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As part of the palliative care approach, the patient may set different goals for treatment. It is likely that these goals will have to be adjusted as the patient’s illness progresses.
During the early stages of illness, treatment may be centred on finding a cure, while during the latter stages, the patient may want to manage symptoms and maintain or restore certain functions. Toward the end of the patient’s life, treatment may focus completely on the comfort of the patient and family.
Medical treatment may include managing pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting. The patient needs to be closely monitored and the treatment plan should be adjusted to ensure that the patient’s best interests are always kept in mind.
Patients may experience feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness. Psychological and spiritual counselling should be made available to the patient to address these fears and concerns.
What is the patient care plan?
Dr Teresa Swart, part-time lecturer in palliative care at Stellenbosch University who is currently completing her masters degree in palliative medicine, says when a patient is first referred to hospice, the patient is assessed and the patient care plan is drawn up, depending on what level of care the patient needs.
This takes into account whether the patient is still mobile, working and what his/her pain control needs are. The patient care plan is discussed regularly with members of the palliative care team and adjusted if needed.
Sources:
www.stoppain.org
Dr Teresa Swart, Part-time lecturer in palliative care at Stellenbosch University, currently completing her masters degree in palliative medicine.
(Thania Gopal, Health24, April 2009)
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