The Rights of the Sick and Dying (Paperback)

One of America's leading hospice experts offers practical, easy-to-follow advice for caregivers and a holistic approach to treating the infirm or the terminally ill. Author Douglas C. Smith organizes his material around "A Bill of Patient's Rights," a unique system he has taught to thousands throughout the country. He explains that the caregiver should enable patients to retain these rights: to be in control - to have a sense of purpose - to know the truth to be comfortable - to touch and be touched - to laugh to cry and express anger - to explore the spiritual to have a sense of family Included are easy-to-follow techniques and practical tools for improving care: assessment techniques ■ dialogues ■ meditations ■ life reviews ■ breathing exercises ■ body revitalization methods ■ ways that patients can evaluate and improve their own care ■ and many others. Filled with inspirational stories and effective guidance, Caregiving also addresses how to communicate with difficult patients and those in denial, how to facilitate non-stressful family interaction, and other important topics. It will be invaluable to parents and children caring for their elders; physicians and nurses; social workers and home health aides; members of the clergy; and all facing the challenge of enriching patients' lives and spirits. Visit us online at http: //www.mcp.com/mgr/macmillan