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Parkinson's: managing palliative and end of life care

1 Introduction

The purpose of this course is to enhance your understanding of palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s and to guide you through this journey alongside your client and their carers.

Palliative care is the active total care of people whose disease is not responsive to curative treatment, and involves the physical, psychological, spiritual and social aspects of their care.

End of life care involves the delivery of care during the period of time when the person’s condition is actively deteriorating, to the point where death is expected.

This course aims to improve the outcomes of this journey for all involved by encouraging early conversations about advance care planning, and the need to make decisions about treatments the client may or may not wish at the end of their life. The course highlights involvement of the multidisciplinary team and each member’s important role in supporting and managing the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs the client and their carers may experience throughout this journey.

Health and social care professionals from various disciplines will be taking this course. We will therefore use the word ‘client’ to refer to a person with Parkinson’s who you work with. You may usually use ‘patient’, ‘resident’ or another term.

Before you commence this course, think about how you will study. Not just whether you will study online or download for reading offline or on a mobile device, but how you will use the course in practice. As you progress through the course, there will be some reflective exercises. These are important to help you think about your past practice and consider if you might be able to improve this in the future.

There are quizzes at the end of each section, allowing you to assess what you have learnt. At the end of the course there is a final quiz which is a review of all the sections. You will be able to earn a digital badge if you gain a pass rate of at least 65% in the final course quiz.

Our approach

People with Parkinson’s have been involved in the decisions about the management of their condition throughout its progression. Therefore, it is important that this continues as they approach the end of life. It is essential that health and social care professionals educate clients throughout the condition’s trajectory about its progression and the possible impact in the advanced stage. This will give the client the knowledge and autonomy to make informed choices and decisions in advance about their management at the end of life, and to indicate how they would like their relatives/carers to be involved.

The following video provides you with a brief overview of this course about palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s, and the content of the course.

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Learning outcomes of the course

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of palliative and end of life care and how these can be applied in Parkinson’s.
  • Identify the challenges in practice of applying palliative and end of life care principles in Parkinson’s.
  • Confidently discuss the theory of advance care planning and the issues involved, such as power of attorney or advance decision to refuse treatment.
  • Identify symptoms which indicate the end of life phase in Parkinson’s and highlight the issues in management of this phase.
  • Be aware of the family and/or carers of the client and their needs throughout the end of life phase through to bereavement.

1.1 Why are we here?

Before we start, let’s think about reasons for studying this course about Parkinson’s palliative and end of life care. You might have decided to take this course for one or more of these reasons:

  • You are working as part of the specialist team to support a number of people with Parkinson’s.
  • You feel you could do a better job if you understood palliative and end of life care.
  • Your expertise is in palliative and end of life care, but you have limited experience of Parkinson’s.
  • Your manager told you to take this course.
  • You want to increase your knowledge around Parkinson’s to learn more about specific topics.

As much as possible we have designed the course to support those different contexts. Please remember it is your responsibility to determine whether specific recommendations are relevant to your role, as many are aimed at the specialist team.

We have created a reflection log for you to record your thoughts when answering questions throughout the course. Remember there are no wrong answers here.

Reflective exercise

Use your reflection log  to answer the following questions:

  1. Why did I decide to take part in this course and what would I like to gain from it?
  2. What experience do I have in palliative and end of life care? (A short paragraph will suffice.)
  3. What experience do I have in the management and support of a person with Parkinson’s at the end of life stage?
  4. How did I find this experience? For example, did I find it challenging, or did my present experience allow me to manage my client with confidence and satisfaction?

You can use your log at the end of the course to reflect on the knowledge you have gained and how you can use this in the future to enhance your practice.

2 Palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s

The purpose of this section is to give you an understanding of the principles of palliative and end of life care and how these apply in Parkinson’s.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this section you should be able to describe the following:

  • The recognised definition of palliative and end of life care.
  • The principles of palliative and end of life care.
  • Why it is important to apply palliative and end of life care early in the trajectory of Parkinson’s.
  • The UK directives which have influenced the development of palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s.

As you work through this course, consider your role and how to apply this knowledge to enhance your practice in palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s.

2.1 What is the definition of palliative care?

Described image

The word palliative derives from the Latin ‘pallium’, meaning cloak or covering. It is reflected in the Middle Eastern blessing: “May you be wrapped in tenderness, you my brother, as if in a cloak.”

We could use the word ‘cloak’ to symbolise the holistic care we aim for, which encompasses the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of care, and is highlighted in the following definition of palliative care:

“Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients (adults and children) and their families who are facing problems associated with life-threatening illness. It prevents and relieves suffering through the early identification, correct assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, whether physical, psychosocial or spiritual.” (World Health Organization, 2020)

The early development of the palliative care ethos was synonymous with cancer care, but as research in palliative care developed it became recognised that people living with life limiting, non-malignant illness had as many complex care needs as those suffering with cancer. The recognised definition of palliative care devised by the World Health Organization (WHO) was therefore revised to incorporate the care of those with life limiting illnesses.

2.2 What are the principles of palliative care?

The WHO developed the following broad principles of palliative care that are applicable across a spectrum of care settings and diagnoses:

Palliative care:

  • provides relief from pain and other distressing symptoms

  • affirms life and regards dying as a normal process

  • intends neither to hasten nor postpone death

  • integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of patient care

  • offers a support system to help patients to live as actively as possible until death

  • offers a support system to help the family cope during the patient’s illness and in their own bereavement

  • uses a team approach to address the needs of patients and their families

  • will enhance quality of life and may also positively influence the course of illness

  • is applicable early in the course of illness, in conjunction with other therapies that are intended to prolong life, and includes those investigations needed to better understand and manage distressing clinical complications.

(World Health Organization, 2002)

Reflective exercise

In the following videos a hospice specialist nurse and a Parkinson’s specialist nurse identify and discuss the differences in the management of a client with cancer and a client with Parkinson’s at the end of life phase of their illness. Their discussion is based on the principles of palliative care.

As you watch each video make notes on the discussion points. Try to identify which principles are being discussed. Use your notes to write a short reflection in your reflection log on your experience of managing a client at the end of life phase, briefly discussing how you applied the principles of palliative care.

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The NICE guideline (CG35) for Parkinson’s (2006) indicated that principles of palliative care should be applied from diagnosis to end of life care. This improves quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and helps the family’s transition through increasing levels of disability while maintaining autonomy and dignity. The revised NICE guideline (NG71) does not state this, but does not offer an alternative. You could assume from this that applying from diagnosis is now accepted good practice. For further details see section 1.9 Palliative care of the revised NICE guideline (NG71) - Parkinson’s disease in adults (2017).

The trajectory of Parkinson’s is variable and complex, making it essential that each person is assessed regularly by the multidisciplinary team and their changing needs are managed on an individual basis.

For this multidisciplinary care management to succeed, it is important that there is excellent communication and co-ordination between all professionals involved and that they are trained and competent in palliative care. Enabling the delivery of a high standard of care will maximise the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and their families. It is important that these professionals recognise when the expertise of other specialist palliative care services is required and an appropriate referral needs to be initiated.

2.2.1 Dynamic model of palliative care services

Palliative care services should adopt a dynamic model where the palliative care services will interject at different periods during the condition’s trajectory according to the needs of people with Parkinson’s.

The animation below depicts the changes in belief about when palliative care should be introduced in a progressive condition’s trajectory. It moves from the traditional medical model, where palliative care was only available at the end of life, right through to the present day model, where we now recognise palliative care as a dynamic process. The palliative care input is guided by trigger or crisis points throughout the condition’s trajectory, which may only require palliative input for a brief period. This brief input is to resolve the crisis – such as particularly distressing symptoms, deterioration in the condition or at the start of new interventions, ie gastrostomy feeding – then services are withdrawn until next required.

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The National End of Life Care Programme’s framework for implementing end of life care in long term neurological conditions (2010) recommends the involvement of palliative care at an early stage in Parkinson’s to improve symptom management and therefore quality of life. Yet research continues to highlight barriers such as lack of awareness and understanding of palliative care services and the failure of some health and social care professionals to discuss the life limiting aspects of Parkinson’s. They therefore find it difficult to determine the appropriate time to initiate conversations about advance care planning (ACP).

If the palliative care approach is adopted by the health and social care professionals from diagnosis, ACP can be integrated into initial care planning and evaluated regularly over the course of the condition.

This will be discussed in greater detail in section 3

2.3 What is the definition of end of life?

Patients are ‘approaching the end of life’ when they are likely to die within the next 12 months. This includes patients whose death is imminent (expected within a few hours or days) and those with:

a) advanced, progressive, incurable conditions

b) general frailty and co-existing conditions that mean they are expected to die within 12 months

c) existing conditions if they are at risk of dying from a sudden acute crisis in their condition

d) life threatening acute conditions caused by sudden catastrophic events.

(Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People, 2014)

It is difficult to find a definition that fits all possible life limiting conditions, and in the case of Parkinson’s, in which the progression is slower, fluctuates and is at times unpredictable.

It is argued that using the ‘surprise question’ – Would I be surprised if the person in front of me were to die within the next six months to a year? – would not be appropriate and is not taking into account the ‘palliative phase’ of approximately two years prior to death for people with Parkinson's.

In the following film, Dr Vas Krishnaswami discusses the challenges of using the ‘surprise question’ in Parkinson’s.

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To overcome these difficulties some professionals argue that there is a need to avoid traditional prognosis-based approaches for end of life care referrals, and instead to focus on the person, their experiences of their life limiting condition and their present needs. We will find that the principles of end of life care incorporate this point of view.

2.4 What are the principles of end of life care?

These principles are useful to guide health and social care professionals in the delivery of best practice, high quality end of life care for people with Parkinson’s.

Principles of end of life care

Described image

A focus on quality of life involves good symptom control, relief from pain and other distressing symptoms.

A whole person approach takes into account the person’s past life experience and current situation.

The care of people with Parkinson’s and those who matter to that person promotes an awareness of the needs of the family and/or carer due to major changes in their life.

Respect for the person with Parkinson’s and their autonomy and choice recognises that timely information promotes educated choices about treatment options, and allows discussion about advanced care documents and preferred place of care.

Open and sensitive communication will prompt discussion on advance care planning issues, personal feelings and family relationships. It is important that family and/or carers have their opportunity to express their feelings too.

Reflective exercise

Reflect on these principles of palliative and end of life care within your care setting. In your reflection log, record the key words that you believe summarise how you would approach palliative and end of life care.

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

Holistic approach – both to the client and the ethos of care. Holistic will incorporate the physical, spiritual, psychological and social care needs of the client.

Multidisciplinary team approach – the skill mix of the team will be used to manage the client’s and their family's needs.

Person-centred care – the client’s wishes and needs are at the centre of the care planning.

Autonomy – the team will recognise the client’s right to decide and will provide them with the information to enable an informed choice.

Quality of life – the aim of holistic care is to provide improved quality of life through control of symptoms and rehabilitation.

Respectful and trusting relationships – with the client and those important to them.

Interprofessional communication – is important to promote co-ordinated and dynamic delivery of care.

Support network – using statutory, voluntary and community groups/services to provide comprehensive support for the client and family and/or carers.

2.5 Why is it important to apply these principles early in the trajectory of Parkinson’s?

Described image

As we have worked our way through section 2 we have made several references to the need for palliative care principles to be introduced early in the trajectory of Parkinson’s. The key reasons for early introduction are summarised below:

  • Research has highlighted the benefits of early introduction of palliative care principles in management of Parkinson’s (Tuck et al, 2015).
  • It encourages professionals to have open and honest conversations about the advanced phase of Parkinson’s and to have early discussions about the client’s preferences and wishes for their care and management in the advanced and end of life stages.
  • It supports the benefits of advance care planning and allows the client to discuss issues around lasting power of attorney, Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) and decisions around resuscitation. (There are different names for this in each of the UK nations, more information can be found on the Parkinson’s UK website.)
  • Empowering the health professional to have these conversations earlier with clients promotes person-centred care and a holistic approach to end of life care.
  • There is a high incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia in Parkinson’s as the condition progresses. Therefore the early introduction of the principles of palliative care, which allows them to discuss wishes, fears and concerns for their future, will provide the client with a sense of control and ownership of their future care.

2.6 Which UK directives have influenced palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s?

Across the UK various directives influence palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s. These include:

Department of Health (2005) National Service Framework for Long-Term Conditions

Quality requirement 9 in this framework addresses end of life care and states that:

“People in the later stages of long-term neurological conditions are to receive a comprehensive range of palliative care services when they need them, to control symptoms, offer pain relief, and meet their needs for personal, social, psychological and spiritual support, in line with the principles of palliative care.”

NICE (2017) Parkinson's disease in adults

The original guidelines from NICE were revised in 2017 and include recommendations on palliative care:

1.9 Palliative care

Information and support

1.9.1 Offer people with Parkinson's disease and their family members and carers (as appropriate) opportunities to discuss the prognosis of their condition. These discussions should promote people's priorities, shared decision-making and patient-centred care. [2017]

1.9.2 Offer people with Parkinson's disease and their family members and carers (as appropriate) oral and written information about the following, and record that the discussion has taken place:

  • Progression of Parkinson's disease.
  • Possible future adverse effects of Parkinson's disease medicines in advanced Parkinson's disease.
  • Advance care planning, including Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) and Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNA CPR) orders, and Lasting Power of Attorney for finance and/or health and social care.
  • Options for future management.
  • What could happen at the end of life.
  • Available support services, for example, personal care, equipment and practical support, financial support and advice, care at home and respite care. [2017]

1.9.3 When discussing palliative care, recognise that family members and carers may have different information needs from the person with Parkinson's disease. [2017]

National End of Life Care Programme et al (2010) End of life care in long term neurological conditions: A framework for implementation

This states that the changes in a neurological condition’s progression are recognised in all care settings as triggers for the introduction and subsequent involvement of palliative care. The provision of this care should be based on holistic assessment. This includes multidisciplinary and multiagency collaboration, good interprofessional communication, and regular review of the needs of the client and of those most important to them.

2.7 Summary of section 2

We have looked in detail at the palliative and end of life definitions and principles of care. By applying these principles early in the condition’s trajectory, it improves the outcomes of care. We also examined the challenges of applying these principles in practice, and finally examined the directives which have influenced the development of palliative and end of life care in Parkinson’s. You will have considered how this information can help you to improve your practice and share your knowledge with other health and social care professionals. We will now look at a case study exercise. You can record your thoughts in the reflection log.

Reflective exercise

In this exercise we introduce Mr Edwards, who has been newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Think back to the information in section 2 about the definition and principles of palliative care and consider how you would apply these as you read through the case study.

Case study

Mr Alex Edwards is a 55-year-old architect, married with two teenage children. He went to see his GP complaining of a painful right shoulder, which he feels is also affecting his handwriting as it has become small and illegible. This worries him because it is impacting his job. He also states that his sleep pattern is disturbed because he feels stiff and sore at night and unable to turn over in bed. His GP explains that he might have Parkinson’s, explains what it is and then makes a referral to a neurologist.

Because Mr Edwards and his family are anxious about his diagnosis, he books a private appointment with a neurologist to reduce the waiting time. The neurologist confirms he has Parkinson’s and after discussion with Mr Edwards decides to commence him on a dopamine agonist, and arranges to review him in three months.

In the meantime, Mr Edwards was referred to the Parkinson’s specialist nurse, who organised to meet him and his family. They were able to discuss their thoughts and feelings about the diagnosis and ask questions about Parkinson’s and the medication. The Parkinson’s nurse gave them further written information on Parkinson’s, as well as her work contact number in case they required further advice in the near future.

She referred Mr Edwards to physiotherapy to assess and offer him advice about exercise and how to maintain his physical wellbeing. She also referred him to occupational therapy to discuss his work and management of his handwriting, to enable him to maintain his confidence at work.

She provided information about Parkinson’s UK, explaining how everything the charity does is shaped by people affected by Parkinson’s. She also signposted the family to a Parkinson’s UK local support group.

Reflective exercise 1

Reflect on the case study and identify how the psychological, physical and social aspects of care are being supported here.

Use the reflection log to record your thoughts.

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

By supporting Mr Edwards and his family with information, education and guidance on his condition and the medication choices, the GP, neurologist and Parkinson’s specialist nurse are aiding Mr Edwards to accept his diagnosis and to make informed choices about his treatment.

His quality of life is enhanced through informed choices about medication, as well as appropriate referrals to the occupational therapist and physio to maintain his physical ability and assist him to manage at work, relieving his stress about his ability to continue at work.

His family and Mr Edwards will receive information and support from Parkinson’s UK and the local support group, which will be invaluable as his condition progresses.

The Parkinson’s specialist nurse will be their main point of contact offering a support system to help Mr Edwards and his family come to terms with the diagnosis and ongoing management.

Reflective exercise 2

In your reflection log identify how some of the principles of palliative care are being applied in this early stage of diagnosis.

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

From the principles of palliative care we have incorporated a team approach, offering a support system to enhance quality of life through involvement of the allied health professionals.

Offering family support through the support group and Parkinson’s UK.

Through education, information and planned professional support, his psychological, physical and social wellbeing are enhanced

Quiz questions

Now try Quiz 1.

This is the first of three section quizzes. You will need to try all the questions and complete the quiz if you wish to gain a digital badge. Working through the quiz is a valuable way of reinforcing what you’ve learned in this section. As you try the questions you will probably want to look back and review parts of the text and the activities that you’ve undertaken and recorded in your reflection log.

3 Advance care planning

Section 2 highlighted the difficulty of predicting end of life in Parkinson’s. This section develops this, exploring the challenges of predicting end of life in Parkinson’s and how to manage these challenges. In particular it examines advance care planning and the issues around lasting power of attorney and Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT).

Learning outcomes

By the end of this section you should:

  • be able to identify the challenges in predicting and managing the end of life phase in Parkinson’s
  • gain an in-depth understanding of advance care planning (ACP) and the importance of its introduction at the appropriate time in the progression of the condition
  • gain an understanding of the importance of recognising the needs of people with Parkinson’s and those closest to them in directing ACP
  • have an understanding of lasting power of attorney and Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment.

3.1 Challenges of predicting end of life care in Parkinson’s

In the following video, the consultant discusses the challenges of predicting end of life in Parkinson’s. In the further videos he discusses how the fluctuating nature of Parkinson’s, polypharmacy and complex invasive treatments affect the accuracy of predicting end of life in Parkinson’s.

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Key challenges in predicting the end of life in Parkinson’s

  • Long duration of the condition.
  • Unpredictable and fluctuating nature of Parkinson’s. This may include infections, reactions to drug changes and gradual deterioration.
  • Specialist treatments – in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s many people with Parkinson’s may have been previously established on complex invasive treatments, ie deep brain stimulation (DBS), apomorphine and Duodopa® therapy.
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  • Neuropsychiatric problems – the high prevalence of cognitive impairment and dementia in Parkinson’s.
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  • Complex multidisciplinary care – due to increasing physical disability and loss of independence, medications are less effective or disabling side effects develop.
  • There can be unpredicted multiple crises, ie infection, falls and/or hospital admissions.
  • Most people with Parkinson’s will die with their condition and not from it.
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3.2 How do we manage the challenges of predicting end of life care in Parkinson’s?

Described image

As practitioners you may approach and deal with these challenges in a number of ways:

An individual holistic assessment that identifies changing needs by taking into account the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of both the person with Parkinson’s and those closest to them.

Identification of the unmet palliative needs of the person with Parkinson’s through frequent reassessment by the multidisciplinary team.

Identifying prognostic indicators which show relevant deterioration of the person’s Parkinson’s and may be indicative of nearing the end of life.

Timely referral to specialist palliative care services, which have the expertise and experience to manage the complex care needs that may arise. Because of the fluctuating nature of Parkinson’s, it may be necessary for specialist palliative care input several times throughout the condition’s trajectory.

Advance care planning (ACP) – it is important for the health professional to identify and be sensitive to indicators that the person with Parkinson’s or their family want or need to have a discussion about prognosis or future care.

In some ways, our approach to these challenges is brought together through advance care planning (ACP). Here we look at ACP in greater detail due to its importance in delivering person-centred end of life care. Advance care planning has been identified as an area of palliative care which is NOT consistently occurring and often takes place too late in the condition.

This is especially important in Parkinson’s, as the high incidence of cognitive deterioration and dementia can mean a person with Parkinson’s may not be able to express their desired preferences for their future or end of life care if ACP is not initiated early in the condition.

Research has shown that advance care planning will enhance the quality of care for that person and those closest to them (Detering et al, 2010).

Therefore, it is important for you to identify and be sensitive to indicators that the person with Parkinson’s, or their family, want or need to have a discussion about prognosis and future care.

Initiating this conversation at the appropriate time will allow the person with Parkinson’s to receive timely information, enabling them to:

  • make informed decisions about their future care
  • have realistic expectations
  • avoid inappropriate burdensome interventions at the end of life

With the permission of the person with Parkinson’s, this discussion needs to be documented, regularly reviewed and communicated to key people involved in their care (The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group, 2016).

3.3 What is advance care planning (ACP)?

Described image

The above diagram represents the topics covered during an ACP discussion.

This is an ongoing process of discussion between the person with Parkinson’s, those closest to them and their health and social care professionals, focusing on the person’s wishes and preferences for their care over the condition’s trajectory and as they approach the end of their life.

Advance care planning may include:

The individual’s concerns and wishes.

Their most important values or personal goals for care.

Their understanding of their illness and the prognosis.

Their psychological and spiritual requirements.

Their preferences and wishes for types of care and place of care if they are not able to look after themselves.

Expressed views on organ or tissue donation.

Their preferences regarding the type of treatment that may be beneficial in the future and the availability of these treatments.

National Council for Palliative Care

You can find more detail in Advanced Care Planning: A Guide for Health and Social Care Staff.

NHS Scotland has also produced an Anticipatory Care Planning Toolkit.

Documentation of ACP

It is important that you are sensitive to the person’s feelings and desires to have this conversation and so should avoid following a prescriptive method of interviewing and recording these discussions.

There is no set format for making a record of ACP discussions, but some health trusts and charities may be able to provide an informal document for the individual to use.

For example Gold Standards Framework provides guidance information and direction on ACP and this includes a document that allows the person to record their preferences and priorities for their future care.

The ACP is not a legally binding document, but must be taken into account when acting in the person’s best interests.

It must be reviewed and updated as the individual’s situation or views change. In accordance with the client’s wishes a copy of the ACP may be held in the client’s healthcare/electronic notes. The GP and family may be aware of the contents and where it is stored.

The timing and context of ACP

ACP may be initiated by either the health and social care professional or the individual, and may be prompted by one of the following life events:

  • Death of a spouse, close friend or relative.
  • Following diagnosis with Parkinson’s.
  • Significant shift in treatment focus, eg treatment less effective or fewer options.
  • Multiple hospital admissions.

The health and social care professional initiating this conversation should have full knowledge of the individual’s medical condition, treatment options and social situation.

Reflective exercise

So far in section 3 we have discussed the challenges of predicting the end of life and discussed advance care planning. Consider this information as you read through this case study about Suzi, a young mother with Parkinson’s, and consider how you would commence a conversation about ACP.

You can record your thoughts in your reflection log.

Case study

Suzi was diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago. She is married and has two children. She has been working full time as a hairdresser, and manages her home and young children, aged 6 and 4. Recently, her condition has deteriorated. She has developed anxiety and any stressful situation increases her anxiety and exacerbates her tremor. Her clients have commented on Suzi’s hand tremor and this increases her anxiety.

She has lost strength and volume in her voice and finds it difficult to communicate at work. She suffers increased fatigue after her day at work and feels this affects her relationship with her children, as she is too tired to interact and play with them. Due to these changes, Suzi has become quite self-conscious and no longer wants to socialise as much, especially with strangers.

Reflection 1

Reflect on the case study and note the issues that Suzi is experiencing and decide how you would assist her to overcome these issues.

Use the reflection log to record your thoughts

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

Referring Suzi to the appropriate allied health professionals to assist her to manage her increasing symptoms, such as:

  • Speech and language therapist for speech management.
  • Occupational therapist to assist with work related issues and fatigue.
  • Community psychiatric nurse, psychologist or occupational therapist to teach her coping strategies for her anxiety.
  • Neurologist to reassess her medication.

It will also be necessary to involve her husband and discuss his involvement in childcare to ease Suzi’s stress.

Reflection 2

Reflect on what you have just read about commencing discussions on ACP, then write a paragraph with an argument for or against commencing an ACP discussion with Suzi and her husband at this stage.

Use the reflection log to record your thoughts

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

It would be an appropriate time to encourage this couple to think about how Parkinson’s is progressive, and that Suzi’s ability will slowly deteriorate, encouraging them to discuss their changing roles in the future. The advance care planning (ACP) discussion could centre around the idea of involving the extended family in Suzi’s care in the future, if this is what they would wish. Encourage them to discuss making a Will for the safekeeping of their children. When discussing the Will encourage them to think about power of attorney. An ACP discussion at this stage will promote realistic expectations for Suzi’s future.

ACP promotes person-centred care throughout the condition’s trajectory.

Research and client experience has shown these discussions can never take place early enough, and they will improve client care outcomes.

Some of you may argue that Suzi is too young for discussions about ACP, and that discussing the progressive nature and increasing disability of Parkinson’s at this early stage may cause Suzi and her husband more distress and anxiety. She is in the early stages of her condition and with medication, exercise and support she will continue to manage. Discussing ACP may cause her to lose hope and maybe experience depression, and be psychologically less able to manage.

The discussion around advance care planning may lead to the individual recognising, if they were no longer physically or mentally able to make decisions about their finances or property, that they may need to consider appointing an attorney.

3.4 What is lasting power of attorney?

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This is a legal document which must be drawn up by a solicitor, and allows the individual who has the capacity to do so, to choose other people to make decisions on their behalf. There are 2 types of lasting power of attorney (LPA):

  • health and welfare
  • property and financial affairs.

People can choose to make one type of LPA or both.

You can read more in the UK government’s overview about power of attorney.

Lasting power of attorney will be applicable only if the individual:

  • loses mental capacity to make their own decisions about their finances and property, and health and welfare
  • or if they are no longer physically able to manage their financial affairs, and health and welfare.

Health and welfare lasting power of attorney

An individual uses this LPA to give an attorney the power to make decisions about things like:

  • daily routine, eg washing, dressing, eating
  • medical care
  • moving into a care home
  • life-sustaining treatment.

It can only be used when the individual is unable to make their own decisions.

Property and financial affairs lasting power of attorney

An individual uses this LPA to give an attorney the power to make decisions about money and property, eg:

  • managing a bank or building society account
  • paying bills
  • collecting benefits or a pension
  • selling a home.

It can be used as soon as it’s registered, with the individual’s permission.

3.5 What is an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment?

During the course of an individual’s advance care planning (ACP) discussion they may indicate that they wish to make an advance decision to refuse certain treatments.

This is a separate document to that of the ACP and must be instigated by a professional who is competent in this process. They are required to follow the guidance available in the Code of Practice for the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) on Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland professionals must follow guidance available in the Adults With Incapacity Act (2000).

  • An Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment allows the person who is 18 years of age or over to specify (before loss of capacity) what treatments they would not want and would not consent to later in life. In Scotland the age of advanced directives is 16. They cannot demand certain treatments or refuse basic care, ie offers of food and water by mouth, warmth, shelter and hygiene. But clinically assisted nutrition and hydration given by intravenous, subcutaneous or gastroscopy are considered medical interventions and can be refused. These decisions can be withdrawn if the individual gains or retains capacity.
  • All healthcare providers must respect the individual’s advance decision and ensure it is incorporated into the person-centred care planning. They will also have discussed who is to be made aware of the ADRT (ie family members) and where they wish to store it in the home. A copy of the document should be stored in their healthcare notes and their GP made aware.

The following table (you need to click the link 'view large table') shows the differences between general care planning and decisions made in advance. It explains the who, what and how of the procedures necessary to activate advance care planning (ACP), Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) and Do Not Attempt CPR (DNA CPR).

 General Care PlanningAdvance Care Planning (ACP) – advance statementAdvance Decisions to Refuse Treatment (ADRT)Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR)
What is covered?Can cover any aspect of current health and social care.Can cover any aspect of future health and social care.Can only cover refusal of specified future treatment. May be made as an option within an advance care planning discussion.Only covers decision about withholding future CPR.
Who completes it?

Can be written in discussion with the individual who has capacity for those decisions.

OR

Can be completed for an individual who lacks capacity in their best interests.

Is written by the individual who has capacity to make these statements. May be written with support from professionals, and relatives or carers.

Cannot be written if the individual lacks capacity to make these statements.

Is made by the individual who has capacity to make these decisions. May be made with support from a clinician.

Cannot be made if an individual lacks capacity to make these decisions.

Completed by a clinician with responsibility for the patient. Patient consent is sought only if an arrest is anticipated and CPR could be successful.

Can be completed for an individual who does not have capacity if the decision is in their best interests.

What does it provide?Provides a plan for current and continuing health and social care that contains achievable goals and the actions required.Covers an individual’s preferences, wishes, beliefs and values about future care to guide future best interest decisions in the event an individual has lost capacity to make decisions.Only covers refusal of future specified treatments in the event that an individual has lost capacity to make those decisions.

Documents either:

  • That CPR cannot be successful and should not be attempted,
  • An individual’s advance decision to refuse CPR.
Is it legally binding?No – advisory only.No – but must be taken into account when acting in an individual’s best interests.Yes – legally binding if the ADRT is assessed as complying with the Mental Capacity Act and is valid and applicable. If it is binding it takes the place of best interest decisions about that treatment.Yes – if it is part of an ADRT. Otherwise it is advisory only, ie clinical judgement takes precedence.
How does it help?Provides the multidisciplinary team with a plan of action.Makes the multidisciplinary team aware of an individual’s wishes and preferences in the event that the patient loses capacity.If valid and applicable to current circumstances it provides legal and clinical instruction to multidisciplinary team.Makes it clear whether CPR should be withheld in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest.
Does it need to be signed and witnessed?Does not need to be signed or witnessed.A signature is not a requirement, but its presence makes clear whose views are documented.For refusal of life sustaining treatment, it must be written, signed and witnessed and contain a statement that it applies even if the person’s life is at risk.Does not need to be witnessed, but the usual practice is for the clinician to sign.

Who should see it?

The multidisciplinary team as an aid to care.Patient is supported in its distribution, but has the final say on who sees it.Patient is supported in its distribution, but has the final say on who sees it.Clinical staff who could initiate CPR in the event of an arrest.

UK guidance recommends that decisions about CPR are discussed with the patient and family.

In 2014, the Court of Appeal concluded that when a decision about CPR is being considered “there should be a presumption in favour of patient involvement and that there need to be convincing reasons not to involve the patient” and went on to say “However, it is inappropriate (and therefore not a requirement of article 8) to involve the patient in the process if the clinician considers that to do so is likely to cause the person to suffer physical or psychological harm”.

A subsequent High Court ruling in 2015 noted a presumption in favour of involving those close to an adult who lacks capacity, whenever practicable and appropriate.

Further reading

The discussions around ACP and inclusion of types of treatment the individual wishes to have or not have direct the palliative and end of life care in such a way as to improve the individual’s experience at end of life and also that of those close to them.

3.6 Person-centred care

The diagram below depicts the results of the generic narrative for person-centred care, based on literature review, experiences of bereaved carers and views and experiences of professionals and carers. It was produced by National Voices and the National Council for Palliative Care. It supports the type of person-centred care advocated in the principles of end of life care, which were discussed in section 2.4.

It also summarises the elements discussed in section 3, which promote person-centred care at end of life and support the person and those closest to them to have their desired end of life experience.

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(The National Council for Palliative Care & National Voices, 2014).

The following video produced by NHS England discusses person-centred care. It explains the elements of care which produce co-ordinated and seamless care and promote satisfaction and improved care outcomes for the individual.

Further Reading

NICE guideline (NG197) Shared decision making, June 2021

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3.7 Summary of section 3

In this section we examined the challenges you face in predicting the end of life in Parkinson’s, and discussed how to manage these challenges.

We then looked at the importance of advance care planning (ACP), including the issues around starting these conversations and what ACP should cover regarding a client’s wishes and preferences about their future care (including discussions about lasting power of attorney and Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment).

We also discussed the importance of person-centred care being fundamental to all healthcare decisions, and the importance of family and carers being involved in any healthcare decisions about the future care of their relative.

Reflective exercise

Use this exercise to assist you to reflect on choices which would be important to you and your family if you knew you were approaching the end of your life.

Reflect on which choices would be important to you if planning your end of life care, and write them in your reflective log.

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

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What choices are important to me at the end of life and after my death?

  • I want to be cared for, and die, in a place of my choice.
  • I want involvement in, and control over, decisions about my care.
  • I want access to high-quality care, given by well trained staff.
  • I want access to the right services when I need them.
  • I want support for my physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
  • I want the right people to know my wishes at the right time.
  • I want the people who are important to me to be supported and included in my care.

Quiz questions

Now try Quiz 2.

This is the second of 3 section quizzes. You will need to try all the questions and complete the quiz if you wish to gain a digital badge. Working through the quiz is a valuable way of reinforcing what you’ve learned in this section. As you try the questions you will probably want to look back and review parts of the text and the activities that you’ve undertaken and recorded in your reflection log

4 Management of the end of life phase in Parkinson’s

In the previous section, we explored some of the challenges of managing and predicting the end of life in Parkinson’s, highlighting the need for advance care planning.

In this section, we take a more detailed look at the management of the end of life phase of Parkinson’s. Taking a holistic approach, we look in depth at the management of the physical, psychological, spiritual and social aspects of end of life care. We will highlight the importance of including and supporting the family or those closest to the person with Parkinson’s throughout this end of life phase, and working with the multidisciplinary team to meet their needs.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this section you should be able to identify and describe the following:

  • The indicators of the end stage of life.
  • The 4 areas of end of life care which focus on quality of life.
  • The in-depth management of physical, psychological, spiritual and social aspects of the end of life stage.
  • The needs of the family and/or carer during the end of life stage.
  • The actively dying phase of Parkinson’s and its management.
  • The importance of bereavement care for the family and/or carers.

4.1 What are the indicators for the end stage of life?

Making judgements about end of life care in Parkinson’s is complex. The rate of progression and the nature of symptoms experienced is unique to each individual, so person-centred care planning is very important. For care to be effective it needs an integrated multidisciplinary team sharing expertise in planning and delivering individualised, co-ordinated and seamless care. Each professional within the multidisciplinary team brings their own expertise to the palliative care process and may have been involved with the individual along the trajectory of their Parkinson’s.

Managing the end stage of life in Parkinson’s may involve the last few years of the life of the person with Parkinson’s in which life-prolonging therapy is replaced by palliative measures. The person with Parkinson’s may experience multiple acute episodes of physical disability and cognitive decline either related to Parkinson’s or other comorbidities. Each professional will now find there is a shift in the emphasis of care in the end of life stage, from a therapeutic pharmacological approach to one that places greater emphasis on quality of life issues.

The Gold Standards Framework has developed prognostic indicator guidance for Parkinson’s. The table below explains that the presence of two or more symptoms from any of the categories indicate the end stage of Parkinson’s.

DRUG TREATMENT

Decreasing response to medications.

Increasingly complex regimen of medications.

INDEPENDENCE

Declining physical function, limited self-care.

Increasing need of help for daily living.

In bed or chair over 50% of day.

CONTROL

Parkinson’s becoming less controlled.

Less predictable with ‘off’ periods.

Repeated unplanned or crisis hospital admission.

Significant comorbidities.

SWALLOWING

Dysphagia leading to recurrent aspiration pneumonia, breathlessness or respiratory failure.

Significant weight loss of more than 10% of body weight in last six months.

Dysphasia (progressive communication problems).

MOVEMENT

Increasing ‘off’ periods.

Deteriorating mobility with increasing falls.

Dyskinesia.

NEURO PSYCHIATRIC SIGNS

Deteriorating cognitive function.

Depression and increasing anxiety.

Hallucinations.

Psychosis.

Footnotes  

(Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network, 2010. These guidelines are now archived, but we consider the information above to still be relevant.)

4.2 Developing a holistic approach

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Utilising the principles of end of life care highlighted earlier in section 2.4 of this course, we will examine how to effectively manage and guide the person with Parkinson’s, and those closest to them, through this end stage with the minimum of distress.

Promoting holistic assessment which respects the autonomy and choice of the person with Parkinson’s is important and involves them in planning their end of life care through early discussions about advance care planning (ACP) and Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT), as discussed in section 3.3

Holistic assessment in the end of life stage focuses on the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of care for the person with Parkinson’s. We will examine these in greater depth.

4.3 The management of physical symptoms

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Early identification and management of physical symptoms in end of life care are an important element of holistic care.

The EEMMA acronym (Twycross and Wilcock, 2002) may be a useful tool to ensure early identification and management of physical symptoms. It involves the individual’s contribution to the care management of each symptom and ensures client satisfaction, autonomy and dignity.

E – Evaluation – make a clear and accurate assessment of each symptom.

E – Explanation – to the individual and/or family on the cause and possible treatments.

M – Management – an individual treatment plan should be formulated in consultation with the person with Parkinson’s and/or family.

M – Monitoring – each symptom should be continuously reviewed and adjustments in treatments made.

A – Attention to detail – make use of the expertise of the multidisciplinary team and other appropriate experts, eg the specialist palliative care team.

Another option of symptom measurement is the Palliative care Outcome Scale.

The overall management of both motor and non-motor symptoms relies on a comprehensive, holistic assessment by the multidisciplinary team, with the appropriate referral to specialist palliative care professionals.

Assessment can be time consuming, due to communication and cognitive issues, but with the use of patient-centred care planning, the person with Parkinson’s and those most important to them will experience high-quality end of life care.

4.3.1 Pain

Pain is a key symptom of Parkinson’s. The priority is to regularly assess and monitor for pain or discomfort. It must not be assumed that all pain is Parkinson’s related as it may be due to other reasons, perhaps related to comorbidities.

Questioning the individual about their pain and listening carefully to their description will permit the professional to judge the type of pain and its appropriate management.

Non-verbal indices of pain such as groaning, agitation or tearfulness need to be considered if the individual has limited communication, and visual pain scales can also be useful in these situations.

Further reading

The following link provides examples of a number of pain scales: Pain assessment scales (National Initiative on Pain Control, 2005).

Exercise for reflective practice

In your reflection log briefly discuss the type of guidance or care plans that are used in your area to direct and ensure good practice in identification and management of physical symptoms. Are they similar to the EEMMA acronym, or are they different but more appropriate to the clients you are caring for?

Non pharmacological and pharmacological management of pain
  1. Non pharmacological management: In advanced Parkinson’s this type of management is important to prevent exacerbation of hallucinations or decline in cognitive ability. It is also important when swallowing is compromised. This involves therapies such as limb massage, physiotherapy positional/postural changes, pressure relieving devices, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and acupuncture.
  2. Pharmacological interventions: A three-step analgesic ladder developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for management of cancer-related pain is frequently used as a framework for prescribing analgesic pain relief. This three-step approach of administering the right drug at the right time is inexpensive and 80-90% effective. However, some studies report 70-80% and there is a question about whether the WHO analgesic ladder is still valid.

The specialist palliative care team may be involved to manage more complex pain or to offer guidance about the most effective route of administration, ie subcutaneous or parenteral, taking into account the needs of the individual and their choices when possible.

Most analgesia increases the risk of constipation. Careful monitoring of bowel function and titration of laxatives are important to maintain optimal absorption of Parkinson’s medication and the person’s comfort.

4.3.2 Other types of pain

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Dyskinesia may occur during ‘off’ periods in the end stage of Parkinson’s if the person has been on long-term levodopa therapy.

This can be managed with reduction of the levodopa dose, but this alone may cause worsening of parkinsonism symptoms and increasing frequency of ‘off’ periods, so a monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B) or catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor may be added if there are no contraindications for their use. If contraindicated, memantine has been helpful in reducing dyskinesia (Varanese et al, 2010).

If a person with Parkinson's has developed dyskinesia and/or motor fluctuations, including medicines 'wearing off', seek advice from a healthcare professional with specialist expertise in Parkinson's before modifying therapy.

Offer a choice of dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors or COMT inhibitors as an adjunct to levodopa for people with Parkinson's who have developed dyskinesia or motor fluctuations despite optimal levodopa therapy, after discussing:

  • the person's individual clinical circumstances, eg their Parkinson's symptoms, comorbidities and risks from polypharmacy
  • the person's individual lifestyle circumstances, preferences, needs and goals
  • the potential benefits and harms of the different drug classes.

If dyskinesia is not adequately managed by modifying existing therapy, consider amantadine.

Neuropathic pain is common in Parkinson’s, indicated by a description of sensory symptoms such as numbness or paresthesia and with a burning or radiating pain.

Neuropathic pain is treated with anticonvulsant agents, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, and antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or duloxetine.

In the dying phase of care the individual will most likely not be able to report pain directly, but monitoring the non-verbal indices will guide the family and health professional of the need for analgesia.

Rigidity/stiffness in advanced Parkinson’s may be the result of a variable response to dopaminergic medication, and increased intolerance due to associated neuropsychiatric complications.

Rigidity will usually affect the limbs causing associated pain.

It is difficult at this advanced stage to balance treatment for rigidity without increasing or causing agitation, hallucinations or somnolence.

To lessen rigidity, ensure dopaminergic medication is given on time according to the individual’s usual regimen. In addition to their usual regimen, use doses of dispersible levodopa/benserazide (or rotigotine transdermal patches if their swallow is compromised).

If a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is already in situ, this would be used to administer medication. If not in place, administer by nasogastric (NG) tube, which would only be considered as a short-term solution.

If a person with Parkinson’s is on an apomorphine pump at the end stage of life, it may be appropriate to maintain the infusion to prevent rigidity and pain. But if the person has suffered weight loss or is experiencing side effects, it may be appropriate to lower the rate as guided by the consultant.

In the dying phase of care there may come a time when it is impossible to administer oral medications and transdermal rotigotine patches are contraindicated due to increased agitation or hallucinations. In these circumstances, the administration of midazolam in a subcutaneous infusion, under the guidance of the specialist palliative care team, may be effective in treating rigidity.

4.3.3 Communication, speech and language difficulties

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At end stage of Parkinson’s the individual may suffer a combination of hypophonia and dysarthria, which causes communication problems and difficulties being understood. It is important to assist the person with Parkinson’s to have an effective alternative method for communication, to lessen their frustration and allow expression of their fears or anxieties.

DYSPHAGIA

Dysphagia may be associated with an increasing risk of silent aspiration at this stage of the condition, so the speech and language therapist will educate the person with Parkinson’s and family and/or carers in how to manage this (Kaif et al, 2012).

SIALORRHEA

It is recommended that non-pharmacological intervention by the SALT is priority, but if that is not successful then glycopyrronium bromide is recommended as first line in pharmacological intervention. (Although this may not always be available.)

If treatment for drooling of saliva with glycopyrronium bromide is not effective, not tolerated or contraindicated (eg, in people with cognitive impairment, hallucinations or delusions, or a history of adverse effects following anticholinergic treatment), consider referral to a specialist service for botulinum toxin A.

Only consider anticholinergic medicines other than glycopyrronium bromide to manage drooling of saliva in people with Parkinson's if their risk of cognitive adverse effects is thought to be minimal. NICE guideline (NG71) - Parkinson’s disease in adults (2017)

Atropine eye drops can be used sublingually to ease sialorrhea with fewer side effects but only if there is a minimal risk of adverse cognitive effect and this will require regular assessment and monitoring. Oral hygiene is also an important factor in lessening distress and maintaining comfort.

4.3.4 Clinically assisted nutrition and hydration (CANH)

The person with Parkinson’s may develop the potential need for artificial nutrition at this advanced stage. This will be governed by the individual’s wishes, perhaps expressed through advance care planning (ACP) or an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT).

This may be administered via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) or radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG).

This may not be appropriate if the person with Parkinson’s has a limited life expectancy, poor quality of life or advanced dementia.

At the dying phase of care, if the person has a PEG or RIG in situ it may be appropriate to reduce the volume of feed or stop the feed, because of the body’s diminishing ability to manage fluids or nutrition.

4.3.5 Nausea

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Firstly consider treating any underlying cause of nausea, such as dehydration, constipation, infection or drug side effects.

Metoclopramide, cinnarizine and prochlorperazine cannot be used in Parkinson’s as they will worsen symptoms due to their antagonistic effect on dopaminergic receptors.

Ondanestron and domperidone are usually the antiemetics of choice. Please note contraindications for domperidone.

Cyclizine may be used with caution and sparingly.

4.4 Management of spiritual care

NHS Education for Scotland describes spiritual care in the following way:

“Spiritual care is that care which recognises and responds to the needs of the human spirit when faced with trauma, ill health or sadness and can include the need for meaning, for self worth, to express oneself, for faith and support perhaps for rites or prayer or sacrament, or simply for a sensitive listener. It begins with encouraging human contact in a compassionate relationship and moves in whatever direction need requires.”

In the following video a retired nurse discusses spiritual care at the end of life phase.

Download this video clip.Video player: 4_4_joan_spiritual.mp4
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Palliative and end of life care takes a holistic view of the person, embraces their spiritual needs and recognises that these may change throughout the progression of the condition. The person may focus more on their ‘spirituality’ as they experience increasing disability and deterioration of their physical health.

A significant part of spiritual care involves listening to individual narratives to gain an understanding of what is important to them before cognitive decline. This information will help you to care for the person in their end of life phase in a more caring and compassionate manner as you are now aware what is important to that person and their family.

It is important that you feel confident and knowledgeable to discuss spiritual issues, but also to recognise your own limits of experience and knowledge and when to signpost to the appropriate pastoral or religious team. Research identifies that spiritual matters are important both to the person and the carers at all stages of the illness progression, but many report unmet spiritual needs (Hasson et al 2010). Cultural and religious differences around end of life care deserve respect, and it is important to recognise increasing diversity of religious beliefs and to facilitate their individual practices and rituals.

4.5 Management of social care

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When someone faces diagnosis and then the progression of a life limiting condition, many psychosocial issues will arise. These may include fears around diagnosis and an uncertainty about their future, with loss of independence and losing their role within the family. They may have anxieties about finances, about their independence and finally a fear of developing dementia.

Management of these changes – both physical and mental – will require early identification and an impeccable assessment with prompt referral to the appropriate team or professional.

The family and/or carers will require support from social services, carer support groups and Parkinson’s support groups. Signposting to charities that provide support, education and guidance is also advisable.

4.6 Management of psychological care

At the end stage of Parkinson’s a high incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia is found to occur in up to 60% of people with Parkinson’s after 12 years (Richfield et al, 2013).

Wandering, sundowning, agitation and combativeness are all behavioural symptoms of dementia and can be difficult for families to manage in the community.

Early referral to the psychiatric team is important for management of the symptoms. Education of carers in behavioural management, with support from social services in delivery of care in the home, is also important.

Medications which may be used to treat dementia in Parkinson’s are cholinesterase inhibitors such as rivastigmine and donepezil.

Psychosis can affect people with Parkinson’s whether or not they have cognitive impairment. Visual hallucinations and delusions are the most common psychotic symptoms in Parkinson’s and are quite often related to side effects of medication, so frequent reassessment of medication is important in the end stage. First rule out intercurrent medical conditions, such as constipation, dehydration or infection, which may be hidden causes of psychosis.

Medications such as amantadine typically do not provide symptom management in the late stage of Parkinson’s and can contribute to the development of hallucinations and so can be withdrawn slowly. Other medications which can be withdrawn in descending order are anticholinergics, then MAO-B inhibitors and finally COMT inhibitors. It may also be beneficial to evaluate the use of dopamine agonists in end stage Parkinson’s and to consider moving toward levodopa and carbidopa as monotherapy to reduce psychotic symptoms (Lokk & Fereshtehnejad, 2013).

Agitation and delirium at end of life

At least 80% of dying people experience delirium to some degree, and this may give rise to agitation and restlessness. It is important to involve the specialist palliative care team who have the expertise to manage the delirium and support the family and/or carers (National End of Life Care Programme et al, 2010).

4.7 Recognising the actively dying phase

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When it has been identified that the person with Parkinson’s is in the dying phase, it is important they continue to receive a high standard of care which is structured and focused on providing good symptom control and comfort. The appropriate mechanisms should be in place to support the family and carers at this difficult time (Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, 2010).

Recognising final stage of life for people with Parkinson’s is challenging and unpredictable, perhaps occurring over a period of days or weeks rather than days or hours. As the person with Parkinson’s may have deteriorated over a long period of time it is important to regularly assess and monitor them and inform the family of the possibility of approaching death. The changing focus of care should be explained, and the family circle allowed to prepare for the loss of their loved one.

4.7.1 Withdrawing or rationalising treatment in the dying phase

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When withdrawing treatment in the dying phase, where possible, the drug withdrawal should be gradual. This will achieve a balance between relief of symptoms and minimal side effects.

At this stage there is a need for frequent assessment and monitoring of the person with Parkinson’s and the decision about medication withdrawal should be guided by the consultant and the Parkinson’s specialist nurse.

It may be necessary in the dying phase to withdraw dopaminergic drugs due to their lack of efficacy and the possibility of causing side effects of visual hallucinations and increasing somnolence. Constant monitoring and observation is required as sometimes withdrawal of dopaminergic medication will cause an increase in anxiety related to ‘off’ periods or increased rigidity and associated pain.

For those on either apomorphine or duodopa pump, the gradual reduction of dose or withdrawal needs to be instigated and monitored closely by the person’s consultant and Parkinson’s specialist nurse, as reducing or withdrawal may cause pain, rigidity or dystonia.

If the person with Parkinson’s has undergone deep brain stimulation surgery, it is recommended this is only switched off in the dying phase if it is causing complications, but if possible should be left to function until death as switching it off may also cause symptoms such as rigidity, dystonia and pain. It must be noted that this device must be removed if the person is being cremated.

(The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group, 2016)

4.7.2 Preferred place of death

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This will have been discussed with the person with Parkinson’s and the family at an earlier stage by the health and social care professional as part of the person-centred care planning, and recorded in the advance care plan.

When death is recognised as imminent this discussion will need to be raised again to establish the person’s preferred place of death, as their wishes may have changed. It is important that continuity of care is adequately supported at all times. This may be at home, in hospital, in a care and/or nursing home or a hospice.

It is also important to consider the family and/or carers at this stage. They may be suffering carer exhaustion or stress if the person with Parkinson’s is living at home. They may require a temporary period of respite by their loved one going into a hospice or a nursing home.

4.8 Recognising the needs of carers

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Caring for a person with Parkinson’s, a long-term progressive condition, can be overwhelming and research has documented that carer burden may result in depression, stress, fatigue and even mortality (Hasson et al, 2010).

Research indicates that carers for people with Parkinson’s play an important role in the end of life care and death at home. Research also reveals unmet palliative care needs such as lack of information, ad hoc delivery of services and carers being unprepared for the stress and physical strain encountered at the advanced stage, and some carers being unprepared for death (Giles et al, 2009).

Carers of people with Parkinson’s have been found to have fewer social contacts, fewer opportunities to socialise and tend to experience poor health. Changes in relationships, conflicting needs of the person and carer, communication problems, financial problems and fears about the future are all common issues experienced by carers of people with Parkinson’s.

Reflective exercise

Use your reflection log to reflect on the following case study and identify the needs of the carer. In your reflection identify how to meet these needs.

Case study

Mr Thompson is an 86-year-old man who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 15 years ago. He is married and lives with his 80-year-old wife, who is his main carer.

They have an extensive package of care in place to assist his wife in the care and management of her husband. Mr Thompson has expressed that he wants to live at home and does not want to go to a nursing home, even for short-term respite.

Mr Thompson is wheelchair dependent, requires a hoist for all transfers by the care team and has an in-dwelling catheter. He requires assistance for all his personal needs and his wife assists him at meal times as he also has swallowing difficulties.

Because he previously suffered from hallucinations, his oral dopamine agonists were discontinued which resolved the hallucinations. His Parkinson’s medication has been reduced to co-beneldopa 125mgs 5 times a day and co-beneldopa slow release 125mgs at night, but after one of his frequent admissions to hospital he was commenced on a low dose rotigotine patch to reduce his rigidity.

Mr Thompson cannot be left on his own, so his wife can only leave their home when a family member is available to sit with him. Due to transport problems and his lack of mobility, Mr Thompson never leaves his home. This exacerbates his depression and he is sometimes verbally aggressive towards his wife.

Mrs Thompson has found this very stressful. Due to her age and personal ill health she has been finding it more difficult to manage her husband at home.

After Mrs Thompson had a hospital admission for angina, the family had a discussion about Mr Thompson’s future care. It was decided to arrange a permanent move to a nursing home, which was against Mr Thompson’s expressed wishes. Mrs Thompson felt very guilty she was not able to care for her husband at home and was distressed that he had to be cared for in a nursing home. This impacted on their relationship as he was angry with Mrs Thompson when she visited, resulting in her not visiting as often. Mr Thompson’s condition deteriorated and he died in the nursing home after a short period of time.

Discussion

In your reflection you may have considered the following:

  • Mrs Thompson’s need for respite from her caring role.

    Consider other means of respite at home, such as a sitting service for Mr Thompson.

    Increased involvement of the family to relieve Mrs Thompson from her role.

  • The stress of feeding Mr Thompson with the high risk of him choking.

    Referral to speech and language therapy for support and education about positioning, type of food and methods of feeding Mr Thompson.

  • Carer is experiencing stress due to Mr Thompson’s bouts of aggression.

    Referral to a psychologist (if available) for assessment and anger management.

  • Encourage increased interaction for Mr Thompson to relieve his stress and boredom, and refer to occupational therapy.

  • Mrs Thompson’s guilt about not being able to care for her husband at home.

    Refer for counselling and ensure increased support from Mrs Thompson’s GP and social worker to manage her feelings.

  • Mrs Thompson’s guilt about not visiting her husband as frequently as he would wish because of his aggression.

    Encourage family to arrange rota of regular visits by family and friends, and always ensure Mrs Thompson is accompanied when she visits her husband.

  • After his death, ensure Mrs Thompson has bereavement support from local support groups

    .

4.8.1 Supporting carers towards the end of life and death of people with Parkinson’s

How can the health professional support carers through this process?

  • Keep the carer involved in the care planning and about changes of medication, treatment and nutrition.
  • Inform the carer of changes which may indicate the dying phase.
  • Give the carer opportunities to share their concerns and fears.
  • Arrange a referral for a carer’s assessment which focuses on their needs and may identify a need for respite, sitting service or even financial assistance.
  • Recognise cultural and religious differences around end of life beliefs. Arrange a referral to the appropriate support network or chaplaincy services.
  • Recognise the need to support the carer in bereavement.

4.8.2 Bereavement care

It is recognised that for every death at least 4 relatives and friends experience the loss. For carers, their loss is exacerbated by having invested so much of themselves in the caregiving role that they are now socially isolated and have few support systems to assist them through bereavement.

After bereavement, carers may require assistance to redefine their role and reorganise their life.

It is important to identify their needs and refer the carer to the appropriate services. This may be bereavement counselling or support from a statutory or voluntary group, who might provide a befriending service if this person is now left on their own.

Bereavement care may be delivered by religious or charitable organisations or bereavement support groups.

Reflective exercise

Use your reflection log to identify bereavement support mechanisms/groups (voluntary or statutory) in your area which you could refer a carer to for support.

Identify one such organisation and reflect on the type of support they would offer to a bereaved person.

4.9 Summary of section 4

In this section we have identified the indicators of the end of life phase and how these can assist us to recognise that the client is entering the end of life. We discussed the 4 aspects of care – physical, social, spiritual and psychological – which make up the elements of holistic, person-centred care. We looked at each aspect in detail and how to manage them.

We also looked at the actively dying phase and the importance of advance care planning in guiding person-centred care. We looked at the role of carers and the stress they experience. We identified the importance of recognising their care needs and offering them information and support to assist them through this phase and in their bereavement.

We hope that you have gained an increased knowledge in the end of life phase in Parkinson’s and that you will feel confident about using this knowledge to enhance your practice. Importantly, we hope you are confident to use it to improve the care provided to all your clients and those closest to them, who are experiencing the end of life.

Quiz questions

Now try Quiz 3.

This is the third of 3 section quizzes. You will need to try all the questions and complete the quiz if you wish to gain a digital badge. Working through the quiz is a valuable way of reinforcing what you’ve learned in this section. As you try the questions you will probably want to look back and review parts of the text and the activities that you’ve undertaken and recorded in your reflection log.

5 Summary

Congratulations – now that you have completed section 4 you have reached the end of this course.

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We will end with a quote from Dame Cicely Saunders, the founder of the hospice movement, which summarises the aim of palliative and end of life care:

“You matter because you are you. You matter to the last moment of your life and we will do all we can to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.”

5.1 End of course quiz

You may want to review all, or particular parts of, the course before taking the final test. You need to take the quiz to earn a digital badge, but it is also important to review the course for your learning.

It may also be helpful to review your reflection log before taking the final test. This will remind you of your thoughts on particular areas of learning and practice.

Now try the end of course quiz.

Consolidating your learning

Everything you have learned in this course is important for your practice. How you apply this knowledge to your role will determine how well you can provide support to improve the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s and their families.

You know your own role and how best to use the knowledge gained from the course to make positive practical changes.

5.2 Feedback and find out more

The Open University is committed to supporting students from a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances. The UK Parkinson's Excellence Network is a network of health and social care professionals working to improve Parkinson's services.

It would be great to receive your feedback about this course. We are keen to know about the parts you found useful and where you feel we can improve. You can share your views through our short survey – thank you in advance for completing it.

Professionals can join the UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network to access a range of resources, education and training materials, increase their knowledge of Parkinson's and collaborate with people affected by Parkinson's to transform health and care services. Visit the website and sign up to the Excellence Network e-newsletter to receive the latest news and regular updates.

Find out more: parkinsons.org.uk/ excellencenetwork

References

Section and author/dateReference

Section 2.1 – WHO 2020

World Health Organization (2020) Palliative care fact sheet . Available at https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/palliative-care [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 2.1 - .Joint HSE& IHF Report 2008

Health Service Executive & Irish Hospice Foundation (2008) Palliative Care for All: Integrating Palliative Care into Disease Management Frameworks.

Section 2.2 – WHO 2002

World Health Organization (2002) WHO Definition of Palliative Care. Available at http://www.who.int/cancer/palliative/definition/en/ [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 2.2 - NICE 2017 (1.9 Palliative care)

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2017) Parkinson's disease in adults. Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG71 [accessed 18 August 2021].

Section 2.2 - Wilson et al 2007

Wilson E & Seymour J (2007) ‘Exploring the palliative and end-of-life care needs of those affected by progressive long-term neurological conditions’ Journal of Care Services Management; 2:92–102.

Section 2.2.1 – Adapted from Bede et al 2009

Bede P et al. An integrated framework of early intervention palliative care in motor neurone disease as a model to progressive neurodegenerative diseases. Poster at European ALS Congress, Turin. 2009.

Section 2.3 - Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People. Annexe G, p106, (2014)

Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People (2014) One Chance to Get it Right: Improving people’s experience of care in the last few days and hours of life.

Section 2.5 - Tuck et al 2015

Tuck KK et al (2015) ‘Preferences of patients with Parkinson’s disease for communication about advanced care planning’ American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine; 32:68–77.

Section 2.6 - National Service Framework for Long-term Conditions, Department of Health (2005)Department of Health (2005) National Service Framework for Long-term Conditions. Available at https://www.gov.uk/ government/ publications/ quality-standards-for-supporting-people-with-long-term-conditions [accessed 9 August 2021]
Section 2.6 – NICE 2017National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2017) Parkinson's disease in adults Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/ guidance/ NG71 [accessed 18 August 2021]
Section 3.2 -Detering et al 2010

Detering KM et al (2010) ‘The impact of advance care planning on end of life care in elderly patients: randomised controlled trial’ British Medical Journal; 340:c 1345.

Section 3.2 - The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group (2016)The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group (2016) Palliative care in people with Parkinson’s disease: Guidelines for professional healthcare workers on the assessment and management of palliative care needs in Parkinson’s disease and related Parkinsonian syndromes.
Section 3.6 Person-centred care diagram

The National Council for Palliative Care & National Voices (2014) Every Moment Counts: A narrative for person centred coordinated care for people near the end of life.

 

Section 3.6 - NICE 2021

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2021) Shared decision making Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/ guidance/ ng197 [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 4.1 - SIGN 2010

Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) (2010) Diagnosis and pharmacological management of Parkinson’s disease: A national clinical guideline.(Archived.)

 

Section 4.3 - Twycross and Wilcock 2002

Twycross R & Wilcock A (2002) Symptom Management in Advanced Cancer.

 

Section 4.3.1 - NICE 2021

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2021) Chronic pain (primary and secondary) in over 16s: assessment of all chronic pain and management of chronic primary pain. Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng193 [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 4.3.1 - NICE 2016

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2012) Palliative care for adults: strong opioids for pain relief. Updated 2016. Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/Guidance/CG140 [accessed 18 August 2021]

Secti on 4.3.1 - Vargas-Schaffer G 2010

Vargas-Schaffer G. Is the WHO analgesic ladder still valid? Can Fam Physician. 2010 Jun; 56(6): 514–517 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/ articles/ PMC2902929/

Section 4.3.2 - Varanese et al 2010

Varanese S et al (2010) ‘NMDA antagonist memantine improves levodopa-induced dyskinesias and “on-off” phenomena in Parkinson’s disease’ Movement Disorder; 25(4):508–510.

 

Section 4.3.2 - NICE 2017

NICE Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2017) Parkinson's disease in adults Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG71 [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 4.3.3 - Kaif JG et al (2012)

Kaif JG et al (2012) ‘Prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia in Parkinson's disease: a meta-analysis’ Parkinsonism and Related Disorders; 18(4):311–5.

 

Section 4.3.3 - NICE 2017

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2017) Parkinson’s disease in adults. Available at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG71 [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 4.3.4 - RCP/BMA 2018

Clinically-assisted nutrition and hydration (CANH) and adults who lack the capacity to consent. Guidance for decision-making in England and Wales. 2018. https://www.bma.org.uk/media/1161/bma-clinically-assisted-nutrition-hydration-canh-full-guidance.pdf [accessed 18 August 2021]

Section 4.4 - Hasson et al 2010

Hasson F et al (2010) ‘An exploration into the palliative and end-of-life experiences of carers of people with Parkinson’s disease’ Palliative Medicine; 24(7);731-736

Section 4.6 - Richfield et al 2013

Richfield EW et al (2013) ‘Palliative care for Parkinson’s disease: A summary of the evidence and future directions’ Palliative Medicine; 27(9):805–810.

 

Section 4.6 - Lokk et al 2013

Lokk J & Fereshtehnejad SM (2013) ‘Managing palliative care in Parkinson’s disease from diagnosis to end-stage disease: what the clinician should know’ Neurodegenerative Disease Management; 3(2):169–183.

 

Section 4.6 – NHS 2011

National End of Life Care Programme et al (2010) End of life care in long term neurological conditions: A framework for implementation. Available at

https://www.nai.ie/assets/98/E29C88A6-9CA5-06B3-E74D285E3C0695A2_document/End_20life_20care_20long_20term_20neuro_20conditions.pdf

 

Section 4.7 -DHSSPS 2010

Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (2010) Living Matters, Dying Matters: A Palliative and End of Life Care Strategy for Adults in Northern Ireland. Review and recommendations (2016): https://www.rqia.org.uk/RQIA/files/1c/1c349f45-1c38-49bb-aeeb-e6a363f4c5ad.pdf

 

Section 4.7.1 - The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group (2016)The Irish Palliative Care in Parkinson’s Disease Group (2016) Palliative care in people with Parkinson’s disease: Guidelines for professional healthcare workers on the assessment and management of palliative care needs in Parkinson’s disease and related Parkinsonian syndromes.
Section 4.8 - Hasson et al 2010

Hasson F et al (2010) ‘An exploration into palliative care and end-of-life experiences of carers of people with Parkinson’s disease’ Palliative Medicine; 24(7):731–736

 

Section 4.8 - Giles et al 2009

Giles S & Miyasaki J (2009) ‘Palliative stage Parkinson’s disease: patient and family experiences of healthcare services’ Palliative Medicine; 23(2):120–125

 

Section 5.1 – Dame Cicely Saunders

Stevens E et al (2009) Palliative Nursing: Across the Spectrum of Care.

 

 

Glossary

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
drugs that block the action of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase that quickly breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
ACP
advance care planning or advance care plan (a non-legally binding document, that is reviewed and updated as a person’s views or situation change, that must be taken into account when acting in a person’s best interests).
Adjuvant analgesics
drugs used to increase pain tolerance when conventional analgesics are non-effective.
Advance care planning
a documented discussion between a health and social care professional, a patient and those closest to them, that covers the patient’s wishes and preferences for their care and treatments in the future (what they want, what they don’t want and who will speak for them).
ADRT
advance decision to refuse treatment, also known as advanced directive in Scotland.
Advanced directives
instructions given by a person before they become mentally or physically incapacitated, that covers their future care and may include ADRT and power of attorney.
Anticholinergics
agents that block the passage of impulses through the parasympathetic nerves.
Antimuscarinics
an agent that counteracts the effects of muscarine or blocks the muscarinic receptors.
Apomorphine
a drug used for acute, intermittent treatment of hypomobility episodes in advanced parkinsonism.
Combativeness
propensity to quarrel.
COMT inhibitors
drugs that block catechol-o-methyl transferase, an enzyme that breaks down dopamine.
DBS
deep brain stimulation, a form of surgery that is used to treat some of the symptoms of Parkinson's.
Dopamine agonists
drugs that stimulate dopamine receptors in the brain.
Duodopa®
enterally administered levodopa/carbidopa gel used for the treatment of advanced Parkinson's in patients with motor fluctuations and dyskinesias.
Dysarthria
inability to speak normally due to loss of control of the muscles of the tongue, lips, cheeks or larynx.
Dyskinesia
involuntary movements caused by long term use of levodopa.
Dysphagia
Swallowing difficulties.
Dysphasia
difficulty with speaking and sometimes with comprehending speech.
End of life care
holistic care that focuses on quality of life issues for a person who will die within the next 12 months and those closest to them.
PA: Power of attorney
A power of attorney is a written legal document giving someone else authority to take actions and decisions on your behalf. There are different types of power of attorney according to where you live in the UK.
Enteral administration
feeding or drug administration by the digestion process of the gastrointestinal tract.
Gastrostomy feeding
feeding through a tube inserted through the skin and stomach wall.
Hypophonia
soft speech resulting from a lack of coordination in the vocal muscles.
LSVT
Lee Silverman Voice Technique is a treatment delivered by a speech and language therapist that focuses on increasing vocal loudness through exaggerated motions and behaviours.
MAO-B inhibitors
Monoamine oxydase B is an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. Inhibiting it prolongs the action of dopamine.
Midazolam
a muscle relaxing / anticonvulsant drug generally given as a sedative.
Multidisciplinary team
a variety of health and social care professionals involved in the physical, social, psychological and spiritual care of a person.
Muscarine
A highly toxic alkyloid with neurologic effects.
NCPC
National Council for Palliative Care.
NG tube
Nasogastric tube inserted up the nose and down the throat into the stomach.
NICE
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
Palliative care
active total care of people whose condition is not responsive to curative treatment, and involves the physical, psychological, spiritual and social aspects of care.
Paresthesia
an abnormal sensation, such as burning or prickling.
Parenteral administration
drug administration delivered by routes other than the gastrointestinal tract.
PEG
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy.
Person-centred care
co-ordinated and seamless care that promotes satisfaction and improved care outcomes for a person.
Psychosis
a symptom of mental illness where a patient believes their hallucinations and/or delusions are real.
RIG
Radiologically-inserted gastrostomy.
Sialorrhea
excessive salivation.
SIGN
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network.
Somnolence
sleepiness.
Specialist palliative care services
pain relief care from a variety of specialist health professionals triggered at certain times in a condition’s trajectory.
Subcutaneously
located or placed just beneath the skin.
Sundowning
a state of disorientation or agitation that sometimes occurs in late afternoon or evening in people with later stage dementia.
Team approach
involving all the disciplines and agencies giving care to a person.
Transdermally
through or by way of the skin.
WHO
World Health Organization.

Acknowledgements

This course was written by Dorothy Hardyway with assistance from Claire Hewitt (Parkinson’s UK) and Pete Cannell and Ronald Macintyre (The Open University) as part of the Opening Educational Practices in Scotland Project.

Dorothy Hardyway is a Parkinson’s specialist nurse working in Northern Ireland. She draws on her palliative care experience gained when working for 4 years with Northern Ireland Hospice as a Parkinson’s specialist nurse with palliative care, and now in her present job as a Parkinson’s specialist nurse educating, advising and supporting people with Parkinson’s.

This course was reviewed in 2021 by Dr Sarah Awan, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, Nightingale Macmillan Unit, Royal Derby Hospital. We are grateful for her time and expert input into the course review.

Particular thanks and appreciation go to the J. Macdonald Menzies Trust who provided the funding to enable the development of this course.

The following materials in this course are All Rights Reserved. Please apply to the copyright holder to reuse these materials:

All images in this course belong to Parkinson’s UK. Please contact Parkinson’s UK if you wish to reuse any of the images.

All videos in this course belong to Parkinson’s UK. Please contact Parkinson’s UK if you wish to reuse any of the videos.

The diagram of advanced care discussions in section 3.3 is from the Gold Standards Framework (GSF), Principles and materials for The Gold Standards Framework © K Thomas, the National GSF Centre 2003 - 2012. Used with permission from the National GSF Centre in End of Life Care (see www.goldstandardsframework.org.uk where the copyright licensing policy is available).

The table showing the difference between general care planning and decisions made in advance in section 3.5 was taken from the National End of Life Care Programme (NHS 2012) and was reproduced with permission. It contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government License v3.0.

The diagram about person centred co-ordinated care near the end of life in section 3.6 was taken from the National Council for Palliative Care & National Voices (2014) and was reproduced with permission. It contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government License v3.0.

The diagrams about what decisions are important to me at the end of life and after death in section 3.7 are taken from What's important to me. A review of choice in end of life care (Choice in End of Life Care Programme Board, 2015) and was reproduced with permission. It contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government License v3.0. 

Except for third party materials and otherwise stated in the acknowledgements section, this content is made available under a CreativeCommons

Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0Licence

This course is written for a UK-wide audience and has taken care to address terminology, guideline and policy differences. Participants are responsible for recognising country differences and adapting to their own context.

The course may, from time to time, contain links to other (“third party”) web sites. These links are not provided as a guarantee or recommendation by the authors for the services, information, opinion or any other content on such third party web sites or as an indication of any affiliation, sponsorship or endorsement of such third party web sites. We take no responsibility for clinical decisions made on the basis of this information.

Don’t miss out:

The UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network is the driving force for improving Parkinson’s care and aims to connect and equip professionals to transform health and care services for people with Parkinson's.

The tools, education and data it provides are here to help support service improvement and professional development.

The network links key professionals and people affected by Parkinson’s, bringing new opportunities to learn from each other and work together for change.

Visit the UK Parkinson's Excellence Network.