We found this article thoughtful, informative and relevant as the average life span of pets continues to increase. In veterinary hospice, the goals of care include managing clinical signs, promoting patient comfort and preserving or improving quality of life; not attempting to cure the patient.
Source: Veterinary Team Brief, November/December 2016.
Clients increasingly request hospice and palliative care for terminally ill patients. Identifying specific treatment goals, making a care plan that meets patient and client needs, and maintaining open communication are the cornerstones of care.
INSIGHTS: Euthanasia is a stressor often referenced when discussing team member depression in veterinary practice. The team approach here is one way to reduce the impact to a single individual. It was pleasant to see how the client was involved with the last hours of the pet’s life.