ABSTRACT

People with a progressive incurable illness have unique physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual needs, and looking after them in the community is a challenge for all those involved in providing care. The role of the specialist palliative care team is to advise the primary healthcare team (PHCT) throughout the patient’s illness, and to be invited to take over care should this no longer be possible in the community. In order to overcome barriers of communication, each member of the PHCT needs a clear understanding of their own roles and responsibilities as well as those of the other team members. Ultimate responsibility for the overall care and co-ordination of care of a terminally ill patient in the community rests with the general practitioner. The district nurse has a key role in delivering day-to-day nursing care and practical advice during terminal illness.