Ep.37: Hospice Diaries with KaLee (from Knute Nelson)
KaLee is my previous colleague from Knute Nelson Hospice of Alexandria, MN. We worked together 3 wonderful-yet short months in 2014. I was hired to be Knute Nelson's Lead Social Worker and was absolutely thriving in my job when I recieved a horrible diagnosis of disease and would soon face the possibilities of death myself. My Chondroblastic Osteosarcoma would kill me if I didn't fight it. Before death, commonly comes diseases. How does someone navigate those chaotic waters? KaLee is super passionate about her career in hospice and has since added a title of Director to her already distinct role as a Registered Nurse. Death is scary to navigate but easier to handle with nurses like her. I always admired her determination and confident care as she worked intently with her patients and their families. She answered every question no matter how long it took. The quality of her professional values made my job as a social worker so incredibly enriched. If it weren't for cancer, I believe I would be working alongside her still today. Although life has had different plans for me, I know her message about hospice will be incredibly beneficial to all of you. We discuss lots of topics surrounding hospice work and what services are offered during hospice, what legal documents you should have completed no matter your age, and things to expect when a loved one approaches their deathbed. Don't make your family members guess your wishes when your guidance is needed but not easily communicated. More often than necessary time takes over and leaves family members feeling lost. We must feel empowered to be responsible for our time coming to an unexpected close---because death can knock at our door when you or your loved ones have no absolute clue it is near. Consider being an organ donor. Be in control of your future. It is a fabulous way we can love ourselves and our loved ones. There is some comfort in knowing what comes with death. We hope this episode offers a clear perspective on this topic so it is less shocking when death comes your way--- bringing healthier coping in your future. This episode releases today also! We hope you have a fabulous rest of your month, safe weekend, reflective Passover, and blessed Easter. There is so much to be grateful for and lots to be hopeful about. -Tess
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WHAT IS HOSPICE CARE?
Hospice is medical care for those with a terminal illness and six months or less to live. It covers everything related to your illness from medications, a hospital bed and medical equipment for mobility to visits by hospice staff. Hospice is about improving your quality of life during your final days, weeks and even months of life. The earlier you enter hospice, the sooner you’ll receive extra care and support from our hospice staff.
WHO PAYS FOR HOSPICE CARE?
Hospice is typically covered by Medicaid, Medicare, veterans’ benefits and almost all private insurance policies. (No patient will be denied care based on coverage status or ability to pay.)
WHERE CAN I GET HOSPICE CARE?
You can get hospice care wherever you call home.
WILL I BE COMFORTABLE? WILL MY PAIN BE UNDER CONTROL?
Controlling your symptoms and pain is the number one goal of hospice. Your care team will work to control your pain, discomfort and stress as much as possible.
WHEN CAN I RECEIVE HOSPICE? IS IT JUST FOR PEOPLE WITH WEEKS TO LIVE?
You’re eligible for hospice if your physician confirms that you have a life expectancy of six months or less – if your illness runs its normal course. After six months, hospice can be extended if your health status continues to decline.
WHEN CAN YOU ADMIT ME TO HOSPICE?
After we receive a physician’s order, we can admit you at any time. We provide informational visits and admissions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The POLST
ENRICHING SERVICES Hospice by Knute Nelson Hospice by KNUTE NELSON
Knute Nelson Hospice believes in making every day matter and making every day comfortable for those we serve. We do this by combining high quality, compassionate care with enriching services to meet the unique needs of each individual in our care.
Healing Touch
Healing touch practitioners lay their hands on or near patients to promote physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. It’s based on the idea that energy flows through each of us and can help reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate pain, raise energy, improve appetite and digestion, and promote healing.
Hospice Volunteers
Hospice volunteers play an essential role on the hospice team and can visit patients in their homes, talk, play games, watch movies or keep you company. Volunteers can also help run errands, prepare meals and support the patient and their family.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapists use gentle strokes and stretching to relax stiff muscles, reduce pain and swelling, improve sleep, decrease stress and anxiety, and more. As an added benefit, the physical contact of massage helps release “feel good” hormones like serotonin and endorphins.
Therapeutic Music
Certified music practitioners sing and play instruments with groups and one-on-one. Music is especially beneficial for patients with dementia and can help improve moods, reduce fear and anxiety, reduce pain, and relieve stress.
We Honor Veterans
Ethos Hospice is a proud participant of the We Honor Veterans program. All employees are trained to provide customized and compassionate care to meet the unique needs of Veteran patients and their loved ones.
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