Perth’s St John of God Murdoch is the first West Australian hospital to offer large “cuddle beds” to support patients with a compassionate approach to end-of-life care. Source: The eRecord.
Cuddle beds give the patients in end-of-life care the chance for physical closeness while in a hospital or hospice setting.
Karan Lane, SJOG Murdoch Nurse Manager in the Oncology Ward, has been the driving force behind the cuddle bed project. When Ms Lane’s mother passed away seven years ago, she longed for closer connection during this time, so when she later discovered the use of larger hospital beds that could fit two or more people, she encouraged this style of care be adopted.
“As a caregiver I see it time and time again, where people are trying to get close to each other, and it can be heartbreaking and have a lasting effect for patients’ families. It’s about just being there… without restriction,” she said.
“Cuddle beds allow loved ones to be physically close and lay together, deepening connection and providing comfort.”
PHOTO: St John of God Murdoch Hospital chief executive officer Ben Edwards; department director of nursing clinical safety and quality Kimberley Montgomery; director of nursing Sarah-Jayne Powell and nurse Manager at the Thomas Furlong ward Karan Lane.
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Cuddle beds, a compassionate approach to end-of-life care (By Amanda Murthy, The eRecord)
