Mastering Tasks Of Adolescene: The Key TomOptimum End Of Life Care of An Adolescent Dying of Cancer
- Author:
Suriati Mohamed Saini
;
Susan Mooi KoonTan
- Publication Type:Case Reports
- Keywords:
Adolescence, mastery of adolescent tasks, end-of-life care, death and dying.
- From:ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry
2011;12(1):1-3
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective: This case report highlights the optimum end-of-life care of an adolescent dying of
cancer. Method: We report our experience, as part of a multidisciplinary team in managing
the cancers of a female student who died an untimely death at the age of 15. Results: Our
role of motivating her for chemotherapy of her initial treatable carcinoma, became that of
palliative care upon discovery of a second malignancy. We helped the patient “live life to the
fullest” during her last days, she helped us realize that helping her master the tasks of
adolescence was optimum “end-of-life care” as well. Conclusion: to help an ill adolescent
die with dignity is to help her live whatever time she has left of her life. Allowing her to
participate in decisions regarding her treatment and in other bio-psycho-social needs of that
stage of life is crucial in helping her prepare for the end of life.
