Palliative Care

Palliative Care as defined by the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm 

Palliative Care is not reserved for those who are dying; it is for anyone who is diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness and it begins at the time of admission. Palliative Care allows each resident to receive the appropriate treatment that brings him/her comfort and the best possible care. Palliative care can be combined with curative care or with less aggressive care. Palliative care is not the same as Hospice or End of Life care, which is reserved for those who are clearly dying. 

Palliative care begins upon admission and continues throughout a resident’s length of stay. Every person admitted is assessed in the different areas of pain. Care is provided through the prevention, assessment, and treatment of physical, psychiatric, emotional, familial, and spiritual pains.

Palliative care is provided by an interdisciplinary team, including members of the entire health care team – it includes but is not limited to nursing, social work, pastoral care, counseling, environmental services, nutrition, and rehabilitation specialties. The focus of Palliative Care is to maintain a person’s optimal function with addressing the suffering for those facing a serious life-threatening, debilitating illness and entering a facility. Palliative Care provides support for the best possible care for both residents and families. 

Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care

All Hospice Care is Palliative Care, but all Palliative Care is not Hospice Care; it is a matter of timing. Hospice Care or End of Life Care, is care to relieve pain and ease suffering in the five domains of pain and is provided to those who are clearly dying. It focuses on the individual needs of each person, is provided when curative and life-prolonging treatments are futile.

The goal of Hospice Care is to provide the best quality of care for each resident. A cure or aggressive treatment is considered futile and not pursued.

If you would like more information about St. Patrick’s Manor, please fill out the form on this page or call us at 508.370.8611.