A petting zoo, live music and mocktails are just some of the activities bringing colour and connection to PA Hospital this National Palliative Care Week.
Between 11 and 15 May, patients, families and staff will come together for a week of celebrations designed to spark conversation, create meaningful moments and highlight the human side of palliative care.
Clinical Nurse Consultant Angela Lane said the annual campaign aims to encourage a better understanding of palliative care.
"Metro South Palliative Care Service supports people living with life-limiting illness and their families through inpatient, outpatient and telehealth care, helping meet physical, emotional and practical needs at every stage of care," she said.
"We support National Palliative Care Week's goal to make palliative care easier to understand and access by speaking about it openly and compassionately.”
Access to quality palliative care is fundamental to improving patient flow and service within Queensland’s hospital and health systems. When quality palliative care services are available, people can receive long term palliative care and short-term end-of-life care at home, leading to improved outcomes.
Angela said an information stall will be on display in the hospital foyer today, and patients and families will have the chance to take part in memory-making activities on Tuesday. An afternoon tea on Wednesday will recognise the nurses on wards 5A and 5B for their ongoing care and compassion. The centrepiece of the week is Thursday afternoon's Mega Wish celebration in The Atrium.
"Patients, loved ones and staff are invited to enjoy live music, afternoon tea and a visit from a petting zoo in a relaxed afternoon focused on joy, comfort and connection," Angela said.
The celebrations will finish on Friday with cupcakes and mocktails at the foyer stand.
For more information about accessing Palliative Care at PA Hospital, visit the Metro South Palliative Care Service (MSPCS) information page.