What Services Are Provided in Hospice?

The services provided by hospice are interdisciplinary and are
structured as per the needs of the patient. The services which are
provided for any patient are a combination so that the patient is
given as much comfort as possible. These services start with nursing
care and go on to bereavement support for the family.Nursing care has
registered nurses who monitor the patient's medication as well as the
symptoms and keep the family and the physician informed. They are the
link between the family and the doctor in keeping track of what is
happening.Apart from nursing the patient, as well as the family, also
need a counselor. Social workers are there to advise, as well as
counsel, the family on various aspects of end life decisions and help
the family to access the resources which they need. Here again help is
provided to the family to access any kind of aid and even to make
funeral arrangements.A doctor's services is also available so that the
personal physician and the hospice team doctor can consult on the best
way to keep the patient comfortable. What is of utmost importance
during the end life support is spiritual support for which clergy or
any other counselors are made available.If the patient is at home,
there are services provided, wear trained personnel are sent to keep
the patient well- groomed and clean. Personal care like bathing,
washing hair and even trimming the hair, shaving and clipping and
cleaning the nails is done. Sometimes help is also provided for
preparing a meal or light housework.There are volunteers with the
hospice team who provide respite to the care givers so that they can
have a break for a while. This is very necessary for the family
member. Anyone who has taken care of a sick family member knows that
in taking care of yourself, you will be better for your sick family
member. Finally, there is help for arranging the funeral and also for
bereavement.