ELNEC Module 6 Practice Test

When life-sustaining therapy is withheld or discontinued, the focus shifts to relieving suffering and promoting comfort, with decisions guided by the patient’s own preferences and goals of care. This means prioritizing symptom relief—pain control, relief of shortness of breath, nausea, agitation, and distress—through appropriate medications and supportive measures, while also addressing emotional, spiritual, and social needs. It respects the patient’s autonomy and previously stated wishes, including advance directives and discussions about what quality of life means to them, and involves family or surrogates as appropriate. This approach is not about continuing every possible treatment or neglecting symptoms. Aggressive interventions that may prolong suffering are not the aim, and ignoring comfort or failing to adjust symptom management would be contrary to patient-centered end-of-life care.