Palliativinen

Palliativinen refers to a Finnish term meaning palliative. Palliative care is an approach to care for individuals and families facing serious illness, focusing on relieving suffering and improving quality of life. It is not limited to the end of life, but can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatments.

The core principles of palliative care include the relief of pain and other distressing symptoms, both physical and psychological. It also addresses spiritual and social needs, recognizing the holistic nature of a person's experience with illness. A multidisciplinary team, often including doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, works together to provide this comprehensive care.

Palliative care aims to support the patient's autonomy and decision-making, ensuring their wishes and values are respected. Communication is a key element, facilitating open discussions between the patient, their family, and the healthcare team about prognosis, treatment options, and goals of care. The ultimate goal is to maximize comfort, dignity, and well-being for the individual, regardless of their prognosis. This approach can significantly reduce hospitalizations and improve patient and family satisfaction with care.