Palliative Care

Palliative Care is provided to any patient or family diagnosed with a life threatening illness with the specific aim to relieve suffering and to improve one’s quality of living and dying. PCN presently has 2 RN’s certified by the College of Nurses in Hospice Palliative Care as well as having the majority of its nurses certified in Basic level 1 Palliative Care.

Our nurses work closely with patients and their families to address physical, psychological spiritual and social issues and to assist them with their hopes and fears.

We work closely with physicians to obtain optimal pain control as well as alleviating other commonly related physical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, shortness of breath and maintenance of skin integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will the nurse stay with me while my family is at work during the night?

   If the need arises, there are several options available to provide respite for caregivers and family. Although there are limits to what our health system can financially absorb, there is often private insurance or assistance from organizations such as Canadian Cancer Society, Veterans Affairs and Hospice Durham. Speak with your nurse about your needs, we will do our best to arrange help if you need it.

2. Suppose I have pain during the night or when my nurses not here?

   Partners In Community Nursing will provide health teaching to you and your family on various pharmacological as well as non-medicinal methods to achieve and maintain comfort. In addition, we have a nurse on call 24 hours a day to assist you in obtaining maximum pain control of necessary.

3. Will I become addicted to the pain medication?

   No, as long as the medication is taken to relieve physical pain, addiction should not occur.