Symptom management algorithms for palliative care.

In order to develop standards of care that alleviate pain and other distressing symptoms among dying patients, the Providence Hospice of Yakima team has developed and utilized pain and nonpain symptom management algorithms. In use since late 1993, the system is a success, as demonstrated by positive satisfaction surveys among physicians, staff, and family members. This article offers an introduction to the algorithmic process, key components of its success, and guidelines for further improvement in the care provided to dying patients.