Question

Which principles, practices and/or approaches are currently standard implications for work within the aged care sector? (e.g. palliative approach, rights-based approach, etc.). Name at least three, and write a brief description of each.

Answer 1

1. Person centred care : The care should be based on individual needs, choices, preferences and values. It includes treating the person with dignity, respect and compassion, offering personalized care and support etc. For providing effective person centred care, we need to respect the individuality, privacy, Independence, rights, choices, and partnership rights of the patient.. There should be effective therapeutic communication between the caregivers and the patient. Clear, simple and proper explanation should be given timely.Ask for feedback.

2. Shared decision making involving patient and family. There should be collaboration between Healthcare workers and patients to reach care decisions. We need to use evidence based educational resources for this. Shared decision making will help to improve patient satisfaction, imrove effective communication and thereby it will help to reach positive client outcomes and also it may help to reduce the cost of care.

3. Rights to refuse treatment: This is through assisting the patient and family to make informed decisions and respecting their wishes. For example: if a patient has a malignant wound, the definitive treatment is either surgical, radiation or chemo. But some people chose not to go down that path and treat it conservatively. Then it is our responsibility to explain the consequences, what to expect and how will achieve the goal which is determined by them.
So in a malignant wound which is managed conservatively : the person centred goals will be to manage exudate, manage odour, ensure comfort, manage pain etc.

4. Advanced care planning involving the patient and family in developing a plan of care for the end of Life Care.

Also the care provided should be evidence based and in accordance with best practices. It should also be in alliance with the policies and procedures of the organisation.