Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care

Abstract

The Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care offers a comprehensive and evidence-based foundation in the principles and practice of modern palliative medicine. This essential guide is rooted in a holistic, person-centred ethos, affirming life while alleviating suffering for individuals and families facing life-limiting illness. Its vast scope encompasses the full spectrum of care, from managing complex ethical dilemmas and mastering communication skills to delivering detailed symptom control across all clinical specialties. It celebrates the vital roles of the multidisciplinary team and integrates profound psychological, social, and spiritual support with expert pharmacological knowledge. The handbook provides indispensable, quick-reference guidance on terminal care, emergencies, and complex pharmacology. Uniquely, its perspective spans the entire life course, from paediatrics and transitional care to older adulthood frailty and dementia, and extends beyond the individual to consider family, community, and population-based palliative care and bereavement. This revised edition confronts crucial contemporary challenges, including care internationally, in humanitarian crises, hospice, hospital, and community governance, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and features novel chapters on artificial intelligence, media representation, and supporting people with learning disabilities. Designed for all healthcare professionals, at all stages, this meticulously updated handbook remains an indispensable resource for delivering dignified, skilled, and holistic care to those with life-limiting conditions and those who are dying.