A significant or life-threatening illness or medical condition is managed with Los Angeles hospice care by reducing pain and other related physical, emotional, or psychosocial symptoms. Other unpleasant symptoms like anxiety, exhaustion, restlessness, and shortness of breath are also reduced with palliative care interventions. Hospice care offers advanced care planning to support patients in leading an active, rewarding, and pain-free ending of life.

Reducing moderate to severe pain with hospice care, which could last for weeks, months, or even years can significantly enhance the quality of life. Nearly all pain issues can be treated or reduced by beginning this care early and employing proper pain management.

When choosing a pain management strategy, remember these three crucial ideas. 

Using the step-care method recommended by the World Health Organization, most pain issues can be managed by the following procedures:

Step 1

Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication first (NSAID). Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter NSAIDs and stronger NSAIDs that your doctor may prescribe are examples of NSAIDs. Acetaminophen is an alternative to NSAIDs for pain.

Step 2

Healthcare professionals can recommend a mild opioid medication like hydrocodone if your pain persists or worsens. It is possible to combine a nonopioid pain medication with a weak opioid.

Step 3

Doctors can recommend a more potent opiate if the pain persists or worsens. Some examples of strong opioids include morphine and fentanyl.

Are drugs ever used in Los Angeles hospice?

The most efficient and widely used medications for moderate to severe pain are opioids. Opioid medications come in a wide variety and have numerous dosage options. One disadvantage of these medications is that patients will likely build a tolerance to the one you’re taking over time, requiring more significant doses to achieve the same effect. To address this issue, a healthcare professional may change the medication’s kind, dosage, or administration method.

The well-being of our patients is the #1 priority at Faith & Hope Hospice.

Many choices are available if a relative requires Los Angeles hospice care. Find the best course of action in cooperation with your healthcare practitioner. An expert in pain management or hospice care may also be able to assist you. Keep in mind: your family member reserves the right to experience as little discomfort as possible, and there is no justification for allowing pain to lower your quality of life. 

Please get in touch with Faith and Hope Hospice today. We look forward to serving you and your loved one with the highest quality of care in Southern California.