A day in the life of our Care Manager

7th October, 2024

At Les Bourgs Hospice, every day brings unique challenges and rewarding moments for the dedicated nursing team who play a crucial role in providing compassionate specialist nursing care for our patients and their families. A typical day for our Care Manager, Letishia Vermeulen at the hospice begins early, with the first priority being to check in with the nursing team and review the care plans for each patient.

The morning is a time for collaboration. Letishia meets with the nursing team to discuss the specific needs of each patient. This ensures that the physical, emotional, and spiritual care of our patients is continually tailored to their individual situations.

Throughout the day, Letishia provides direct support not only to patients but also to their families. This might include helping relatives understand the medical condition of their loved ones, providing emotional support, or guiding them through difficult decisions.

In addition to hands-on nursing care, Letishia is responsible for overseeing the hospice’s broader operational functions. This includes managing staff schedules, ensuring resources are available, and maintaining clear communication between the care team and external healthcare providers. Each day brings logistical challenges, but Letishia’s focus is always on the well-being of the patients.

Afternoons may involve one-on-one time with patients, sitting down to listen to their concerns, offering comfort, and ensuring their needs are met—whether it’s adjusting pain management, addressing their emotional state, or simply offering a reassuring word. Every patient’s journey is unique, and Letishia works tirelessly to ensure they receive the best possible care in their final stages of life.

The day ends with another review, ensuring that all aspects of patient care have been handled smoothly and that any new developments are communicated to the evening staff. Letishia says ‘While the work can be emotionally demanding, I leave each day with a sense of purpose and fulfilment, knowing I have helped provide comfort and dignity to patients and their families during a difficult time in their lives.