Palliative Care Strategy for HIV and other diseases - FHI 360

givers must have enough information to make good decisions for them in line with family
values, culture, and traditions. In situations where children are the caregivers, the palliative
care team needs to bring as much care and support as possible, providing age-appropriate
information about care, prevention of infection, and emotional and spiritual support. When
patients no longer require palliative care and are able to move into self-care and chronic
disease management, the team helps the patient and family with this transition.
Preparing and Supporting Interdisciplinary Palliative Care Teams
Teamwork requires team building and clear roles and responsibilities. The team should
meet regularly, gain the requisite skills and training, and agree on a consistent approach
to care. Where those in some settings may not have as much access to formal training in
palliative care, such training should be encouraged. The continuum of care relies on the
depth of knowledge within the team and across levels of care. From hospital to home, and
within communities and families, palliative care training and information are the basis for
quality care. All members of the team, whether formally trained or not, need to have a basic
understanding of the principles and practices of palliative care. Integrated case reviews,
including out/inpatient services and CHBC are essential to quality support for clients as
they move through different services. In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the CHBC team and
outpatient clinic staff meet every morning to review client needs and discuss where followup
is needed by CHBC, outpatient clinics, or both.
Training
Many organizations are capable of providing palliative care training, but it is important
that national guidelines and curriculums be developed in consultation with palliative care
professionals. As much as possible, the training should include hands-on experience and
mentoring. The following synopsis lists topic areas that should be included in palliative care
training at all levels. Education in palliative care includes at least a minimum of learning in
three important areas (WHO 1990):
1. Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values
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philosophy of palliative care
ethics and human rights
interdisciplinary teamwork
the family as the unit of care
patient care self-management
personal attitudes toward HIV/AIDS, pain, dying, death, and bereavement
illness as a complex state with physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions
2. Knowledge Base
• principles of effective communication
• documentation of needs assessments, care plans, progress, and outcomes
• common symptoms and changes associated with disease
• assessment and management of pain
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assessment and management of symptoms
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