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Palliative cancer care - oral problems - Management
What assessment do I need to make?
- Perform a full history and examination. Assess concurrent symptoms, psychological state, social needs, and spiritual needs. See the CKS topic on Palliative cancer care - general issues.
- Assess the person's:
- Understanding of the diagnosis and their current problems, and how they and their family/carer are coping.
- Nutritional status and whether their fluid intake is adequate.
- Level of oral hygiene, and whether they can carry out routine oral care.
- Estimate the likely prognosis, if possible. For further information, see Prognostic Indicator Guidance (pdf).
In depth
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