NICaN newsletter
FAQs
- Can my symptoms
be managed at home?
The GP and DN have experience in managing symptoms that you may be faced with as part of your disease. If the GP and DN need assistance in doing this they will ask advice from a member of a Specialist Palliative Care Team. This may be a Hospice Nurse Specialist, Community Palliative Care Nurse Specialist, Specialist Physiotherapist, Occupational therapist or Dietician or a Consultant in Palliative Medicine. A professional from the Specialist Palliative Care Team may visit you in your own home with the GP and DN or you may be asked to attend an outpatient appointment at a Specialist Palliative Care Unit. Your GP and DN will continue to be your main carer despite the involvement of a member of the Specialist Palliative Care Team. All health care professionals will work together to try and managed your symptoms at home.
- How often will I see my doctor or nurse?
This will depend on how you are. Your GP and DN will encourage you to live as independent a life as possible. Your needs will be assessed individually and an agreement will be reached following discussions with yourself the GP and DN. If you need the support of your GP and DN you can contact them at your local surgery.
- Who do I call out of hours?
Your GP and DN will give you these details. There may be different levels of service depending on where you live. You will always be able to contact a health care professional for advice out of hours.
- Would I live longer if I was cared for in hospital / hospice?
Each patient is assessed on an individual basis. If your needs can be met by care in the community then it will not be detrimental to you.
- Who will help my family to cope?
You will be supported by your GP and DN. If there are other health care professionals involved in your care they will also provide support to your family. Specialist Palliative Care units provide support through their multi-professional palliative care teams. If you’re GP and DN thinks your family need additional support they will refer to the Specialist Palliative Care Team.
- Can I sleep in my own bed with my partner?
It would be hoped that you can continue to do this. However depending on the progression of your disease you may find that you need more help and support from health care professionals. If your DN assesses your needs and she indicates that you would be more comfortable or safer being cared for on a special bed and mattress.
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