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Palliative cancer care - nausea & vomiting - Management
What simple measures may help nausea and vomiting in palliative care?
- Make sure the person has access to a large bowl, tissues, and water.
- The sight and smell of food or drink may provoke nausea:
- Provide a calm environment away from where food is usually prepared or consumed.
- If the person is usually responsible for cooking, make alternative arrangements.
- Make sure that meals are small and palatable.
- Carbohydrate meals are often better tolerated.
- Offer cool, fizzy drinks (citrus flavours are often preferred).
- Consider parenteral hydration if appropriate.
- Consider relaxation and acupressure bands to relieve symptoms.
- Consider cognitive behavioural therapy for anticipatory nausea or vomiting.
- In general, avoid nasogastric suction.
In depth
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