Ensuring Safety in Hospice Care: A Commitment to Excellence
Grane Hospice
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Grane Hospice
Aug 06, 2024
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
Email US
Click to Email Us
Ensuring Safety in Hospice Care: A Commitment to Excellence
The importance of safety in the workplace for healthcare providers cannot be overstated. As we approach OSHA’s Safe and Sound Week in August, it is an opportune moment to highlight the critical measures we undertake to ensure a safe work environment for our staff and patients. This communication aims to inform our referral sources about our safety protocols and provide valuable tips that medical professionals may find beneficial for maintaining safety in their workplaces.
Our Commitment to Safety
In hospice care, where the environment can be unpredictable and emotionally charged, maintaining rigorous safety standards is paramount. Our commitment to safety is evidenced by our comprehensive safety programs, continuous staff training, and adherence to OSHA guidelines. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), healthcare workers face a higher rate of workplace injuries than workers in most other sectors, with nearly 5.5 injuries per 100 full-time workers annually. This statistic underscores the importance of our ongoing efforts to mitigate risks and promote a culture of safety.
- Staff Training and Education
- Ongoing Training: All our staff undergo regular training sessions that cover the latest safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Research has shown that continuous education significantly reduces the incidence of workplace injuries (Smith et al., 2022).
- Ergonomic Interventions
- Proper Lifting Techniques: Back injuries are a common concern in healthcare settings. We emphasize training on proper lifting techniques and the use of mechanical lifts when necessary to prevent musculoskeletal injuries (Anderson et al., 2020).
- Infection Control Measures
- Strict Hygiene Protocols: Adherence to stringent hygiene protocols, including regular handwashing, use of sanitizers, and appropriate use of PPE, is mandatory. These measures are crucial in preventing the spread of infections among staff and patients (CDC, 2022).
- Mental Health Support
- Counseling Services: Recognizing the emotional toll that hospice work can take, we offer counseling services to support our staff’s mental health. Studies have indicated that mental health support reduces burnout and improves job satisfaction among healthcare workers (Jones et al., 2021).
Safety Tips for Medical Professionals
While our safety protocols are robust, there are additional tips that medical professionals may find useful in enhancing their safety at work:
- Use Technology Wisely
- Telehealth Services: Where appropriate, leverage telehealth services to reduce the need for physical interactions, thereby minimizing exposure to infectious diseases.
- Stay Informed
- Continuing Education: Keep abreast of the latest safety guidelines and best practices through continuing education programs. This knowledge is vital for adapting to new challenges and improving workplace safety.
- Promote a Safety Culture
- Open Communication: Foster an environment where staff feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of retribution. An open communication culture is essential for identifying and addressing potential hazards promptly (Davis et al., 2019).
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Proper Use and Disposal: Ensure the correct use and disposal of PPE. Improper handling can negate the benefits and increase the risk of contamination.
Safety in the workplace is a fundamental aspect of providing high-quality hospice care. By implementing rigorous safety measures and continuously educating our staff, we strive to create a secure environment for both our employees and patients. We encourage our referral sources to adopt similar practices to enhance safety within their own organizations. Together, we can build a safer healthcare system for everyone. Call us today to learn more!
References
Anderson, J., Williams, M., & Smith, T. (2020). Ergonomic interventions in healthcare: A review of the evidence. Journal of Occupational Health, 62(4), 311-319. https://doi.org/10.1002/joh.22023
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Infection control in healthcare settings. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/index.html
Davis, K., Turner, M., & Wrenn, G. (2019). Promoting a culture of safety in healthcare. Healthcare Management Review, 44(2), 123-135. https://doi.org/10.1097/HMR.0000000000000199
Jones, A., Phillips, R., & Brown, L. (2021). Mental health support for healthcare workers: A systematic review. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 63(1), 54-62. https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000002025
Smith, R., Johnson, P., & Martinez, S. (2022). The impact of continuous education on workplace safety in healthcare. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 65(3), 233-245. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajim.23394
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational injuries and illnesses among healthcare workers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/iif/
Other Articles You May Like
Do Therapy Dogs Help Alzheimers Dementia Patients?
Visit any critical care unit, childrens hospital, or other specialty inpatient facility, and youll find a common feature: therapy dogs. For decades, healthcare practitioners have understood the surprisingly positive effects on patients of time spend with cute and cuddly dogs. Therapy dogs reduce stress, improve mood, and can help patients reframe their outlook on whatever condition ails them. The positive effects of patient interactions with therapy dogs are a well-documented fact of the medical world. Senior citizens with limited mobility and other health conditions also benefit from the companionship of dogs. Owning a pet reduces feelings of loneliness among seniors living at home or in a retirement facility, which in turn greatly reduces the risk of diseases associated with loneliness and isolation. Pets can also decrease the number of stress hormones in a persons blood, lower blood pressure, and contribute to a more positive outlook on life. Dogs and other pets, it seems, have tremendous healing powers!Since Alzheimers patients cannot adequately care for a pet, owning one is out of the question. Considering the nature of Alzheimers dementia, it is easy to assume that a loved one may not benefit from a pet since they will not remember the interaction. Researchers, convinced therapy dogs would have a positive effect on Alzheimers patients, put this question to the test: Do Therapy Dogs Help Alzheimers Dementia Patients?Short-Term Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Patients with Alzheimers Dementia.A study conducted in the early 2000s looked carefully at the subject of therapy dogs and Alzheimers dementia patients. They measured the incidence of behavioral disturbances among patients in a nursing home for a period of four weeks, then introduced therapy dogs. Their initial findings showed that the dogs helped to reduce behavioral disturbances in the short term, meaning they helped to immediately calm patients. The short-term effects proved that therapy dogs do have a positive effect on patients with Alzheimers disease, particularly in regards to anxiety, anger, and changes in behavior associated with the disease.Long-Term Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Patients with Alzheimers Dementia.The same study did not stop at the short-term effects of therapy dogs on Alzheimers patients. Previous assumptions suggested that since patients would not remember their encounters with the therapy dogs, the effects of spending time with them would vanish from one day to the next. Not true, the study authors found. Although most of the patients did not remember their interactions with the therapy dogs (some did), the behavioral disturbances noted in the four weeks prior to the study reduced. In fact, the longer and more frequently patients interacted with the therapy dogs, the less they exhibited behavioral disturbances.Therapy Dogs As A Long-Term Therapy.The study findings confirmed what clinicians suspected all along: dogs are an excellent long-term therapy for persons with Alzheimers dementia to reduce the incidence of behavioral disturbances. Therapy dogs also had the same effect on Alzheimers patients as they do on other kinds of patients, including reduced stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, better appetite, and fewer feelings of loneliness. These effects continued to increase the longer and more frequently patients interacted with the dogs.What Makes Dogs Such Good Therapy?Dogs are wired to give unconditional love and devotion. They can provide physical and social contact where it is missing, and they are not picky. what sets dogs apart, particularly those trained as therapy dogs, is that they will approach anyone regardless of their physical or mental deterioration, and initiate contact. Patients can pet, hug, and cuddle dogs unlike any other kind of pet. These positive interactions provide a distraction to the other goings-on around them and provide relief for those suffering from sadness, anger, or angst.The Takeaway.Dogs have a tremendous healing power. While studies have focused specifically on Alzheimers dementia patients, their positive effects will benefit anyone suffering from general dementia. Families of patients will feel relief that their loved ones have fewer outbursts of anger, sadness, or angst. While dementia impairs memory, it does not interrupt the long-term benefits of regularly interacting with a therapy dog. In fact, the more they interact with a therapy dog, the fewer behavioral problems they exhibit.
Journey Through Loss and Grief
Loss and grief are inevitable parts of life, but for our beloved seniors, navigating through these emotions can be particularly challenging. As they journey through their golden years, they often face the loss of spouses, friends, siblings, and sometimes even their own health. In such times, compassionate support becomes of utmost importance. Here, we discuss how we can extend a caring hand to our seniors as they cope with loss and grief.First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that everyone experiences grief differently. Some may openly express their emotions, while others may prefer to grieve in solitude. As caregivers and loved ones, our role is not to impose how they should grieve but rather to create a safe space where they feel heard and supported.One of the most powerful ways to support seniors in their time of grief is through active listening. Sit with them, hold their hand, and let them share their memories, stories, and feelings. Even if they repeat themselves or express anger or sadness, offer them your undivided attention without judgment. Sometimes, all they need is someone to validate their emotions and reassure them that it's okay to feel the way they do.Encourage them to reminisce about the good times they shared with their loved ones. Sharing fond memories can be therapeutic and help seniors find solace amidst their grief. Look through old photo albums together, watch home videos, or simply engage in heartfelt conversations about the moments that brought them joy.It is important to respect boundaries and not force them to engage in activities they're not ready for. Grieving is a deeply personal journey, and pushing them too hard may only exacerbate their pain. Instead, let them take the lead and offer gentle encouragement along the way.Practical assistance can also alleviate some of the burdens they may be facing. Offer to help with daily tasks such as grocery shopping, meal preparation, or household chores. By easing their responsibilities, you may allow them the time and space to focus on their emotional well-being.In addition to providing emotional and practical support, connecting seniors with resources and support groups can be immensely beneficial. Many communities offer grief counseling services specifically tailored to seniors, providing them with a safe environment to share their experiences with others who understand what they're going through.Encourage them to participate in activities that bring them comfort and joy, whether it's joining a book club, attending religious services, or taking up a new hobby. Engaging in meaningful activities can provide seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, helping them navigate through their grief more effectively.Above all, be patient and empathetic. Grieving is a process that takes time, and there is no set timeline for healing. Reassure them that you're there for them every step of the way, and remind them that it's okay to seek professional help if they're struggling to cope. Helping seniors deal with loss and grief requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen. By providing unwavering support and understanding we can help ease their burden as they navigate through life's inevitable challenges with grace and resilience.
Four Signs it May be Time to Consider Assisted Living for Your Senior Loved One
It's a difficult decision to make, but sometimes it becomes clear that our older loved ones need more care than we can provide at home. If you're struggling with the decision of whether or not to place your parent or spouse in an assisted living facility, this blog post is for you. Here are some signs that it might be time to start considering assisted living.1. Are simple activities becoming difficult?Assisted living facilities are designed to help seniors with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. If your loved one is struggling with any of these activities, it might be time to consider assisted living.2. Does your loved one have difficulty with living independently?Another sign that assisted living might be the best option is if your elderly loved one is having difficulty paying bills, getting around to run simple errands, or attending appointments. If getting from point A to point B has become a challenge, assisted living can help. Most facilities offer transportation services for their residents and have services on-site for a variety of needs. 3. Has there been a decline in your loved ones hygiene or appearance?Has your loved one started to neglect their personal hygiene? Are they no longer keeping up with their usual grooming routine? This could be a sign that they need assistance with activities like bathing and dressing.4. Are you noticing changes in mood or behavior?Sometimes changes in mood or behavior can be a sign of declining health. Has your usually cheerful loved one become withdrawn or depressed? Do they have sudden outbursts of anger? These changes could be indicative of a larger health issue that might be best addressed in an assisted living facility.Making the Decision TogetherOnce you have decided that assisted living is the best option, its important to involve your loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible. Let your Senior Care Authority advisor assess their care needs, explain the options, and schedule tours of places that best fit the needs of your family. Include your loved ones in the process as much as possible so they feel that they are part of the decision to choose the next place they will call home. If possible, try not to wait too long as adaptive skills can decrease with the progression of age or cognitive decline.Finding the best senior living setting for your loved one can be an overwhelming task, but you dont have to go through it alone. The experts at Senior Care Authority are here to help! We offer a variety of services designed to help seniors live their best life possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your family.
Local Services By This Author
Grane Hospice Care Charleroi
Hospice 17 Arentzen Boulevard, Charleroi, Pennsylvania, 15022Make the Choice of Quality End of LifeGrane Hospice Care provides Comfort for the Body, Mind, and Soul through unique, individualized and professional care plans allowing you to live comfortably in your home, surrounded by loved ones. We will tailor an experienced team to meet your individual needs and deliver a personalized, focused care plan. With almost 20 years of experience, Grane Hospice is the right choice for the best quality of care for you and your loved ones. Our mission is to provide premium comfort care to patients, families, and caregivers through an interdisciplinary team approach that understands, respects, and meets individual needs. In addition to our well-known clinical care, our aides provide supplemental personal care through bathing, feeding and dressing assistance. Our volunteers are also available for visits, errands and companionship. We are a leading provider for hospice care services in Pennsylvania.Physician Services Will Address All NeedsAt Grane Hospice Care, we provide the physician services you would expect of hospice and go above and beyond to provide premier care for our patients. The patients Primary Care Physician remains the director for their care, and our staff works to keep them informed of the patients condition, wants, and needs. Working in conjunction with our Medical Director, our clinical team provides all necessary education and home visits that are outlined in each care plan.Taking Care of Pain and Symptom ManagementCare plans for pain and medication coordination are essential aspects of hospice care. We work with your loved one to understand their needs, and then we create a strategy for pain and symptom management throughout their time with us. Our nurses will administer the necessary medications and treatments during their home visits to keep your loved one as comfortable as possible.Personalized Comfort Care for Your Loved OneThere are few things that are more dehumanizing than being treated like just another number. At Grane Hospice Care, we create individualized care plans that treat your loved one as a human being. Our nurses and nurse aides add a personal touch to their daily care plans, so you can rest assured your loved one is in good hands.Unlimited Bereavement SupportIt is an understatement to say dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult. That is why Grane Hospice Care is committed to providing unlimited bereavement services to families of loved ones. You will meet with a qualified bereavement coordinator during the admission process and will receive their support throughout the entire hospice care process. If you would prefer a group approach, contact your local Grane Hospice location for more information about community support groups in your area.Assisting Beyond Physical NeedsJust as important as the physical needs, social and spiritual support are prioritized during the care process. Our Medical Social Workers are available to help you navigate the required paperwork associated with the admission process to hospice care. Also, should you have a religious affiliation, our chaplain and bereavement teams will assist you with spiritual needs during end of life and any special arrangements you prefer, such as funeral arrangements and memorial services.Volunteers Add an Extra Personal TouchIn addition to the knowledgeable care team, Grane Hospice has a dedicated volunteer staff available for our hospice patients. Our volunteers are compassionate, friendly individuals aimed to providing extra care for your loved one. These volunteers go for walks, read to patients, create personalized crafts, or simply provide conversations. Our volunteers are also available to offer you and your family support through the grieving process.We Take Care of the Supplies You NeedThe cost of medication can put an undue burden on a patients family. Luckily, Grane Hospice will handle the costs associated with medication, medical equipment, and other supplies related to the patients terminal diagnosis. We are well-equipped to coordinate with insurance companies to ensure all medical supplies are readily available.Indicators that are hospice-eligible can include but are not limited to:Weight LossIncreased assistance with daily activitiesIncreased weakness and fatigueFrequent and multiple fallsDifficulty swallowingShortness of breath or chest painContinuous oxygenIncrease/changes in medicationRecurring or multiple infectionsFrequent phone calls to physicianFrequent hospitalizations or ER visits
Grane Hospice Care
Hospice 260 Alpha Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15238About Grane Hospice CareA wise person once said that life is a journey, not a destination. This adage holds true, even if you are living with a terminal illness. At Grane Hospice Care, we are with you every step of the way and will help ensure that the last stages of your life are as fulfilling, enjoyable, and comfortable as possible.What Is Grane Hospice Care?Grane Hospice Care is a leading provider of premium comfort care services aimed at helping you manage pain, stay comfortable, and improve your overall well-being during the last stages of life if you are living with a terminal illness.Our professional care team include physicians, nurses, social workers, certified nursing assistants and others who function as part of a large interdisciplinary team. We are devoted to supporting your emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health, and to helping you, your loved ones, and your caregivers navigate your illness and final days.Grane Hospice Care has been serving Pennsylvanians since 2005. We have several locations throughout Pennsylvania and are licensed to provide care services for in-state residents within a 60-mile radius of our office locations.Services Available from Grane Hospice CareAll our services at Grane Hospice Care can be tailored for you based on your unique health situation and on your personal goals and desires. We want you to feel comfortable and happy under our care and will do what it takes to make sure you have everything you need.Some of our services include: 24/7 on-call hospice support Symptom management, to reduce symptoms including nausea, anxiety, and breathing difficulty Pain management Medication management and coordination Nursing Aide visits to help with daily activities, including bathing, dressing, and eating. Registered Nurse visits Medical equipment and supplies services, for help with setting up equipment, including hospital beds and oxygen tanks. Volunteer visits for companionship and help with running errands Bereavement program for your friends, relatives, and loved ones Inpatient respite care, general inpatient care, and continuous care programs Social and spiritual services We Honor Veterans program.What Are the Benefits of Hospice Care?Hospice care provides you with wholesome, personalized health care and support in the comfort of your home, surrounded by your loved ones as you cope with a life-limiting, terminal illness. This is one of the greatest benefits of hospice care, especially for those who want to avoid spending their last days in sterile and unfamiliar hospital settings.There are a countless number of benefits to receiving hospice care. Some of these benefits include: Feeling more in control of your health Reduction in symptoms, including pain More quality time with friends and loved ones Comprehensive health care from an interdisciplinary team of hospice care professionals Around-the-clock medical care, including on weekends and holidays Help with daily activities you may not be able to perform efficiently on your own Financial savings A sense of dignity during your last days Respect for your wishes Counseling and bereavement for your loved onesWho Is Eligible to Receive Hospice Care?Your healthcare provider may recommend hospice care if you are living with a terminal illness and its prognosis is a life expectancy of six months or less, given the illness runs its natural course. Anyone can make a referral to hospice carewhich can include referring yourself to care or having a loved one reach out for a hospice care consultation.Illnesses that may be eligible for hospice care include: Cancer Stroke Congestive heart failure Dementia and Alzheimers disease AIDS Liver disease Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) End-of-stage renal disease Parkinsons disease Huntingtons disease Multiple sclerosisConsult with us to determine whether you qualify for end-of-life care with Grane Hospice based on your condition.Tips for Finding the Best Hospice Care ProviderA great, quality hospice care provider will respect your end-of-life wishes and deliver unparalleled medical care that involves an interdisciplinary team of experienced physicians and hospice care professionals. The medical professionals with whom you interact should make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and content while navigating a life-limiting terminal illness.Follow these tips to select a quality hospice care provider: Ask friends and relatives for referrals to local hospice care providers. Seek professional opinions from your current healthcare provider. Browse and read online reviews of hospice care providers written by the loved ones of former patients. Choose a Medicare-certified provider that will uphold certain requirements related to patient care and management. All Grane Hospice Care offices are Medicare-certified. Make sure it offers highly individualized care plans. Confirm it offers all the services and programs you want or that are required for your condition. Learn how often you will receive visits from hospice care workers. Find out whether the providers hospice care services are covered by your insurance plan. Choose a provider that offers bereavement and counseling services for your loved ones. Confirm whether the provider will honor and respect your culture, beliefs, traditions, and needs. Pay attention during interactions with hospice care staff to look for signs of empathy, kindness, compassion, and other traits you value in medical professionals. Ask the hospice care provider how it can enhance your quality of life while living with a terminal illness. Find out whether the hospice care provider specializes in treating your specific illness or comorbid conditions, if applicable.Grane Hospice Care is where life is celebrated, and we are devoted to becoming a member of your family during your last days and to providing premium comfort care. Contact us today at 1-800-379-0129 to learn more about our hospice care services.