What to Expect in the First Week of Hospice Care
The first week of hospice care may feel overwhelming, but it’s also the beginning of a journey focused on comfort and connection. At Nueva Hospice, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring compassionate care and support for your loved one and your family. Here’s what to expect during the first week of hospice care.
Meeting Your Hospice Care Team
The first week is all about introductions and building trust with the compassionate team caring for your loved one.
The Nurse
Your primary contact during the first week will be the nurse. They’ll assess your loved one’s condition, manage symptoms, and explain the care plan. From administering medications to managing equipment, the nurse ensures your loved one’s comfort and helps you feel confident in their care.
The Social Worker
Social workers provide emotional support and help with logistics like paperwork, advanced directives, or accessing community resources. They’re there to make you and your family feel supported during this transition.
Home Health Aide
You may meet a home health aide who assists with personal care tasks like bathing, grooming, or positioning your loved one for comfort.
While you might not meet the entire hospice team in the first week, your nurse will coordinate everything to make sure everyone is aligned in providing the best care. Learn more about your hospice care team here.
Creating a Care Plan
In the first few days, the hospice team collaborates to develop a personalized care plan for your loved one. This plan addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Symptom Management: Medications are adjusted to prioritize comfort and relief.
Scheduling Visits: Regular visits are planned to guarantee consistent support.
Family Resources: Guidance and resources are shared to keep everyone informed and prepared.
Getting the Environment Ready
The care environment plays a big role in your loved one’s comfort. During the first week, the team will help you:
Set up essential equipment like a hospital bed or oxygen.
Organize medications and supplies for convenience.
Personalize the space with favorite blankets, photos, or soothing music to create a calming atmosphere.
Finding Your Rhythm
The first week may feel like a lot of new information, but it’s also about finding a rhythm that works for you and your family. Your hospice team will guide you in:
Monitoring symptoms and keeping the team updated.
Administering medications or treatments as instructed.
Setting aside quiet moments to connect with your loved one, like sharing memories or simply holding their hand.
How Nueva Hospice Supports You
At Nueva Hospice, we treat every patient and family as our own. From day one, we’re available 24/7 to answer questions, provide reassurance, and offer support. Whether it’s walking you through the care plan or simply listening when you need to talk, we’re here for you.
Looking Ahead
The first week of hospice care lays the foundation for compassionate, personalized support. As routines are established and relationships with the team grow, you’ll feel more confident and supported. For more information, visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization to explore resources and guidance. As always, our team is just a phone call away if you have questions or need support.