AboutMargot RN BScN CGN Expertise I nursed my own Mother and Grandmother at home when they were dying so I have personal experience with the emotions involved. I have also spent the last 15+ years as a Registered Nurse caring for The Elderly and Terminally Ill and it has brought me great satisfaction. I am willing to answer any questions I can.
Experience
Past/Present clients Hundreds of Long Term Care Residents as well as hundreds of Cleitns and families in the community (including my Mother and Grandmother).
Question my brother-in-law has stage 4 prostate cancer metasized to bone. He is currently under hospice care after 2 years of chemo and hormone therapy. The end is near.
His pain levels are unbearable. he's on oxycotin, vicodin and has taken pain suppositories. Morphine makes him throw up so he won't take it.
What else can you suggest to manage the pain? Its horrible to see him in so much pain. Everything I read says there's no need for patients to be in so much pain. We're trying to find the answer so he doesn't have to suffer more.
Answer Hi Lela and thaks for writing,
Ca of the Bone is one of the more painful diseases, but no one should be in pain today. I suggest that someone speak to his physician asap and discuss pain relief; get a referral to a Pain Specialist or Hospice for a short-term visit to get it under control if you have to.
Every case is different, but you should ask about a Fentanyl Patch (applied to the skin in various doses and provides analgesia for 72 hours) as well as a second fast acting narcotic for breakthrough pain, you might try Demeol or Mehtadone.
I hope this helps, please be the squeaky wheel and make noise until the doctor gets the pain controlled.
