The Comfort Pack
So, Papa has just been admitted to hospice, and now you have this collection of confusing and scary medications in your home. The nurse has long gone, and while you have the hospice number to call anytime, with racing thoughts, anxiety, and Papa's pain, the last thing you're probably thinking about is finding a number you may have already lost. No judgment here—I've seen this scenario many times.
**Step 1:** Input your hospice agency’s number, address, and your case manager’s name into your phone.
**Step 2:** Ask for a printout of Papa’s medication list, or create one that is clear, understandable, and accurate.
**Step 3:** Learn how to assess non-verbal signs and symptoms of pain.
Non-Verbal Signs and Symptoms of Pain:
1. Facial grimacing or frowning
2. Rapid blinking or dilated pupils
3. Restlessness or agitation
4. Moaning or calling out
5. Guarded or tense body posture
6. Fidgeting, rocking, or pacing
7. Writhing or constant shifting in bed
8. Behavioral changes
9. Changes in sleep or eating patterns
10. Crying
11. Increased heart rate, blood pressure, or breathing rate
12. Sweating
Typically, the infamous comfort pack includes fast-acting pain medication for severe pain or shortness of breath, an anxiolytic for anxiety or shortness of breath, bowel medications for constipation, nausea, or diarrhea, and an antipyretic for fever or mild pain/discomfort. Some comfort packs may also contain antipsychotics if severe agitation or delirium is anticipated by the interdisciplinary team.
When you receive this little collection of medications, it’s wise to store them in a safe place. If you think there’s any risk of these medications being accessed—whether by mistake or on purpose—tell your interdisciplinary team to provide a lock box, or consider purchasing one yourself. Although rare, small children, those with substance use issues, and even animals can accidentally get hold of these medications and harm themselves, so please be cautious.
