The care of patients dying from cancer.

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  • 1 November 1982
    • journal article
    • Vol. 32  (244) , 685-9
Abstract
A census of seriously ill cancer patients at home and in hospital was undertaken in 1977 in Southampton Health District. One hundred and thirty-seven patients were identified in whom no further curative treatment was appropriate. Ninety-seven (71 per cent) were interviewed, 63 at home and 34 in hospital. Thirty-four per cent of patients reported moderate or severe pain in the 24 hours prior to interview. Similar proportions were found in the home and in hospital. Only 5 per cent were receiving oral diamorphine. Night nursing and home help services did not meet the needs of the patients.