Palliative Care (Nausea and Vomiting)

What is Palliative Care (Nausea/Vomiting) ❓

 Palliative care is treatment given to improve the quality of life of patients with serious illness and reduce any discomfort 🏥

 Nausea is the feeling of needing to vomit

 Vomiting is the the forceful discharge of stomach contents (through the mouth) 🤮

 Causes: medication e.g. opioids, anxiety, infection, cancer and/or treatment, stomach issues

What are the Symptoms of Nausea and Vomiting ❓

 Nausea 🤢

 Vomiting

 Regurgitation/reflux 😖

 Retching

 Which may cause:

 Pale skin

 Cold sweats 😰

 Salivation

 Pain/burning 🔥

 Headache

How do you Diagnose Nausea and Vomiting ❓

 Medical assessment 📋

 May need blood tests to determine cause 💉

How do you Treat Nausea and Vomiting ❓

 Simple measures: access to bowl/tissues, relaxation, small palatable meals 🍴

 Therapy, such as behavioural for anxiety

 Anti-sickness medications 💊

Why should I Worry about Nausea and Vomiting ❓

 May lead to dehydration, imbalances and nutritional deficiency 🥕

 Can reduce quality of life