This post was written by Tammy Lyons, RN, hospice case manager, Parkview Health.
"I could never do that job."
I have heard this and similar statements many times during conversations after I tell someone that I'm a hospice nurse. However, after almost seven years as a hospice case manager, I have yet to find an appropriate response. While it's true that a career in hospice care isn't for everyone, many people don't understand hospice. There is a common misconception that this work is all "doom and gloom," and that being a hospice nurse must be depressing. Are there times of sadness and tears? Absolutely. But there is so much more than that.
We bring care and comfort to people in their own environment. Instead of the neat, neutral walls in a hospital room, we find ourselves surrounded by their photographs, treasured mementos, a special necklace or a unique tattoo. And before long, we get to hear their stories. We learn about the lives of people whom we likely would never have met if we did not work in hospice.
Sometimes a patient comes to hospice with only hours or a day to live. In these situations, there is often chaos in the home because loved ones are overwhelmed by this new responsibility. When the hospice journey is brief, the primary focus is on ensuring a patient's pain and other symptoms are under control and on providing education to the family. We encourage loved ones to consider hospice sooner rather than later for both parties' sake. We can get to know each other, prepare the family for what to expect, and make sure they have the medications, equipment and assistance they need.
Sometimes, the hospice journey can be long. If the patient is feeling well, we encourage them to do whatever they want to do! Go to the family reunion, attend a grandchild's concert or take the family on a trip to Florida. We are happy for them when they get to do these things and we get to see their smiles as they tell us all about it.
As the end-of-life approaches, there is sadness, but I have found that most people in their final days are ready to move on. This sense of acceptance makes it easier for the patient and family to say goodbye. Our wonderful hospice team works together to ensure our patients' physical, emotional and spiritual needs are met and that their families are cared for afterward. It's rewarding to know that I played a part in the final moments of our patients' lives.
Share your time and presence
Serving as a hospice volunteer allows you to assist patients and their families during a challenging time. Whether you help with bereavement support, caregiver relief, companionship visits, or other duties, volunteering with Parkview Hospice can be a truly meaningful experience.
For more information about hospice services or becoming a volunteer, give us a call at 260-373-9800 or visit our website here to apply.
