Category: Palliative Care
Articles about palliative care including the differences between palliative care and hospice care which is palliative care at end-of-life.
Common Medications That May Cause Harm to Hospice Patients
Medications like anticoagulants, antidepressants, and NSAIDs can cause harm to hospice patients. Learn how to balance comfort and safety with individualized care.
Read MoreCommon Medications That May Cause Harm to Hospice PatientsWhy Anticoagulants Should Be Reviewed Regularly for Deprescribing for Those Who Are Terminally Ill
Anticoagulants can prevent blood clots but also cause bleeding risks for terminally ill patients. This article explains why these medications should be regularly reviewed for deprescribing, outlining factors like prognosis, preferences, and palliative care options to consider when making informed, compassionate choices aligned with the patient's goals.
Read MoreWhy Anticoagulants Should Be Reviewed Regularly for Deprescribing for Those Who Are Terminally IllUnderstanding the Importance of Quarterly Medication Reconciliation for Terminal Patients
This article discusses the importance of quarterly medication reconciliation for terminal patients and their families. It explains the benefits, such as improving patient safety, quality of life, symptom management, and the challenges and solutions. It also addresses the need to re-evaluate certain medications, like donepezil and memantine, for patients with dementia as their disease progresses.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Importance of Quarterly Medication Reconciliation for Terminal PatientsComparing and Contrasting the Five Most Common Types of Dementia
Explore the five most common types of dementia: Alzheimer's, Vascular, Lewy Body, Frontotemporal, and Mixed. Learn about their unique characteristics, symptoms, and progression. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals affected by dementia.
Read MoreComparing and Contrasting the Five Most Common Types of DementiaUnveiling the Promise and Perils of Blood Tests for Dementia
Delve into the world of blood-based biomarkers for dementia detection. This article examines the science behind these tests, their potential to revolutionize early diagnosis, and the complex ethical considerations surrounding their use. Discover how these tests might shape the future of Alzheimer's care and research.
Read MoreUnveiling the Promise and Perils of Blood Tests for DementiaPressure Injury Prevention for the Terminally Ill: A Guide for Families and Caregivers
This guide provides practical strategies for preventing and managing pressure injuries in terminally ill patients. Learn how to assess risk, optimize nutrition, reposition properly, choose support surfaces, and care for the skin. Get recommendations for home, hospice, and hospital settings, as well as pain management and infection control. Empower yourself with evidence-based tips to improve your loved one's comfort and quality of life.
Read MorePressure Injury Prevention for the Terminally Ill: A Guide for Families and CaregiversUnderstanding and Caring for a Loved One with Mixed Dementia
Mixed dementia combines symptoms of multiple types of dementia, presenting unique challenges for patients and caregivers. This article explores the complexities of mixed dementia, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Learn practical tips for providing compassionate care and support to loved ones affected by this condition.
Read MoreUnderstanding and Caring for a Loved One with Mixed DementiaTop Ten Myths About Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders
If you or your loved one has a severe illness, you may have heard about do not resuscitate (DNR) orders. This medical order tells the health care team what to do if the patient’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. It is an incredibly crucial decision that can affect the quality and length of life. However, there are many myths and misunderstandings about DNR orders that can make it hard to choose what is best for you or your loved one. In this article, we will explain what DNR orders means and why it is important to understand it. We will also debunk the top ten myths about DNR orders and share the facts that can help you make an informed and respectful choice.
Read MoreTop Ten Myths About Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) OrdersTop Ten Myths About CPR for Terminally Ill Patients
You may think that CPR is a miracle that can save anyone’s life, but that is not always the case. CPR is not practical for terminally ill patients, and it can cause more harm than good. In fact, studies show that only about 5% of terminally ill patients who receive CPR survive to leave the hospital. Many of them suffer from brain damage, broken ribs, or infections because of CPR.
This article aims to help you understand the truth about CPR for terminally ill patients. We will debunk ten common myths you may have heard or believed about CPR and provide you with accurate and reliable information. We will also help you make informed and respectful decisions about CPR for your loved one based on their wishes and values.
Read MoreTop Ten Myths About CPR for Terminally Ill PatientsManaging Disappearing Clothing in Dementia Care: Tips and Strategies
Explore practical solutions for managing disappearing clothing in dementia care. Learn about iron-on name labels, simplified clothing choices, and the importance of family-facility collaboration. This guide offers practical tips to ensure your loved one with dementia always has the right clothes, reducing stress for patients and caregivers.
Read MoreManaging Disappearing Clothing in Dementia Care: Tips and StrategiesRevolutionary Skin Test: A New Frontier in Parkinson’s Disease Detection
A groundbreaking skin test has emerged as a potential game-changer in the early detection of Parkinson's disease and related disorders. This article explores the science behind the test, its accuracy, and the ethical implications of early diagnosis. Discover how this innovative approach could revolutionize Parkinson's treatment and patient care.
Read MoreRevolutionary Skin Test: A New Frontier in Parkinson’s Disease DetectionHospice Best Practices for the Management Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, especially those who have undergone cancer treatment or have other lymphatic disorders. It occurs when the lymphatic system, which drains excess fluid and waste from the tissues, is damaged or blocked. The most common symptom of lymphedema is swelling of the affected limb, which can range from mild to severe. Lymphedema can have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients with serious illnesses, such as cancer, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease. In this article, we will discuss hospice best practices for the management of lymphedema, with a focus on the needs and preferences of terminally ill patients, family members, and caregivers.
Read MoreHospice Best Practices for the Management LymphedemaHospice Nursing Visits in the Last Two Weeks vs. Last Six Months of Life
Navigating the intricate path of hospice care involves a nuanced understanding of the unique needs of terminally ill patients. The frequency and nature of nursing visits are crucial in ensuring optimal comfort and support during the final stages of life. This article will delve into the variations in hospice nursing visits, explicitly comparing the last two weeks to the preceding six months.
Read MoreHospice Nursing Visits in the Last Two Weeks vs. Last Six Months of LifeFinding the Best Products for Loved Ones with Dementia
Dementia affects memory, thinking, and behavior, presenting challenges for patients and caregivers. This article discusses the best products for managing these challenges, enhancing quality of life for those with dementia.
Read MoreFinding the Best Products for Loved Ones with DementiaMastering Dementia Care: A Deep Dive into the Dementia Care Essentials Book Series
Explore the Dementia Care Essentials book series, a comprehensive collection of nine guides addressing vital aspects of dementia care. From managing hallucinations to optimizing nutrition, these books provide invaluable insights for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and families navigating the challenges of dementia
Read MoreMastering Dementia Care: A Deep Dive into the Dementia Care Essentials Book SeriesAdrenal Insufficiency Crisis Management for Terminally Ill Patients
Discover essential strategies for managing adrenal insufficiency crises in terminally ill patients. Learn about symptoms, risk factors, and crucial interventions to ensure patient comfort and safety. This guide provides valuable insights for hospice nurses and caregivers in this critical condition.
Read MoreAdrenal Insufficiency Crisis Management for Terminally Ill PatientsTraining and Certifying Medication Technicians in Pennsylvania
This article aims to overview Pennsylvania medication technicians' training and certification process and discuss specific skills and knowledge needed to perform their duties effectively and safely.
Read MoreTraining and Certifying Medication Technicians in PennsylvaniaEnhancing Hospice and Palliative Care with the GUIDE Model: A Comprehensive Approach
Discover how the GUIDE model can be applied in hospice and palliative care, offering improved support for dementia patients and their caregivers. Learn best practices and implementation strategies.
Read MoreEnhancing Hospice and Palliative Care with the GUIDE Model: A Comprehensive ApproachUnderstanding the Prognosis of Six Months or Less: A Guide for Hospice Families
Navigating the prognosis of six months or less for hospice care can be daunting. Learn how to understand, prepare for, and make the most of this crucial time.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Prognosis of Six Months or Less: A Guide for Hospice FamiliesUnderstanding the Similarities between Dementia and Autism Spectrum Disorders
Discover the commonalities between dementia and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), crucial for caregivers navigating symptoms. Access support resources for comprehensive care.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Similarities between Dementia and Autism Spectrum DisordersTraumatic Brain Injury: A Guide for Family Members and Caregivers
Discover essential insights and practical advice for family members and caregivers of individuals with traumatic brain injury, focusing on understanding, supporting, and managing challenges effectively.
Read MoreTraumatic Brain Injury: A Guide for Family Members and CaregiversFive Most Common Types of Dementia
Dementia encompasses various brain disorders affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. This comprehensive guide delves into the five most common types: Alzheimer's, Vascular, Mixed, Lewy Body, and Frontotemporal Dementia. Gain insights into their distinct symptoms, underlying causes, diagnostic methods, and tailored care approaches to support individuals and caregivers navigating these challenging conditions.
Read MoreFive Most Common Types of DementiaAlcoholic Cirrhosis of the Liver with Ascites: A Guide for Families
Discover crucial information about alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver with ascites in this comprehensive guide for caregivers and family members. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and practical tips for providing care. Understand what to expect in the terminal stage and find resources for emotional support during this challenging journey.
Read MoreAlcoholic Cirrhosis of the Liver with Ascites: A Guide for FamiliesFull Code vs DNR: The Implications for Terminally Ill Patients and Their Caregivers
Choosing between full code and DNR for terminally ill patients can be challenging. This article explains the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of helping caregivers and families make informed decisions.
Read MoreFull Code vs DNR: The Implications for Terminally Ill Patients and Their Caregivers