RHAC-Uganda in partnership with Peace Hospice Adjumani are providing a nurse-led home-based palliative care services in Adjumani District, RHAC-Uganda specialised in WASH and Psychosocial Support Services.
Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family. Here are some common activities involved in palliative care:
Pain and Symptom Management: Assessing and managing pain, addressing symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and insomnia.
Emotional and Psychological Support: Providing counseling and support for emotional distress, anxiety, and depression as well as facilitating support groups for patients and families.
Spiritual Care: Offering spiritual support and guidance according to the patient’s beliefs and values and coordinating with chaplains or spiritual advisors.
Communication and Decision-Making: Facilitating discussions about treatment goals and preferences. Helping with advance care planning and legal documentation, such as living wills and power of attorney.
Coordination of Care: Working with a multidisciplinary team (doctors, nurses, social workers, and other specialists) to provide comprehensive care. Ensuring smooth transitions between different care settings (e.g., hospital, home, hospice).
Family Support: Providing respite care and education for family caregivers. Offering bereavement support and grief counseling.
Rehabilitation and Therapy: Offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain or improve the patient’s functionality and independence. Providing nutritional support and counseling.
Complementary Therapies: Integrating therapies such as massage, music, art, and pet therapy to enhance well-being and comfort. These activities are tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient and their families and are adjusted as conditions change.