Family-Centred Care Through the Palliative Journey
Families often experience anticipatory grief, stress and emotional distress alongside their loved one. Their wellbeing is integral to quality end-of-life care. [1]
Staff responsibilities
- Communicate clearly and regularly with families
- Involve families in care discussions and planning
- Acknowledge grief and uncertainty without rushing
- Provide emotional and practical support
- Offer connection to bereavement resources when needed
Trauma-Informed Risk Management
A trauma-informed approach contributes to safer care by reducing the following risks [2]:
- Behavioural escalation
- Refusal of care
- Falls associated with distress
- Family conflict
- Avoidable hospital transfers
- Medication-related distresss
- Staff burnout from conflict
- Complaints and critical incidents