ABSTRACT
The concept of hospice originated in the middle Ages to provide comfort and care to weary travelers. Hospices emerged during the Crusades as comfort stations established along routes to the Holy Land, and were characterized by attitudes of caring and compassion. The hospice is becoming familiar as taboos toward discussion of death and dying diminish. Many people are still unclear about this relatively new concept of patient care. The hospice program is one way to meet the total needs of the terminally ill person with dignity and concern for the family. True hospice care includes giving consideration to the emotional needs of the family during the terminal stages and at the time of death, and follow-up counseling after death occurs. A hospice provides the opportunity for certain physical and emotional aspects of patient care that are not inherent in traditional health care institutions, in addition to supporting patients, families and staff.
