Abstract

The role of occupational therapy in palliative care has been described and unique contributions have been highlighted. This case report describes the support provided by specialist palliative care occupational therapists (OTs) for a patient in an emergency department in a large teaching hospital. This support enabled the patient to return home to die and enabled him to achieve his most important goal, watching ‘The Ashes’ on television.Having specialist palliative care OTs in an acute setting has not been described. Their presence as part of the team helps mitigate the risk of urgent discharge as the specialist OTs provide continuity of care from the hospital setting to follow-up in the community. They help support families in providing care for their dying relative. Communication skills training is vital for the specialist OTs enabling honest and timely conversations including the documentation of do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation discussions.