What is it?

Palliative care is the provision of care and support to clients with a terminal illness. It aims to improve the person's quality of life and assist them to die with dignity in their chosen environment.

Our palliative care nurses can help you by:

• Providing expert 24 hour nursing care, 7 days per week;
• Managing pain and other symptoms;
• Providing support to clients and carers, including overnight respite;
• Arranging equipment;
• Working closely with your family and other healthcare providers, such as your doctor, palliative care physician, social workers and volunteers; and
• Providing or arranging bereavement care, including grief counselling and support groups.

RDNS helps you and your family deal with the many issues that arise at times of serious illness. We have access to social workers and trained volunteers who can provide friendship and support to you and your carers.

Memorial services

Most palliative care services organise non-denominational church services for bereaved loved ones and staff to come together to remember those for whom they have cared for. Speak to your local palliative care service for more information.

Which staff can help?

We have nurses who are experts in palliative care. These specialist nurses work alongside our general staff and other carers to ensure that your palliative care needs are met.

How can I access this service?

RDNS provides quality palliative care and links with individual palliative care services that cover all areas of Melbourne. You can choose RDNS as your primary care provider, or you can contact your local palliative care service provider.

To have one of our qualified staff assess you or a loved one's nursing and healthcare needs, call us on
1300 33 44 55. This line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Alternatively, phone Palliative Care Victoria on (03) 9662 9644, or visit their web page