Guwahati, Mar 12: A Guwahati family has shared its experience of hospital–based palliative care after their mother, diagnosed with advanced-stage liver cancer, was shifted to comfort-focused treatment during a recent admission at Peerless Hospital Guwahati.
The 62-year-old patient had initially been admitted for what the family expected would be a short hospital stay. During the admission, doctors informed them that immunotherapy had not been effective and the disease had progressed, making palliative care the most appropriate course of treatment.
While home-based care was discussed, the family felt her condition required continuous medical supervision.
“We wanted her to remain in a setting where immediate medical support was available if needed. Continuing care at home did not seem medically advisable in her condition,” a family member said.
The family explored several palliative care options in Guwahati before opting for Peerless Hospital’s structured palliative care package, which was arranged within 24 hours of discussion with the medical team.
The patient was shifted to a single cabin where a family member could remain round the clock. She was placed under continuous vital monitoring, with nurses conducting regular manual checks of blood pressure, temperature and oxygen saturation. Preventive measures such as an air mattress were used to reduce the risk of bedsores, while medications were administered on schedule and her positioning was adjusted regularly for comfort.
A dietician reviewed her meals and adjusted food choices based on medical requirements and personal preferences. Mobility support was also encouraged, with wheelchair outings and assisted short walks when possible. Daily physiotherapy sessions were provided to help maintain strength and movement.
The patient’s primary physician reviewed her condition twice a day, and specialists were consulted whenever required.
Over time, the patient was able to resume oral intake after previously requiring assisted feeding, and both her feeding tube and catheter were removed.
“After months without appetite, being able to eat normally again meant a great deal to her,” the family member said.
Dr. Gautam Kumar Das, CEO at Peerless Hospital Guwahati, said palliative care focuses on improving comfort and quality of life when curative treatment is no longer effective.
“Palliative care is often misunderstood as only end-of-life care. In reality, it is about managing symptoms, maintaining dignity, and supporting both patients and families during serious illness. Many families want to remain closely involved in caring for their loved ones but also need the reassurance of medical supervision. Structured palliative care within a hospital environment can provide that balance of clinical support and family presence,” he said.
The family said the structured care plan helped them remain close to the patient while ensuring consistent medical supervision during a difficult phase of treatment.
No Responses