Safe Use of Subcutaneous Diphenhydramine in the Inpatient Hospice Unit.

Background: Diphenhydramine (DPH) is most commonly used via oral, topical, intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) routes for the palliation of pruritus, treatment of extrapyramidal symptoms, management of parkinsonism and for allergic reactions. However, many hospice patients are unable to take oral medications and/or do not have IV access. Moreover, topical administration has a relatively slow rate of absorption.

The Effects of a Single Session of Music Therapy on the Agitated Behaviors of Patients Receiving Hospice Care.

Background: Research suggests that agitation is a common symptom for hospice patients, but while studies have examined the outcomes of music therapy on the agitated behaviors of patients in other settings, none have addressed this symptom in patients with terminal illnesses.

Objective: The study objective was to determine whether a single session of music therapy provided by a board certified music therapist and using the entrainment principle would decrease agitation in hospice patients.

Design: This pilot study was a single-blind, pretest/posttest design.

Hypoglycemia management in nondiabetic adults at the end of life #291.

Hypoglycemia can be both an uncomfortable symptom and a life-limiting condition. In patients with altered mental status who have a fair to good functional capacity, this could significantly detract from their ability to enjoy life. There are a variety of treatment options, including corrective action and management of the side effects of the adrenergic discharge that should be considered, as long as they are consistent with the patient’s goals of care and comfort.

Increased tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and natural killer cell (NK) function using an integrative approach in late stage cancers.

Natural products may increase cytotoxic activity of Natural Killer Cells (NK) Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha) while decreasing DNA damage in patients with late-stage cancer. Pilot studies have suggested that a combination of Nutraceuticals can raise NK cell function and TNF-alpha alpha activity and result in improved clinical outcomes in patients with late stage cancer. The objective of the study is to determine if Nutraceuticals can significantly raise NK function and TNF levels in patients with late stage cancer.