Direct Care Providers

At the heart of this textbook by Katherine Murray is a meaningful intention to support the holistic and practical learning of PSWs/HCAs to integrate a palliative approach to care for a person who is dying and their family. However, this book is instrumental beyond the obvious mechanics of learning. This book is elevated by all it is able to do to form deep professional and personal connections with the reader. By using highly relatable stories, gentle shareable images, valuable evidence and straight-forward, approachable language, Murray’s book enables an empowering space for the reader to reflect on realistic expectations and responsibilities of providing quality palliative care. By addressing practical concerns, cultural sensitivities, ethical issues, and complex physical and psychosocial implications relevant to support quality of care for individuals and families living with life-limiting illnesses in all settings, readers of this book will be better equipped for the reluctant and crucial conversations that often go unresolved by underprepared caregivers. Furthermore, by recognizing key competencies and unique contributions, this resource directly acknowledges the valuable role of the PSW/HCA as a knowledgeable, professional and integral member of the interprofessional team. Filled with meaningful examples, reflective questions, rich narratives, and practical tools, this book is a ‘must-have’ resource for all frontline caregivers seeking ways to provide excellent care for others, while nourishing their practice for personal fulfilment.

The PSW second edition text goes beyond the literal pages to invite the reader into the words and sentiments of the book. You’ll find you feel like you are with the people in the story vignettes, walking on a journey to fully understand how as a PSW you can strengthen yourself as an individual and a care provider. You will be challenged but in a good manner so you feel safe to explore your bases and exercise reflexivity in understanding Indigenous ways of knowing and being as they relate to the TRC Calls to Action.

I am very pleased to provide support for this text, “Essentials in Hospice and Palliative Care: A Practical Resource for Every Nurse”. I have known Kath and worked with her in both clinical care and teaching over many years; her wealth of experience, enthusiasm, creativity and excellence has come to fruition. This book is a work of art and heart aimed at providing practical knowledge and skill for those working with the frail, ill and dying. Following these guidelines the reader will be enlightened and find that caring at end of life is not just helpful for the patient but also rewarding to oneself and the enjoyment of nursing. I have always said that the underlying drive to good hospice and palliative care is compassion. I am reassured throughout this text that Kath and her contributing colleagues have struck a masterful balance between the art of caring and the professional use of knowledge and practical tools to enhance the skills of nurses and, for that matter, all health professionals and the public. One example and a new issue in Canada, Kath has provided great sensitivity and practical advice when the concern for medically assisted dying is raised which should help all professionals when thinking their way through this emotional area. It is a text for both novice and expert and indeed should be essential reading. Congratulations!

What I liked most of all was the feeling as I read it: Integrating a Palliative Approach: Essentials for Personal Support Workers, 2nd edition is a celebration of PSWs and the contributions they can and do make to palliative and end of life care. Once you understand their important role, they can be recognized as an invaluable part of the care team (I don’t think we do this nearly enough!) I hope that by working through this resource, PSWs will feel really proud of what they do.

What a valuable resource Kath Murray has provided. So easy to read and follow. What a wonderful teaching tool this is. It is so accurate in portraying what I, as a Hospice CAN, deal with every day. I love, love, love it!