In the Community
We acknowledge how important the comfort of home and the presence of family members can be to a person facing a life limiting illness. The hospice supports people at home as much as they can, helping them to remain as independent and active as possible.
All our community and inpatient services are provided at no cost to the patient.
Our Community Palliative Care team consists of experienced nurses, doctors, family support and pastoral care staff. Trained volunteers also assist with practical support.
Nursing Care
The Community Palliative Care Nursing Service provides:
- Home visits and support for patients living at home or in residential care
- 24-hour phone access for advice
- Liaison with general practitioners and other health professionals involved in the patient’s care
- Access to nursing care and some equipment to allow continued care at home
- Advice and support for carers
Each of our experienced palliative care nurses cares for a number of people in a geographical area. One nurse will be your key nurse who will make the majority of visits to you. She/he will plan your care with you, your family and your Primary Health Care Team, taking into account your own particular needs and goals.
Our nurses visit 7 days a week if required. We assist with pain control and other symptoms that may be causing concern. Our aim is to ensure that people are as independent and comfortable as possible. Because we provide a 7- day service, nurses other than your key nurse may visit from time to time.
24 Hour Telephone Support
You may ring the hospice any time, day or night for advice. No matter how trivial a problem may seem, we are happy to discuss it.
Our aim is to ensure that you maintain optimal comfort and assist your family in supporting you at home.
Doctors
We have a team of specialist doctors who support the community nurses and are available to your own doctor for advice and information.
Family Support
The Family Support Team at Mercy Hospice Auckland assists patients and their families in the community and at our inpatient unit. The team includes counsellors, a social worker, chaplain, kaiatawhai (Maori cultural support) and Pacific cultural support. Asian support is available from trained volunteers. You can be referred from the community or inpatient nursing teams or ask to see us.
Volunteer Services
Trained hospice volunteers may also assist you at home. They may give family members a break, provide aromatherapy and biography services, help out with shopping, and drive people to doctor or hospital appointments.
Liaison with Other Services
The hospice’s medical and nursing team maintain contact with your GP and other community services involved in your care. You can rest assured they are continually made aware of your progress.