Initial Diagnosis and Symptom Management
The first stage begins when a serious illness is diagnosed, whether it’s cancer, heart disease, or a chronic condition. Palliative care is introduced early on to manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and emotional distress. The goal is to provide comfort and improve the patient’s quality of life, even while they may still be undergoing curative treatments.
Active Treatment and Ongoing Care
In this stage, patients may continue with treatments aimed at curing or managing their illness. Palliative care works alongside these treatments, focusing on relieving symptoms and supporting emotional well-being. The palliative care team helps the patient and their family navigate the complexities of the treatment process, offering guidance on making decisions that align with the patient’s goals.
Advanced Illness and Increased Symptom Control
As the illness progresses, curative treatments may become less effective. The focus of palliative care shifts more toward symptom management and comfort. The palliative team provides increased support for pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, helping patients live as comfortably as possible during this stage.
End-of-Life Care
When the patient is in the final stages of life, palliative care becomes fully focused on ensuring dignity and comfort. This stage prioritizes managing severe symptoms, providing emotional and spiritual support, and helping families navigate end-of-life decisions. The goal is to ensure that the patient’s remaining days are spent in peace, with respect for their wishes.
Bereavement Support
After the patient passes, palliative care extends to the family, offering grief counseling and emotional support. This stage helps families cope with their loss and adjust to life without their loved one, ensuring they are not left to navigate the grieving process alone.