When the Rest of the World is Asleep … We’re There

What a great way to describe the night staff of Hospice of Palm Beach County (HPBC). When the world is asleep, they are there to be a friend to their patients. “With less hustle and bustle than the daytime, the night shift staff really has the opportunity to connect with our patients,” said Bill Rascoe, HPBC Regional Manager – WPB Central Area. “They listen to them, as a friend, sometimes sharing their own stories or feelings, even a laugh. Most importantly though, they create a bond with a patient or family member that many are thankful for at such a difficult time in their lives.”

“Here at Hospice of Palm Beach County we are lucky to have some of the most incredible staff, said Jennifer Martinez, Communications Manager for HPBC. “We have the most compassionate, autonomous, empathetic nurses to care for our patients and families at the time of their greatest need. Whether it is just a small gesture like stopping by to say hello, or being somebody to talk to, every thing our staff does makes a huge impact on a patient’s well being and a family’s comfort at such a challenging time.”

William Lazo, R.N., Dora Berrio, R.N., Marie Louis, C.N.A.

And, as the rest of the world sleeps, HPBC’s night shift keeps everything running smoothly. “I have worked the night shift for many years,” said Barbara Cameron, Charge Nurse at HPBC’s Gerstenberg Inpatient Unit. “I feel it gives me a better opportunity to connect with my patients. Though we still have a lot of work to do, we don’t have to worry about meals or visitors. We really have the opportunity to have a conversation with our patients.”

Being a part of the night shift also gives staff the opportunity to serve as the eyes and ears for the rest of the care team. They can monitor the patients while making them feel safe, feel cared for and feel like they truly have friends here. And, though everyone has a different perspective on how they can help, everyone makes a difference.

So, the next time you lie awake at night, unable to sleep, think of the impact the night staff of Hospice of Palm Beach County is having on someone at that very moment. They truly are an invaluable part of the Hospice of Palm Beach County team.