M09.05.005 Hospice care

Hospice care is a specialized medical approach aimed at providing comfort and palliative care for patients with terminal illnesses. Unlike traditional medical treatments that seek to cure diseases, hospice care prioritizes quality of life, especially in the final stages of life.

Eligibility for Hospice Care

Hospice care is typically available to patients who meet the following criteria:

• Life Expectancy: Patients must have a life expectancy of less than 6 months.
• Insurance Coverage: Available under:
  • Medicare
  • Medicaid
  • Most private insurance plans

Goals of Hospice Care

The primary goals of hospice care include:

• Improving Patient Comfort: Focused on alleviating pain and discomfort.
• Providing Emotional and Psychological Support: Addressing the emotional needs of patients and their families.
• Facilitating End-of-Life Planning: Assisting patients in making informed decisions about their care.

Pain Management and Medication

During hospice care, managing pain and ensuring comfort is essential. Common medications include:

Principle of Double Effect

Hospice care often employs the principle of double effect, which justifies the use of medications that may have adverse effects, such as respiratory depression, when the primary intent is to relieve suffering. This principle acknowledges:

• Positive Effects: Pain relief and comfort.
• Negative Effects: Potential side effects of medications.

Points to Remember

• Hospice care is focused on comfort rather than cure.
• Eligibility requires a life expectancy of less than 6 months.
• Pain management is a critical component of care, prioritizing comfort over side effects.
• The principle of double effect supports the use of medications that may alleviate pain but could also lead to adverse effects.

Conclusion

Hospice care plays a vital role in providing compassionate care for patients in their final months. By prioritizing comfort and quality of life, it allows patients and families to navigate end-of-life challenges with dignity and support.

References

1. National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. (2022). What is Hospice Care? Retrieved from NHPCO
2. Meier, D. E., & McCormick, W. (2005). Palliative Care: A New Paradigm for Quality Care. American Journal of Nursing, 105(8), 42-48. doi:10.1097/01.NAJ.0000270525.49140.7c
3. Emanuel, L. L., & von Gunten, C. F. (2000). The Importance of the Principle of Double Effect in Palliative Care. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 3(2), 181-186. doi:10.1089/jpm.2000.3.181