Table 1.

Essential core competencies

Understand the principles of palliative care

Understand that there are different trajectories of the decline at the end of life for different illnesses

Be able to identify patients with palliative care needs

Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of standard tools available to identify patients with palliative care needs. A range of tools are available such as the Supportive and Palliative Care Indicators Tool (SPICT- www.spict.org.uk)

Understand the principles of palliative care and be able to provide holistic care, to improve Quality of Life (QOL), assure dignified death, through effective team work.

Understand and integrate palliative care in the clinical care of all life-limiting, life- threatening and advanced chronic illness.

Be able to complete a holistic assessment of patient needs and provide appropriate care for the physical, psychological, social and spiritual issues through team work

Demonstrate ability to carry out a comprehensive physical assessment and provide good symptom management

Demonstrate confidence in the use of essential palliative care medications (including opioids)

Initiate and frequently review a plan of care for a terminally ill patient that is based upon a comprehensive interdisciplinary assessment of the patient and family’s expressed values, goals, and needs.

Be able to effectively discuss the plan with the patient and family (including giving information on diagnosis, prognosis, discussing death and dying)

Be able to provide care in the patient’s preferred place (home/community setting)

Be aware of the ethical and legal framework in providing care