Suzie Potter

On Wednesday we had a Hospice Staff Meeting to let us all know the way we would be trying to get more marketing and advertising out so we could increase our patient load. I came home and told Dan, “I guess God is going to have to provide in another way, because there isn’t going to be much Hospice work.” The ones with 32 and 24 hour a week position need their time filled before there is work for Mom Potter and I. That is only fair, and the right thing. So I geared up for that.

Yesterday I got a call to do an opening. I made sure we were still going by the new rules . . . and all the others were out already with patients. At the end of the day yesterday I got another call that there is another opening to do today + a visit of the patient from yesterday, the other nurses were already out on visits. This resulted in a 9 1/2 hour very full day today. Funny how God provides in mysterious ways.

I love to do “openings” which is a long visit to support the patient and family in their decision for Hospice, usually meaning the patient has 6 months or less to live (of course only God knowsd how long each person has.) An opening is a lot of paperwork, assessment, and support. Today was no exception in supporting the family through tough decisions and many emotions. I love to be able to walk the road with them. It is always great to be involved like that.

Yesterday and today I have been doing orientation to work as a Hospice RN (Registered Nurse) in the Residence.  It is a beautiful 6 bed home like unit attached to Marlette Regional Hospital.  It is a part of the Home Care division I have been working with now for a year and a half.  I love all the staff over there, and have received excellent training.  Sherryl Potter & I were able to do the orientation together!  Yesterday we had some great situations that allowed us to learn many of the special situations.  It also gave me some extra work time, that will be great on payday:)  Today we went to the United Hospice Home Care & Residence Team Meetings.  It helps give greater perspective with the nurses, social workers, doctor, pastor, and managers all brainstorming together the different patients and their families.  

I have also been on call yesterday and today, which means I carry a beeper around and answer the questions that come in from our patients and families.  I had a 6 am run to one of our patients who needed a bit of support.  It is great to be there to support them!

I got asked by Cristen, our United Hospice Service director to do the radio interview for United Hospice Service tomorrow.  I am honored to be able to represent our group like that.  Since I have done so many radio interviews, it is not something that makes me nervous at all, and I look forward to it.