Palliative Care: A Practical Guide for the Health Professional: Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life and Death

This book encourages health professionals to reconceptualise their practice in the light of the fact that their patients are deteriorating and dying, supporting them in their dichotomous role which involves affirming that person’s life whilst acknowledging that that life is ending. Professionals are encouraged to think laterally, to be creative in their use of their core skills, and to use their life skills and experience to change the focus of their interventions. By making these changes, those involved with caring for the dying will be able to address issues related to burnout and feeling de-skilled. The authors share their considerable experience with the reader – what works for both patient and carer/professional when working in this field. By providing workable solutions, they empower those in disempowering situations, such as when working with terminally ill children and adults. The book is truly holistic and client-centred in its approach, upholding the philosophy of palliative care.

• Aimed at all who interact with children and adults who have a life–limiting condition or who are dying
• Offers practical examples of approaches to dilemmas and emotional issues commonly face by those working in palliative care
• Encourages professionals to think laterally, to be creative in their use of core skills, and to use their life skills and experience to change the focus of their interventions
• Moves the emphasis away from the medical model to the emotional and spiritual influences on quality of life
• Offers clear, workable guidelines and demonstrates practical solutions, based on proven theory and experience, to problems encountered on a day-to-day basis by patients and those coming into contact with them

“The following tapestry of palliative care vignettes, experienced occupational therapists’ reflections, practical suggestions and theoretical perspectives, did not disappoint. This text would be a welcome addition to all international palliative care settings.
Clare O’Callaghan, International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, April 2008, Vol 15, No 4