Hospice care is provided under the direction of our Medical Director and your attending physician. Your care is planned and rendered by a team of individuals with expertise in a variety of areas. Their combined perspective is very broad and takes into account many aspects of the patient and family’s care requirements. Because our team of multidisciplinary professionals is devoted to each person and family, we are able to provide high quality, comprehensive care. We strive every day to provide care that focuses on restoring dignity and a sense of personal fulfillment to the dying person. Once the team at Guardian is involved, we are with you every step of the way.
The Hospice Nurse
Although there are several nurses who may be part of your care team, one will be “your” hospice nurse – the one you see most of the time. Your nurse will visit you regularly and will have responsibility for the “follow through” on the medical orders given by your physician. She will also confer with others on the team to coordinate your care and manage your pain and symptoms. In addition, your nurse will provide education and emotional support to help ease the fear of the unknown.
The Hospice Aide
Our hospice aides are all certified and receive ongoing education to ensure our patients receive the highest level of care. The role of the hospice aide is to assist with personal hygiene and activities of daily living. They may also provide light household services to maintain a safe and sanitary environment for the patient.
The Hospice Chaplain
As part of the hospice healthcare team, hospice chaplains make spiritual care a priority. Our chaplains offer an open, sensitive and nonjudgmental presence and are accepting of different beliefs, cultures and values. The chaplain will talk to you about your spiritual needs, and if you want, assist you in finding support that is most helpful for your family’s situation. Our hope is to share in this sacred time in a way which provides spiritual healing, purpose and meaning.
The Hospice Social Worker
The social worker is a Master’s-prepared professional who will assist the patient and family with the many issues which arise at the end of life. These include financial concerns, advance directives and funeral arrangements. The social worker also has counseling skills to help you resolve difficulties within your family and can get you in touch with outside resources as you need them.
Bereavement Coordinator
The Guardian Hospice care bereavement coordinator provides bereavement services to family members for 13 months following the death of the patient.
Hospice Volunteers
In addition to the professional staff, specially selected and trained volunteers will be a part of your care team if desired. Hospice volunteers augment the work of the professional staff. Volunteers can help in many ways, depending on your needs.
At Guardian Hospice Care, we also utilize the services of registered dieticians, pharmacists, physical, occupational and speech therapists who may be consulted, according to your special needs.