4.4 (4.4) Social work in palliative care

Question 1

What four principles guide the work of social work in PC?

Answer 1

human rights
empowerment

Relationship

social justice

Question 2

List four factors that may be assessed in the initial meeting between a social worker and a PC patient. Who does the social worker assess these factors in?

Answer 2

culture
family biopsychosocial and spiritual history
strengths and resilience
practical challenges/sources of distress

person
family

Question 3

You are following a patient who speaks a foreign language. A translator is not available for the day you initially plan a family meeting. List three issues that may arise if you opt to use a family member

Answer 3

• family dynamics, personal beliefs or individual discomfort with sensitive or difficult discussions could lead to distorted messages, things left unsaid, improper interpretation
• above cause increased distress for family
• tx team cannot know what is actually communicated & therfore the authenticity of the outcome is uncertain

Question 4

You plan a family meeting with the persons of importance to a patient. One of the attendees is sceptical about the meeting and inquires about the function of the meeting. List five functions of a family meeting

Answer 4

enhance dialogue
provide info
respond to emotional distress
marshal resources to help problem solve
make decisions
goals of care
help substantiate therapeutic relationship
explore pt and family relationships
opportunity to learn about pt and values

Question 5

Name FIVE broad social work clinical interventions

Answer 5

◆ Language
◆ Communication
◆ Supportive Counselling
◆ Anticipatory guidance
◆ Therapeutic techniques (offered directly/referral)
◆ Family meeting & care coordination
◆ Advocacy & resources
◆ Practical planning

Table 4.4.1