Question

A 68-year-old woman with advanced COPD and metastatic breast cancer has distressing breathlessness at rest despite optimal inhaler therapy and oxygen. She is on regular low-dose Morphine for pain. What is the most appropriate additional management for her breathlessness in a palliative context?

Accepted Answer

Increase her Morphine dose cautiously for symptomatic relief

Answer

Stop Morphine as it may worsen respiratory function

Answer

Start high-dose Benzodiazepines as monotherapy

Answer

Avoid all drugs and rely on fan therapy only

Answer

Offer curative radiotherapy to the lungs

Practice question

A 68-year-old woman with advanced COPD and metastatic breast cancer has distressing breathlessness at rest despite optimal inhaler therapy and oxygen. She is on regular low-dose Morphine for pain. What is the most appropriate additional management for her breathlessness in a palliative context?