People are admitted as inpatients in order that careful attention and assessment of their problems can be made.
This often involves detailed diagnosis and treatment of physical symptoms, expert nursing care and attention to other aspects of suffering. To achieve good resolution of troubling symptoms, blood tests, X-rays and occasionally advice from other specialists may be required.
Medications will be optimised and if necessary, blood transfusions and other treatments can be given.
People are attended daily or more frequently if necessary by medical staff and other relevant members of the team. Complementary therapies can be provided if wished for. ‘Hotel’ services are provided to a high standard.
There are often many fears and uncertainties at the time of admission, as well as a need to understand what is happening. With the range of expertise amongst hospice staff, it is usually possible to ease many of these issues so that people regain confidence and integrity and feel able to take charge of their lives once more.
It is important that families and carers are involved and much time is spent ensuring that family members are receiving the attention and support that they need.
The Inpatient Unit takes nursing students from the University of Surrey as part of their nurses training.
