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[Visiting nurse for a terminal ALS patient]
H Kitamikado1, S Sugihara, K Enomoto
1Kimitsu Central Hospital.
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer & Chemotherapy
|January 12, 2000
Summary
Visiting nurses provide crucial support for patients with intractable diseases, enabling extended home care and improved quality of life. This case study highlights successful home treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Palliative Care
- Home Healthcare Nursing
Background:
- The study focuses on home healthcare services provided by a hospital managed under the National Health Insurance System.
- Visiting nurse services have been established for 8 years, serving 37 patients, including 8 with intractable diseases.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old female patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 1995 experienced progressive muscular atrophy and deteriorating strength.
- Following hospitalization for respiratory distress and aspiration pneumonia in March 1998, she underwent tracheotomy and required tubal feeding, with a prognosis of 3 months.
Findings:
- The patient and her family opted for home care, and she returned home on April 11, 1998.
- A visiting nurse provided support for continued home treatment, enabling the patient to live at home for 7 months.
- The visiting nurse's support helped stabilize the patient's condition, facilitating a higher quality of life at home.
Implications:
- Visiting nurse services can significantly extend the duration and improve the quality of life for patients with severe, progressive neurological conditions like ALS.
- This case underscores the importance of patient-centered care and the role of specialized nursing in facilitating end-of-life care at home.
- The findings support the integration of comprehensive home healthcare services within national health insurance systems for managing chronic and terminal illnesses.