Abstract

Palliative care embodies the ethical imperative to alleviate suffering while maintaining the patient's quality of life in the face of serious illness. This imperative often entails a delicate balance between providing relief from distressing symptoms and managing the potential risks associated with treatment modalities. This article examines the ethical considerations inherent in navigating this balance in palliative care practice. It explores the complexities of symptom management, emphasizing the importance of tailoring interventions to meet individual patient needs while minimizing adverse effects. The principles of informed decision making and patient autonomy are highlighted as essential components of ethical practice, ensuring that patients are empowered to participate in shared decision making and advance care planning. Special attention is given to pain management, a cornerstone of palliative care, where ethical dilemmas arise regarding the appropriate use of opioids and the risk of under treatment. By embracing a patient-centered approach and engaging in ethical reflection, palliative care providers can navigate the intricate interplay between relief and risk, delivering compassionate care that upholds the principles of beneficence, autonomy, and no maleficence.