Hospice 101 by Mia Rowse
Patient and Caregiver/Family
Nurse
- Assesses patient and family needs and develops an individualized plan of care based off the patient’s needs and wishes
- Coordinates team visits and implements the plan of care
- Evaluates patient regularly to ensure symptom management and pain control
Hospice Aide
- Provides personal cares, such as bathing and dressing for the patient
- Identifies and reports patient needs to RN
- Provides companionship for patient and family
Social Worker
- Assesses patient and family’s emotional, social, spiritual and financial needs and develops an individualized plan of care based on these needs
- Assists in end-of-life planning and helps file insurance paperwork
- Knowledgeable of community resources available and places referrals
- Provides support and guidance counseling to patient and families/caregivers
- Leads grief groups for continued support after the loss of a loved one
Chaplain
- Assesses patient and family/caregiver’s spiritual needs and develops plan of care
- Provides spiritual support to patient, caregivers and families.
- Assists with memorial/funeral preparations
Bereavement Coordinator
- Educates families and caregivers on grief and loss
- Supports caregivers and family for up to 13 months after the loss of a loved one
- Assists in grief groups
Medical Director
- Collaborates with nurses and the Cottonwood Hospice team to develop an individualized plan for the patient
- Certifies terminal prognosis and hospice eligibility requirements
- Prescribes medication as needed
- Educates patients and families on disease progression
Hospice Volunteers
- Visits patients and provides companionship to patients
- Provides breaks for caregivers and families
- Offers support to the family at the end-of-life and during bereavement