Hospice :: essays research papers

HospiceGeneral Purpose of the DepartmentAs we have learned, the hospice idea is not new. Literally implication "given tohospitality," hospices provided comfort, kindness, and nourishment to people inneed hundreds of years ago. Today, hospices offer comfort to people as theynear the end of lifes journey.Hospice is a special appearance of caring for people with terminal illnesses and theirfamilies. It is a multidisciplinary health supervise program that is responsiblefor palliative and supportive care with consideration of the patients andfamilies wishes. Hospice focuses on care, not cure.Hospice care is great because it provides many benefits that arent possiblein a traditional acute or long-term health care setting. within hospice, thefamily of the patient is directly regard in making decisions and helping theirloved one. Hospice also gives the patient to have a great amount of control bydeciding where they want to degenerate the rest of their lives. It can also helpm ake choices about advanced directives which we will discuss shortly.Major Functions of the DepartmentHospice is a very unique department because it truly looks at the "big picture"and treats a spectrum of patient needs equally. Special attention is given toPhysical needs - this is the first and foremost function. Within hospice youare dealing with a patient that has been given a diagnosis of having 6 months orless to live. For many patients, relieving pain through medication is animportant part of hospice care. I have provided you with a list of ways thatpatients are made more comfortable. A goal of hospice it to help patients usetheir physical abilities as fully as possible.Social Needs - Sometimes little things make all the difference to people.Although these patients may not be as active as before their illness, you cansee on your handout a list of things that they probably still enjoy. Hospicecan help to make these things happen, as well as provide assistance withpracti cal issues like putting finances in order.Emotional Needs Hospice can help patients cope with loneliness, isolation, andthe fear of being abandoned. This is outlined on your handout as to how thehospice staff accomplishes this. Hospice also helps friends and families of thepatient express their emotions through group and bereavement counseling.Spiritual Needs - the realization that a persons spiritualty is of a dailyconcern to the patient has led hospice care to this area. Hospice tries toorganize the types of care outlined on your handout. Members of the clergy canalso help family and friends who are in need of spiritual support.