What is palliative care?

• A. Prolong life at all costs
• B. Care to alleviate suffering of those who are terminally ill, care does not prolong life
• C. Cures terminal illnesses
• D. Replaces doctors

Answer: (B)

Palliative care is about relieving suffering and supporting quality of life for people with serious or terminal illnesses. The emphasis is on managing pain and other distressing symptoms, helping with decision-making, and providing psychological and social support for both patients and families. It can be given alongside treatments aimed at curing or extending life, rather than being limited to end-of-life care. This focus on comfort, communication, and holistic support makes it the best fit for the idea described by the option: care dedicated to alleviating suffering in those facing terminal illness, without making a promise to prolong life at all costs. It’s not about curing the illness, and it doesn’t replace the physician or the rest of the care team.