Question

A 74-year-old woman with advanced COPD and heart failure is thought to be in the last days of life. She is increasingly breathless at rest and distressed. Oral Morphine has been ineffective and she struggles to swallow. What is the most appropriate route and approach to managing her breathlessness?

Accepted Answer

Start subcutaneous Morphine via syringe driver and titrate for symptom relief

Answer

Increase oral Morphine despite swallowing difficulty

Answer

Avoid opioids because they may depress respiration

Answer

Use short-acting benzodiazepines alone

Answer

Offer no pharmacological treatment

Practice question

A 74-year-old woman with advanced COPD and heart failure is thought to be in the last days of life. She is increasingly breathless at rest and distressed. Oral Morphine has been ineffective and she struggles to swallow. What is the most appropriate route and approach to managing her breathlessness?