Hospice Care Options

Pain and Symptom Management

Pain and Symptom Management

Hospice Care Options prides itself on its staff of medical professionals and their ability to help patients manage pain.  One of the biggest concerns we encounter about Hospice care is that patients don't want to be in pain during their last days.  Our team of physicians and nurses are experienced in pain management and control.  Whether is it through medication or other means, comfort  is a priority for those patients in pain.

Pain medication is offered in a variety of forms and the correct form can be decided by the attending physician.  If the patient is receiving at-home care, the primary caregiver will receive basic training so that he or she can help administer the medication properly.  Our staff of doctors and nurses are on-call to prescribe and manage the pain regiment at all times.

Patients who are on narcotics sometimes experience constipation, nausea or vomiting.  Stool softeners or laxatives are recommended to help prevent constipation.  Anti-emetic medications can be taken before meals to help prevent nausea and vomiting.  Catheters can also be inserted if there are urinary problems.  All of these solutions are managed by the attending medical team.

Skin breakdown, also known as pressure ulcers, often occurs in patients who have trouble moving.  When stuck in one position for long periods of time, the skin begins to break down.  Special dressings can be applied and in some cases can stay on for days at a time.  Caregivers are instructed on how to help turn patients and change dressings, if needed.