PALLIATIVEOur palliative approach includes: goals of care discussions, symptom management, comfort measures, family support, spiritual care access, bereavement services, advance care planning, multidisciplinary team involvement, peaceful environment, and honoring wishes and cultural practices.
COMFORTExample: A resident preferred bathing in the evening rather than morning routine. We adjusted their care plan to accommodate this preference, which reduced resistance and improved their dignity and comfort. We regularly ask residents about their preferences and adapt our approaches accordi
WISHESWhen a client lacks capacity to provide informed consent, we identify their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) according to the Health Care Consent Act hierarchy: guardian, attorney for personal care, representative, spouse/partner, family members. We verify the SDM's authority, provide them
FAMILYFall risk is communicated through care plan documentation, visual cues (e. , color codes), huddles, and transfer of accountability reports. Changes in risk are communicated to the team and family immediately.
SUPPORTWe received a referral for a client with complex needs requiring daily visits and specialized equipment. We reviewed our caseload and identified we had geographic capacity but lacked specialized training. We arranged consultation support and accepted with a training plan.
SYMPTOMSWe complete infection screening assessments by asking about: recent fever or respiratory symptoms, known exposure to communicable diseases, recent travel, recent hospitalization or healthcare facility exposure, and any current infections. We document responses and implement precautions.
DIGNITYTreating clients with courtesy, listening to concerns, protecting privacy, honoring preferences. Includes cultural, spiritual considerations. Staff trained in person-centered approach. Essential to quality care and resident rights.
SPIRITUALSpiritual care resources include: pastoral care services (contact through switchboard), multi-faith chapel, volunteer visitors, and community spiritual care contacts. Information is available through social work or pastoral care departments.
GRIEFGrief in long-term care involves systematic assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation. Staff trained on standards, procedures documented, outcomes monitored. Quality improvement when gaps identified. Aligns with accreditation requirements.
PLANNINGService delivery information is in CSS-100-1 Community Services Program Policy on The Pulse. Resources include service planning templates, assessment tools, safety protocols for home visits, emergency contact procedures, documentation guides, and community resource directories. Managers an
