Patsy Wojciechowski, Social Worker at Care360 Hospice
We receive a fair number of nominations that tell about how the person went “above and beyond,” but not giving any more details about what they did that was so special. However, from time to time, we receive a nomination where the person making the nomination truly puts their heart into the description of what makes their nominee so special.
That is what happened with Lynley Ledger’s (hospice liaison with Care360) nomination – you can tell she truly respects Patsy for the amazing care she gives to the patients and their families.
Here is what Lynley had to say about Patsy:
A hospice social worker should be kind, patient and understanding. But, Patsy Wojciechowski is so much more. She gives so much of herself to her patients and families. One particular instance was a few months ago. As a hospice marketer, I often hear about things “in real time,” as they happen. We had recently admitted a patient to hospice at a nursing home who was struggling with his end-of-life reality. Once a social worker himself, the patient was struggling to accept the end and was refusing pain and symptom medications. As a result, he was very uncomfortable. The director of nursing mentioned this fact to me on the way out the door. Of course, it was close to the end of the business day. In the car, I called Patsy. “Hey, (patient name) is refusing medications and really having a hard time accepting hospice care. I think since he was a hospital social worker, maybe a peer-to-peer conversation might help?” Even though she had already completed her day and was home, she didn't wait for “tomorrow” to make a visit. As soon as I mentioned the conversation, she jumped in her car and immediately drove to the facility. When she got there, it was way past “quitting time.” She still made the PRN visit and talked with the patient. She spent several hours after hours sitting with him and counseling him. In the end, he accepted the medication, and within a day passed peacefully with his family by his side. Was that what the patient needed to move on? I would like to think so. But this is not the only time she has spent time after hours working with patients and families. Whenever she is called to provide end of life psycho/social support, she is there for our patients and families. This is why I nominate Patsy Wojciechowski for the hospice caregiver award. --- Lynley Ledger
Congratulations, Patsy. You exemplify what it means to be a hospice caregiver.