Presenting Faculty
Vincent Vanston, MD
Session Overview
This session focuses on the assessment and management of respiratory symptoms commonly encountered in serious and complex illness, emphasizing timely, patient‑centered diagnostic and clinical decision‑making.
What Learners Will Gain
Learners will self‑report the ability to apply, analyze, and evaluate respiratory symptoms when making appropriate diagnostic and clinical decisions that have important consequences for patients and families experiencing serious and complex illness.
Respiratory Symptoms and Conditions Addressed
• Dyspnea
• Cough
• Malignant pleural effusions
• Acute airway obstruction
• Aspiration pneumonia
• Acute hypoxia
• Pneumothorax
Clinical Focus Areas
• Differential diagnosis of common and high‑risk respiratory symptoms
• Symptom assessment in advanced illness
• Clinical decision‑making to relieve distress and improve quality of life
• Supporting patients and families during acute respiratory events