Betty

Betty had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. She was admitted to hospital following a car accident, with multiple fractures. She was seen by a social worker on the ward who contacted Jo, the Discharge Community Link Nurse, for support because she felt Betty needed specialist palliative care.

Jo talked to Betty and her husband, John, who understood the prognosis and clearly wished to be cared for at home until the end of her life.

Jo liaised with all the hospital staff to assess what care Betty would need at home and also with the Palliative Care Co-ordination Centre, which arranged all the care she needed. Jo also visited Betty once she was home to give extra nursing care and to provide emotional support to John.

Betty died peacefully at home two days later. Her husband John wrote to Jo to thank her for her help and support. He said:

“You seemed to be the only one who made it possible for Betty to come home. If you hadn’t acted I believe Betty would have died alone, in hospital.”