WHAT IS PALLIATIVE CARE?
Palliative Care provides the best quality of life for patients with advanced diseases. It focuses on the relief of suffering including pain and other symptoms while ensuring a patient’s dignity.
The Palliative Care Program also addresses the impact illness and diseases can have on a patient’s daily life.
MANAGING DIFFICULT SYMPTOMS
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Pain management for complex cases where relief is difficult to achieve.
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Alleviating other symptoms that may accompany serious illness or side effects of treatment.
PLANNING FOR FUTURE CARE
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Discussion of treatment options.
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Support and assistance regarding treatment options.
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Help interpret the benefits and burdens of care such as tests, surgeries, or medications.
DISCHARGE PLANNING
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Insure a smooth transition from the hospital to home.
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Provide needed referrals for assistance at home or other community services.
PATIENT & FAMILY SUPPORT
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Provide emotional support to the patient and their family throughout the course of their hospitalization.
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Instruction about how to care for yourself or a loved one at home.
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Develop open communication between patients, their families, and the healthcare team.
