Hospice Caregiver Academy Eligibility Criteria
Heart problems
Severe heart disease that keeps getting worse, even with treatment.
Kidney problems
Kidneys are failing and the person has chosen not to start or continue dialysis.
Lung disease (COPD)
Serious long-term lung disease that makes breathing very hard, even at rest.
Liver disease
Advanced liver damage causing ongoing symptoms like swelling, confusion, or bleeding.
Cancer
Cancer that has spread or is in a late stage, and treatments are no longer helping.
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease that causes major problems with movement, daily tasks, or frequent complications.
Dementia
Severe memory loss and confusion, with the person needing help with almost all daily activities.
Severe weight loss
Ongoing, unplanned weight loss and poor appetite, even with support.
Disease Details
Cancer
Heart Disease
Dementia/Alzheimer's
Stroke
COPD
Kidney Failure
Liver Failure
Severe Calorie-Protein Malnutrition
It is natural for the body to slow down as it nears the end of its journey. These expected changes are a gentle part of life, and understanding them can bring you peace and reassurance as you care for your loved one.
Comfort Medications
These medicines are used to ease pain, anxiety, nausea, and other symptoms so your loved one can be as comfortable as possible.
Morphine
Primarily used to manage pain and alleviate shortness of breath (dyspnea), ensuring the patient can breathe comfortably.
Lorazepam
A fast-acting medication used to treat anxiety, restlessness, and terminal agitation, helping to promote a state of calm.
Haloperidol
Helps control nausea, vomiting, and severe agitation. It is particularly effective for managing confusion or delirium near the end of life.
Hyoscyamine
Used to dry up excess respiratory and oral secretions, often referred to as the 'death rattle,' to ease breathing sounds.
Prochlorperazine
Highly effective for managing nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms that can significantly impact a patient's comfort.
Acetaminophen
Used in liquid or suppository form to manage fevers and mild pain, ensuring the patient remains cool and comfortable.
When to Call Your Nurse
- Call your nurse right away if your loved one is having trouble breathing, seems much more confused, is in new or worse pain, has a fall or injury, or if something just doesn’t feel right to you.