Practical Guides
Hospice Checklist
A helpful checklist for families preparing for hospice care.
Read guide →A guide to the initial days of hospice care and what happens during the transition.
Written and reviewed by a board-certified hospice & palliative medicine physician
Last reviewed:
The first week of hospice is a transition period. Your hospice team will visit frequently to assess needs, deliver equipment, teach you about medications, and create a care plan. Don't worry—they'll guide you through everything step by step.
Your main contact. Visits regularly to assess and manage symptoms.
Typical visits: 2-3x/week initially, adjusted as needed
Provides medical oversight, guides the care plan, and manages complex symptoms.
Typically does not see patients in person unless required for certification or specific medical needs.
Helps with bathing, dressing, grooming, and personal care.
Typical visits: 2-3x/week or more if needed
Provides emotional support, counseling, and resource connections.
Typical visits: Initially, then as needed
Offers spiritual support (all faiths or none welcome).
Optional—visits only if desired
Provides companionship and gives caregivers a break.
Optional—usually starts after first week
Normal! The first week has more visits as the team assesses and sets up care. After that, visits become more routine and predictable.
The team will teach you! Nurses will show you how to give medications, recognize signs of discomfort, and provide basic care. You'll learn as you go, with support every step.
This is a huge emotional shift. It's okay to feel sad, scared, or overwhelmed. The social worker and chaplain are there specifically to support you through these feelings.
Completely normal doubt. Many families experience this. Talk to your nurse or social worker about your concerns. Remember: you can always change your mind and leave hospice if you want.
Call anytime you're concerned! The team is available 24/7. New symptoms, increased pain, anxiety, confusion, or just needing reassurance—all are valid reasons to call.
Don't worry if you don't have everything—the team will help you gather what's needed.
Once the initial setup is complete, visits become more routine:
Visit frequency increases if symptoms worsen or as end of life approaches.
Explore related hospice topics and practical family guidance.
Practical Guides
A helpful checklist for families preparing for hospice care.
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