title: Sedation at the end of life: a hospice's decision-making practices in the UK.
abstract: The administration of sedative drugs at the end of life raises both clinical and ethical challenges. This article details the evolution of sedation decision-making practices at a 14-bedded UK hospice over the course of 5 years through an initial review and two follow-up audits. Key areas, such as documented consideration of hydration status and discussion with family members, have been improved following the implementation of a checklist of decision-making prompts, demonstrating how practice can be improved and sustained over time.
authors.affiliation: Lecturer Practitioner, at Hospice of St Francis, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, UK.
authors.forename: Antonia
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Dean
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: Catherine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Woodwork
mesh_terms: D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D004989:Ethics; D006738:Hospices / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013727:Terminal Care; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives
keywords: Audit; Decision making; Palliative sedation; Terminal agitation