The Different Types of Physical Care
With a patient-first approach, we offer a number of physical care services to ensure our patients are always comfortable and that their end-of-life wishes are respected.
- Pain management. Our team of highly educated and experienced physicians and nurses will work together to come up with a personalized care plan that controls patients’ levels of pain. This will often involve the use of painkillers, physical therapies, and even emotional therapies. Something as simple as physical contact, such as gently holding a patient’s hand, can do wonders for pain management.
- Symptom control. Many terminal illnesses come with some uncomfortable symptoms that our care team works hard to control. Some common symptoms we deal with in a hospice care setting include shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting. Symptom control can include wound care, medication administration, and relief of breathing difficulties.
- Assistance with Daily Living Activities. Many patients start hospice care when they are no longer able to perform daily living activities, such as eating, bathing, grooming, toileting, and maintaining their general hygiene. Making sure patients are always clean ensures they live a life of dignity and respect.
- Mobility assistance. Mobility assistance is a crucial component of physical hospice care. Maintaining mobility through physical therapy and the use of walking aids can help prevent falls. Mobility assistance, such as ensuring proper positioning in beds, can relieve pressure and discomfort.
- Skin care. Bedbound patients and those with terminal illnesses will often experience a deterioration in skin tissue, making them more vulnerable to injuries and infections. Our care team conducts regular skin checks and provides proper wound care and treatment. Repositioning patients in beds can help prevent skin tears caused by pressure.
- Monitoring vital signs. Our nurses will regularly monitor patients’ vitals, including heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. This helps the care team ensure the patient is comfortable and adjust the care plan if not.