Inpatient Care

The Inpatient Unit

The Galway Hospice Inpatient Unit, which opened in 1997, is dedicated to the care of patients with cancer or other life limiting illnesses. A holistic approach is adopted so that physical, psychological, social and spiritual considerations are taken into account in allowing the patient to achieve the greatest potential for fulfillment in their remaining life, and the assurance of dignity in death. During this time, family and friends are encouraged to be involved in care and are themselves given psychological and pastoral support by members of the multidisciplinary team when required.

The diagnosis of advanced cancer has a profound effect on patients and their families. The psychosocial crisis it creates is severe, and quite unlike that of most other illnesses.

Caring for palliative care patients is complex. However, many of the symptoms associated with advanced cancer can be relieved or made more acceptable to patients, and as a result help to improve their quality of life.

The Multidisciplinary Team:

Team work in the Galway Hospice is more than a concept or an ideal. In order to provide quality care to patients and families we function as a unit, utilizing the expertise and resources of each discipline in the unit.

Formal team meetings are held on a weekly basis to review each patient/family situation. The meetings allow us to better define problems of care, co-ordinate coverage, and apply more effective intervention.

Working closely as a team also provides a mutual support system for staff members, who deal with stressful situations.

"We would like to acknowledge the wonderful work done by all the staff. We haven't forgotten and never will. They will always be in our thoughts & prayers. We don't have the words to express the depth of our love & gratitude." - Family of Hospice Patient.

Admission Policy:

All patients are referred through their General Practitioner if they are at home and through their Consultant if in hospital. Our aim is to involve the Primary Health Care Team and work in close collaboration with them in providing a high standard of care to patients.

A member of the Home Care team will assess the patient at home and if a patient requires admission this can be arranged.

Reasons for Admission:

Patients are admitted to the Inpatient Unit for any or a combination of the following reasons:

Respite Care
Symptom Control
End of Life Care
Psychological Support
Combination of care