You are physically or emotionally exhausted.
You become ill and need time to recover.
The caregiver may need help with pain or other symptoms.
The caregiver may want to attend an important event.
The Attending Physician continues the patient’s primary medical management while coordinating with the hospice team in directing care.
The Hospice Medical Director meets with the team members, reviews the patient’s medical record, consults on the plan of care and collaborates with the attending physician.
Registered Nurses visit the patient as often as needed, evaluating the physical needs of the patient. The hospice nurse provides education to the family members about the disease process. The hospice nurse is very knowledgeable about pain and symptom control and is able to be the consistent eyes and ears of the physician.
Social Workers review the overall emotional and practical needs of the patient and family. They research and introduce community resources, help in planning patient setting changes and provide emotional and psychological support to the entire family during this vulnerable time.
Chaplains provide spiritual support for the patient and his or her family.
Hospice Nursing Assistants provide personal care for the patient, including bathing, dressing, changing bed linens, grooming and light household tasks.
Volunteers provide companionship, emotional support, practical household tasks, or allow the caregivers respite time.
The Physical Therapist may evaluate the functional capabilities of the patient and/or teach the family various transfer techniques.
Speech and Occupational Therapists are available for patients with unique needs.
With a family centered approach to care, the team develops an individualized plan of care with the patient/family. The plan of care will include all necessary medications to control symptoms and all medical equipment needed for comfort and care, at no cost to you.
