Approach to the terminal stage cancer patients

Abstract

Sickness and death are the two unavoidable conditions for physicians to face, especially in the patients with terminal stage cancer. Approaching to dying patients may be troublesome to some physicians. Holistic approach is the hallmark, which should describe both physical and psychological aspects. Psychological approach begins when telling the diagnosis to the patients. Psychological support to the patients and their families is necessary. Physical aspect focuses on palliative care and symptoms control, especially pain management. In dying patients, physicians should provide the patients to die with dignity and peaceful. Terminal care needs to be provided under the supervision of an interdisciplinary team.