160 likes | 448 Views
Introduction to Palliative Care. Aims of Session. To increase understanding of Palliative Care To identify some of the life threatening conditions this approach is appropriate for To be aware of the role and responsibilities of the nursing auxiliary in Palliative Care.
E N D
Aims of Session • To increase understanding of Palliative Care • To identify some of the life threatening conditions this approach is appropriate for • To be aware of the role and responsibilities of the nursing auxiliary in Palliative Care
What is Palliative Care? • Palliative care is an approach to looking after someone with a life threatening illness • It means not just looking after their physical needs but also taking into account what their illness means to their social, psychological and spiritual well being
What is Palliative Care? • The goal of Palliative Care is to achieve the best quality of life for patients and for their families for however long they have • It can be applicable at any stage in a patient’s disease journey - some patients may be diagnosed and die very quickly others may live with their chronic illness for years gradually losing their independence
The right of every patient Terminal care Cancer care Symptom control Physician assisted suicide Euthanasia Is only provided by specialist staff Hospice care Home care Care of advanced progressive disease Care of the dying Activity 1
The Basis of Nursing and Palliative Care • Always putting the person first • Helping achieve holistic living not just looking after the physical • Working in partnership with the patient and their loved ones • Identifying with the patient their needs
The Basis of Nursing and Palliative Care • Involving the patient in decision-making • Promoting and maintaining function and independence as far as possible for some patients right to the end!!! …in order to maintain the patients’ independence, decision making and dignity
Who receives Palliative Care? Any patient with a life threatening, non-curable disease, for example: - Cancer - End stage Heart Failure - COPD (Respiratory Disease) - Multiple Sclerosis - Motor Neurone Disease
When does a person require Palliative Care? At any time during their illness because the diagnosis can have a huge impact on the person, their family, carers and friends
How is Palliative Care given? • Through……. • Psychological Support • Emotional Support • Spiritual Support • Assessing and Treating Physical Symptoms • Effective End of Life Care
What is your Role? • Communication – listening, human contact, • “Being there” • Building a trusting relationship • Maintaining dignity by providing help the patient wants – promoting independence • Help adjustment, acknowledge loss of role and function • Involve Patient and Family in all aspects of care
What is your Role? • Assisting with essential care, e.g. personal hygiene, mouth care, pressure area care • Report Symptoms or Concerns • Comfort Measures • Promote Calm, Safe Environment – curtains, side room, own bed linen, bed cage, consider temperature of patient and environment, lighting etc