May 9, 2007 - Offering Palliative Care

Meeting the needs of people nearing the end of life requires a special blend of high-tech interventions and human compassion.

At St. Francis Memorial Hospital, a team of professionals that provide support to patients and families are dedicated to providing those important elements of care.

Our palliative care team is a very important part of our care plan,” comments Darlene Sernoskie. “We have a group of very dedicated individuals who make an incredible difference for both the patients and their families.”

Families are often ill at ease to discuss what is happening with their loved one. Sometimes, the patients themselves want to talk about eventualities, but are worried they might upset their family members. The Palliative Care Team, along with helping to take care of the physical needs of the palliative patient, tries to encourage communication and provide a compassionate ear all the while providing emotional, spiritual or bereavement support.

As SFMH’s Director of Patient Care Services, Joan Kuiack is at the heart of that network.

“It’s a group effort,” she says, noting that the team includes Physicians, Administration, Registered Nurses, and Registered Practical Nurses.

The circle of care extends even further into the community through the many contributions that are made to the SFMH palliative care program.

“We receive wonderful support from the people in this area,” says Kuiack.

She points to the high-tech aspect of palliative care as one example. SFMH has recently purchased two patient-controlled pain control pumps. Donations directed to palliative care funded the full $5000 cost of one of the pumps.

“This is up-to-date, user-friendly technology that gives our patients control over their pain management,” Kuiack says, explaining that medication dosages are pre-set by a nurse, with allowances for the patients to give themselves extra doses when they are needed.

The new pumps, which can attach to a belt, increase patient mobility.

SFMH is very lucky to have had funds donated towards Palliative Care Education which has made it possible to purchase reference material for families and staff as well as providing for two staff to attend the International Palliative Care Conference in Montreal.

“Decisions on where donated funds will be spent are made carefully so that the resources are used to their maximum potential,” Kuiack notes. “Our staff has the expertise and the practical experience to know where the money can make the biggest difference for our patients.”

Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the SFMH palliative care program is asked to contact the hospital foundation office at 613-756-3045 ext # 217.

Cathy Trebinskie, a member of the Palliative Care Team studies one of the two new pain management pumps with fellow nursing staff Carol Pastway, Lisa Hovinga and Sylvia Kosnaskie.