Our philosophy
At Providence Care Hospital (PCH), our palliative care team strives to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to terminally ill individuals and their family members at a time when treatment aimed to cure and prolong life is no longer appropriate.
Providence Care, guided by our Mission and Values, as a Catholic sponsored health care organization, does not provide the act of medical assistance in dying (MAID) (physician assisted death/assisted suicide/voluntary euthanasia), but will assure that a patient’s request for MAID is acknowledged and appropriately addressed.
Our aim, in accordance with the World Health Organization and the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians, is to reduce suffering for our patients and their families by enhancing the quality of life in an atmosphere that encompasses respect, dignity, compassion, understanding and acceptance.
Providence Care’s Collaborative Practice Philosophy includes an interprofessional care team to best care for and support the dying person and their family. The staff and volunteers who serve on the palliative care team believe it is a special privilege to be part of this service. Team members are specially trained to offer help, guidance and comfort to patients and their families.
Location
Heritage 2
Contact
Care Desk
613-544-4900, ext. 82824
Program Manager
613-544-4900, ext. 72621
Director, Complex, Palliative & Transitional Care
613-544-4900, ext. 53552
Vice President, Patient & Client Care
613-544-4900, ext. 53391
Our objectives
- To assess the total needs of patients and their families so that a holistic program of care is provided in response to their physical, emotional and spiritual needs
- To provide a supportive and caring environment
Visiting
There are no visiting hours on our Palliative Care Unit. Family and friends may visit at any time. Please note that the main entrance is open (unlocked) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. After 10 p.m., visitors can enter the hospital by using the intercom at the main entrance. A Protection Services officer will respond to open the doors. Due to limited space and a patient population that tires easily and quickly, we may ask that you limit the number of visitors when appropriate. Family members may request to stay overnight, which we can help to accommodate. We welcome family pets (cat/dog), however, you must provide proof of current vaccinations.
Things to bring from home
You might want to bring your own personal care items from home: daytime clothing, pajamas, slippers, soap or shower gel, deodorant, skin care lotion, powder, tooth brush, toothpaste, brush and/or comb, nail file and/or nail clippers, razor, shampoo, facial tissue, pillow, comforter/blanket, small items such as pictures, music CDs, and anything that will help to make you more comfortable. Please do not bring valuable possessions as we are not responsible for lost items.
Food
Families and friends are encouraged to bring favourite foods from home for the patient. A microwave oven and refrigerator are available. The Dietary Service notes food preferences and the clinical dietitian is available upon request for consultation. Coffee and tea are available at all times in the Palliative Care Family Room.
Spiritual Health
All community faith leaders are welcome at any time. The Spiritual Health practitioner or nurse can contact your own community faith leader upon request. A member of our Spiritual Health team is available to visit regularly. Opportunity is provided for all to worship, receive the sacraments, and obtain counselling and support.
Therapy
Team members help address specific issues to improve comfort and quality of life. Issues might include the following: symptoms management, mobility, seating, adaptations for activities of daily living, swallowing and communication, recreation, finance, psychological, and/or family concerns. Bereavement information is available.
Accommodation
Our Palliative Care Program is located on the second floor in the Heritage 2 wing. Heritage 2 is a 30 bed unit that supports both palliative care admissions as well as complex medical management admissions. Palliative Care rooms have a reclining chair, television and telephone that may be for use of family members. Please note, should your care be deemed to no longer require staying in our Palliative Care Unit and you are awaiting placement elsewhere, a co-payment will be charged.
Admission criteria
The Palliative Care program is a component of the Complex Medical program and focuses on caring for patients who are in their final stage of life. The following criteria need to be met for admittance to the program:
- The diagnosis is established. The patient and family are aware of the diagnosis and prognosis.
- Admission may be considered for respite or symptom management.
- The patient has a terminal illness requiring comprehensive Palliative Care, usually with a life expectancy of less than three months.
Referrals
A referral from the family physician or a health care agency is required. The patient is assessed prior to admission by the physician in charge of the unit and by a nurse. Visit our Services and Referrals page for more information.
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