Glossary

An unpleasant physical and emotional sensation caused when nerves send a message to the brain that there is damage to the body. Pain is experienced differently by different people and can be influenced by many factors, including fatigue, worry, anxiety, depression or sadness.

Special nerve endings that send a message to the brain that there is damage to the body.

An approach to care that focuses on comfort and quality of life for those affected by progressive, life threatening illness. The goal of palliative care is to control pain and other symptoms, support emotional, spiritual and cultural needs and maximize functioning.

The removal of fluid from the abdominal cavity. The skin is numbed using a local anesthetic, and a needle or catheter is inserted into the abdomen to drain the fluid.

A forecast or estimate of what will probably happen in the course of a disease, including its likely outcome.

A person chosen by the patient as a substitute decision maker with authority to make decisions on the patient’s behalf if the patient is unable to do so.

A type of medication that acts on the brain to improve energy, mood and alertness. Requires a prescription.