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Managing an intentional overdose in a hospice.
Toby Dinnen1, Hannah Armstrong1, Paul Perkins1,2
1Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK.
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care
|July 16, 2017
Summary
A patient intentionally overdosed on oxycodone, presenting complex ethical and practical challenges in palliative care. This case highlights managing overdose within hospice guidelines when patients refuse life-prolonging treatment.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Oncology
- Clinical Ethics
Background:
- A cancer patient with an advance directive refused conventional treatment and life-prolonging care.
- The patient had previously expressed a wish to avoid hospital admission.
Observation:
- The patient was admitted to a hospice in an unconscious state following an intentional overdose of oxycodone.
- Management occurred within a palliative care setting, adhering to the patient's advance decision.
Findings:
- The case illustrates significant practical and ethical dilemmas encountered in managing intentional overdose within palliative care.
- Balancing patient autonomy, advance directives, and clinical interventions poses unique challenges.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for clear protocols and ethical frameworks for managing overdose in hospice settings.
- It highlights the importance of respecting patient autonomy and advance care planning, even in complex overdose scenarios.