Here at Hospice, we have a variety of people in an assortment of positions that play a key role in the care of our patients. In this article, we get to know two of our nurses, Tatyana and Brendan, and what it’s like to be a Hospice Nurse.

TATYANA

How and why did you become a Hospice nurse?

I became a Hospice Nurse because I wanted to find my purpose. Prior to Hospice, I was working at the hospital and I didn’t feel like I had time to get to know my patients and make a difference. My grandma passed away when I was younger. So, I treat every patient I work with like family. It is an honor to take care of someone, but an even greater honor to care for someone at the most vulnerable time of their life. A small gesture goes a long way. I finally found my purpose and that is with Hospice.

 What makes a Hospice Nurse different from other professional nurses?

I think Hospice nurses are unique because we work with patients in their homes, which is a more intimate setting than the hospital. A place where they are comfortable–in their own home – where our goal is not more treatment, but to comfort them on their journey.

 What have you learned from your experience as a Hospice Nurse?

I can say full-heartedly that I have learned more as a Hospice Nurse than I did anywhere else. I have learned to be observant, compassionate, and how to be a good listener. I have also learned to cherish and appreciate life because it can be so short.

 What would you like families to know about Hospice services?

I think if any message can be given to our families, it is that we are here on this journey with you. It takes a village and you are never alone.

 

BRENDAN

How and why did you become a Hospice nurse?

I have been long familiar with the mission of Hospice of Central New York and of the Finger Lakes throughout my career, primarily through interactions with Hospice nurses during my career spent as a Paramedic in the area. I have dealt with death from first-hand experiences for about 20 years, most of which were very sudden and tragic circumstances. A few years ago, I decided to go back to school and get an education in nursing, from there I was in the emergency room setting for the most part. It was during a conversation with a long-time friend a little over a year ago who was working with Hospice at the time that sparked my interest. I have forever cherished the ability to be there during times of loss to provide guidance and support. It felt right to combine my experiences with nursing and death and bring those experiences to help guide patients, and families, as they navigate the care and decisions toward their final moment of rest.

 What makes a Hospice Nurse different from other professional nurses?

Hospice is a very special and unique field that is very different than many other areas of nursing. It is natural as a healthcare professional to try to “fix” things, however, we all know not all things can be repaired. The entire team at Hospice, including the nurses, turn their focus and ensure the patient and their families are provided guidance throughout the death and dying process. Hospice Nurses combine both medical experience and a special level of empathy to provide the most compassionate care during this stage in life.

What have you learned from your experience as a Hospice nurse?

I have learned an invaluable amount of empathy and compassion as a Hospice nurse. I have met folks from every walk of life, witnessed different traditions at the time of death, and been invited to be part of some very sacred moments with patients and their families. It has been an honor to learn from each of our patient’s stories and gain a lesson in life from each. We all travel different pathways with unique twists and turns, I am so honored to hear so many individual stories and be part of one of those journeys. I learn every day how I can better support our patients and their symptoms.

What would you like families to know about Hospice services?

Hospice of CNY and of the Finger Lakes is an entire team effort including our Nurses, Aides, Volunteers, Clergy, Social Workers, Administrative and Support Staff, along with our most important caregivers, the families. Our services do not end at the final resting moment with our patients. We have an abundance of support staff in our Grief Center who are only a phone call away. We all work together to ensure your loved ones and your needs are met to the best of our abilities. Please do not hesitate to call for support as we have staff available 24/7/365.

Hospice is currently recruiting for Nursing staff. Available positions can be viewed on our website at https://www.hospicecny.org/careers/. Should you be interested in joining our team, please call our Human Resources office at 315-634-1100.

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