This set of videos provides an overview of hospice care, how to work with the care team, and additional support services.
Welcome To Penn Medicine Hospice and Caregiver's Corner
This video provides an overview of hospice services, levels of care, use of our 24/7 triage line, and encourages caregivers to use the resources and information provided in our "Yellow Book" and videos.
Meeting the Hospice Team and The First Five Day
This video introduces the hospice interdisciplinary team members and emphasizes the importance of the first 5 days, when caregivers meet the team and create a care plan. We also explain the roles of our hospice team members.
The Benefits of Spiritual Support
Members of our Spiritual care team explain what spiritual care entails, address myths, and share how Spiritual Counselors provide emotional and existential support tailored to patient and family beliefs and preferences. Chaplains are skilled at supporting people of all faith traditions or no faith at all.
Our Volunteer and Veteran Program
The volunteer manager describes the companion, respite, and activity support volunteers provide as well as our specialized services to honor veterans like certificates, pins, thank you notes, blankets, and connecting them with veteran volunteers.
Getting Everything in Order with your Social Worker
In this video, we review the Medical Social Worker roll and discuss CPR/DNR options, code status, funeral planning and steps to take at time of death, like calling hospice before the funeral home.
Making Hard Choices
The social worker explains advanced directives, living wills and emphasizes the importance of appointing a healthcare power of attorney with a focus on honoring the patient's end of life wishes.
Working with Home Health Aides
The social worker outlines the assistance that certified home health aides provide as part of the hospice team. This can include bathing, grooming, light housework, and reminders to take medication. It is emphasized that aides follow the care plan made with the nurse.