The Liverpool Care Pathway

The Liverpool Care Pathway was a clinical approach developed in the UK to assist healthcare professionals in providing end-of-life care. It offered guidelines for managing symptoms like pain and breathing difficulties to ensure a patient’s comfort when approaching death. The pathway aimed to deliver compassionate, consistent care by documenting preferred treatments and minimizing unnecessary interventions. However, it faced criticism for its application, leading to its phased discontinuation in many settings. Overall, it was intended to support dignified and respectful death, emphasizing symptom control and holistic support for both patients and their families.