Frights aren't just for Halloween

It's been scary in the Hotel Rehab lately, and it's not because of ghosts or Halloween. We've seen a lot of our folks get sick and go out on leave. Our latest one is the building greeter. Believe it or not, having a greeter is part of the overall improving patient and employee satisfaction.

M. our greeter, shows people where to go, gets wheelchairs, makes phone calls and does all sorts of stuff that I often don't have time to do for patients and visitors.

M's boss told us that he's getting surgery and may not be back for at least two months. I will certainly miss him and so will our patients. Some have even gotten grumbly when I can't do stuff for them because they were so used to having him around. Maybe this news will improve their behavior.

Our nurse practitioners had a major job analysis done throughout the hospital system. For some, the changes that will happen mean they'll have to go back to school. Ours are lucky, they shouldn't have to do that, but the work they can do will change. Not sure if our medical staff are really aware of what all they do. They will be aware soon.

Finally, I'm constantly reminded that not everyone who's in rehab is totally well. They do get sick, again, and they do die. It's sad and yes, sometimes frightening. Some cases are sudden and some are not. I'm really glad we have many options for hospice for our patients. One of my SU patients recently decided it was what he/she wanted.

A whole lot of interventions doesn't always equal quality of life.

I've got to stop here. The frog singing outside is making me crazy...and I'm tired.

More later...