Nursing care involves the support of the general well-being of our patients, the

provision of episodic acute care and rehabilitation, and when a return to health is
not possible a peaceful death. Dying is a profound transition for the individual. As
healthcare providers, we become skilled in nursing and medical science, but the
care of the dying person encompasses much more. Certain aspects of this care are
taking on more importance for patients, families, and healthcare providers.

Hospice care provides comprehensive physical, psychological, social, and spiritual

care for terminally ill patients. Most hospice programs serve terminally ill patients
from the comforts and relaxed surroundings of their own home, although there are
some located in inpatient settings. The goal of the hospice care team is to help the
patient achieve a full life as possible, with minimal pain, discomfort, and restriction.
It also emphasizes a coordinated team effort to help the patient and family
members overcome the severe anxiety, fear, and depression that occur with a
terminal illness. To that end, hospice staffs encourage family members to help and
participate in patient care, thereby providing the patient with warmth and security
and helping the family caregivers begin the grieving process even before the
patient dies.