Hospice services for Military Veterans

What Are the Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure? A diagnosis of congestive heart failure can feel overwhelming. If you or a loved one has recently received this diagnosis, you may have many questions. Learning more about congestive heart failure can help you understand what to expect. It can be especially helpful to understand what the four stages of congestive heart failure are, along with your options for care. Understanding Congestive Heart Failure: An Overview Congestive heart failure, also called simply heart failure or CHF, is a chronic health condition caused by weakened heart muscle. If healthy, your heart squeezes with enough force during each heartbeat to pump enough blood for your body to function normally. In congestive heart failure, blood is not pushed out of the heart with enough force, causing other health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 6 million adults in the United States have congestive heart failure. People who are smokers, have obesity, coronary artery disease (CAD), valvular heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure are all at increased risk for CHF. Congestive heart failure can cause many symptoms that lead to poor quality of life. These symptoms include:  Shortness of breath Swelling of body tissues due to fluid buildup Chronic coughing and/or wheezing Decreased appetite and nausea Fatigue Elevated heart rate Confusion and problems with thinking Sudden weight changes  The Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure ExplainedCongestive heart failure is a progressive disease, meaning it does not go away or reverse course and gradually worsens over time. The American Heart Association has defined four stages of congestive heart failure, beginning with pre-heart heart failure or stage A, through the final or end-stage of heart failure. Stage A: Pre-Heart Failure People diagnosed with Stage A heart failure dont have a problem with their hearts structure but are at risk for developing the later stages of heart failure. Treatment at this stage is focused on preventing new problems. Patients are educated on healthy lifestyle choices that can help prevent coronary artery disease and sometimes may be prescribed medications that reduce their risk for developing heart problems. Stage B: Asymptomatic Heart Failure In Stage B heart failure, the heart has begun to show signs of structural changes. For example, this can be an enlarged left ventricle (a section of the heart), along with a decreased ejection fraction (EF), which measures how much blood the heart pumps. In Stage B there are not any symptoms of heart failure (and there have not been in the past). Treatment at this stage includes preventing symptoms from beginning and treating with medications called beta blockers and ace inhibitors (or angiotensin-receptor blockers) as appropriate to reduce the rate of heart structure changes, as well as lifestyle changes that will prevent worsening of further structural changes in the heart. Treatment may also include surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valve replacement if it is determined that a blocked coronary artery or defective heart valve is the cause of structural changes in the heart. Stage C: Symptomatic Heart Failure Stage C heart failure results in symptoms of heart failure, either in the past or currently. Treatment at this stage includes reducing or controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. It can also work to control any other health conditions that can worsen heart failure. Medications that reduce extra fluid in the body and other complications of heart failure may be added. In some cases, implanted devices such as a pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator, may be used to support the heart. Stage D: End-Stage Heart Failure During Stage D, or end-stage heart failure, symptoms are uncomfortable and always present, even during rest. Treatment in this stage includes improving quality of life, reducing symptoms, reducing trips to the hospital and making end-of-life goals and plans. For some, a heart transplant may be an option. Early-Stage Heart Failure: Knowing Your Options For those living with Stage C heart failure, day-to-day care can sometimes feel challenging. Hospitalizations may be a worry, and managing stability and quality of life at home requires lifestyle changes, medications and a good plan of care. Home health support for heart failure can help you learn how to monitor symptoms and manage your condition at home, avoiding hospital stays. Home health care can provide: Education about medications and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk factors and help promote clinical stability. Proper diet and nutrition information Techniques for improvements in strength and mobility Daily exercise routines Help to monitor vital signs Monitoring heart failure symptoms Weight monitoring and management Tips on what to do if symptoms worsen  These supports and resources can help improve your quality of life and reduce symptoms during Stage C heart failure. End-Stage Heart Failure: Knowing Your Options Because heart failure is not reversible, end-stage heart failure can escalate the need for decisions about care and end of life if you havent already had these conversations with your loved ones and care team. People living with end-stage heart failure often have symptoms and problems that can lead to hospitalizations and emergencies.Understanding the four stages of heart failure and discussing your long-term goals and wishes in the early stages can help you avoid unwanted and potentially unnecessary treatments. Palliative Care and Heart Failure Palliative care is a helpful option for those living with heart failure. The focus of palliative care is on quality of life, symptom management and setting goals for care so that your wishes are honored, and your treatment matches what you desire.Palliative care can be started at any stage of a diagnosis. As you progress into the later stages of heart failure, you may meet more often with your palliative care team to discuss symptom management and to plan for possible changes to your health and care. The palliative care team can also help you decide when to begin hospice care during Stage D heart failure. Hospice Care: Compassion During the Final Stage During hospice care, people living with heart failure transition from aggressive forms of treatment to comfort-centered, end-of-life care. An interdisciplinary hospice care team helps patients and their families to manage heart failure at home as best as possible. Specialized hospice care for heart failure can further support those in end-stage heart failure, with evidence-based guidelines and best practices to keep patients as comfortable as possible where they most want to be. During end-stage heart failure, hospice care provides: Pain and symptom management Caregiver support Emotional and spiritual support End-of-life planning (also called advance care planning) Bereavement support 24/7 nurse availability for emergencies Psychosocial support Assistance with activities of daily living Respite care  Managing the Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure with Amedisys  If youre not sure where to begin with heart failure care at home, an Amedisys care center near you can help. Whether you enroll in our home health heart failure program, meet with a palliative care team or are considering hospice, contact Amedisys Hospice at 251-343-0989 for more information

Hospice and palliative care play a vital role in providing comfort, support, and dignity to patients and their families during challenging times. Within this compassionate field, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) serve as invaluable members of the healthcare team. They provide essential support, enabling patients to receive the highest quality of care while enhancing their overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of Certified Nursing Assistants in hospice and palliative care settings and shed light on their indispensable contributions.Compassionate and Personalized Care:One of the fundamental principles of hospice and palliative care is to prioritize the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients. CNAs excel in delivering compassionate care, fostering a sense of trust and security for individuals navigating their final journey. By establishing meaningful connections with patients and their families, CNAs can better understand their unique needs, fears, and desires. This personalized approach ensures that patients receive the utmost attention and assistance during their most vulnerable moments.Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):Certified Nursing Assistants are trained to provide essential support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which encompass routine tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding. In hospice and palliative care, patients often face physical limitations, discomfort, or cognitive impairment. CNAs skillfully navigate these challenges, offering gentle and dignified assistance that promotes patient independence and self-worth. Their presence allows patients to maintain their sense of identity and dignity while facing the physical and emotional changes associated with their condition.Monitoring and Reporting:In hospice and palliative care, accurate and timely communication between healthcare professionals is crucial for providing comprehensive care. CNAs are on the front lines, closely observing patients conditions, monitoring vital signs, and promptly reporting any changes or concerns to the nursing staff. Their vigilant eyes and keen observation skills serve as an early warning system, ensuring that healthcare providers can respond quickly to any emerging issues. By bridging the gap between patients and the rest of the care team, CNAs contribute significantly to the overall well-being of patients.Emotional Support for Patients and Families: The end-of-life journey can be emotionally overwhelming for both patients and their loved ones. Certified Nursing Assistants offer much-needed emotional support, lending a listening ear, and providing a comforting presence. They are often trusted confidants who provide reassurance, empathy, and understanding during moments of fear, anxiety, or grief. By establishing genuine connections, CNAs help alleviate emotional distress, fostering an environment of trust, compassion, and acceptance.Facilitating Communication and Collaboration:CNAs are integral in fostering effective communication and collaboration among the interdisciplinary team in hospice and palliative care. They serve as a crucial link between patients, families, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. By relaying patient preferences, concerns, and updates, CNAs ensure that everyone involved is on the same page, resulting in cohesive and coordinated care. This collaborative approach maximizes the quality of life for patients and ensures that their wishes are respected.Certified Nursing Assistants play an invaluable role in hospice and palliative care, offering compassionate support, personalized care, and essential assistance to patients and their families. Their contributions in providing physical and emotional comfort, monitoring patients conditions, and facilitating effective communication are immeasurable. As we recognize the importance of CNAs, it is crucial to appreciate their dedication, empathy, and unwavering commitment to ensuring that every individuals end-of-life journey is as comfortable and dignified as possible. Questions please call, 303-698-2121. 

Comparing Palliative & Hospice Care Understanding Palliative Care Compared to Hospice CareSome older adults and people with serious illnesses, unfortunately, experience the end of life in certain healthcare settings that do not align with their desired wishes. If you have a serious illness or are a caregiver of someone planning end-of-life care, knowing the difference between palliative care and hospice care can help you make an informed decision when the time comes to transition to one of these healthcare settings.What Is Palliative Care?Palliative care is a form of care that focuses on improving your quality of life and that of your family when you are living with a serious illness. It focuses on your whole-person health rather than only on your condition. If you are receiving palliative care, your treatment plan may focus on reducing symptoms of your illness and on improving secondary conditions such as depression, sleep deprivation, and side effects of medications.Palliative care may be given in various healthcare settings, such as at the hospital, a residential care facility, or your home. Anyone can receive this type of care regardless of age or the severity of their condition.If you receive palliative care, you may work with and be treated by various healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, physical therapists, counselors, and nutritionists. If you need spiritual care, your palliative care team may even include a chaplain. The healthcare professionals that make up your palliative care team will depend mainly on your recovery needs and level of care.Studies show that palliative care offers many benefits, including:Reduction in pain, nausea, and shortness of breathImproved communication among patients, their loved ones, and their healthcare providersIncreased emotional supportHigh-quality care that aligns with the patients wishesReduction in stressIncreased confidence surrounding decision-making related to careAbility to meet the emotional and spiritual needs of the patients and their loved ones What Is Hospice Care? Hospice care focuses on improving your comfort and quality of life when you are nearing the end of your life. This type of care is usually given in circumstances in which an illness continues to progress despite treatment or when the patient chooses not to receive certain treatments. Hospice care is similar to palliative care in that it provides comfort care and support for the family. However, treatments are not given to improve the illness. Like palliative care, hospice care can be given in many different healthcare settings, though it is most frequently given at your home, where you can be most comfortable and spend quality time with your loved ones. In addition, it is typically given when your healthcare provider believes you have no more than six months to live. Some benefits of hospice care include 24/7 access to nurses and healthcare workers who can address and relieve symptoms and side effects and access to medical equipment and medications that can reduce your discomfort. Many of the same types of healthcare professionals that make up a palliative care team will also be part of your hospice care team. This includes doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers who dedicate their time to giving you the support you need and making you feel as comfortable as possible during your final months. To be eligible for hospice care, you will discontinue aggressive treatment efforts to combat your terminal illness (such as experimental surgeries, aggressive chemotherapy, or other treatments that require prolonged hospitalization and recovery).   However, you may continue to receive treatments for other conditions, such as antidepressants to treat depression or insulin medicines to control Diabetes.    What Is Comfort Care and End-of-Life Care? Comfort care and end-of-life care are both terms that describe the type of care you receive when you are near the end of your life and are no longer receiving treatment for your illness. It is highly similar to palliative care in providing you with whole-person care that focuses on your physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health. Comfort care and end-of-life care may include palliative care or hospice care, or a combination of both. What Are the Main Differences Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care? Sometimes, palliative care is given as part of hospice care, and both types share many similarities. For instance, the goal of both palliative and hospice care is to improve your quality of life and help you find relief from painful and severe symptoms and side effects of treatment. Both types of care also focus on whole-person health. However, there remain many differences between palliative care and hospice care. Some of these differences are: Palliative care can be given to anyone with a serious illness, regardless of the stage of their disease. In comparison, hospice care is typically only given when a person has less than six months to live and is at the end of their life. Palliative care can be given simultaneously when the patient receives other treatments for their condition, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Hospice care is usually given when treatment for the illness has stopped, and the goal of care is to manage the patients symptoms for the remainder of life. The healthcare professionals on a palliative care team work separately from the patients primary care team that is treating the illness. In comparison, the healthcare professionals on a hospice care team handle the majority of the care and collaborate with the patients primary care team as necessary.  Who Should Consider Palliative Care? You may want to consider palliative care if you or your loved one has a serious illness or chronic condition that requires long, intensive care or that causes severe physical symptoms and/or emotional distress. For example, cancer, heart disease, AIDS, and kidney failure are some of the many conditions that can benefit from palliative care. Additionally, palliative care may benefit you if you: Want relief from severe physical pain you are experiencing due to your illness Are experiencing emotional pain or psychological conditions that you are unable to control Want to continue to receive treatment for your condition Want tips and guidance on how to effectively manage your condition Need guidance with choosing the best treatment Need help understanding your illness Want to receive treatment at home or outside of a traditional hospital setting Have loved ones who are involved with your treatment Need help transitioning from one treatment setting to another When Would Someone Transition From Palliative Care To Hospice Care? A person may transition from palliative care to hospice care if their doctor thinks they have no longer than six months to live. Sometimes, it can be difficult for doctors to predict exactly how long it will take for a particular disease to run its course or how long a person has left to live if their health is in decline. In these circumstances, its important to consider how transitioning to hospice care could improve your quality of life during your final months. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), doctors should strongly consider referring chronically ill patients to hospice care if they spend more than half their time in bed, are unable to function efficiently, and are experiencing both physical and psychological distress. The NLM adds that hospice referrals are usually necessary when the patients condition has progressively declined to the point that their highest priority is to take control of their healthcare and achieve the greatest possible comfort in their homes as they near the end of life. Talk to your doctor if you think you may need hospice care but arent sure when you should transition out of palliative care. Your doctor can talk to you at length about your options and the benefits of transitioning to hospice care based on your condition and unique circumstances. Taking advantage of hospice care as soon as its needed could result in access to quality care and lots of extra quality time to spend with your loved ones. Additionally, studies show that patients who plan their care in advance are more likely to be satisfied with their care, given how they can make decisions that align with their end-of-life wishes. How to Get Palliative Care or Hospice Care Consult with your healthcare provider if you or your loved one is interested in learning more about palliative care or hospice care. Your doctor can refer you to a palliative or hospice care specialist who can answer all your questions and help you determine which of these services may be more ideal. Palliative care and hospice care are covered by many major health insurance providers, including Medicare. The exact benefits covered will vary based on your health plan. Benefits covered may include medical equipment and supplies, skilled nursing care, bereavement support, and medications to provide comfort, among many others. Hospice At Your Side has resources for home health and hospice services throughout the United States. Specialty services we offer include diabetes care, orthopedics, and pain management. Call us today to learn more about our many home healthcare services.