One of the main goals of hospice is to manage pain and other symptoms that come with advanced cancer. Nurses and doctors use medications and other tools to keep patients as comfortable as possible. This can include managing:

• Pain from tumors or treatment
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Anxiety or restlessness

Treatments are adjusted often to keep the patient as relaxed and pain-free as possible.

Hospice care provides the medical supplies and equipment needed to care for the patient. This may include:

• Hospital beds
• Wheelchairs or walkers
• Oxygen tanks
• Bedpans or incontinence supplies
• Wound care items

These items are delivered to the home or care setting quickly and without hassle.

Hospice nurses visit regularly to check on the patient’s condition, adjust medications, and teach caregivers how to help. Nurses are trained to spot any changes and act fast to keep the patient comfortable. Nursing support is available on a consistent basis and increases as needed.

Hospice aides help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and other personal care tasks. This support helps the patient feel clean and cared for without putting too much pressure on the family. The goal is to maintain dignity and comfort during this time.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is hard on both the patient and the family. Hospice includes emotional support from counselors or social workers. These professionals help everyone involved cope with grief, fear, or stress. They also provide advice on decisions, legal paperwork, and end-of-life planning.

Hospice includes a team of professionals who work together to make sure the patient’s needs are met. The care team may include doctors, nurses, aides, counselors, and other specialists. They talk with each other and with the family regularly to make sure the care plan stays on track.