Palliative Care
Palliative care describes the relief and management of symptoms
and problems. It can apply to anyone who has a chronic, persistent
problem. In Hospice, it is directed at meeting the physical,
emotional, social and spiritual needs of terminally ill patients
and their caregivers.
Palliative care is designed to provide symptom management
of end stage disease and other conditions. These symptoms
may be caused by the illness itself or may be the result
of treatments, surgery or medication.
The hospice staff has advanced training and expertise in
symptom management of terminal illness which is based on
recommended protocols.
- Pain
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Breathing Difficulties
- Vomiting
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Constipation
- Fever
- Dry Mouth
- Depression
- Loss of Appetite
- Anxiety
- Skin Breakdown
- Edema
The hospice interdisciplinary team provides instructions
and demonstrations inpatient care so that caregivers become
confident in their role.
Caregiver counseling and support is offered in many areas
including end-of-life decision-making, spiritual needs, anticipatory
grief issues, community resource referrals and planning for
funerals. By addressing the physical, psychological, social
and spiritual needs of the patient and caregiver, quality
of life is usually improved for all concerned. Caregivers
know that help is no more than a phone call away.
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