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palliative geriatrics oncology

Palliative Performance Scale (PPS)

Measures functional decline in palliative care patients across 5 domains. PPS <50% associated with median survival <3 months. Guides goals of care and support planning.

Score interpretation

PPS 80-100%: Good functional status

→ Active treatment possible; goals: curative/life-prolonging; advance care planning introduction; support independence

PPS 50-70%: Declining function — months to live

→ Shift to comfort-focused goals; symptom management; palliative care team involvement; anticipatory prescribing; carer support

PPS 10-40%: Terminal phase — weeks or days

→ End-of-life care pathway; subcutaneous syringe driver; discontinue non-essential medications; anticipatory medications for pain, secretions, agitation; spiritual/emotional support; DNAR

Interpretation bands for the PPS Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.