Conceptual Use Of Self-Determination In Palliative Care (723)

Abstract

1.Identify the evolution, definition, use and application of self-determination in clinical practice in palliative care.2.Review the literature and relevant examples of the use of self-determination in the application of palliative care.3.Discuss examples of self-determination as a method of clinical care responsibilities for health care practitioners. The concept of self-determination can be effectively used in palliative care. Extensive work in the field of psychology regarding self-determination can be appropriately applied to the care of chronically ill palliative care patients. This concept will be explored beyond the historical perspective using self-determination in advance directives. Aim1.To provide the foundational aspects of self-determination that can be applied to palliative care patients.2.To provide examples of the application of the concept of self-determination to clinical practice. Self-determination is an ardent component in the decision-making process in patient care. The ability to make a change or choose a treatment method lies at the heart of self-determination (Vansteenkiste & Sheldon, 2006.)This session will provide examples of change and choice related to palliative care decisions. Palliative care providers are effectively transitioning power, control, and responsibility back to the patient. Care issues can be resolved through the use of self-determination in clinical practice. The application of self-determination in palliative care presents a powerful concept of care that empowers, while providing a sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The session will provide supportive information on autonomy, competence, trust and appreciation as the strongest factors that support self-determination. Situational control and a supportive environment (physically as well as mentally) nourish the patient's self-determination. Examples of these types of supportive environments will be reviewed. Power struggles between clinicians and patients will be reviewed in an effort to explain the social relatedness aspect of care between the team and the patient so healthcare providers understand potential options for their behavior and practice. Autonomy, competence, trust and appreciation are the strongest factors that support self-determination so applicable examples will be provided that demonstrate changes that can be incorporated into palliative care programs and practice.