Although that’s part of it.
But it is also about improving quality of life and embracing what matters most to people.
This Palliative Care Week, Echuca Regional Health’s community palliative care nurse Libby Bell is highlighting the full range of care she and the rest of the team gives.
‘‘We have many patients who we have looked after for several years,’’ she said.
‘‘We aim to care for the ‘whole’ person.
‘‘This includes their physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual well-being.
‘‘Families and carers are at the forefront of our care, ensuring they feel supported and cared for is a high priority.’’ ERH’s community palliative care team includes five ‘‘very passionate’’ palliative care nurses who visit clients and families in their home to help optimise their quality of life.
The hospital also has two purpose-built palliative care suites on the rehab ward manned by a team of palliative care nurses, social workers and other allied health.
If patients have a life-limiting illness, they can be admitted there for symptom control with the aim to be discharged back home or for end-of-life care.
While unfortunately not every patient that is palliative is admitted to the specialist suites, they can be managed with the same care on the general medical and surgical wards with support from the palliative care coordinator.
‘‘It is important our clients are actively involved in their care and decision making,’’ Ms Bell said.
‘‘We openly talk to our families about death and dying, with the aim that our clients get the death they deserve. If they want to be at home or in hospital, we ensure where possible this is achieved.’’
Ms Bell said the topic of death and dying was, unfortunately, taboo in the community.
‘‘Families find it difficult to discuss it with their loved ones. But in our experiences if these topics are discussed honestly and openly, then both death and grief is experienced more positively,’’ she said. ‘‘We all love what we do. Palliative care nursing is extremely rewarding.
‘‘Death is an inevitable part of life. It is just so heartening that families trust us and involve us in the care of their loved ones during a time of such sadness and loss. Our aim is to always make this time easier and more peaceful for all involved.’’
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