At Lion Heart Hospice, nurses play a vital role in the patient's care plan, from admission through the completion of their end-of-life journey. At admission, our nurses guide patients and their loved ones through the hospice assessment and admissions process, addressing any questions and concerns during this uncertain time. They also assist families in ordering specialty equipment and medications necessary for pain relief and symptom control. During this phase, the nurse develops a personalized care plan for the patient and shares it with the family.

 

Throughout the days, weeks, or months of care, our nurses make consistent visits to provide wound care if needed, administer medications, and monitor vital signs. During these visits, they keep families informed with medical updates and next steps.

 

In emergencies requiring immediate attention, a triage nurse is dispatched and arrives within two hours to address the situation. The nurse communicates with the hospice case manager, the visiting nurse, and the patient’s physician to determine if an immediate visit is necessary.

 

One of the most significant roles a nurse plays is ensuring that no patient dies alone. This principle is a cornerstone of Lion Heart Hospice. We ensure that a member of the patient’s care team is present during their final hours, providing loving, reassuring care to keep the patient as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

 

Our nurses are part of an interdisciplinary team, including physicians, case managers, and social workers, who oversee each patient's care plan. This team meets every two weeks to discuss the patient’s progress, explore ways to improve their quality of life and comfort, and ensure the care plan aligns with the patient’s end-of-life wishes.

 

Family caregivers often need education on providing appropriate care for their loved ones. Lion Heart Hospice nurses guide caregivers through daily care aspects, such as administering medications and assisting with daily living activities. They also help caregivers understand what to expect as the illness progresses and how to adapt care accordingly.

 

Caregiving can be exhausting and emotionally challenging. When family caregivers need a break, they are entitled to respite care. During this period, their loved one can be temporarily checked into a professional care facility for up to five days. A Lion Heart Hospice nurse will care for the patient, allowing the family caregiver to rest or attend to other matters.