@article{MAKHILLRJMS2024181231820,
    title = {Knowledge and Perception of Medical Students and Interns Regarding Palliative Care in A Tertiary Care Centre: A Cross‐Sectional Study},
    journal = {Research Journal of Medical Sciences},
    volume = {18},
    number = {12},
    pages = {860-864},
    year = {2024},
    issn = {1815-9346},
    doi = {makrjms.2024.12.860.864},
    url = {https://makhillpublications.co/view-article.php?issn=1815-9346&doi=makrjms.2024.12.860.864},
    author = {G.,Vishnu and},
    keywords = {Medical students, palliative care, WHO analgesic ladder},
    abstract = {Palliative care is a holistic, patient‐centered approach aimed at improving
the quality of life of individuals suffering from life‐threatening or chronic
illnesses. It focuses on the early identification, impeccable assessment,
and effective management of pain and other distressing physical,
psychosocial, and spiritual symptoms. Beyond symptom control, palliative
care provides emotional support, enhances communication, and helps
patients and their families navigate complex medical decisions, ensuring
dignity and comfort throughout the course of illness. It is applicable not
only for patients with terminal conditions such as cancer but also for
those with chronic, progressive diseases like heart failure, chronic kidney
disease, neurological disorders, and advanced respiratory illnesses. In
India, palliative care is still in its early stages, facing challenges such as a
lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and insufficient skills among
healthcare providers. There is a need for more focus on palliative care in
medical education. To assess knowledge and perception of medical
students and interns regarding palliative care A cross‐sectional study was
conducted among 210 medical students, including interns, at a tertiary
care center. Data were collected using a pre ‐structured questionnaire
designed to assess participants’ knowledge and perception of palliative
care principles and practices. The responses were entered in excel sheet
and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Among the participants, 85.8%
correctly identified the primary goal of palliative care as improving quality
of life. Most 85.4% recognized that it can be provided in hospitals, homes,
and hospices. However, 54.7% were uncertain whether all cancer patients
experience pain, indicating knowledge gaps. 96.2% identified Paracetamol
as the main Step I drug, and 89.6% selected Tramadol for Step II in the
WHO analgesic ladder. 60.4% agreed palliative care should begin at the
time of diagnosis, reflecting partial understanding of early integration.
Although a majority demonstrated foundational knowledge in palliative
care, critical gaps exist, particularly in understanding symptom burden
and timing of care. Educational interventions are needed to enhance
comprehensive training in palliative medicine during medical schooling.}
    }