Swan Model for End of Life and Bereavement Care

swan

The Swan Model (Sign/Words/Actions/Needs) is a values-based model that uses an acronym of SWAN (outlined below) to further enhance and support personalised care at end of life. The aim of the Swan Model of care is to promote dignity, respect and compassion at the end of life. A Swan Sign (laminate) placed on the door or curtain of the dying patient’s bedspace acts as a visual reminder for all staff to be aware and mindful of the sensitive situation.

 

S 

  Sign   Is the patient thought to be entering the dying phase of life – start an individualised end of life care plan

W 

  Words   Sensitively communicate with the patient and their loved ones

A 

  Actions   Find out and facilitate what is important to the patient and family

N 

  Needs   Are their needs being met, documented and reviewed regularly?

Benefits

  • The Swan Sign displayed at the bed space acts as a reminder to the wider team to ensure a calm and respectful environment during what is a sensitive time
  • It supports staff to open a discussion about dying and to find out what is important to the dying person and their loved ones.
  • An enabling model that supports generalists to be specialists in end of life care
  • Empowers all staff by giving permission to care


Resources and Support

  • Each ward has a Swan Resource Trolley or Box containing information, Swan signs, equipment for end of life meds, comfort packs for relatives and bereavement items 
  • Additional support can be provided by the EOL Care Facilitator, the Palliative Care Team and EOL Champions in the ward area