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As some may know, my LO, went into MC about 4 years ago due to significant dementia. She has progressed and is now in end stage dementia. Yesterday, I met with her doctor who examined her and signed order for Hospice. I also met with the Hospice representative to go over the program, get information, etc. Does anyone know what I may expect today with the nurse?

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Well, it went pretty well. I got a lot of material to read and we discussed a lot of things. She took vitals of my LO and examined her, her bed and wheelchair. I have to return next week to meet with the social worker and clergyman.

She thought my LO seemed pretty stable, but, I just don't think she looks good. I have enough incidences in the past that I have learned to trust my instincts, feelings, premonitions, etc., that I tend to rely on them. I am just quite uneasy about her present state. Anyway, I have the peace of mind that my LO is going to be kept comfortable, pain properly addressed and lots of eyes on her to monitor her condition. For these things I am grateful.
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It may or may not be the same nurse & aides that come every week. You really have to ask the hospice nurse when she comes. You should be given a case manager, a nurse and a social worker. In our experience, MILs did not have the same nurse every week. There was one who oversaw everything but the one who came every week to check her was different. I don’t think that’s the norm though. The only reason the same home health aide came each week is because we requested her However if she was out sick or took vacation time, they would send someone else out.
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I think they may treat UTIs. Cousin is to be kept comfortable. They can tell someone are in pain because your BP goes uo. But cousin should never be in pain. Thats why Hospice. Not sure if the same nurse comes every few days. It won't be the intake nurse. They pretty much just check vitals and adjust meds.
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Thanks JoAnn29. That's what I thought. It was my understanding that the nurse can actually do things like UTI tests. Have you seen that before? They told me that they do treat UTIs with antibiotics. It was also my understanding that they will not automatically transport her to the ER, but, contact the Hospice nurse.

Also, do you know if the same person comes to see her, like an assigned person or nurse each week?

Have you ever seen them gauge pain in a nonverbal person who has dementia?

And, she's actually my cousin, not my mom, though, most people think that. She's 11 years older than me. She has few family members left alive, not infirmed or who are in her life anymore. Thank goodness she appointed me as POA long before her illness.
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She will just ask questions, pretty much like what happens when you are admitted to a hospital. Tell her likes and dislikes that will have to do with Moms care. Its really no biggie. Since Mom is in MC, you won't see their comings and goings. The nurse will come every few days and an aide should be provided. Not sure if its necessary with the MC having aides. Any questions about Moms care will be done thru the Hospice Nurse. You should be left a phone number you can use to call at anytime with questions.
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