Meet the Palliative Care Team
Palliative care uses a team approach in order to meet not only physical needs but also the psychological, social, cultural, emotional and spiritual needs of the patients and family.
Working with your physician, the Palliative Care team usually involves a palliative care nurse, a palliative care provider, social worker, chaplain and staff nurses. Other healthcare professionals are added to the team depending upon the needs of the patient and family.
Providers
Our providers handle care plans for you while you're a Palliative Care
patient in the hospital. Nurse practitioners also visit you outside the
hospital for routine care.
Nursing staff
The Palliative Care Nurses provide comprehensive care plans,
symptom management and compassionate care for you and your family. The
nurses are your primary contact for any medical questions.
Social workers
Palliative Care Social Workers provide counseling and support. They
maintain patient dignity and work with you in understanding your
healthcare choices. They advocate for your goals and provide grief
support as needed for your family.
Chaplains
UnityPoint Health - Des Moines' Palliative Care Chaplain's are available to meet the
spiritual needs of you and your loved ones. Chaplain services are
non-denominational and optional. You may choose to receive spiritual
support from your own clergy.