Staff initiative improves palliative care unit
Woodland Villa holds raffle to raise funds
Thursday April 3, 2008 -- Camille Jensen
Woodland Villa staff, residents and families are busy buying raffle tickets in an effort to raise funds to upgrade their palliative care unit.

Called the Butterfly Suite, the redesigned room at the home will provide residents and families a more comfortable environment when receiving palliative care.

Krystal Moss, a registered practical nurse who initiated the project, says it was her own personal experience with a family member and genuine passion for palliative care that first motivated her to look for new ways to improve the home’s unit.

“I know what its like to go through it and I know if we go that extra step further, families are going to appreciate it,” says Moss.

Working with management, Moss got the go ahead to hold a raffle to raise funds for the redesign.

Everyone at the home has been contributing says Moss, who adds that staff have been very supportive, giving donations and buying tickets.

The draw for the raffle will take place April 25 and Moss hopes the new palliative care room can be finished by the middle of May.

Moss has also created two palliative care carts, one for residents and the other for families. Stacking the family cart with magazines, books, and personal care, Moss says its important families have things to keep their minds busy while passing the time.

Also understanding the often complicated feelings surrounding end of life situations, Moss has included blank paper on the cart to encourage families to write down their feelings.

Michael Rasenberg, administrator, says staff are constantly working to improve their palliative care unit at the home and through other community initiatives. The Long Sault long-term care home belongs to a local palliative care network which helps provide funding for staff to get new education.

Moss and Janna Goulding, who is also involved in the project, will be attending an upcoming conference in Ottawa on palliative care in May.

Attending two workshops, the women will learn how to help families through the transition between living and dying and managing complex care.

To buy tickets or donate to the new room, you can contact the home at (613) 534-2276.

Has your home improved through a staff initiative? Stories are often generated by the feedback we receive. To share your story, please contact the office at (800) 294-0051 ext. 24 or e-mail camille(at)axiomnews.ca.