This retrospective study from a 21-hospital system analyzed the effect of palliative medicine consultations on 30-day hospital readmission rates for patients with six diagnoses (heart failure, sepsis, pneumonia, COPD, AMI, and stroke). The research found statistically significant reductions in readmissions for heart failure, sepsis, and pneumonia patients who received consultations. While reductions were observed in other groups (stroke, AMI, COPD), these were not statistically significant. The study suggests that palliative care consultations may improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs, warranting further investigation and potential policy changes. The findings add to existing literature supporting the value of palliative care in mitigating readmissions.

Support the show

Thank you for your interest in Ethics in Palliative Medicine! Follow us at https://epionepalliative.com and on X: @PallCareEthics

This article presents an ethics case study concerning a 52-year-old male declared brain dead, whose family refuses to remove life support. Multiple perspectives—medical, nursing, chaplain, social work, legal, and ethical—are offered, exploring the conflict between the family's emotional denial of death and the medical team's obligation to uphold accepted medical standards. The case highlights the complexities of defining death in the modern era, the importance of cultural sensitivity in end-of-life care, and the challenges of navigating legal and ethical considerations when families disagree with medical assessments. The discussion examines various ethical frameworks, including Kantian ethics and utilitarianism, to guide decision-making. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the need for compassion and patience in dealing with grieving families while upholding medical and legal standards.

Support the show

Thank you for your interest in Ethics in Palliative Medicine! Follow us at https://epionepalliative.com and on X: @PallCareEthics

This case report details a rare instance of post-radiation lichen planus in a 64-year-old male, following radiation therapy for squamous cell carcinoma. The report examines the patient's medical history, clinical presentation, and treatment response to topical triamcinolone. The authors review existing literature on lichen planus, emphasizing its T-cell mediated inflammatory nature and its rare association with radiation therapy. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the pathophysiology and improve treatment of this complication. The case underscores the importance of considering radiation-induced lichen planus in patients with relevant exposure and symptoms.

Support the show

Thank you for your interest in Ethics in Palliative Medicine! Follow us at https://epionepalliative.com and on X: @PallCareEthics