5 Tips for Managing Pain Medications in Hospice Care
It’s completely natural for family members and caregivers to experience stress when they witness their loved ones in pain. However, there are proactive steps you can take to ensure your loved one’s comfort and well-being. Below are five tips to help your loved one be more comfortable at home with medications if they are in pain.
- Administer Pain Medications as Prescribed: Follow the prescribed regimen for pain relief. Consistency is key to managing discomfort effectively.
- Stay Updated on Dosage Changes: Communicate closely with the hospice team to stay informed about any adjustments needed in the dosage of pain medications.
- Monitor Pain Levels: Keep a record of your loved one’s pain levels by making notes. This not only helps in tracking their progress but also aids in effective communication with health care professionals. For additional assistance in articulating pain experiences, refer to our post on “Helpful Tips for Describing Pain.”
- Time Medication with Wound Care: Coordinate the administration of pain medication with wound care routines. Administering medication about 30 minutes before wound care can help manage discomfort more effectively during the process.
- Give Bowel Medication: Adhere to the prescribed regimen for bowel medication. Constipation can exacerbate discomfort, so it’s essential to follow the recommendations provided. For insights and tips on this subject, check out our informative video on managing constipation.
In addition to medication, there are various non-pharmacological methods to provide comfort to your loved ones receiving hospice care. Watch our next video: How to Comfort a Loved One Receiving Hospice Care to learn more.
At MJHS, we value both personal and professional caregivers and recognize the critical work you do. That is why we have created these online caregiving resources to help you through this crucial time in your life.
If you need additional help and support caring for your loved one, please feel free to contact MJHS. We can recommend other care options available to you through one of our programs.
