Problem: Consider the following topics:
- End of life
- Loss and the grieving process
- Care coordination
- Community resources
- Care giving
Frank, a 78-year-old patient, is preparing for discharge from the rehabilitation unit after an acute exacerbation of his congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is his third hospitalization in the last two years. He has been learning how to live with his diseases by managing his symptoms and learning about early recognition of complications or exacerbations. Unfortunately, his heart has been severally weakened because of this last exacerbation and his physician said he most likely will not tolerate another one.
Frank will be going home with his wife, Clara. A home health nurse will visit twice a week to ensure Carl is managing his chronic illnesses effectively, with the ultimate goals of improving his quality of life and reducing his hospital admissions. The physician and the home health director would have asked the home health nurse to discuss hospice and palliative care options.
1. Discuss ways of assessing the needs and strategies to meet the needs of those who are mourning or dying.
2. What community resources are available to aid in this situation?