It’s not too late for hospice
Every day, emergency departments face the challenge of caring for patients with advanced illness who cycle through repeated hospitalizations.
VITAS® Healthcare can help.
As a national leader, we have the resources and expertise to initiate or continue complex modalities for acute symptom management—with the added benefit of end-of-life psychosocial support for both the patient and their loved ones.
Case Study:
Patient with a Sudden Fall
A VITAS RN met with JF’s daughter at the bedside the same day. A general inpatient hospice care (GIP) level of care initiated.*
The hospice team educated the family on ventilator withdrawal process, removal of feeding tube and cessation of antibiotics. A social worker and a chaplain provided spiritual care and support, including assistance with reviewing funeral plans, while a nurse provided symptom management at the bedside throughout active dying, managing expectations and providing support to daughter.
*Per Medicare guidelines, higher levels of care are provided when a VITAS physician determines a patient is eligible for a higher level of care (LOC) or GIP. Eligibility to remain on a higher LOC is assessed by a VITAS RN & VITAS physician daily. Higher LOCs are provided on a temporary basis until the symptom(s) are optimally managed.
JF passed comfortably 37 hours after admission; her wishes to be put in gardening clothes after death were honored. JF’s daughter received 13+ months of bereavement support and a keepsake Memory Bear made with JF’s clothing.
Ready to Refer?
If you're ready to schedule a hospice evaluation for your patient, you can refer securely online to VITAS Healthcare. Discover why we’re the nation’s leader.
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