Hospice and Palliative Care for Patients with Advanced Heart Disease, from Diagnosis to Death

The Advanced Cardiac Care Program at the Hospice of the Chesapeake is designed to support individuals with advanced heart disease and their families. Learn how this program offers specialized support and holistic support to those who may be struggling with symptoms even when on optimal heart medication doses, with the goal of helping patients stay out of the hospital and remain at home.

Objectives:

1. Describe the progression of advanced cardiac disease in hospice patients, including common symptoms, clinical milestones, and appropriate palliative interventions from diagnosis to end of life.
2. Demonstrate effective interdisciplinary approaches to managing physical and psychosocial distress in patients with end-stage cardiac disease, including communication strategies for addressing anticipatory grief, anxiety, and existential concerns.
3. Apply evidence-based practices in shared decision-making and advance care planning, ensuring culturally sensitive, person-centered care that supports patients and families through the dying process with dignity and compassion.