How might Alice address the troubled relationship between Polly and Dr. Dubuis? How might she get help and support from other members of the treatment team?

Question

Alice Singletary, a novice social worker with Magnolia Hospice in Alexandria, Louisiana, met June Plunket, who had terminal cancer, and her daughter, Polly, for an admission interview. June was in quite a bit of pain and trying to cope with dying. Polly blamed Dr. Dubuis and herself for her mother’s approaching death, and was also angry with her brother, who had distanced himself from the family. June and Polly lived in a chaotic and overcrowded household with Polly’s daughter, Jenna, and Jenna’s two young children. While assessing June’s situation, Alice identified a multitude of family problems which had to be balanced with the mission of the hospice. In this situation, Alice was not sure where to begin.

Answer 1

Alice might work with Polly to find out more about her anger and its causes. She may try to determine whether the anger is displaced, and therefore a natural part of Pollyís grief, or whether there had been some mistake made in treatment. Anger toward medical staff is common among grieving families. On the other hand, patients and their families sometimes have legitimate complaints about doctors, and need advocacy. Since June has been referred to hospice care, the family will most likely deal with Dr. Nelson from now on.
Alice could advise the hospice team of Pollyís anger. It may be important for Alice to alert the hospice team, in case there is a concern about an escalating crisis or legal challenges toward Dr. Dubuis or toward hospice. Perhaps Dr. Nelson might explore the accusations by reading the medical records or talking to Dr. Dubuis.