Diane Hyder CHCPA301B

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Assessment 2- Case Study
Scenario 1- Mr Thompsons Story

A Palliative approach for Mr. Thompson would be aimed at improving his quality of life and that
of his families through holistic care that aims to reduce his suffering by early identification,
assessment and treatment of his pain, physical, cultural, psychological, spiritual and cultural
needs. A Palliative approach is not confined to end stages of illness. Instead a palliative approach
provides focus for a positive approach with active comfort measures that reduces Mr. Thompson
symptoms and distress, which facilitates Mr. Thompson understanding that they are been
actively supported through the process. Underlying the philosophy of the Palliative approach is a
positive and open attitude to death and dying. Therefore allowing for open discussion between
multidisciplinary team, family and Mr. Thompson about what his wishes for end of life are. For
some members of the multidisciplinary team this can cause an ethical dilemma as Mr. Thompson
is choosing to be palliative, he is making choice not to have surgery but rather to die with dignity
and in his own terms. (Mitchell 2008, Dawbin, Rogers et al. 2009, Cameron-Taylor 2012)
This care is best delivered by a multidisciplinary team who can support Mr. Thompson and his
family. Within Bathurst a Palliative team exists that has Clinical Nurses Consultants,
psychologist, social worker, General practitioner and Pain specialist whom can work with Mr
Thompson, his family and the carers to ensure palliative approach occurs so that Mr Thompson
wishes can be meet. As a Carer it is important to recognise and accept ones limits and know
who else might have the skills and knowledge to help Mr Thompson from within the
multidisciplinary team. A first important step is to undertake a detailed assessment and
developing associated care plan so that Mr Thompsons needs are meet. A few areas identified
would be
Wound Care
With palliative care patients who have wounds, the focus changes from what may be best for the
wound to whats best for the client. Thus viewing Mr. Thompson in a holistic manner. The goal
is to give him the control, facilitating the highest level of independence, dignity, and comfort
while managing odor, controlling exudate, and providing adequate pain control.
Managing odor and exudate helps our patients maintain dignity, and using dressings that help
control odor, such as charcoal dressings or even a wound management device, can be very
helpful.
Pain Control
Pain control is also extremely important for Mr. Thompson. Anticipating a dressing change not
only can cause undue anxiety but heighten his sense of perceived pain as well. Pain medication
will be required. It is important that the assistant in nursing, communicate with Mr. Thompson,
his family, and document any pain that Mr. Thompson is in, while also communicating this to
palliative team so Mr. Thompson is appropriately medicated so that he is not in pain.
Activity of Daily Living
Mr. Thompson should be helped to achieve activity of daily living such as showering, eating,
dressing while respecting his independence and ability to do some tasks. For example he may be
able to shower his top half of his body, if he was set up in the shower. He may be able to put his
shirt on if passed to him. He could feed himself if sat up appropriately.



Diane Hyder CHCPA301B

2

Cameron-Taylor, E. (2012). The Palliative Approach: A Resource for Healthcare Workers, M&K Update
Limited.

Dawbin, D., et al. (2009). Aged Care in Australia: a guide for aged care workers, TAFE NSW, Community
Services, Health, Tourism and Recreation Curriculum Centre.

Mitchell, G. (2008). Palliative Care: A Patient-centered Approach, Radcliffe.