What to expect

It is important to know what your team can and cannot provide to you and your loved one.

There is always a Hospice Nurse and a physician on call 24/7

The Hospice Team will provide the number to call for any questions, concerns and emergencies

Calls should be made if the question cannot wait until the next scheduled visit

The Hospice Team consists of a number of professionals with different skills and responsibilities

  • Physician - Responsible for certifying admission for a terminal illness, reviewing care and medications, writing prescriptions and visiting if needed

  • Nurses - Will visit the first day and usually once a week to review medications, ask about and help with control of symptoms, and address any concerns

  • LVNs/CNAs - Will visit during the week, usually 2-3 times/week, can help with bathing, skin care, supplies, and address any concerns

  • Social Workers/Chaplains - Helps with spiritual and emotional support, and helps navigate the challenges of end-of-life care

What Hospice is NOT

  • 24 hour care

  • Daily Care - Visits are usually not daily. The frequency will vary depending on need

  • You should always feel free to discuss your needs and concerns with the Hospice Team

It is the responsibility of your hospice to provide everything that is needed for comfort and care:

  • All medications for comfort and that are related to the terminal illness if still indicated for comfort

  • Durable medical equipment - Hospital bed, equipment to help with transfer

  • Oxygen tank and all supplies

  • Bedside commode, Diapers, Pads

  • The professionals and resources you need to be supported in this time of need

It is not the responsibility of the Hospice Team to provide

  • Medications previously prescribed for illnesses/diseases that are no longer needed to help with the goal of comfort

  • Help with daily needs of eating, change of position, toileting

  • During a visit, the Hospice Team may clean/bathe as needed. Usually this is no more than 3 times per week

  • The primary focus of your Hospice Team is to maximize comfort and minimize suffering

  • The medications provided at time of the first visit are vital for achieving this goal

  • Use your Hospice Team to help fully understand how and when to give these medications