Palliative care that is integrated early into the oncology care regimen improves quality of life (QOL), mood, and the delivery of end-of-life care for patients with advanced cancer. Palliative care syringe is a term used to make clear which specific elements of palliative care practice are associated with these beneficial outcomes.

The first known study to address this subject was presented in 2017. The cohort included 171 patients with incurable lung or noncolorectal gastrointestinal cancer who received early palliative care integrated with standard oncology care. A total of 2,921 visits took place — the typical patient experienced at least 17 visits. The average time per visit was about 30 minutes.

The results indicate that the consistent hallmarks of palliative care are addressing coping skills, which may improve QOL and depression, and managing symptoms, which is tailored to unique patient needs.
Most visits were focused on coping (64.2%) and symptom management (74.5%).

Other particularly helpful elements were:
- Rapport. All the clinicians reported that they focused their time on establishing rapport during the initial visit.
- Understanding of illness

Adapted from Medscape News & Perspective. Key elements in the "palliative care syringe' identified. Internet. Available at https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/887834?src=wnl_edit_tpal&uac=6705FY . Accessed on January 4, 2018. To view the entire article and all other content on the Medscape News and Perspective site, a free, one-time registration is required.