CareSearch is an online source of free, trustworthy evidence-based palliative care information with easy-to-understand sections written specifically for consumers and health professionals. We are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health.
Caring for someone with a life limiting illness can be found in almost all areas of health care. Nurses who work across the health system can find themselves in clinical situations where palliative care knowledge is needed, even if they are not ‘specialist’ nurses. This kind of palliative approach to nursing care is delivered everywhere that patients can be found, such as in community care, surgical units, residential aged care facilities and emergency departments.
You may wish to find out more about the nursing care of patients for whom active treatment is no longer of benefit or who have life limiting illnesses. You may also want to work or study in palliative care.
There are two ways in which nurses can consider addressing the care of those with specific needs. Sometimes there will be considerations in where you practice (Areas of Practice), and sometimes this will require a population or health system response (Specific Populations).
Areas of Practice
Nurses practice in settings with different populations with different needs. The following pages provide information and resources that may be specific to your area or setting of practice:
Population Approach
Population health looks at the social, environmental and behavioural determinants of health and health service delivery in Australia. These approaches identify groups that may have differential access to resources and services, or who may have specific needs in ensuring equitable care.
Each of these pages links to corresponding information that has been written For Patients, Carers and Families.
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post.
to your account or now (it's free).