When Calling 911 Is the Answer: Leveraging Resources in EMS to Deliver Emergency Hospice and Palliative Care (TH321)

A distressed call to EMS from families or caregivers of hospice patients in crisis can significantly alter end-of-life care. Hospice patients may have acute symptom management needs exceeding their resources at home, but may not desire to go to the emergency department (ED). However, traditional EMS protocols may not align well with hospice patients' goals of care. While EMS may be able to administer controlled substances in the home setting, this usually requires the patient to then be transported to the ED for further treatment.
Source: Journal of Pain and Symptom Management - Category: Palliative Care Authors: Source Type: research