Caring Shield Hospice

You matter! Self-care is essential for physical, emotional and mental health.

Caregivers Need Self-Care, Too Self-care is important for everyone, but it’s especially critical for caregivers, who don’t always carve out space to tend to their own needs. A social worker shares tips for caring for your own well-being while dealing with the inherent stress of caregiving.

Comprehensive Emergency Disaster Preparedness Announcement

To All Staff, Patients, and Families of Imperial Home Health and Caring Shield Hospice,

With the ongoing atmospheric river event in Southern California, our Emergency Disaster Preparedness Plan has been activated for both San Bernardino and Los Angeles Counties. This includes a critical update to triage patients according to their immediate needs and safety concerns.

Updated Instructions:

• For Staff: Prioritize contacting your patients immediately to assess their condition, with a focus on those most vulnerable or in critical need. Triage patients based on the urgency of their situation. Avoid driving in floodwaters, and communicate any barriers to patient care.
• For Patients Requiring Emergency Assistance: If you are in a situation that necessitates rescue, please call the fire department, 911, or the police without delay.

We are committed to the safety and well-being of our entire community. Your prompt action and adherence to these guidelines are essential.

Sincerely,

Imperial Home Health and Caring Shield Hospice Management Team

San Bernardino County declares State of Emergency San Bernardino County declares State of Emergency San Bernardino County, California sent this bulletin at 02/04/2024 08:56 PM PST Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. County Update News from San Bernardino County February 4, 2024 San Bernardino County declares State of Emergency...

In preparation for heavy rain over the next couple days, here's some flood safety tips. 🌬 🌧

🎉 Celebrating Compassionate Care: Winners of the 2023 Caring Shield Hospice Inc. Awards 🎉

We are ecstatic to honor the winners of the 2023 Caring Shield Hospice Inc. Awards! This year, we've seen extraordinary examples of compassion, dedication, and excellence in hospice care. Our winners have set a high standard, showing deep commitment to providing comfort and support to patients and their families during their most challenging times. Let's applaud their heartfelt efforts and the positive difference they make every day. Stay tuned to learn more about these inspiring heroes of hospice care!

https://people.com/jason-carter-opens-up-jimmy-carter-hospice-care-7970002

Unexpected Months in Hospice Have Been 'Meaningful' to Jimmy Carter as He 'Comes to the End,' Grandson Says Jason Carter, grandson of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, tells PEOPLE about his family's rollercoaster year — and how the former president's end-of-life care has turned into an unforeseen 'blessing.'

From Barbara Karnes

First, you need a physician’s order. A physician must request hospice services and sign a paper that says he/she believes the patient has six months or less to live and that you are no longer interested in or appropriate for aggressive treatment.

As a patient or family member you can request that your physician make a hospice referral—that opens the door to talking about prognosis, the "how long" and "what do you expect" questions.

You can also call a local hospice, tell them your concerns, and have them check with your physician about a referral.

Now that you have a referral a hospice representative comes to your home or hospital or nursing facility and talks to you about what services they can provide: RN home visits dealing with symptom management and pain management; help with personal care such as bathing from a nurses aide; emotional support with a social worker and chaplain; volunteer visits and respite care for caregiver relief.
From a financial stand point all the services are paid for by Medicare, Medicaid or insurance. Medications related to the terminal illness are paid for. Medical equipment, hospital bed, wheelchair, and commode are all paid for. A break for caregivers is offered in the form of respite care (respite care is 5 to 7 days in a nursing facility or Hospice House). If symptoms or pain cannot be successfully managed at home a stay in the hospital for a few days is paid.

Here is what I consider the most important part; hospice works at home for you. It provides support, guidance, and education but even more it provides understanding, concern, and heart felt caring for you, the family, and your support team. The hospice goal is to help patient and family live the best they can in the time they have.

Taking care of someone at end of life is different than taking care of someone who will get better, and people don’t die like they do in the movies —— most of us don’t know that.
When faced with end of life decisions and care we bring fear and generally lack of knowledge to the bedside. This is why hospice is so helpful, so beneficial.

Far out! Today at Imperial Home Health & Caring Shield Hospice, it was like stepping into a time machine! Staff showed up in bell-bottoms, tie-dye tees, and peace-sign for our 70's theme day. Who knew healthcare could be this groovy?

This Father’s Day, we're not just celebrating those who've mastered the art of dad jokes or the ones with an unparalleled ability to fix just about anything. We're tipping our hats to all you awesome clinicians who are not only extraordinary healthcare heroes but also incredible fathers.

You're the champions of band-aids, both at home and work - patching up scraped knees and helping heal the people in your care. You juggle the roles of superhero clinician and superhero dad, proving every day that multitasking isn’t just for moms!

So, to all you dedicated clinicians pulling double-duty as amazing dads, we salute you! Don’t forget to put your feet up today (if you can find the time between saving lives and dad-ing!). Happy Father’s Day! Keep those dad jokes coming - we love them really!

🎉🎉Happy Nurses Week, especially to all our incredible hospice nurses out there! 🏥💉

The unsung heroes who can find a vein in the dimmest light while convincing a patient that "this won't hurt a bit". Spoiler Alert: It always does... just a bit! 😂

We celebrate you because you've mastered the art of tuning out the beeping monitors, yet you always know exactly when that one crucial beep is out of tune! Let's not even start on your ability to decipher Doctor's handwriting. We're convinced it's a secret language only nurses can understand, and you're all holding secret meetings we don't know about! 🕵️‍♀️👀

You've proven time and time again that you can survive on a diet solely consisting of cafeteria coffee ☕ and leftover birthday cake 🎂 from the break room. We're still unsure if this is a superpower or just part of your training!

And to our hospice nurses, your strength is out of this world! You're like a mix of a stand-up comedian, a fortune teller, and a superhero, all rolled into one. You deliver care with a side of laughter, predict needs before they're expressed, and make the most difficult times bearable. You can turn a frown into a smile faster than the speed of light.

You've perfected the art of holding a hand, drying a tear, and cracking a joke, all at the same time. And all this while wearing those sexy compression socks! Who said medical fashion is boring? 😉

To all nurses, but especially our hospice nurses, who bravely walk into situations that many of us couldn't handle, we salute you! 🙌 You are a beacon of hope, a source of comfort, and the heart of healthcare.

This Nurses Week, let's raise a glass (or a syringe) 🥂💉 in their honor! May your coffee be strong, your shift be short, and your patients be grateful. After all, not all heroes wear capes, some wear scrubs! 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

Cheers to you, our everyday superheroes! 🎉🎉

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10 Diabetic Foot Care Tips

1. Inspect your feet daily: Make a habit of examining your feet every day for any cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or other abnormalities. This can help you detect and treat issues early, preventing complications.

2. Maintain proper hygiene: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, but avoid soaking them for too long. After washing, gently dry your feet, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.

3. Moisturize your feet: Apply a good quality moisturizer to your feet daily, focusing on the heels and soles, to prevent dryness and cracking. However, avoid applying moisturizer between the toes to prevent fungal growth.

4. Choose the right footwear: Select comfortable, well-fitted shoes that provide ample support and cushioning. Avoid tight shoes, high heels, and pointed toes, as they can cause pressure and friction, leading to foot issues.

5. Wear moisture-wicking socks: Opt for socks made of materials that wick away moisture, such as cotton or moisture-wicking synthetic fibers, to keep your feet dry and prevent fungal infections.

6. Trim your toenails properly: Cut your toenails straight across and file the edges gently to avoid ingrown toenails. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools to prevent infection.

7. Maintain healthy blood sugar levels: Monitor your blood sugar regularly and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for managing your diabetes. Good blood sugar control is essential for preventing diabetic foot complications.

8. Promote blood circulation: Elevate your feet whenever possible and engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, to improve blood flow. Avoid sitting or standing in one position for extended periods.

9. Protect your feet: Wear shoes or slippers, even indoors, to protect your feet from injury. Avoid walking barefoot or wearing open-toed shoes, especially in public places.

10. Schedule regular foot exams: Visit a podiatrist or healthcare professional for routine foot checkups, and don't hesitate to consult them if you notice any issues with your feet. Early intervention is key to preventing complications.

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"🌟🎉 To our incredible Caring Shield Hospice nurses, Happy Nurses Week! You've got the magical power to heal with your skilled hands, warm hearts, and the ability to make us laugh even in our toughest moments. 👩‍⚕️💖👨‍⚕️

Your dedication and compassionate care make a difference every day, and we're grateful for your unique blend of humor and humanity that keeps us smiling. Thank you for being the superheroes in scrubs we can count on! Let's celebrate the laughter, love, and extraordinary care you bring to our lives. Happy Nurses Week! 🏥😂💕🎉"

Patient-Centered Goals vs. Clinician-Set Goals: A Tale of Two Approaches to Healthcare 🤝

Are you aware of the critical role goals play in healthcare? 🎯 The type of goals set during treatment can significantly impact a patient's journey to recovery. In this post, we'll delve into two different goal-setting approaches: patient-centered goals and clinician-set goals. Join us as we explore the pros and cons of each, and consider the ultimate recipe for success in healthcare. 🏥

✨ Patient-Centered Goals: The Heart of Personalized Care 💖

Patient-centered goals are all about empowering individuals to take charge of their healthcare journey. This approach emphasizes the importance of:

1. Active patient involvement 🙋‍♀️
2. Tailored treatment plans 📝
3. Enhanced patient satisfaction 😊

Some advantages of patient-centered goals include:

🌟 Improved communication: Open dialogues between patients and clinicians foster trust and a better understanding of each other's perspectives.

🌟 Empowerment: By involving patients in the decision-making process, they become active participants in their care, leading to better adherence to treatment plans.

However, some drawbacks exist:

❌ Unrealistic expectations: Patients may set goals that are too ambitious, leading to disappointment and a potential loss of motivation.

❌ Inadequate knowledge: Patients might lack the expertise to make informed decisions, which could result in suboptimal treatment choices.

🔬 Clinician-Set Goals: The Expert's Perspective 🔧

Clinician-set goals are established by healthcare professionals using their knowledge, experience, and evidence-based practices. These goals aim to:

1. Optimize treatment efficacy 💊
2. Minimize risks and complications 🚫
3. Ensure the best possible outcomes 🏆

Some benefits of clinician-set goals include:

🌟 Expertise: Clinicians have the training and experience to set achievable, realistic goals that align with proven medical practices.

🌟 Standardization: These goals follow established guidelines, ensuring consistent care quality across different healthcare providers.

However, there are some drawbacks:

❌ Lack of personalization: Clinician-set goals might not always align with a patient's personal preferences, values, or priorities.

❌ Reduced patient engagement: Patients may feel disempowered, leading to lower adherence to treatment plans and decreased satisfaction.

🤝 The Perfect Balance: A Collaborative Approach to Goal-Setting 🌐

In order to maximize the benefits of both approaches, a collaborative model that combines patient-centered goals with clinician-set goals is ideal. This blend allows for:

1. Active patient involvement 🤲
2. Expert guidance and support 🧠
3. Personalized, evidence-based care ⚖️

Therefore, a successful healthcare journey requires a delicate balance between patient-centered and clinician-set goals. By fostering open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect, we can unlock the full potential of healthcare for everyone involved. 💪

What are your thoughts on these two goal-setting approaches? Have you experienced either in your healthcare journey? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! 👇

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Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Importance of Bringing Healthcare Home

The landscape of healthcare is continuously evolving, and one remarkable shift we are witnessing is the movement towards home-based healthcare. This transition not only provides a more comfortable and convenient alternative for patients but also has the potential to reduce costs and improve overall health outcomes (Landers et al., 2016). In this post, we will delve into the importance of bringing healthcare home and the benefits it offers to patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system as a whole.

Benefits of Home-Based Healthcare

Improved Patient Comfort and Satisfaction

Home-based healthcare allows patients to receive medical care in the comfort of their own homes, which can significantly improve patient satisfaction and overall well-being (Leff et al., 2005). Familiar surroundings can reduce stress and anxiety often associated with hospital stays, contributing to better treatment adherence and faster recovery times.

Enhanced Patient-Centered Care

Providing healthcare at home enables healthcare professionals to deliver patient-centered care tailored to individual needs (Wolff et al., 2016). By visiting patients in their homes, healthcare providers can gain a deeper understanding of their living conditions and social determinants of health, leading to more personalized and effective care plans.

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Home-based healthcare can help reduce healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary hospital admissions and readmissions, shortening hospital stays, and lowering the risk of healthcare-associated infections (Feder et al., 2012). By shifting the focus from costly institutional care to home-based care, healthcare systems can potentially save billions of dollars annually.

Increased Access to Care

Bringing healthcare to patients' homes can improve access to care for those living in remote or underserved areas, as well as for individuals with limited mobility or transportation options (Fortinsky et al., 2019). Home-based healthcare can also help address healthcare disparities, ensuring that all patients receive the care they need regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status.

As we move forward in the 21st century, the importance of bringing healthcare home cannot be overstated. By providing medical care in familiar and comfortable surroundings, we can improve patient satisfaction, enhance patient-centered care, reduce healthcare costs, and increase access to care for all. Embracing this new paradigm in healthcare delivery is essential to building a more effective, efficient, and equitable healthcare system for the future.

References

Feder, J., Komisar, H., & Niefeld, M. (2012). Long-term care in the United States: An overview. Health Affairs, 19(3), 40-56.

Fortinsky, R. H., Fenster, J. R., & Judge, J. O. (2019). Medicare and Medicaid home health and Medicaid waiver services for dually eligible older adults: Risk factors for use and correlates of expenditures. The Gerontologist, 43(6), 817-826.

Landers, S., Madigan, E., Leff, B., Rosati, R. J., McCann, B. A., Hornbake, R., ... & Breese, E. (2016). The future of home health care: A strategic framework for optimizing value. Home Health Care Management & Practice, 28(4), 262-278.

Leff, B., Burton, L., Mader, S. L., Naughton, B., Burl, J., Inouye, S. K., ... & Steinwachs, D. (2005). Hospital at home: Feasible and a safe alternative to hospital care. Annals of Internal Medicine, 143(11), 798-808

Caring Shield Hospice and Imperial Home Health at the San Bernardino County Job Fair!

Interprofessional Collaboration in Health Care: The Key to Unlocking Success

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) has emerged as an essential aspect of modern health care, bringing together diverse health care professionals to improve patient outcomes, enhance safety, and streamline processes (World Health Organization, 2010). By exploring real-life examples of IPC in action, we can better understand the vital role it plays in ensuring exceptional patient care.

Improved Diabetes Management:

A prime example of IPC's positive impact is the management of chronic conditions like diabetes. Diabetes requires the expertise of multiple health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists. In one study, IPC led to significant improvements in patients' glycemic control, medication adherence, and overall satisfaction with their care (Fisher et al., 2017). By fostering communication and shared decision-making, health care professionals can create comprehensive care plans that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of diabetic patients.

Enhanced Mental Health Care:

Mental health care is another area where IPC has proven invaluable. A collaborative care model involving psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and primary care physicians has been shown to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of mental health conditions (Archer et al., 2012). This coordinated approach allows for more effective interventions, leading to better outcomes and an improved quality of life for patients.

Decreased Hospital Readmissions:

IPC has also been linked to a reduction in hospital readmissions, particularly for patients with complex needs. In a geriatric care setting, a multidisciplinary team, including geriatricians, nurses, pharmacists, and physiotherapists, worked together to develop tailored care plans and coordinate post-discharge support (Hirschman et al., 2015). This collaborative approach led to a significant decrease in hospital readmissions, demonstrating the importance of IPC in enhancing patient care and resource utilization.

In conclusion, interprofessional collaboration in health care is an indispensable tool for improving patient outcomes, enhancing safety, and increasing the efficiency of care delivery. By breaking down professional silos and fostering communication and shared decision-making, health care providers can create a more robust, effective, and patient-centered health care system. Embracing IPC is an essential step towards optimizing the future of health care.

References:

Archer, J., Bower, P., Gilbody, S., Lovell, K., Richards, D., Gask, L., Dickens, C., & Coventry, P. (2012). Collaborative care for depression and anxiety problems. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 10, CD006525.

Fisher, E. B., Fitzgibbon, M. L., Glasgow, R. E., Haire-Joshu, D., Hayman, L. L., Kaplan, R. M., Nanney, M. S., & Ockene, J. K. (2017). Behavior matters. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 52(5), S45-S52.

Hirschman, K. B., Shaid, E., McCauley, K., Pauly, M. V., & Naylor, M. D. (2015). Continuity of care: The transitional care model. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 20(3), 1.

World Health Organization. (2010). Framework for action on interprofessional education & collaborative practice. Geneva: World Health Organization

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Join us at the IE❤️HP Community Resource Center - Victorville for a special event.

We will be hosting a Food Drive in partnership with Performance Kitchen!

When: Friday, April 21st, 2023
Time: 12pm - 2pm

📝 Pre-registration IS required!

📦 Food Boxes:
- 1 Per household
- Each box contains 9 individually wrapped frozen meals
- While supplies last

Please visit us at our CRC:
📍 12353 Mariposa Rd Ste C2 & C3 Victorville, CA 92395