This Scottish study aimed to characterise the symptom profile, symptom management requirements and outcomes of hospitalised Covid-19 positive patients referred for palliative care. It was also aimed to establish how this may differ to a 'typical' palliative care caseload. Data was captured from the 30th March 2020 - 26th April. 186 patients were included. Dyspnoea and agitation were the most prevalent symptoms, 75% of patients were prescribed continuous subcutaneous infusion for symptom control, which was effective in 78.6% of patients. Compared to a 'typical caseload', the COVID-19 cohort were on the caseload for less time and had a higher death rate.
Hetherington, L. et al. COVID-19 and Hospital Palliative Care - A service evaluation exploring the symptoms and outcomes of 186 patients and the impact of the pandemic on specialist Hospital Palliative Care. Palliative Medicine, 34 (9) p 1256 - 1262.