Insight and education for end-of-life care
Nonfiction
Date Published: 12/1/2024
The Chronicles are an essential and informative read for hospice nurses,
caregivers and others interested in end of life. Journey through 29 amazing
stories of an Alaskan Hospice nurse with incredible people and learn about
pain, symptom management and grieving. Through their love and loss, find
encouragement and inspiration in these real-life lessons on this specialty
of nursing not taught in the classroom. Hospice . . . Hospitum . . .
Hospitality
Early Reviews
“Esther’s book is a must read for any nurse across the
lifespan. She has not simply put together a collection of powerful stories
of dealing with death and the dying process, but each story closes with the
pearls of wisdom each patient and family were taught about end of life.
Esther shows us, story by story, that being there to provide for the needs
of peace, comfort, and love of the patient and their families in those last
moments is one of the most important vows a nurse can keep.”
Christi M. Angelo, APRN-BC, F/AC Hospice and Acute Care –
Alaska
“This account of an experienced hospice nurse in rural Alaska is both
inspiring and informative. Esther’s interactions with patients
demonstrate both the depth of her humanity and experience with patients
toward the end of life. For the intended audience of Hospice nurses and
caregivers, it provides a framework and clinical information while
maintaining a truly compassionate undertone. Other audiences will be moved,
informed and inspired…”
Patty Hewson C.R.N.P. Adult Primary Care – Pennsylvania
“The Chronicles depict how cultural beliefs and traditions one is
raised with can help bring peace to the patient in knowing what their final
journey holds. Faith, hope, and love are epitomized through Esther’s
work.”
Angela Watson, MSN, BSN, BA, RN Case Manager Indian Health Services – New
Mexico
“You will find a treasure chest of valuable knowledge to support any
of the disciplines of the Hospice team. Every chapter connects you with the
real dynamics of individuals and families as they walk through the end
stages of life. I warn you now, some of these insightful stories will bring
a tear, but also provide real and helpful expertise that will further enable
you to do your calling better.”
David J. Gibson – Ordained Minister and Hospice Chaplain – Indiana
EXCERPT
Introduction
The Chronicles offers insight and education for end-of-life care, including pain and symptom management on specific disease processes. The stories are for Hospice Nurses and caregivers, providing care for patients and loved ones. The Chronicles of love, endurance, faithful companionship, and pain will inspire you as you experience the stories unfold in the Alaskan setting.
The Chronicles include 25 different disease processes, remarkable caregivers, the grieving processes, the four levels of care Hospice provides, and healthy boundaries that need to be in place with patient and caregiver relationships. Practical information is shared about the disease process when one enters Hospice and the journey experienced until the patient dies. You will find beauty in seeing the elements of the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional being and how those intertwine in each patient’s story. Caregivers will gain insight into symptoms associated with each disease and how to provide comfort to their family members.
Hospice Nurses often feel a calling to this type of nursing. One way or another, we were drawn into it. Most nurses don’t say, “I want to deal with death and dying every day!” Over the course of one’s life, you engage and meet with circumstances that compel you to learn more about this process of life that is so taboo in our Western culture. The spark in your heart for end-of-life caregiving develops over time leading you to support and grow that passion with more knowledge and purpose.
Caregivers who can care for their loved ones and participate in the process; whether in a skilled facility, assisted living home, hospital, and in the home setting; are a resource of strength and kindness to the patient when walking this journey. You are loved and appreciated by every Hospice team member!
Some stories will invoke deep emotion. Not everyone has a peaceful death. You will explore the reasons why this can happen and understand this concept more after diving into the pages ahead!
About the Author
Esther Pepper, RN, BSN, is a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse
who was raised in Alaska and has lived there most of her life. She has 20
years of experience as a nurse, 16 of which have been in Hospice care. She
found her calling and passion for end of life early in her nursing career.
She is dedicated to training new nurses into the field of Hospice and works
as a Hospice Case Manager in South Central Alaska.
Contact Link
Website
Purchase Link
Amazon
