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 "I'm so glad that this service is offered. This was my first experience with death in that I was up close and in the eye of the storm. Your staff was extremely comforting to me. I feel blessed to have had your support." "The entire staff at Athens Regional was outstanding. This was our first visit here, and even with the bad news we were given, the care was wonderful and made it a lot easier. Thank you all so much." "Jean [Andrews] was so wonderful and helpful during a very emotional and difficult time. Their service is excellent." This patient's family was referring to Athens Regional Palliative Care Service, a program that helps patients and their families who are suffering with a chronic or terminal illness. The main goal of this program is to enable patients and families to enjoy the highest quality of life possible. Since the program's inception in September 2005, Palliative Care has proven to be a great asset to Athens Regional, its patients and their families. "I don't like to see people suffer," said Jean Andrews, a certified hospice and palliative care nurse (CHPN). "This service helps provide a vehicle for patients and families to help alleviate suffering as well as create a plan that ensures a peaceful and dignified end of life, which is what we all want." What are the benefits of Palliative Care?
When the doctors asks for Palliative Care assistance, the Palliative Care nurse visits with the patient and family to help develop a plan of care that is based on the patient's wishes and needs. A "team approach" is then taken with the Palliative Care nurse, doctors, nurses, social workers and chaplains to assist with the plan of care. This care could consist of finding relief for pain, helping with decisions and providing spiritual support. When is it the right time for Palliative Care? Palliative Care helps through all stages of illness. It is best introduced early in your care, although it can begin at any time during the course of an illness. Is Palliative Care the same as Hospice Care? No. Hospice Care is meant specifically for those approaching the last stages of life, while Palliative Care is appropriate for any stage of a serious illness. How can I get Palliative Care? To begin Palliative Care, please ask your doctor for a referral to Palliative Care. A doctor's order is required to begin this service.  Since the program began in September 2005, Palliative Care has helped several hundred patients and their families. Another addition to the Palliative Care service is the development of the Palliative Care suites for patients whose final transition will occur in the hospital. These suites provide a family room attached to the patients room for extra comfort and support during this sacred time.
Palliative Care
Jean Andrews, RN, BSN, CHPN Palliative Care Coordinator Athens Regional Medical Center Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 1199 Prince Avenue Athens, GA 30606 706-475-3035 jeandrews@armc.org |
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| This page last modified: June 25, 2007 | ||
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