Evidence based care planning: Taking NSAP and PCOC to the bedside

A recent NSAP self-assessment of our service revealed it would benefit from a sound evidence- base around patient care planning. Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC) tools were used for data collection rather than routine comprehensive assessment of patients’ symptoms and concerns.

We developed a protocol to embed routine clinical assessment and care planning for patients into our care. Using evidence from the literature, as well as the Liverpool Care Pathway as a model, we developed a palliative care plan which utilises the five PCOC tools to regularly assess patients’ symptoms and to ensure that care is holistic and responsive to the changing needs of the patient and family. The DoHWA’s Symptom Management Guidelines were used to guide clinical interventions.

The draft care plan was trialled by two palliative care services, modified in response to feedback, then formally pilot tested. We have adopted an approach where regular, comprehensive patient assessment and evidence based guidelines inform consistent patient care.