PALLIATIVE CARE IN CUMBRIA
EDEN COUNTRY CARE POLICY
POLICY 34
Introduction
Our Home Care Palliative Care Policy aligns with the NICE quality standard for end-of-life care for adults. Embracing a holistic, person-centered approach, we collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure the client's choices and preferences are respected. At Eden Country Care, we provide a seamless and compassionate assisted living care service tailored to the individual's needs, coordinating care effectively with all involved parties. Our palliative care services in Cumbria are available in Appleby, Kirkby Stephen, Penrith, Alston, Shap, Keswick and Carlisle.
End of Life Care and Palliative Care Plans in Cumbria
Recognising the importance of person-centered coordinated care for those in the final stages of a terminal illness, we develop a comprehensive care plan in consultation with the client, their advocate, family, and the professionals involved. This plan encompasses the client's preferences and choices, adapting as needed based on regular assessments and reviews. Our staff collaborate with other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to the client's changing needs, including emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, in addition to physical health and medication management.
Care Staff Roles & Responsibilities
Our dedicated home care staff adhere to strict guidelines, respecting the client's dignity and privacy, monitoring their condition, and promptly reporting any changes. We work in partnership with the client's friends, family, and stakeholders, valuing cultural and religious preferences. Additionally, we focus on pain control, ensuring empathy, reporting uncontrolled pain, and providing comfort measures. Nutritional needs are met through careful attention to diet and hydration, with specialised support if peg feeds are required.
Staff Training and Continuous Professional Development
Our commitment to high-quality end-of-life care is reinforced through comprehensive initial training and ongoing professional development. Staff receive regular updates and training to stay current with the latest practices and techniques in end-of-life care. Additionally, our mandatory End of Life Training Course, developed in conjunction with the Six Steps to End of Life Care Programme, equips our team with the necessary skills.
Communication and Support
Regular communication between staff, clients, their families, and other healthcare professionals involved in the client's care is paramount. A transparent feedback mechanism is in place, allowing clients, their families, and staff to report concerns, suggestions, or compliments regarding end-of-life care services. This feedback is used to improve the quality of care provided continuously. We also offer comprehensive resources and support for the families of clients, including counselling services and information on bereavement support organisations.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Our policy emphasises a deep understanding of legal and ethical considerations related to end-of-life care, including issues such as informed consent, Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) orders, and organ donation. Staff members are well-versed in these matters and adhere strictly to legal and ethical guidelines.
At Eden Country Care, we approach end-of-life care with compassion, expertise, and respect, ensuring a dignified and supportive environment for our clients and their families.
Palliative/End of Life Care Staff Procedures
Initial Assessment and Care Plan
Client-Centered Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment, considering the client's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Involve the client, their advocate, family, and healthcare professionals in the assessment process.
Developing a Care Plan: Collaborate with the client, their family, and healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive care plan that respects the client's preferences and choices. Document the plan, ensuring it covers pain management, emotional support, spiritual care, and any specific cultural or religious requirements.
Pain Management and Comfort Measures
Pain Assessment: Regularly assess the client's pain levels using appropriate tools. Report any signs of uncontrolled pain promptly to the healthcare provider and document the intervention in the client's care plan.
Pain Control: Administer prescribed pain relief medications as per the healthcare provider's instructions.
Emotional and Spiritual Support
Emotional Support: Provide empathetic and compassionate companionship. Listen actively to the client and offer emotional support to both the client and their family members. Encourage open communication and address concerns sensitively.
Spiritual Care: Respect and support the client's spiritual beliefs and practices. Arrange for spiritual leaders or counsellors if requested by the client or their family.
Communication and Collaboration
Regular Updates: Maintain regular communication with the client's healthcare team, updating them on the client's condition and any changes in their care plan.
Family Involvement: Involve the client's family in the care process, offering guidance and support. Keep them informed about the client's condition and involve them in decision-making as appropriate.
Post-Passing Support
After Passing: After the client's passing, provide emotional support to the family. Respect cultural and religious practices related to death.
Documentation: Document all care provided, including emotional and spiritual support, in the client's records. Ensure that the family is provided with the necessary information, including contact details for bereavement support services, and offer ongoing assistance as needed.
At Eden Country Care, we approach end-of-life care with the utmost sensitivity and respect, ensuring a peaceful and supportive environment for our clients and their families during this significant time.