HOSPICE CARE
Pennsylvania Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) (also known as Portable Medical Orders) Do you or your loved one have a serious medical condition, such as advanced heart, lung, or kidney disease, cancer, liver failure, Parkinson’s, or dementia? Individuals with a serious illness may want to make very clear their wishes regarding the type of care they want to receive, or do not want to receive, if their condition progresses. The Pennsylvania Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form is a document that helps to ensure that patients’ wishes regarding medical treatments during emergency situations are made known to doctors,
nurses, and other healthcare providers. POLST is not intended to replace an advance directive (such as a living will or healthcare power of attorney). The POLST form documents the patient’s preferences for resuscitation, intensity of care, use of tube feedings, and other medical interventions. It is completed after a conversation between the patient and doctor or other healthcare provider. If a patient is unable to have the conversation, the doctor may speak to the patient’s legal medical decision-maker. POLST is valid and effective once it is signed by a doctor or nurse practi-
Hospice Care Definitions continued from 135 INDIGENT PATIENTS – Does the hospice accept non funded or indigent patients? This is usually on a case by case basis and at the determination of the hospice company. Many have a non-profit organization that can help support the care of non-covered patients. PAIN PUMPS AVAILABLE – Many patients have their symptoms controlled through oral medications. Some situations require a pain pump where medications are administered through 140 GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA - FALL 2021 - WINTER 2022
an IV pump. If this is the situation, inquire with the hospice RN case manager to see if pain pumps are available through their agency. PALLIATIVE CARE – Specialized medical care for people with serious illness. It is focused on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress of a serious illness – whatever the prognosis. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness and can be provided along with curative treatment.
