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

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 patients
disease journey - some patients may be diagnosed
and die very quickly others may live with their
chronic illness for years gradually losing their
independence

Activity 1
The right of every
patient
Terminal care

Is only provided by specialist

staff
Hospice care

Cancer care
Home care
Symptom control
Physician assisted
suicide

Care of advanced progressive

disease
Care of the dying

Euthanasia

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