What Is Inpatient Hospice Care?

In the journey of life, there come moments of great challenge, particularly when faced with a life-limiting illness. During such testing periods, compassionate and comprehensive care becomes paramount. Here at Shiloh Hospice, we provide at-home hospice care that offers comfort, support, and dignity. In some cases, a patient may need inpatient hospice care, But what does inpatient hospice care involve, and who qualifies for it? We are here to answer your questions so you can make informed decisions regarding your loved one’s care. 

What Is Inpatient Hospice Care?

A life-limiting illness often requires round-the-clock medical attention and support, which is where inpatient hospice care comes into play. It’s a type of care designed for those whose symptoms have become too severe to manage at home or in a routine hospice setting. The goal is to stabilize these intense symptoms, allowing the patient to return home where they can continue receiving hospice care in a more familiar environment.

Inpatient hospice care is not just about medical treatment. It also encompasses physical, occupational, and speech therapy, spiritual support, and trained volunteer services. All these services aim to provide an all-encompassing approach to care, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their loved ones.

Who Qualifies for Inpatient Hospice Care?

There are several conditions that may necessitate inpatient hospice care. These include sudden deterioration requiring intensive nursing intervention, uncontrolled pain, nausea, and vomiting, and pathological fractures. Other indicators include respiratory distress, symptom relief via intravenous medications that require close monitoring, and complex wound care. Unmanageable agitation, restlessness, uncontrolled seizures, and minor procedures to aid in the comfort of the patient may also warrant inpatient hospice care.

Conditions like cancer, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease & COPD, and neurological disease often lead to such symptoms, making patients with these illnesses potential candidates for inpatient hospice care.

Where Is Inpatient Hospice Care Provided?

Inpatient hospice care is provided in a facility that can offer around-the-clock clinical care. This could be a hospital, nursing facilities, or free-standing hospice houses.

The environment in an inpatient hospice setting is designed to be calmer and more homelike than that of an acute-care facility. Day and night, family members and friends of all ages are welcome, and arrangements may be made for overnight stays.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Hospice Provider

Not all hospice patients will need inpatient care. For some patients, their symptoms can be adequately managed at home. In such cases, you can turn to our team at Shiloh Hospice for exceptional support and quality end-of-life care. We believe that every moment matters, and our mission is to help you and your loved ones navigate this challenging journey with as much grace, peace, and dignity as possible.

Our goal is to control severe pain and symptoms, allowing your loved one to remain home within familiar surroundings whenever possible. 

Call Today to Learn More

Inpatient hospice care is a critical service that provides relief and support during a difficult period. As you navigate these challenging times, remember that you are not alone. Shiloh Hospice is here to provide the compassionate, comprehensive care that you and your loved ones need. Our team of dedicated professionals works tirelessly to provide comfort, support, and dignity when it’s needed most. Contact us today to learn more about how we can serve you and your loved one during this transition.