Palliative Care is special care for people, their families, and others who are living with a serious illness.
The goals of palliative care are:
Throughout Western Region there are palliative care beds. At Western Memorial Regional Hospital, there is an 8- bed unit. There are four palliative care beds at Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital in Stephenville, and one bed at each of the other sites, (Port Saunders, Bonne Bay, Port aux Basques, and Burgeo).
The care team includes a nurse specialist and Palliative Care doctor, nurses, family doctors, social workers/counselors, pharmacists, and pastoral care. Other team members such as occupational therapists, nutritionists, or physiotherapists may be brought in as needed.
Patients can be admitted to Palliative Care for care of their symptoms such as pain, or nausea and vomiting; and care during the last month of life.
For further information you may contact the Regional Nurse Consultant, Western Health at 709-637-5000 ext 5203. Fax Number 709-637- 5380