[dmiller0702]

It's okay to feel inadequate, and at times, helpless, but you are only one member of a team. My advice, for what it's worth, would be to focus on doing everything you can do as a nurse to give the finest nursing care possible then let the chaplin do his/her job, the social worker to his/her job and so on.

Death is a very individual thing. Some people simply fall asleep, others appear to struggling. It is our job to keep the patient the family comfortable and assist them in passing. In hopice nursing it is very difficult to become so close to the family and patients, especially if we have seen the patient go from looking and acting healthy to slipping into a coma. Again, we as nurse don't have to do it alone, we are only one part of a team.

[dosamigos76]

Checking in with ya'll...
My very first patient of my own died peacefully last week. It was all that I had hoped it would be. The family was well informed and comfortable with all that had been done and have "adopted" me into their family.
I feel so honored and blessed to be doing this work. Last week was rough, I did several admissions and even got one lady no one wanted (She's active TB, on a vent, ESRD-just quit dialysis, 10 decubs, a feeding tube, wound vac, and NO DNR)......I wound up with 5 pages of orders and spent three hours over there today. It was AWESOME! I am learning so many new things all the time. I wanted you all to know how much I appreciate your support. I think I've figured out that when a patient of mine dies or I attend a death, it is going to be an odd/off day, but that's ok. Little by little I'm getting there, becoming the nurse I want to be. I feel proud of my work more and more......even with the setbacks of having to learn so much.
Again, thank you to everyone.

Cheryl

[aimeee]

Cheryl, glad to hear you are progressing well, both in knowledge and in your comfort with this work. Your new patient sounds challenging in many ways but those are the ones that need us most. You have a great attitude. I applaud your willingness to roll up your sleeves and get in there and do your best.

[gitterbug]

Just wanted to say I think each and every one of you are so special. The stars at night cannot dazzle any eyes more than your unique form of caring.
Blessing on you and your patients.

[RNDYN2CU]

OOOO!!! Don't worry, I felt intimidated at first, but remember you have it in you, It's a privilage to be in Hospice, I joined 8 months ago, and every day gets better... the key is organization and there are no big deals!!!! One step at a time, one patient at a time. big breaths. Call the smart ones with your questions. YOU CAN DO IT!!!

[RNDYN2CU]

Just read your newer post!! I am glad to see yo are getting iT, it is awesome huh? I describe it as a symphony of care, each team member is an instrument, and when we are all aiding the dying patient and his/her loved ones, you hear the music!!!
Nurse Leslie

[lkusber]

I also am new to hospice and have been experiencing the same feelings that you have mentioned. Not only being new to hospice but new to nursing. I am finding that asking lots of questions is the key and I have received a lot of support from my fellow nurses.

[tiroka03]

I think you already have the most important thing a hospice nurse needs. You care. Your patients aren't just a means to a paycheck.

You might eventually find, that most families are just as new to this as you are. But they are seeing though fear and grief.

I would offer one bit of a suggestion. Don't let fear rule your thoughts. Use your energy in a more construction way. Whenever doubts and fear come at you, resist those thoughts, don't act as if you are ________. Instead act as if you are an experienced nurse, which you are.

Important issues to remember: pain control and comfort. I believe you already understand that. There are other people such as pastors and social workers who can come along side of you and do things you aren't qualified to do. The whole weight isn't yours to bear. Just think pain control and comfort, and you'll be ok.

Remeber you already have the best quaility of all, You care.

[angeluvmerzy11]

You've already started the process of being a good hospice nurse. Concern, compassion, and questions are your constant companions. You'll learn with every visit, every book you read, and every time you visit this website. I'm only 9 months into my first of hospice. Thats 6 months into the "comfort zone" and 3 months into "confidence". Time and experience is what gets you there. Meanwhile, you're reaching out for support. You're doing better than you think you are. Good luck.

[Dianne6]

You will be great i am sure!