Essential knowledge: The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role This includes knowledge of: Basic information about the use of pain relieving medication for staff, client and their family and within level of responsibility Diverse cultural, religious and spiritual factors underpinning client choices at end of life Effects of life-limiting illnesses on the activities of daily living Equipment used in the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of client needs and activities of daily living Ethical and legal issues related to a palliative care approach Hydration and nutrition requirements during palliative care and at end-of-life Impact of loss and grief on clients, family, carers and staff members Own role and responsibilities, and those of other team members involved in delivery of palliative care Relevant policies, protocols and practices of the organisation in relation to the provision of palliative care Relevant resources available to those requiring bereavement support State and Territory legislation on advanced care planning and advanced care directives The palliative approach to care of clients and their family Understanding of pathophysiological process Various signs of imminent death/deteriorationof human anatomy and physiology in relation to: advanced care directives clinical nursing skills and symptom management complex nursing interventions customs, religious, cultural and spiritual beliefs end of life care grief/loss for family and client and grief counselling loss of personal life goals nursing interventions organ donation personal coping strategies and values and attitudes regulations and legislation request for autopsy self care and self reflection social and community support systems working within a reflective practice framework |