Hospice care

The hospice nurse is a vital part of the Stoneridge hospice team. The team is composed of your family Doctor and/or specialist, plus a Stoneridge physician, nurse, social  worker, spiritual support counselor, home health aide,  volunteer, and other specialists if necessary. Together, the team  addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of you and your  family.

All hospice nurses must be licensed in the State of Arizona. Many  of Stoneridge Hospice nurses are also certified hospice and palliative care nurses (CHPN).

A hospice nurse cares for people who have been diagnosed with six  months or less to live and have chosen hospice care at the end of life.  As part of the hospice philosophy of care, a hospice nurse focuses on  comfort and quality of life. They provide individualized care based on  each person’s unique needs.

A  hospice nurse discusses and explains your prognosis. They perform patient assessments and review medical histories. They monitor vitals  and assess breathing. They ask you about your pain and monitor pressure  ulcers (wounds). The hospice nurse also checks your living space for any  safety hazards.

They obtain a physician’s order for oxygen (as indicated), a hospital  bed, medications, and order supplies as necessary. They teach family/caregivers about medication indications and side effects. They  educate you on how to administer medications and are there to answer any questions. They create a plan of care for all professional caregivers  to follow. They supervise certified home health aides (CHHAs) and  licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

A  hospice nurse educates your family about the disease process, hospice  philosophy, nutrition, medication, and skin care. They review and  discuss the DNR (do not resuscitate) document. They always emphasize  instructions to call Stoneridge 24 hours a day/7 days a week with any  questions: (480) 306-8655.

The hospice nurse collaborates with your other healthcare providers and specialists.

The hospice nurse will talk to you about what to expect as death nears and will be the person who confirms your loved one has passed  away.

The hospice nurse provides care in your home, assisted living or  nursing home, rehabilitation facility or hospital.