The many unfounded myths and fears that surround working with patients at the end of their lives are dispelled in this thoughtful book, and the author provides both practical and emotional support for those involved in caring for dying patients. The book looks at palliative care models that address all aspects of a patient's wellbeing and conveys the latest studies and challenges in the field, bridging the gap between the theories and the realities of working with patients on a daily basis. It covers everything from the philosophy behind the practice to the diverse roles in the multi-disciplinary care team, with emphasis on how therapy and arts therapies can be integrated effectively. The varying demands of inpatient, outpatient and home care are described, and the author discusses the processes of bereavement, how to handle the practicalities of loss and the help that therapists can give at this stage. Full of professional advice and career guidance, this book will be an invaluable tool for those working with patients nearing the end of their life and those considering working work in this area.
Foreword by Professor Barbara Monroe, CEO, St Christopher's Hospice, London, UK.; Part I: History, Policy and Current Challenges.; 1. Introduction and Background. Nigel Hartley and St Christopher's Hospice Arts Team.; 2. The Model and Philosophy of End of Life Care. Nigel Hartley.; 3. Strategy and Current Challenges. Nigel Hartley.; Part II: Teamwork, Communication and Working in Different Settings.; 4. The Multi-disciplinary Team. Nigel Hartley and Tamsin Dives.; 5. Working with Inpatients. Nigel Hartley and Andy Ridley.; 6. Working with Outpatients and Day Care. Nigel Hartley and Mick Sands.; 7. Working in Community Settings. Nigel Hartley and Gerry Prince.; 8. Bereavement and Loss. Nigel Hartley and Virginia Lawson.; Part III: Starting Out, Looking After Yourself, Research and Development.; 9. Getting Started. Nigel Hartley and Roberto Sanchez-Camus.; 10. Looking After Yourself. Nigel Hartley and Marion Tasker.; 11. Education, Research and Development. Nigel Hartley and Giorgos Tsiris.; 12. Some Key Themes and Handy Hints. Nigel Hartley. References. Index.
This book would serve as a useful introduction to anyone working in end-of-life care or considering it. The first section of the book deals with history, policy and current challenges... The second part is a series of chapters that discuss most aspects of end-of-life care in a variety of settings... This is an insightful review of what working in end-of-life care is all about. Whilst directed to those from the creative arts, anyone who works in end-of-life care, or is considering it, will be better off for reading it.
