Patrick Conlon & Jim O’Neill

      This presentation will tell the story of a patient and his partner as they experienced the hospital environment for fifteen weeks as they dealt with a life-threatening illness. Their purpose is to tell healthcare workers that families shouldn’t have to feel helpless in a health crisis, but can be important allies in the patient’s care. They will show how involvement of family and respect for a patient’s values and needs benefits everyone involved. After the presentation, the participant will be able to:

• Recognize the importance of asking patients about their preferences and needs
• Recognize the value of encouraging patients to share aspects of their life with the care team to reduce feelings of anxiety and isolation
• State the benefits of communicating patient preferences, values,and needs with other caregivers throughout various system transitions
• Discover the importance of inviting families to assist in the patient’s bedside care to foster a sense of inclusion
• State the value of allowing patient and family to be involved inthe care plan all during hospitalization to facilitate transition and continuum of care