Episode 8: Palliative care with Jessica McFarlin (part 2)

The podcast explores palliative care in the ICU, focusing on comfort measures, medication choices, and communication strategies with families facing end-of-life decisions. Dr. Jess McFarlane provides guidance on managing patient symptoms like secretions and dyspnea, particularly for those with neurological illnesses, and emphasizes tailoring medication to individual needs, considering factors like renal disease. McFarlane stresses the importance of addressing spiritual needs and preparing families for what to expect during the dying process, including the possibility of stopping tube feeds while still offering food and drink for comfort. The discussion also covers navigating difficult conversations with families, such as when surgery is unlikely to be beneficial or when families are relying on faith for a miracle, advocating for empathic communication and aligning statements.