Pain Management Techniques in Hospice Care
When a family member, friend, or someone special in your life is in hospice, managing pain is one of the most important parts of their care. At Nueva Hospice, our goal is to keep the patient as comfortable as possible and their family feel at ease and supported so the focus can be on being together and making the most of each day. We know that every patient’s needs are unique, so we work closely with them, their family, and their medical team to create a care plan by condition that truly fits. From medication to gentle therapies, here are some of the ways we help bring comfort and peace.
Medication for Pain Relief
Pain relief doesn’t have to be overwhelming or intrusive. Our goal is to help your loved one feel better without heavy side effects, working alongside their healthcare provider to make sure to use medications in the most effective way to balance effective relief with comfort. This can include:
Non-opioid pain relievers for mild discomfort, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Opioid medications for stronger pain relief when needed, with careful adjustments to keep your loved one comfortable and as alert as possible.
Learn more about pain management options with this guide.
Movement and Positioning for Physical Ease
Keeping comfortable isn’t just about medications. Small adjustments, gentle movement, and the right positioning can provide big relief and make a world of difference.
Range-of-motion exercises help keep muscles from feeling tight or stiff, especially for those who spend a lot of time resting.
Supportive positioning is a simple but powerful way to reduce discomfort. Our caregivers make sure your loved one is in the best position for comfort, adjusting as needed to keep them at ease.
Emotional and Spiritual Support
Pain isn’t just physical. We know that emotional and spiritual well-being also play a big role in overall comfort and we believe that true comfort comes from caring for the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.
Listening and companionship: Our caregivers, social workers, and counselors are there for those moments when your loved one just wants someone to talk to, offering comfort and a listening ear.
Spiritual care: For many, a connection to their spirituality brings peace. Our chaplains provide spiritual support and guidance, respecting your beliefs and traditions, to offer solace and comfort.
Support for Family Members, Too
This journey isn't just about the patient, it’s about their loved ones too. Families play a vital role in a loved one’s care and at Nueva Hospice, we treat each patient and their families as our own. That’s why we work with you, helping you feel confident and supported as you help care for your loved one and providing the support and resources you need to feel comfortable and connected throughout this journey.
Recognizing signs of discomfort: We help families learn what to look for, so you feel ready to respond to your loved one’s needs.
Hands-on guidance: From simple positioning tips to ways of creating comfort, we’re here to empower you to stay involved in a way that feels right.
Respite Care for Caregivers: Caring for a loved one is a beautiful but exhausting responsibility. We offer respite care to give the caregiver a much-needed break, knowing that your loved one is being taken care of as you would.
Here for You, Every Step of the Way
Hospice care isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about making sure each day is as comfortable and meaningful as possible. At Nueva Hospice, we’re here 24/7, working to bring comfort, peace, and personalized support to each patient and family. If you’re considering hospice care or have questions about how we manage pain, reach out anytime. We’re here to help guide you through this process with warmth, care, and comfort.