End of Life Care: Principle 1

Person-Centred Care and Support

Principle 1 states that "Care and support is planned and delivered in a person-centred way, with the person’s priorities, including spiritual, emotional and cultural needs, guiding all decisions and actions."

This principle ensures that the practice of carers is based on a person-centred social model of health and disability, informed by the principles of respect, dignity, choice, and independence. Working in a person-centred manner ensures that the needs and desires of both the patient and their family are met, enhancing their overall experience.

Understanding and Respecting Individual Needs

As carers, it is crucial to recognise that different individuals have varying cultural and spiritual desires. These preferences must be respected and adhered to by everyone involved in the care process. It is important to determine if anyone in your care has specific requests and to ensure these are fulfilled.

By adopting a person-centred approach, carers can ensure that both the patient’s and their family’s experiences are as positive and respectful as possible. This involves continuous communication and adaptation to meet their evolving needs and preferences.