Patients and carers
Carers
Supporting carers and families who are looking after someone
nearing the end of life is a crucial role of the GP. There is
evidence that if the GP/Primary Care team do not provide such
support carers often may not be able to access it anywhere else
i.e. primary care plays a vital role. Suggestions are included in
the Guidance.
Measures GPs can take to
improve the quality of life of informal carers.Ref Simon.C (2001)
Informal carers and the Primary care Team BrJ Gen
Pract.51:920-3
- Acknowledge carers, what they
do, and the problems they have.
- Flag the notes of informal
carers so that in any consultation you are aware of their
circumstances.
- Treat carers as you would other
team members and listen to their opinions.
- Include them in discussions
about the person they care for.
- Give carers a choice about
which tasks they are prepared to take upon themselves.
- Ask after the health and
welfare of the carer as well as the patient.
- Provide information about the
condition the person the carer is looking after suffers
from.
- Provide information about being
a carer and support available.
- Provide information about
benefits available.
- Provide information about local
services available for both the person being cared for and the
carer.
- Be an advocate for the carer to
ensure services and equipment appropriate to the circumstances
provided.
- Liaise with other
services.
- Ensure staff are informed about the needs and problems of
informal carers.
- Respond quickly and sympathetically to crisis situations.
NICE
Quality Standards for End of Life Care Information for patients who
use NHS services
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
published a new quality standard for end of life care for adults in
November 2011. This includes 16 statements of aspirational but
achievable care for adults nearing the end of life who are expected
to die in the next 12 months, their families and other carers.
Areas addressed by the quality standard include physical and
psychological needs, spiritual and religious support and sensitive
communications.
The Princess Royal Trust for Carers
www.carers.org/
Bereavement
Macmillan Cancer Support Guide for Carers by Carers
The Princess Royal Trust for
Carers
National Council
for Palliative Care: Palliative Care Explained
Child Bereavement Charity www.childbereavement.org.uk