Is hospice really a place sick people go and never come back? Once someone goes into hospice, does that mean the family never gets to see him or her again? Isn’t hospice some sort of religious practice?
The answers to these hospice myths are no, no and no. These are the facts::
A nasogastric tube (a feeding tube through the nose and throat and into the stomach) or gastrostomy tube (a feeding tube that goes through the abdominal wall and into the stomach) can be put in place to provide nutrients when a patient cannot eat. But these can be painful/uncomfortable medical procedures with potential complications, including infections, electrolyte and mineral imbalances, vomiting and diarrhea.
Artificial nutrition and hydration do not usually help the hospice patient feel better, feel stronger or live longer. Most dying patients do not experience hunger. Those who do feel hunger are satisfied with small amounts offered upon request.¹ Hospice physicians are specially trained to know when it is appropriate to intervene with artificial nutrition and hydration support.
Superior Home Health & Hospice offers a complimentary consultation with an advisor to help you determine your loved one’s home health & hospice needs. To schedule your free consultation, call 805.742.4514 or contact us online.
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