Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practice of palliative and end-of-life care, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients with life-limiting conditions. It covers essential domains including effective pain relief, symptom management, psychosocial and spiritual support, and the ethical complexities surrounding clinical decision-making in terminal care. Learners will be trained to deliver compassionate, patient-centred care through evidence-based approaches, interdisciplinary collaboration, and culturally sensitive communication. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical application, preparing healthcare professionals to support patients and families across diverse care settings with dignity and professionalism.

Course Objectives

At the end of the course, learners will be able to:

1. Describe the principles and goals of palliative and end-of-life care.
2. Apply evidence-based approaches for effective pain and symptom management.
3. Evaluate the psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and families.
4. Demonstrate communication techniques for discussing prognosis, advance care planning, and goals of care.
5. Interpret ethical dilemmas and legal considerations in palliative care practice.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion, participants will:

• Identify the core components of holistic palliative care.
• Implement appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies for symptom relief.
• Integrate psychosocial and spiritual support into patient-centred care plans.
• Facilitate sensitive discussions around terminal illness, decision-making, and family dynamics.
• Appraise ethical principles to resolve complex clinical scenarios at the end of life.