Practical things to do before the Marie Curie Nurse's arrival

It would be helpful if you could put a comfortable chair in the room where the nurse will be working. If the patient's room has an intercom, the nurse can be based in another room. If not, the nurse should remain in the patient's room.

The nurse will need a source of light so that they can monitor the patient.

You are not expected to provide food for the nurse. However, many nurses would appreciate being able to make themselves a hot drink during the shift. Suitable heating is also appreciated, especially during the colder months and at night.

It would be helpful if you could have the following handy:

• A District Nurse Care Plan with prescriptions for any medication to be given.
• An emergency drug box, if the district or specialist nurse has provided one.
• Clean bed linen and night clothes for the patient in case a change is needed during the night.
• Telephone numbers of the patient's doctor or other healthcare professionals and information on when they should be called (if patient's condition changes, in cases of emergency, etc.)
• If appropriate, the telephone numbers of family/carers and information about when they should be contacted.