NURSING & CARE TEAM

A coordinated hospice team around the patient and family.

Hospice care brings together different professionals who communicate, plan, educate, and respond to the patient’s changing needs.

INTERDISCIPLINARY CARE

Different roles, one shared plan of care.

Hospice is designed as a team-based model because serious illness can affect physical comfort, emotions, family responsibilities, practical needs, and spiritual concerns. The specific team members involved depend on the patient’s needs and plan of care.

The patient and family remain central to the process. Team members communicate with one another so care is coordinated rather than fragmented.

WHO MAY BE INVOLVED

A team matched to the patient’s needs.

Hospice nurses who assess needs, provide education, and coordinate care
Physicians and medical professionals who support clinical oversight
Hospice aides who may assist with personal care when included in the plan
Social workers who help with emotional, practical, and family concerns
Spiritual care professionals when the patient or family desires support
Volunteers and other hospice team members as appropriate
Bereavement professionals who support loved ones through grief

HOW THE TEAM WORKS

Communication is part of the care.

Assess

The team evaluates physical symptoms, care needs, caregiver concerns, and other factors affecting comfort and quality of life.

Coordinate

Team members share information and align services around the individualized hospice plan of care.

Educate

Patients and families receive clear explanations, caregiver guidance, and practical information about what to expect.

WHAT FAMILIES CAN EXPECT

Support that adapts as needs change.

1. Initial assessmentThe team learns about the patient’s symptoms, priorities, care setting, and family concerns.

2. Care planningServices are organized around goals, clinical needs, and the hospice plan of care.

3. Ongoing visitsVisit frequency and team involvement depend on the patient’s changing needs.

4. 24/7 supportPatients and families can reach the hospice team after hours for urgent questions and concerns.

FAMILY PARTNERSHIP

Caregivers are part of the conversation.

Family caregivers often have important observations about symptoms, routines, preferences, and changes in condition. The hospice team encourages questions and provides education so caregivers understand the care plan and know when to call for help.

Hospice does not expect families to become clinicians. The team’s role is to guide, teach, support, and respond.

You should not have to coordinate serious-illness care alone.

Talk with our team about how hospice professionals can work together to support the patient and family.

☎ Call (818) 280-3249

or email us at care@metromedhospice.com