Introduction
The film “Defining Hope” chronicles the journeys of individuals with serious illnesses and the healthcare professionals assisting them in making lifestyle decisions. The film sheds light on healthcare and end-of-life care challenges, which have become increasingly relevant with our aging population and complex medical technologies. This reflective essay examines the educational themes covered in six videos and analyzes their practical applications. The essay will then concentrate on the case of Jose, a heart transplant recipient, and consider how palliative care may have aided his family.
Concepts Learnt From the “Defining Hope” Documentary
Patient Autonomy
Throughout the six vignettes, several learning concepts emerged. Firstly, the importance of patient autonomy and the need for healthcare providers to respect their choices. Patients should be given the necessary information to make informed decisions about their care, and nurses should support them regardless of their choices.
Communication
Secondly, the documentary highlights the importance of communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers. Open and honest communication is vital to ensure that patients and their families understand their treatment options.
End-of-Life Care Discussions
Thirdly, the documentary shows the importance of advanced care planning and end-of-life discussions. These conversations allow patients to express their values and goals, which can inform the care they receive in the future.
Holistic Care
Fourthly, the documentary highlights the need for a holistic approach to patient care that considers physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Compassion
Finally, the documentary emphasizes the importance of providing compassionate care to patients at the end of their lives. Nurses should strive to create a peaceful and comfortable environment for their patients, considering their preferences and cultural beliefs.
Nursing Practice Ideas Recommended in the “Defining Hope” Documentary
Patient-Centered Care
The six ideas in “Defining Hope” impart crucial learning concepts that healthcare professionals can incorporate into their practice in several ways. Most importantly, they must prioritize providing patient-centered care that involves a holistic approach to treatment.
Communication
Establishing effective communication channels with patients and their families is essential, ensuring they receive comprehensive information about their health status and adequately address their concerns.
Shared Decision-Making
Furthermore, encouraging shared decision-making and patient autonomy by respecting their values and preferences should be promoted.
Palliative Care
In practice, palliative care should be an integral part of the patient’s care plan, catering to their emotional and spiritual needs and providing symptom relief. The videos teach healthcare providers that they must acknowledge the significance of hope and they should tailor it to meet each patient’s expectations and objectives.
The Case of a Heart Transplant Patient
The final vignette introduces Jose, a heart transplant recipient. In his case, palliative care could be helpful to Jose’s family in several ways. Palliative care can offer patients and their loved ones emotional assistance and guidance when facing difficult end-of-life care choices (Radbruch et al., 2020).
When Jose says, “Sometimes I cry…” it is essential to use age-appropriate language and provide explanations that Jose can understand. By doing so, they can help him feel informed and empowered in his care. Healthcare providers must use active listening and empathy in communication techniques. If they recognize and validate Jose’s emotions, they can establish a secure and encouraging setting where he can openly express his feelings. I might say that his feelings are valid and reassure him that he is not alone.
Conclusion
The “Defining Hope” videos highlight the significance of patient-focused care, proficient communication, palliative care, and personalizing hope in healthcare. Applying these concepts can enable healthcare practitioners to provide patients and their families with the best care while respecting their values and preferences.
Reference
Radbruch, L., De Lima, L., Knaul, F., Wenk, R., Ali, Z., Bhatnaghar, S.,… & Pastrana, T. (2020). Redefining palliative care—a new consensus-based definition. Journal of pain and symptom management, 60(4), 754-764.