• have an understanding of the pathology of Motor Neuron Disease & Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
• describe the dying process as it relates to these conditions
• be able to identify & manage common symptoms experienced by these patients at the end of life
• explore the challenges of caring for these groups of patients from a practical, psychological & ethical perspective

     Learning outcomes:

• be aware of the disease process in Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease & Multiple System Atrophy
• discuss prognosis & the dying phase in relation to this group of patients
• recognize the importance of a multi-professional approach to management
• explore the challenges of caring for these patients & those close to them by a review of practical, psychological & ethical issues in end of life care

• develop an understanding of the pathology of cardiac failure & the concept of disease burden
• be aware of the lived experience of cardiac failure
• identify difficulties in recognizing the dying process
• explore the challenges of caring for these patients considering practical, psychological & ethical management

• explore the pathology of renal failure & discuss when renal failure becomes ‘end-stage’
• describe the dying process in renal failure & identify common symptoms that arise, along with the appropriate management
• recognize the experience of living with end-stage renal failure
• understand how the practical, emotional & ethical challenges can be met through working in partnership with others

• recognize the variety of respiratory disorders & how to identify the dying process
• discuss common symptoms in respiratory disease & the appropriate management
• review key issues surrounding long-term oxygen therapy
• understand the implications of the end of life for patients with respiratory disease as they relate to practical, psychological & ethical aspects of care