I have to report what a great help our hospice nurse is to my mother’s care.  My mother has been experiencing problematic health problems for several months now.  When the assisted living nurse brought it to my attention, we went to see Momma’s general practitioner.  That visit resulted in a few changes but the problem persisted.  We next consulted the hospice nurse, Candice,  who began to diligently research what the problem might be.  She checked for a bacterial infection which turned out negative. She wrote orders and consulted with the doctor at the weekly team meeting whether to discontinue a monthly preventative order that she takes to prevent recurring infections.  They decided to keep that in place and see if the new order solves the problem.  So far, it seems to be working.  I am so thankful that we have help in solving health problems that my mother can’t express with words.  You get a gold star, Candice, for making such a difference in  both of our lives.

Today we qualified for hospice.  We had to drop hospice three months ago when we  moved into a special care assisted living facility (SCALF).  Since we saw my mother’s doctor last week, I asked for an order to be reassessed.  Odyssey Hospice came out and did an extensive interview with me and momma,  gave me an overview of their services and we filled out paperwork.  By the end of the assessment, I was given the news that we were approved.  This means that they will provide support and care for my mother by means of medications, pullups and bed pads, and 24/7 nursing care and all medical equipment related to the terminal illness. She will have a consistent CNA coming 3 days a week to bathe her. I can call on their social worker, enjoy spiritual care and can consult them for medical advice without leaving our facility. Having hospice is like having a safety net.  Maybe you qualify for hospice and just don’t know it.  Look into it.