Which of the following is NOT one of the key principles of palliative care?

The correct answer highlights an important distinction in palliative care. While preparing a patient for their impending death is certainly an aspect of end-of-life care, it does not align with the key principles of palliative care itself. Palliative care is primarily focused on enhancing the quality of life for patients facing serious, life-limiting conditions through relief from various forms of suffering—be it physical, psychological, or spiritual.

The core principles of palliative care include providing relief from symptoms that cause distress, addressing pain effectively, and integrating psychological and spiritual aspects into the care strategy. These principles emphasize comfort and support for both patients and their families rather than a singular focus on death.

Thus, the other choices represent fundamental aspects of palliative care, prioritizing comprehensive support and symptom management. In contrast, the preparation for impending death can be seen as a component of broader end-of-life care practices, which are not exclusive to palliative care approaches.