In the Know
Palliative Care: What to Expect
When a patient receives palliative care at home, they can expect a range of supportive services tailored to their individual needs, aimed at enhancing their quality of life and providing comfort.
Comprehensive Assessment
A thorough assessment is conducted to understand the patient’s medical condition, symptoms, emotional needs and goals of care. This assessment helps develop a personalized care plan.
Pain and Symptom Management
Palliative care focuses on alleviating pain and managing symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue and anxiety. Medications and other interventions are used to control symptoms effectively.
Emotional and Spiritual Support
Palliative care providers offer emotional support to both the patient and their family members. This may include counseling and spiritual care to address concerns and provide comfort.
Coordination of Care
The care team will coordinate with the patient’s primary care physician, specialists and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless communication and continuity of care. They also assist with navigating the healthcare system and accessing community resources.
Advance Care Planning
Palliative care professionals assist patients in discussing and documenting their preferences for future medical care, including end-of-life decisions. This may involve creating advance directives, such as living wills or healthcare proxies.
Family Education and Support
A component of care is educating family members about the patient’s condition, treatment options and caregiving techniques. They also offer support and guidance to help family caregivers cope with the challenges of caregiving.
Comfort-focused Environment
Palliative care at home aims to create a comfortable and supportive environment that promotes dignity, respect and emotional wellbeing for the patient and their family.
Continued Monitoring and Adjustment
The care plan is responsive to changes in the patient’s condition. It is regularly reviewed and adjusted to ensure that the patient’s needs and preferences are met throughout their healthcare journey.
