End-of-life issues in critically ill cancer patients.

This article discusses end-of-life issues in critically ill cancer patients. Since the majority of deaths will occur after limiting or withdrawing life support, focus should be given to ensuring that multidisciplinary family meetings are convened to discuss end-of-life decision making. Throughout the process of transitioning from cure to comfort care, it is essential to support the patient and the patient's family cultural beliefs and spiritual values, and to ensure good pain and symptom management. The use of protocols facilitates a smooth transition and potentially reduces variability between health care providers. Integrating measures into the ICU routine that will help health care providers cope with the care of a dying patient is recommended to avoid moral distress or emotional burnout.