Holistic care for a dying patient involves addressing not only their physical needs but also their emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. This approach includes managing pain and other symptoms, providing psychological support, facilitating meaningful conversations, and respecting the patient’s wishes and values. It also encompasses support for family members, ensuring they have the resources to cope with the impending loss. Ultimately, holistic care aims to enhance the quality of life in a compassionate and dignified manner during the final stages of life.
Nancy Moore has written: 'Patient-focused healing' -- subject(s): Health services administration, Holistic Health, Hospital Administration, Medical care, Medical personnel and patient, Philosophy, Quality of Health Care
Holistic care means addressing the whole person rather than just their medical symptoms. It encompasses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, recognizing that these aspects are interconnected and impact overall health. This approach often involves collaboration among various healthcare providers and emphasizes patient-centered care tailored to individual needs. Ultimately, holistic care aims to promote optimal health and quality of life.
Hospice care is generally better for dying people as it focuses on providing comfort, dignity, and quality of life in a compassionate environment. Unlike hospitals, which often prioritize aggressive treatments, hospice emphasizes pain management and emotional support for both the patient and their family. This holistic approach allows individuals to spend their final days in a more peaceful and supportive setting.
The amount of education and training. Generally an assistant will be trained in aspects of the therapy or care, but will not be given extensive holistic training. Typically they will not be allowed to make significant decisions about the patient's care.
Dying patients typically receive palliative care, which focuses on providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms, while also addressing emotional, spiritual, and psychological needs. This care aims to enhance the quality of life for both the patient and their family, often involving a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains. Additionally, hospice care may be provided when the patient is nearing the end of life, emphasizing comfort and support in a compassionate environment.
The social history of a patient includes details about their living situation, occupation, relationships, substance use, and lifestyle habits. This information helps healthcare providers understand the patient's social determinants of health, identify potential risk factors, and tailor care plans to meet the patient's specific needs. Understanding a patient's social history is crucial for providing holistic and patient-centered care.
difference between holistic and medical models
Absolutely, and I gave a lecture on this not long ago. Palliative care basically means care not aimed at curing or treatment of illness or malady, but rather providing comfort to the patient. The patient does not necessarily have to be diagnosed with a terminal illness to receive palliative care. Hospice care, on the other hand, encompasses palliative care with other types of care for the dying person and his family.
Philosophy in nursing helps nurses develop a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that guide patient care. It also supports critical thinking skills and ethical decision-making. By incorporating philosophical perspectives, nurses can provide more holistic and patient-centered care.
Jeanne C. Quint has written: 'Nurse and the dying patient' -- subject(s): Death, Nursing, Terminal care
Nurses often see patients throughout the dying process and often patients are concerned about their death and the dying process. If a patient want's to see a chaplain and receive last rites we can arrange that. Often times we sit and talk with the patient and family about what is going on, what's expected and how they can cope.
Central to the final intervention with a postoperative patient is ensuring their safe recovery and monitoring for complications. This involves assessing vital signs, managing pain effectively, and providing education on post-surgical care. Additionally, communication with the healthcare team and the patient about any concerns or symptoms is crucial for optimal recovery outcomes. Overall, a holistic approach to care is essential to support the patient’s healing process.