ABSTRACT
This chapter explores issues relating to dignity in care for patients in the community in the United Kingdom (UK). It includes case studies that focus on the dignity of patients at the end of their lives, patients requiring wound care, and adults with long-term conditions, as these are all situations commonly encountered in community care. In the UK, community care is usually led by district nurses for people who require nursing in their own homes. The case studies illustrate the steps that can be taken to promote dignity in community care. Leakage from the ulcer may prevent the person leaving their home between clinic appointments, and cause them to suffer loss of dignity in their outward appearance. People from varying backgrounds may find themselves requiring care in the community setting; therefore, it is imperative that their specific needs are acknowledged. These include the person’s ethnic and cultural needs as well as spiritual needs, which are important when delivering end-of-life care.
