What is palliative sedation?

Palliative sedation is carefully monitored medication given to a terminally ill patient to cause sleepiness or unconsciousness. This is an end-of-life option for terminally ill patients whose symptoms are severe and are unable to be adequately treated. Offered by many hospice programs for appropriate patients, palliative sedation can continue until a patient’s death. As this requires constant monitoring, this option is usually only available at hospice homes, hospitals, or other spaces with 24/7 medical care.