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Potent Pharmaceuticals Of Terminal Dementia

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Potent Pharmaceuticals in Terminal Dementia:
The Benefits of Potent Opiates, Benzodiazepines, and Anti-psychotics in End-Stage Dementia
Claire Bassett
Excelsior College
Abstract

Potent pharmaceuticals like Haldol (haloperidol), Roxanol (morphine sulfate oral suspension), and Ativan (lorazepam) have clear benefits in Advanced Dementia (AD) patients. Though often contraindicated in elderly and demented patients, these and similar medications are frequently used in hospice and palliative care settings for terminally ill patients. Elderly and demented patients can frequently have reactions to these medications that are the opposite of their intended effect, which can discourage providers from utilizing these medications. …show more content…

California has a population of approximately 38.8 million (Census Bureau, 2015). Dementia is a degenerative condition of the brain that may damage all parts of a person 's functioning. Memory, personality, social functioning, problem-solving, and eventually even physical abilities can all be affected. Once a person notices symptoms and seeks treatment, there is no cure. There are medications and therapies that can slow the progression of dementia, but nothing can restore what has been lost. Dementia is typically a disease of "old age," and dementia was considered a normal part of aging for many years. In the advanced stages of dementia, patients typically lose the ability to communicate, and either the desire or the ability to take in nourishment. This stage is typically called the Terminal Stage or End-Stage Dementia. The absence of response to external stimuli does not mean that these individuals are not suffering. These patients still possess the ability to feel pain, fear, and to some extent can be comforted. Hospice and Palliative care programs exist to provide care for those approaching the end of life, and to give them the ability to pass in a peaceful way, with as the support of their loved ones and caregivers. Dignity and the absence of pain and stressors are an important part of this specialized care. Too often, however, dementia

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