Question

Patrick is the primary carer for Sebastian, a young man who has complex care needs which are extremely time consuming. He needs full time supervision, medication management and must be turned in bed several times a night. Pahalk is a support worker who initially created an individual support plan for Sebastian and now provides ongoing support to the family. Patrick meets with Pahalk to talk about how the family is coping at present. Patrick tells Pahalk that he is finding the caring responsibilities challenging and that sometimes he gets very cross and angry. He explains that there have been times when he has left Sebastian unattended to go to the pub nearby and play the pokies. He explains that he does not gamble a lot but that it just gives him a short break and some relief from the demands of caring. Pahalk asks what happens when he feels angry at home and Patrick tells him that one day last week he had found himself thinking about hurting Sebastian. He did not hurt Sebastian but felt extremely ashamed of himself afterwards for even considering it. Patrick then breaks down and tells Pahalk that he is worried about whether he should continue caring for Sebastian at all. Pahalk provides care and reassurance and asks Patrick if he thinks it is still a possibility that he might try to harm Sebastian. Patrick tells Pahalk that he is worried every day that he might do something bad to Sebastian and that he does not know what to do. He asks Pahalk to promise not to tell anyone about what he has said.

Q3 : What information could Pahalk give to Patrick and the family about carer support services? (Approx. 30 words).

Q4 : Give two examples of carer support organisations and resources that Pahalk could provide to Patrick and the family. (Approx. 5 words that you may present in a bullet list if you wish).

Answer 1

1. Home based care support system is highly acceptable and 54% of the people prefer to receive care in home rather than in a hospital setting. It is easier for the family as well to take care of the person concerned without risk of nosocomial infections.

Advice to Patrick- People in this profession go through this dilemna when they are irritated but its good that you came out and admitted. He would be told that he would be monitored closely in the future and there should be no lapse in treatment from his end.

2.

Victorian Support for Carers Program

Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP)

These are two support organisations for carer support services