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Palliative Care
An inpatient consulting service, palliative care is an comprehensive approach to care for patients facing the problems associated with progressive and life-limited illness. While recognizing that many diseases can be managed for long periods of time, the palliative care service understands the need for quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Our goal is to help you maintain and achieve your goals throughout your illness. Centra Palliative Care Services can be provided to patients at any stage of their illness—from the time of diagnosis through the final days of their lives.
What the palliative care team does
The specialist in Palliative Care Services collaborates with your doctor to recommend ways to address your needs including medical management of symptoms, such as:
- Pain
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Shortness of breath
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
Supportive care
We recognize that the journey through an illness is physical, psychological and spiritual and is experienced differently by each person and his or her loved ones. A major focus of the services is to help you and your loved ones deal with all of these aspects of your illness. Additionally, we will help you anticipate future needs that may arise as your illness progresses.
The palliative care team
Registered nurse
Our registered nurse is the first team member you will meet. She will complete the initial patient assessment and make sure our services are appropriate for you and your loved ones. The nurse also will coordinate involvement of the other team members.
Palliative care specialist
Our palliative care doctor will talk with you and your family and help clarify questions concerning your illness and treatment. He will help you work through the stages of your illness and help prepare you for future treatment decisions.
Our doctor also will treat symptoms you may have including pain, nausea, anxiety and depression. The doctor will communicate closely with your primary care physician and other specialists providing care.
Other team members may include:
- Social worker
- Pastoral care staff
- Dietitian
- Physical and occupational therapists
- Pharmacist
- Respiratory therapist
These health care professionals are invited into the process after evaluating your needs.
How do I request palliative care?
If you wish to receive a palliative care consultation, please ask your physician or nurse to make the referral. Your health care team also may initiate a review of your case by our team. A consultation may be requested Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We strive to see patients within 24 hours.
For more information please contact Centra's palliative care registered nurse at 434.200.6085.
