Whether it’s yourself or a loved one starting hospice, there’s likely going to be a flurry of strong emotions, ranging from anxiety to fear. Knowing what to expect going into hospice can help ease some of these fears during the first couple of days, as a predictable routine is established.
At Maxcare Hospice, we understand that the beginning stages of your hospice journey can be a lot, so we strive to make this process as seamless as possible. Here’s what you can expect starting your journey with us.
Making The Call and Paperwork
Your journey with Maxcare Hospice starts when we receive your call for help, whether for yourself or a loved one. During this time, our caring and experienced care team will step in and assess what level of care is needed.
This period will also avoid paperwork. This is just to gather all the necessary information about the patient’s life and their medical wishes. We know this can all feel overwhelming, so our staff will guide you throughout this process and answer any questions you may have.
The First Couple of Days
The first few days are the busiest during the patient’s stay with us. This is because there is paperwork that needs to be signed, our physician will put in orders for medication, and all equipment needed will be delivered and set up.
Numerous members of the care team will also visit patients to introduce themselves, explain what their roles are, and make sure you or your family member is comfortable. The first couple of days of hospice are the time to create and settle into your new routine.
Change is hard and often manifests in feelings of anger, sadness, and frustration. We understand this deeply and make sure that our patients never feel alone during this transition and that their emotional needs are met. It’s not just the patient we offer support to, but also family members, because this is also a big change for them.
Routine Hospice Care
After the hustle and bustle of the first few days, the pace of visits will slow, and a more predictable routine will follow. The care team will collaborate to create a schedule of care that ensures the patient is comfortable at all times.