Palliative care to improve life with alcoholic liver cirrhosis: a systematic review

Abstract

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, life-threatening disease. Studies show that the 1-year mortality rate is 57%. According to the World Health Organization, palliative care can improve the quality of life for patients with liver cirrhosis, reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and lower healthcare costs. However, there is limited research on the use of palliative care in patients with liver cirrhosis. Four studies were identified that explored interventions conducted for patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis related to palliation. Three studies also examined the experiences of patients, relatives, and professionals with palliation. Three themes emerged from the examination of these articles: organisational structure, lack of knowledge, and anxiety about discussing the subject.