Chapter 3 "Beginnings" Summary and Analysis

Working with dying patients is simultaneously difficult and rewarding. Beyond simply caring for the dying, the role of hospice caregiver allows individuals to gain intimacy with life similar to that gained by those involved with the birth process. As the role of death and dying has changed in society, it has passed through various phases of institutionalization—the current trend is to allow the dying access to their families and their homes. This necessitates assistance, and such assistance is most-usually offered via hospice care. Hospice care is growing in acceptance and practice and has demonstrated worth in caring for the terminally ill. Hospice care attempts to decrease suffering and increase comfort in four realms—physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. Although death is laden with grief and stress, it is also part of life and offers...