What Should Families Know About Medication Management in Hospice?

Caring for a loved one at the end of life is a profound act of love, but it often comes with logistical challenges that can be intimidating. Managing medications can become one of the biggest stressors for family caregivers. Between keeping track of doses and understanding new prescriptions, it’s normal to feel uncertain.

When it comes to hospice medication management, families and caregivers should be aware of:

• What comfort medications are
• How to organize and store medications
• When to seek the help of a hospice nurse

At Shiloh Hospice, we believe that education empowers families to provide the best possible care. Learning how to manage these medications safely not only prevents errors but also ensures your loved one remains comfortable and dignified throughout their hospice journey.

What Are Comfort Medications in Hospice?

In hospice care, the focus shifts from curative treatment to comfort care. This means the medications prescribed are often different from what a patient may have taken previously. “Comfort medications” specifically target symptoms that impact quality of life, such as pain, anxiety or respiratory distress.

Common medications used in hospice may be used for:

• Reducing mild pain or fevers.
• Managing pain and shortness of breath.
• Helping reduce anxiety, agitation and confusion.
• Addressing constipation, nausea and trouble sleeping.

It is crucial to remember that these medications should only be administered under the direction of a hospice nurse or physician.

How Can Families Keep Hospice Medicines Organized and Stored Safely?

Bringing controlled substances into the home requires careful management to maintain safety for everyone in the household. A lack of awareness or organization with medication can lead to missed doses or accidental double-dosing, so establishing a system early is key.

Consider these tips for safe storage and organization:

• Designate a secure location: Store medications in a safe, dry place out of reach of children and pets. Some medications, especially liquid ones, may need to be stored in the refrigerator. Check the labels or ask your nurse.
• Use a medication log: Keep a simple notebook or chart near the medication supply. Record the time and dose every time a medication is given. This can help prevent confusion between multiple caregivers.
• Limit access: Only nurses and primary caregivers should handle and administer the medication.

If you are confused about proper administration or dosage at any point, confirm with your hospice nurse or physician.

When Should a Nurse Be Called for Dose Changes?

As a caregiver, you are the daily eyes and ears for the medical team. You will likely notice subtle changes in your loved one’s condition before anyone else. If the current medication regimen doesn’t seem to be working, do not adjust the dose yourself.

Contact your hospice nurse to discuss medication changes if you notice:

• Signs of pain: Furrowed brows, clenching teeth, moaning or rigid body language.
• Respiratory distress: Labored breathing or gasping.
• Agitation: Restlessness or anxious behavior.
• New symptoms: Nausea, vomiting or an inability to swallow pills.

Your hospice team is available 24/7 to support you. They can approve dose changes over the phone or send a nurse to assess the patient, keeping your loved one comfortable without risking overdose or side effects.

Providing Comfort and Dignity at Home

Managing medications is a significant responsibility, but families and caregivers are not alone. Hospice teams, like ours at Shiloh Hospice, are dedicated to walking this path with you, providing the education and support you need to care for your family member with confidence. By keeping medications organized and communicating openly with your care team, you can focus less on logistics and more on spending quality, peaceful moments together.

If you’re considering the hospice journey for a loved one or want more information about our supportive services in the Greater Chicago area, contact Shiloh Hospice today. Our team is here to help you at every step.