I'M SO GLAD

In addition to our hospice support, we also have a Palliative Care program.  Palliative Care is for patients with chronic health issues.  The team consists of a nurse and social worker.  We have three levels of care; 1, 2, and 3.  The number is the number of months between visits or calls; although the patients and families are not limited to that number as can call as needed. 

 

During a Palliative Care admission visit, we ask about what type of support are they looking for.  For example, “What are your goals”?   We want to help the patient and family their way.  The best part is that they can call as needed.  Our telephone gets picked up 24/7 as it is also the hospice’s phone number.  Palliative covers Monday-Friday from 8:30am-5pm.  It gives the family the support that is needed. 

’M SO GLAD 

 

Hospice was a bit slow today, 

so, I helped out with Palliative Care. 

Patients receive calls or visits 

every month or two or three. 

 

I made about eight calls today; 

of which two touched me so deeply. 

I am guided from above spiritually. 

Two of these calls validated that support. 

 

She’s been on Palliative Care for a short time. 

I called her son to check in and assess needs. 

“I am so glad that you called. 

I was going to call you later this afternoon”. 

 

“She has become so much weaker. 

She isn’t eating a lot and has lost weight. 

She is getting short of breath so easily. 

I think she qualifies for hospice.” 

 

On another call, I spoke with the patient’s wife. 

Again, I heard, “I am so glad that you called”. 

“My husband’s dear friend died recently. 

Could the chaplain make another visit?” 

 

“He doesn’t say much, but I totally see 

the peace in his face when the chaplain visits.” 

I then texted our chaplain with her request. 

He will be calling the family tomorrow. 

 

I feel I was meant to talk with the two of them. 

They both were so glad that I called. 

But then, 

                    I am so glad too.