SUPPORT
Coping with
advancing disease produces moments of crisis from time to time
for both patient and family.
Independence
and coping are normally encouraged, but at times of crisis
patients and family members regress, and additional support is
required. Professional carers have to be sensitive to the
balance required.
The principles of giving support are:
-
Emphasize
warm nurturing care (using first names, touch, eye
contact, and showing a concern for the other’s comfort).
-
Arrange
practical help with day-to-day routines (releasing
the person’s energy for “worry work”).
-
Interpret new information. (Stress reduces
concentration, causing “cognitive erosion”.)
-
Rehearse problems such as anticipated medical
procedures. (Surprise increases stress. Give “anticipatory
guidance” by explaining what will happen and how the person
may feel.)
-
Be
optimistic. (Optimism reduces stress.)
-
Tolerate
abnormal behavior (irritation, anger).
-
Mediate between family members. (Stress can
cause destructive fighting, and the needs of
individuals may have to be explained to each other. Foster
mutual support.)
-
Encourage rest. (Mental stress causes exhaustion.)
Coping
with advancing disease also causes stress to the carer.
The unsupported, fatigued carer is at a disadvantage in coping
with a crisis. The support of a multidisciplinary team, the
reassurance of a well- managed and adequately staffed
organization, and a suitable personal balance between work and
recreation can help to minimize stress and avoid “burn out”.
(see Burn Out,
Crisis Theory,
Respite Care)
The author and publisher have taken
precautions to ensure that the information in this book is
error-free. However, readers must be guided by their own
personal and professional standards of good practice in
evaluating and applying recommendations made herein. The
contents of this book represent the views and experience of
the author, and not necessarily those of the publisher.
