Impact of the Face-to-Face Physician Visit Requirement on Recertifications and Discharge Status (S747)

Research Objectives. The objective of this project was to understand the nature of the perceptions and experiences of hospice caregivers administering pain medications to their loved ones. Method. Caregivers were interviewed by phone 30 days following the death of their hospice patient. One hundred fifty caregivers were asked about their experience with hospice and their challenges managing pain for their loved one. Narratives were coded and analyzed for emerging themes. Result. Following medication schedules, understanding pain medicine protocols, and fear in assessing their loved ones pain emerged as themes from the analysis. Powerful narratives will be shared demonstrating caregiver frustration, fear, and guilt over the administration of narcotics. Conclusion. While happy with their hospice care, many caregivers reported believing that a final dose of morphine hastened the death of their loved one. Implications for Research, Policy, or Practice. Implications from these narratives challenge hospice teams to build additional education and support for caregivers into their plans of care. Education on pain management which is understood and accessible for caregivers is needed.