Peter had cancer of the bladder and the prostate. He was admitted to hospital after suffering some complications and was being nursed on the ward.
He had declined any medical interventions and felt it was his time to die. It was his wish to spend his last days at home with wife and daughter, who had flown home from abroad to be with him.
Jo, the Discharge Community Link Nurse working at the Lincoln County Hospital, took the time to listen to Peter’s wishes, and those of his family, and made all the necessary arrangements to help him home, where he wanted to be.
In order to be at home Peter needed a unique package of care, including specialist equipment, two carers three times a day, referral to hospice services and night care. Jo worked closely with a range of healthcare professionals, including social services, to provide this. She also liaised with the Peter’s District Nurse and GP and referred him to a Macmillan Nurse who could visit him at home.
Jo said:
“We wanted to make sure the family felt supported and confident in managing at home. We let them know about all the support available in the community and what to do if they had any problems. Our priority is to make sure the patient is discharged home safely and effectively.”
Peter died comfortably at home two days later, surrounded by his family.
