Provision of Services
The Day Hospice provides a wide range of services through a multi-disciplinary team working within or associated with the unit. The clinical service can be viewed as three elements, namely:
- Specialist Day Therapy
- Out-Patients
- Community out-reach
Specialist Palliative Day Therapy
The service is organised around an individualised treatment programme for each person, which is shared with the person and their family and the whole caring team. The programme will normally be reviewed monthly by the Hospice staff. The person’s General Practitioner receives regular reports and will also be informed about any other significant clinical developments.
Medical staff are available for clinical assessment and review. Any changes in medication or management are communicated to the General Practitioner.
As stated care planning and therapy is based on patient need and may include elements from any number or all of the following:-
1. Medical Review
2. Nursing Support
3. Emotional, Spiritual and Social Support
Counselling services, social advice, spiritual care and advice about other available resources.
4. Symptom Control
Managing and monitoring symptoms which allows people to live at home and avoid unnecessary admission to hospital (e.g. Physiotherapy – breathlessness management, exercise programmes, mobility assessments).
5. Rehabilitation
Using occupational and physiotherapy skills to support patients both physically and creatively, so enabling people to live as full a life as possible.(e.g. occupational Therapy – home visits, assessment for equipment to aid daily living, stress management).
6. Recreation
Providing an opportunity for patients to pursue enjoyable and informal activities with the aim of increasing self esteem and self confidence.
7. Lymphoedema management
8. Personal Care
Bathing, hairdressing etc. Supporting the total needs of the people using the Day Hospice.
9. Complementary Therapies
Additional therapies including massage, aromatherapy, relaxation etc. Complementary therapies are also offered to bereaved carers either at home or at the Hospice
10. Respite
Giving the carers ‘time out’ opportunities from full time caring commitments.
Bereavement support
Bereavement support is offered on an individual and group basis and a bereavement group is held monthly at the Hospice
11. Education & Training
The Hospice continues to develop as an education and resource centre for local people and professionals who are engaged or have an interest in palliative care. The proposed inpatient facility will enhance further the Education & Training opportunities
Appropriate information on cancer and other services will continue to be developed and available for patients and carers generally as part of the education process.
Co-ordination of the care provided is ensured by the Key Worker and weekly multi-professional meetings. Communications with G.Ps. District Nurses, Community Specialist Nurses and other appropriate Healthcare professionals and support groups are maintained throughout.
