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Regina Fink,
Kelly Arora,
Amos Bailey,
Maurice Scott,
and
Nancy Robertson
Palliative care provides important support for people living with serious or life-limiting illnesses and their family caregivers. In this course, you will learn to use symptom assessment tools to better understand which symptoms are present and which are most distressing. In subsequent weeks you will learn about some of the most common and distressing symptoms such as anorexia (loss of appetite), dyspnea (shortness of breath), fatigue (weakness), delirium(confusion) and constipation and nausea/vomiting. For each of these symptoms, you will learn about the underlying cause and potential ways to support people and their families to manage the symptoms with simple practical and non-medical approaches as well as a review of medications as appropriate. In addition, you will learn to help people with their emotional response to symptoms and loss of function.
Read more
Palliative care provides important support for people living with serious or life-limiting illnesses and their family caregivers. In this course, you will learn to use symptom assessment tools to better understand which symptoms are present and which are most distressing. In subsequent weeks you will learn about some of the most common and distressing symptoms such as anorexia (loss of appetite), dyspnea (shortness of breath), fatigue (weakness), delirium(confusion) and constipation and nausea/vomiting. For each of these symptoms, you will learn about the underlying cause and potential ways to support people and their families to manage the symptoms with simple practical and non-medical approaches as well as a review of medications as appropriate. In addition, you will learn to help people with their emotional response to symptoms and loss of function.
Read more
Palliative care provides important support for people living with serious or life-limiting illnesses and their family caregivers. In this course, you will learn to use symptom assessment tools to better understand which symptoms are present and which are most distressing. In subsequent weeks you will learn about some of the most common and distressing symptoms such as anorexia (loss of appetite), dyspnea (shortness of breath), fatigue (weakness), delirium(confusion) and constipation and nausea/vomiting. For each of these symptoms, you will learn about the underlying cause and potential ways to support people and their families to manage the symptoms with simple practical and non-medical approaches as well as a review of medications as appropriate. In addition, you will learn to help people with their emotional response to symptoms and loss of function.
You will be able to immediately use these insights, skills, and tools in your work with people living with serious illness. In other courses, you will learn communication skills, whole person assessment, how to ease physical pain and explore ways to ease psycho-social-spiritual distress.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/6v6te6/easing
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Common Symptoms and Anorexia
Welcome! In this module, you will learn about physical symptom assessment and then about the distressing symptoms of anorexia (loss of appetite) and cachexia (extreme weight loss). People living with serious illness often have more than five non-pain symptoms, like loss of appetite, dyspnea, weakness, confusion and many others that are contributing to suffering. You will learn how to use a symptoms assessment tool to help providers understand what symptoms are present and what is most distressing and needs prompt attention. In the second part of this week, you will learn about the common symptom of anorexia: Loss of appetite. When you understand anorexia you are able to look for reversible causes, support patient and family emotional distress, and offer practical help to manage this problem.
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Syllabus
Introduction to Common Symptoms and Anorexia
Welcome! In this module, you will learn about physical symptom assessment and then about the distressing symptoms of anorexia (loss of appetite) and cachexia (extreme weight loss). People living with serious illness often have more than five non-pain symptoms, like loss of appetite, dyspnea, weakness, confusion and many others that are contributing to suffering. You will learn how to use a symptoms assessment tool to help providers understand what symptoms are present and what is most distressing and needs prompt attention. In the second part of this week, you will learn about the common symptom of anorexia: Loss of appetite. When you understand anorexia you are able to look for reversible causes, support patient and family emotional distress, and offer practical help to manage this problem.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches methods for assessing physical symptoms which is relevant for a patient's overall care
Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners with the addition of practical, non-medical approaches
Provides tools and skills that are highly relevant to a wide range of healthcare professionals
Covers a variety of common distressing symptoms, offering a comprehensive study of an essential aspect of the field
This course offers guidance on how to help people cope with their emotional response to symptom and loss of function, catering to a holistic view of their wellbeing
Provides practical and non-medical approaches to symptom management in addition to a review of medications
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Reviews summary
Practical symptom management in palliative care
According to learners, this course provides a practical and relevant overview for healthcare professionals and caregivers dealing with serious illness. Students say it offers valuable insights into easing common distressing physical symptoms like dyspnea and nausea, with a strong emphasis on simple, non-medical approaches. While praised for providing a solid foundation and offering skills for immediate application in practice, some learners noted that it could potentially benefit from more in-depth coverage on complex cases or specific conditions.
Provides overview; depth may vary.
"Great for those new to palliative care symptom management."
"While a solid foundation, I wished for more depth on very complex scenarios."
"Could be considered introductory for experienced practitioners."
Highly applicable for healthcare providers.
"This course is perfect for nurses, doctors, and caregivers in palliative care."
"Useful for anyone providing care for someone with a serious illness."
"The content directly enhanced my ability to support my patients."
Addresses key distressing physical issues.
"It was helpful to see common symptoms like dyspnea, nausea, and fatigue covered in detail."
"The course syllabus covers the most relevant symptoms I encounter."
"Appreciated the specific modules on symptoms like anorexia and cognitive impairment."
Highlights non-pharmacological interventions.
"Loved the focus on practical, non-drug methods to help ease symptoms."
"Learned valuable ways to support patients beyond just medication."
"The non-medical approaches were incredibly useful and easy to implement."
Provides immediately applicable skills.
"I learned practical ways to help patients and families right away."
"The strategies discussed for symptom management are highly applicable in my daily work."
"Gave me concrete, actionable steps I can use immediately."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Easing Physical Symptoms: It's Not Just Hospice Anymore with these
activities:
Review Biology and Anatomy
Show steps
Review basic biological and anatomical concepts to reinforce your understanding of the human body and its functions.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
-
Review high school biology textbooks or online resources.
-
Focus on topics such as cell structure, genetics, and human organ systems.
Explore Palliative Care Resources
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with reputable organizations and resources for palliative care information.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
-
Visit the websites of organizations such as the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) or the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM).
-
Explore online databases and libraries for articles and research on palliative care practices.
Engage in Discussion Forums
Show steps
Connect with peers to share insights, ask questions, and support each other's learning.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
-
Participate in online discussion forums or group chats dedicated to palliative care.
-
Share your experiences, case studies, or questions with fellow learners.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Identify a Palliative Care Mentor
Show steps
Seek guidance and support from an experienced palliative care professional to enhance your learning and career development.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
-
Attend conferences or workshops related to palliative care and network with potential mentors.
-
Reach out to healthcare professionals in your community who specialize in palliative care.
Identify common symptoms of serious illness
Show steps
Performing repetitive identification exercises will solidify your understanding of the most prevalent symptoms.
Show steps
-
Make a list of the most common symptoms of serious illness
-
For each symptom, describe its underlying cause and potential ways to manage it
-
Review your list regularly to reinforce your learning
Read 'Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine'
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge on the principles and practices of palliative care from a comprehensive textbook authored by experts in the field.
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book and allocate time for reading and studying.
-
Focus on chapters relevant to the course topics, such as symptom management and communication with patients and families.
Volunteer at a Palliative Care Facility
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and contribute to the well-being of patients and families in a palliative care setting.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
-
Identify local palliative care organizations or hospices that offer volunteer opportunities.
-
Inquire about volunteer roles that align with your interests and availability.
Develop a care plan for a patient with multiple symptoms
Show steps
Creating a care plan will provide hands-on practice in applying your knowledge to real-world situations.
Show steps
-
Gather information about the patient, including their symptoms, medical history, and social situation
-
Identify the patient's goals and priorities
-
Develop a plan that addresses the patient's symptoms, goals, and preferences
-
Monitor the patient's progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed
Write an Essay on a Palliative Care Topic
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of a specific aspect of palliative care by writing a well-researched and insightful essay.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
-
Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to the course.
-
Conduct research using credible sources such as medical journals, textbooks, and reputable websites.
-
Develop a clear thesis statement and outline your essay.
-
Write your essay, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and proper citation of sources.
Review Biology and Anatomy
Show steps
Review basic biological and anatomical concepts to reinforce your understanding of the human body and its functions.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review high school biology textbooks or online resources.
- Focus on topics such as cell structure, genetics, and human organ systems.
Explore Palliative Care Resources
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with reputable organizations and resources for palliative care information.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the websites of organizations such as the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) or the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM).
- Explore online databases and libraries for articles and research on palliative care practices.
Engage in Discussion Forums
Show steps
Connect with peers to share insights, ask questions, and support each other's learning.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Participate in online discussion forums or group chats dedicated to palliative care.
- Share your experiences, case studies, or questions with fellow learners.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Identify a Palliative Care Mentor
Show steps
Seek guidance and support from an experienced palliative care professional to enhance your learning and career development.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend conferences or workshops related to palliative care and network with potential mentors.
- Reach out to healthcare professionals in your community who specialize in palliative care.
Identify common symptoms of serious illness
Show steps
Performing repetitive identification exercises will solidify your understanding of the most prevalent symptoms.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Make a list of the most common symptoms of serious illness
- For each symptom, describe its underlying cause and potential ways to manage it
- Review your list regularly to reinforce your learning
Read 'Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine'
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge on the principles and practices of palliative care from a comprehensive textbook authored by experts in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book and allocate time for reading and studying.
- Focus on chapters relevant to the course topics, such as symptom management and communication with patients and families.
Volunteer at a Palliative Care Facility
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and contribute to the well-being of patients and families in a palliative care setting.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify local palliative care organizations or hospices that offer volunteer opportunities.
- Inquire about volunteer roles that align with your interests and availability.
Develop a care plan for a patient with multiple symptoms
Show steps
Creating a care plan will provide hands-on practice in applying your knowledge to real-world situations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information about the patient, including their symptoms, medical history, and social situation
- Identify the patient's goals and priorities
- Develop a plan that addresses the patient's symptoms, goals, and preferences
- Monitor the patient's progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed
Write an Essay on a Palliative Care Topic
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of a specific aspect of palliative care by writing a well-researched and insightful essay.
Browse courses on
Palliative Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to the course.
- Conduct research using credible sources such as medical journals, textbooks, and reputable websites.
- Develop a clear thesis statement and outline your essay.
- Write your essay, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and proper citation of sources.
Career center
Learners who complete Easing Physical Symptoms: It's Not Just Hospice Anymore will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Palliative Care Social Worker
Palliative Care Social Worker
Palliative Care Social Workers provide support to patients and families facing serious illness. They help patients manage their symptoms, communicate with their healthcare team, and make decisions about their care. This course can help Palliative Care Social Workers by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their patients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Palliative Care Social Workers.
Hospice Nurse
Hospice Nurse
Hospice Nurses provide care to patients who are terminally ill. They help patients manage their symptoms, provide emotional support, and coordinate their care. This course can help Hospice Nurses by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their patients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Hospice Nurses.
Palliative Care Physician
Palliative Care Physician
Palliative Care Physicians provide medical care to patients who are seriously ill. They help patients manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and make decisions about their care. This course can help Palliative Care Physicians by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their patients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Palliative Care Physicians.
Geriatric Care Manager
Geriatric Care Manager
Geriatric Care Managers help older adults and their families navigate the complexities of aging. They provide a range of services, including care coordination, financial management, and emotional support. This course can help Geriatric Care Managers by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Geriatric Care Managers.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers provide a range of services to individuals and families, including counseling, advocacy, and case management. This course can help Social Workers by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Social Workers.
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide a range of nursing care to patients in a variety of settings. This course can help Registered Nurses by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their patients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Registered Nurses.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people improve their ability to perform everyday activities. They work with people who have a variety of conditions, including physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, and mental health issues. This course can help Occupational Therapists by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Occupational Therapists.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people improve their mobility and function. They work with people who have a variety of conditions, including physical disabilities, injuries, and chronic pain. This course can help Physical Therapists by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Physical Therapists.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists help people improve their communication skills. They work with people who have a variety of conditions, including speech disorders, language disorders, and cognitive impairments. This course can help Speech-Language Pathologists by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Speech-Language Pathologists.
Chaplain
Chaplain
Chaplains provide spiritual and emotional support to people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes. This course can help Chaplains by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their patients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Chaplains.
Counselor
Counselor
Counselors provide a range of counseling services to individuals and families. This course can help Counselors by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively care for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Counselors.
Patient Advocate
Patient Advocate
Patient Advocates help patients navigate the healthcare system and ensure that they receive the care they need. This course can help Patient Advocates by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively advocate for their clients. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which are all essential for Patient Advocates.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators oversee the operations of healthcare facilities. This course may be useful for Healthcare Administrators by providing them with a better understanding of the challenges faced by patients and families who are dealing with serious illness. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which can be helpful for Healthcare Administrators in developing policies and procedures that support patients and families.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants perform a variety of tasks in a healthcare setting, including taking vital signs, drawing blood, and assisting with patient care. This course may be useful for Medical Assistants by providing them with a better understanding of the symptoms and challenges faced by patients with serious illness. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which can be helpful for Medical Assistants in providing compassionate and effective care.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing. This course may be useful for Phlebotomists by providing them with a better understanding of the symptoms and challenges faced by patients with serious illness. The course covers topics such as symptom assessment, pain management, and communication skills, which can be helpful for Phlebotomists in providing compassionate and effective care.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/6v6te6/easing
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Easing Physical Symptoms: It's Not Just Hospice Anymore.
Save
This memoir follows a young neurosurgeon as he is diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer. It moving and inspiring story about life and death.
Save
Discusses the challenges and opportunities of end-of-life care. It is written by a leading surgeon and author.
This comprehensive textbook provides an overview of all core aspects of palliative medicine. It discusses the basic principles, assessment and management of physical and psychological symptoms common in advanced disease.
Provides a personal perspective on the practice of palliative medicine. It is written by a world-renowned expert in the field.
This practical handbook provides essential information on all aspects of palliative care, including symptom management, communication skills, and ethical issues.
A personal and philosophical exploration of palliative care, with a focus on the importance of compassion and empathy.
Provides the core competencies and standards of practice for palliative care nursing. It valuable resource for nurses who want to improve their knowledge and skills in this field.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/6v6te6/easing
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Level
Introductory
Via
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Institution
University of Colorado System
Instructors
Regina Fink
Kelly Arora
Amos Bailey
Maurice Scott
Nancy Robertson
Language
English
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Palliative Care: It's Not Just Hospice Anymore. It's comprised of five courses:
- Palliative Care Capstone Projects
- What is Palliative Care?
- Easing Physical Symptoms: It's Not Just Hospice Anymore (viewing)
- Psychosocial and Spiritual Aspects of Palliative Care
- Pain Management: Easing Pain in Palliative Care
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