Admission Policy for Palliative Care Patients

1. Purpose:
   This policy describes the criteria, procedures and guidelines for admitting patients to Heidelberg Hospice's palliative care unit. It also sets expectations for visitors to ensure the comfort, dignity and well-being of all patients.
   
2. Scope of application:
   This policy applies to all staff, patients and visitors at Heidelberg Hospice.

3. Admission criteria:

• Patients must have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness that requires palliative care.
• A referral from a qualified healthcare professional is required, along with relevant medical records.
• Patients and their families must consent to the hospice's philosophy of care, which focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
• Availability of space and resources in the hospice will be considered during the admission process.

4. Admission Procedure:

• A referral is submitted to Heidelberg Hospice's admissions team.
• The admissions team reviews the referral and consults with the patient, family, and referring physician.
• A pre-admission assessment is conducted to determine the patient's needs and suitability for hospice care.
• Upon approval, the patient is formally admitted, and an individualised care plan is drawn up in collaboration with the patient and family.

5. Visiting guidelines:

• Visiting hours: Visitors are welcome at any time during the day, except when staff are actively providing care to the patient.
• Visitor Check-in/Check-out:
• Visitors must report to the nursing station upon arrival and departure.
• A visitor log will be maintainted for security and record-keeping purposes.
• Visitor Conduct:
• Visitors are expected to respect the privacy and dignity of all patients.
• Noise levels should be kept to a minimum to maintain a peaceful environment.
• Children are welcome, but must be supervised at all times.
• Resticted access:
• Visitors may be asked to wait during certain medical or personal care activities.
• Staff may limit the number of visitors at the bedside to prevent overcrowding or distress to the patient.

6. General Provisions:

• The hospice reserves the right to amend visiting or admission policies based on patient needs, infection control protocols, or other operational considerations.
• Feedback from patients and families regarding the admission and visitation process is encouraged and will be used to improve the quality of care.

7. Policy review:
   This policy will be reviewed annually, or as necessary, to ensure that it remains in line with best practices in palliative care.