When the Hospice Patient Is Manipulative

ABSTRACT

Oncology and hospice literature have addressed the problem of psychiatric complications, secondary to the stressors of diagnosis and treatment. This literature focuses particularly on depression and anxiety, which not only compound patients’ suffering but also may interfere with optimal care. Little attention has been given, however, to the unique challenges of providing hospice care to patients with preexisting psychiatric conditions. As hospice care becomes increasingly mainstream in the health care system, we can expect to meet more patients with such conditions. In order to contribute to collegial dialogue that addresses this minority population in hospice services, a case study is presented in this article of the process of care for a hospice patient with a preexisting psychiatric condition. Interventions are suggested, using a theoretical matrix of hospice philosophy and principles of care for manipulative patients. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: [email protected]]

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carolyn Oiler Boyd

Carolyn Oiler Boyd, RN, EdD, is Associate Professor in the College of Nursing, Villanova University.

Josephine Cantone

Josephine Cantone, RN, MSN, is Manager of Presbyterian Hospice, Presbyterian Medical Center of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Health Care Systems.

Patricia Gambino

Patricia Gambino, RN, MSN, is the liaison nurse of Presbyterian Hospice.

Tracy Harris

Tracy Harris, RN, BSN, and Elizabeth Nancy Malone, RN, BSN, are staff nurses of Presbyterian Hospice.

Elizabeth Nancy Malone

Tracy Harris, RN, BSN, and Elizabeth Nancy Malone, RN, BSN, are staff nurses of Presbyterian Hospice.