Thank you for what you do

[WickedRedRN, BSN, RN]

My FIL (he is 77, 30 years ago he contracted Hep C via a blood transfusion during a surgical procedure) has been waging a battle with liver failure. Over the last year he has gotten progressivley worse. Monday he was admitted to the hospital and had 10.1 liters of fluid drained from his abd. Tuesday the doctor and social worker spoke with the family and advised them he is very end stage in his disease process and recommended hospice care. We met with the hospice nurses today and I have to say how wonderful they have been in dealing with everyone, especially my MIL, who has been in denial over his condition for a while now. I have never personally had any dealings with hospice, but I have always believed in the concept and model. I can attest that these nurses are a special breed...BLESS YOU!

We will be able to bring my FIL back to his home tomorrow, where he can be surrounded with his loving wife and family. Just knowing he is able to do this has been such a relief and given the family a great deal of peace. I personally feel this is going to be such a help to the family in this difficult time and my FIL knowing he will be attended to in his home, with dignity. Knowing someone will be available to assist in pain and comfort measures is a blessing.

((((((((HUGS)))))))) to all of you wonderful hospice nurses. The service you provide and the care you take with it are very appeciated.

Peace everyone.

[mc3, ASN, RN]

I'll keep both you and Patty Jo in my prayers. I think I can speak for all hospice nurses when I say it's a honor and privilege to be invited in people's homes and hearts at such a sad time. My personal belief is that, yes, nobody has the power to change things, but to be able to provide care, comfort and yes, love is truly an honor and a gift in this life.

Take care,

mc3

[misschelei]

Oh Oh let me chime in here......... Lori you will all be our prayers. It sounds like you are all at peace with the decision to use hospice. I believe you will find there is comfort for all of you.

My grandfather (77) fought a long battle with multiple ailments. They were actually talking dialysis on Fri the 9th when he sat up (no simple task for him) and said "Get me the f*** out of here!"

Hospice was consulted and and within hours he was home with all the bells and whistles of comfort care.

He wasn't in much pain at that point but by Sunday morning he was suffering terribly! I called the hospice nurse (at home on a Sunday mind you) and told her he was suffering. She said it would be difficult to get an order and obtain the Morphine on a Sunday but she showed up within 40 minutes with it! He went to sleep and passed 6 hours later peacefully.

I can not say enough to thank you all for what you do. This was my second experience with hospice. The first was my MIL who died of breast cancer at 50, 3 months after our wedding. It was hell but Nurse Betty got us through. There is a special place in heaven reserved just for you.

Thank you.

[Melissa S]

I'd like to thank you as well.

My grandmother passed 5 years ago from lung cancer. It was decided at the time of diagnosis that she would be allowed to stay at home, with family members and hospice caring for her. I was lucky enought to be one able to care for her. One of the last conversations I had with my grandmother was about my career choice. She said that being an administrative assistant was a waste, she knew that wasn't what I wanted to do, and that deep down inside she knew that I wanted to be a nurse. After being laid of earlier this year, I decided to follow my dream of becoming a nurse, and it was because of the experience with my grandmother and hospice care, that I am considering specializing in hospice nursing.

Becoming a nurse, a hospice nurse specifically is my way of honoring Nana.

[aimeee, BSN, RN]

Becoming a nurse, a hospice nurse specifically is my way of honoring Nana.

That would be terrific! :)