Even if protease inhibitors or other treatments are ineffective, Hospice still offers the hope of living in control and free of pain and distressing symptoms. Hospice offers patients the chance to be active participants in their own health care. Hospice works to keep patients in their own home, wherever that may be. Home generally is where quality of life is highest. For patients with symptoms that cannot be controlled at home, the Halquist Memorial Hospice Center in Arlington offers a beautiful, home-like place for the highest quality inpatient care.
Hospice care concentrates on keeping quality of life high.
Hospice professionals work to keep each patient pain-free. For patients with HIV, Hospice services work to reduce distressing symptoms related to HIV, including thrush, diarrhea, secondary cancer, lung infections, appetite loss, and fatigue. Nurses make regular home visits to monitor medication regimen and vital signs. Hospice chaplains counsel patients in a caring, sympathetic manner. Social workers offer attentive listening and help with finding other resources in the community.