Family praise BCHC nurse for ‘gold standard’ end of life care given to their relative
The family of the patient supported by a BCHC nurse have said she should be "nominated for every award possible" for the caring, compassionate, and inclusive care she gave their loved one in the final hours of her life.
The nurse being praised is Rachael Shoer, the Deputy Team Leader at South Unplanned Community Nursing team. Rachael has worked for BCHC for four years.
The patient who was called Margaret and in her late seventies, had been receiving end of life care at home. On the day, Rachael, who had never met Margaret or her family before, was called to the house as an urgent community response call out to help the patient manage the symptoms that can arise during end of life (such as pain, nausea, agitation, and breathlessness). Rachael returned later that day to give Margaret a syringe driver, which is a medical pump that delivers medication continuously over a 24-hour period to help alleviate any discomfort the patient may be in.
During the two visits Rachael supported the family as best she could by explaining each task she was completing so they fully understood the care being given to Margaret. “We spoke about death and dying and what they could expect, ensuring they were prepared for her passing. I also listened to the family and got to know Margaret through the stories they shared about her.”
Margaret sadly passed away that evening. As she had met the family earlier, Rachael returned to the house for a third time, so she could support them to complete last offices. “I reassured them that she had a comfortable death and was not in any pain.” says Rachel. “They were a close family and shared happy memories of Margaret. There were times of sadness but also of laughter. Margaret had a love for handbags and family had bought her a Fendi bag which she was able to look at when lying in her bed which they talked about fondly.”
The family have described the care provided by Rachael during this difficult time as nothing short of 'gold standard' and later met with our Patient Experience team to share their story.
“Words could not express our gratitude for the care Rachael gave in those final hours,” they told us. “She took control, eased Margaret's pain, and made her comfortable. We immediately relaxed in the knowledge that she was in the safest possible hands.
Not only did Rachael fulfil her role while our Margaret was alive, but she also went above and beyond after she had passed away, helping us wash and prepare her for her final journey. The NHS is lucky to have such a dedicated, hardworking, and compassionate nurse! We thank her from the bottom of our hearts.”
Despite all the praise, Rachael is very humble and insists she was 'just doing her job'.
“Providing quality end-of-life care is a priority for us, ensuring every patient has a dignified and comfortable death. The quality of end-of-life care profoundly influences how families grieve and ultimately come to terms with loss. Supporting both Margaret and her family during this time was an honour.” she said.
Photos: main image Rachael Shoer
Photo in article: Margaret