How do I know it’s time for hospice? We are individuals, and every person’s situation is unique, There are, however, some common signs that our loved ones are making a greater change. Recent infections, frequent falling, changes in functioning and withdrawal from their social circles are often noted. Increased pain and more frequent trips to the E.D. could also indicate possible decline.
Do I need a DNR to be on hospice? No, a patient is still eligible for the benefit regardless of their code status. To explain, a DNR order is an order written by the patient’s doctor at that patient’s request stating that they do not wish for CPR to be done if their breathing or heart stops. Identifying the progression of a life limiting illness is often a point at which many families choose to reevaluate their ideas regarding life sustaining treatments and efforts.
Will hospice provide care at bedside till my loved one dies? What do I do? You remain your loved one’s primary caregiver. Your knowledge and input are essential to their care and well-being, and we value both. Our team is here to support you through timely education and compassionate guidance.
Is hospice really necessary if my parent is already in a nursing home? Long term care facilities typically focus on providing routine daily care, with higher acuity units focusing on rehab and recovery. The hospice team specializes in end-of-life care and aggressive symptom management, incorporating measures that may be beyond the facilities scope of practice and ability. We are an additional layer of care meant to enhance your parents quality of life.
Can I still see my doctor once I’m on hospice? Continuity of care is of the utmost importance to us. In order to provide the best care, we encourage frequent communication between all members of your care team, including your physician of choice. Your physician will decide their level of involvement, and how to best coordinate with them. Our hospice medical director is also directly involved and available 24/7.
Can I still go to the hospital when I’m on hospice? The simple answer is yes, however, the right response really depends on the situation at hand. The Medicare hospice benefit provides for 4 levels of care, each addressing a different patient or family need. These levels are;
- Routine home care- The foundation of the benefit, encompassing all disciplines and services involved in patient care.
- Continuous Care- A brief period of at-bedside nursing care focused on the palliation and management of acute medical symptoms.
- General In-Patient or GIP- Short-term inpatient stays for pain control or acute symptom management that cannot feasibly be done in another setting.
- Respite Care- Provision allowing your caregiver to rest while the patient temporarily stays in a contracted skilled nursing facility.
My parent’s been restless at night and I haven’t been able to rest for days. Is there anything I can do? First, please reach out to your loved one’s care team to let them know how you are feeling. Realistic conversations about caregiving expectations and ability can go a long way to reach the right decision about the future of your loved ones care. Secondly, as indicated above, Medicare mandates a short-term stay of up to 5 consecutive days per benefit period. This does not require a worsening of the patient’s condition, and may be used for the needs of the caregiver, i.e. time out of town, personal illness or exhaustion.
Is there anything I can do to get ready? If hospice is brought in early, our team will have been given the benefit of time. Time to manage your your symptoms, time to work with you to answer important questions like:
- In this process, what is important to you? What do you hope for?
- Who do you trust to help you with decisions? Who will make decisions for you when you no longer can?
- If there is pain, would you be willing to trade comfort for some bit of wakefulness?
- Do you want to die at home? Have you thought about a funeral or life celebration?
What happens when my parent dies? It is our hope to be there for their final breath. If we are found en route at that time, we will update you until our arrival at your home. Our visit includes the assessment of death, contacting the applicable officials, assistance with med destruction, and providing post mortem care if so desired. Our staff will remain at bedside till the funeral home arrives.