Psychosocial Issues at the End of Life: Definition, Theory, and Intervention
by Jeff Kendall, PsyD 5 CE Credits
Description:
The emotional responses of people with incurable illness are multifaceted and may vacillate throughout their end of life care. Additionally, the psychological impact of a terminal illness is not limited to just the patient, but encompasses the entire family unit. This course provides healthcare professionals with a definition of end-of-life care as well as a description of the prevalence of psychiatric disorders during this phase of care. Psychological theories regarding death and dying are presented and lead into a description of the emotional reactions encountered by both patients and caregivers. This course concludes with a presentation of psychological treatment techniques used to overcome these emotional reactions and assist patients and caregivers to improve quality of life during the end of life.
Learning Objectives:
After completing this course, health professionals will be able to:
- Define “end of life” and “palliative care” in relation to the care continuum and articulate three conceptualizations of components of a “good death”.
- State the prevalence of two common psychiatric disorders in patients with incurable disease.
- Describe two prominent psychological theories regarding coping with death and dying.
- Identify three common emotional reactions patients and families experience at the end of life.
- Employ three behavioral interventions to assist patients at the end of life.
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