the cancer pain properly through careful history taking, focused clinical exam, appropriate investigations and evaluation of psychosocial issues.Initiate appropriate pharmacological treatment.Discuss options for patients in whom initial therapy provides incomplete analgesia or unacceptable side effects, or who has escalating uncontrolled pain..Assess and initiate treatment of other symptoms that are common in patients with advanced cancer.Appreciate that symptom control and quality of life issues can be addressed concomitant with the delivery of therapies aimed at controlling disease.Discuss differences in clinical decision making between patients with advanced incurable cancer and those with early stage, curable disease.Appreciate the importance of psychosocial support of the patient and family, and bereavement issues.Explain prognosis for patients with advanced cancer.Describe how to care for the patient in whom death is imminent.