Vic has been accepted into the Hospice program. The doctor evaluated her at 07h00 this morning and immediately gave her a strong pain-injection. She also put on a 75mg Durogesic patch. Vic will remain at home. We now have access to nursing professionals 24/7. A subcutaneous infusion will be set up this afternoon for the administration of all further pain medication . Vic will no longer drink any tablets.
Vic has a partial obstruction and an abscess in the abdomen.
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The continuous subcutaneous infusion of drugs by a small portable pump (sometimes called a “syringe driver”) is a major advance in terminal care, particularly for symptom control in the home. It has a number of advantages over intravenous therapy. It is safer (much less risk of infection and no risk of air embolus). The patient can remain fully ambulant. Tolerance does not develop to subcutaneous morphine as it does occasionally to IV morphine. (see Morphine)
The main indications for continuous subcutaneous infusions are vomiting, dysphagia, severe weakness or unconsciousness. They can be particularly useful for patients at home, either to control nausea and vomiting, or during the last days of life if the patient is no longer managing oral medication.
A continuous subcutaneous infusion of drugs is particularly useful in the management of malignant intestinal obstruction. (see Intestinal Obstruction) http://www.hospiceworld.org/book/subcutaneous-infusions.htm
In the words of Dr Sue Walter, MBBCH/PALLIATIVE MEDICINE, “Vic’s suffering is inhumane”.
She explained to us that Vic’s pain is what is keeping her alive. “An adrenaline rush is the fight or flight response of the adrenal gland, in which it releases adrenaline (epinephrine). When releasing adrenaline, one’s body releases dopamine which can act as a natural pain killer. An adrenaline rush causes the muscles to perform respiration at an increased rate improving strength. It also works with the nervous system to interpret impulses that trigger selective glands.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adrenaline_Rush
Maybe this is the final part of Vic’s journey. I do however expect her to bounce back!
Vic's Final Journey 