What is the recommended dosage of Ketamine for end-of-life care?

The recommended dosage of 20 mg of Ketamine for end-of-life care is consistent with its use in managing pain and providing sedation for patients experiencing severe discomfort. Ketamine is often utilized in these scenarios due to its unique properties as a dissociative anesthetic, which offers effective pain relief while also alleviating anxiety and distress.

Administering 20 mg helps to strike a balance between providing sufficient analgesia and avoiding excessive sedation that could compromise the patient's breathing or overall comfort. This dosage can be administered as a single intravenous push or as part of a continuous infusion, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider.

In end-of-life care, careful consideration is given to the patient's quality of life and comfort, and the 20 mg dosage provides a manageable amount that can be adjusted as necessary while focusing on the palliation of symptoms. This approach is vital in ensuring that patients can transition through this phase with dignity and minimal suffering.