Rachael Stofanch
September 2017
Rachael
Stofanch
,
RN, BSN, CHPN
Hospice
Main Line Health HomeCare & Hospice
Radnor
,
PA
United States
Rachael Stofanch began to care for Mr. M whose heart disease severely impacted his quality of life. Rachael developed his trust as he was resistant to beginning morphine. Rachael used all her ICM principles and encouraged Mr. M to use low dose morphine. He was so scared she stayed with him to ensure his safety and to build confidence. Managing his shortness of breath changed his life from being stuck in his home to being able to enjoy trips out as he did in the past.
Rachael was so on top of his symptoms and managed them so well that he lived longer than expected. When we did joint visits, Mr. M and Mrs. M spoke so highly of Rachael - they called her their angel and said that she was the most fabulous nurse. They had a neighbor who cooked for them; she even came in and said if she was ever sick she would want Rachael. She described Rachael as kind, caring and exceptional. I believe she greatly impacted the end of life of this patient enabling him to have quality times because of her excellent symptom management as well as developing trust, caring and providing an exceptional experience in Mr. M's life. The following is a letter written by his wife:
"Words cannot convey the gratitude and appreciation I have for each of you in your tender care of my husband, making his life ending memorable and comfortable day and night. He enjoyed each of you and he would ask, "Who is coming today?" We felt fortunate to have such pleasant and skilled help. I miss him and all of you, but I know you are helping someone who needs you."
***
My brother, sister and I felt strongly that we should contact you to compliment the wonderful work done by Rachael during our mother's recent hospice experience. Rachael was professional, yet so caring as we moved through the process. She kept us at ease by patiently explaining and preparing us for what to expect as the days progressed. Our mother's comfort was always Rachael's primary objective and addressing the family's anxiety was right behind that. Thank you for all the amazing works you do. God Bless and allow your continued good efforts.
Rachael was so on top of his symptoms and managed them so well that he lived longer than expected. When we did joint visits, Mr. M and Mrs. M spoke so highly of Rachael - they called her their angel and said that she was the most fabulous nurse. They had a neighbor who cooked for them; she even came in and said if she was ever sick she would want Rachael. She described Rachael as kind, caring and exceptional. I believe she greatly impacted the end of life of this patient enabling him to have quality times because of her excellent symptom management as well as developing trust, caring and providing an exceptional experience in Mr. M's life. The following is a letter written by his wife:
"Words cannot convey the gratitude and appreciation I have for each of you in your tender care of my husband, making his life ending memorable and comfortable day and night. He enjoyed each of you and he would ask, "Who is coming today?" We felt fortunate to have such pleasant and skilled help. I miss him and all of you, but I know you are helping someone who needs you."
***
My brother, sister and I felt strongly that we should contact you to compliment the wonderful work done by Rachael during our mother's recent hospice experience. Rachael was professional, yet so caring as we moved through the process. She kept us at ease by patiently explaining and preparing us for what to expect as the days progressed. Our mother's comfort was always Rachael's primary objective and addressing the family's anxiety was right behind that. Thank you for all the amazing works you do. God Bless and allow your continued good efforts.