Transitioning from a Hospital Stay to Hospice Care: Homeland’s Nurse Liaisons Help Build Bridges for Patients

Arranging end-of-life care for a loved one following a hospital discharge is often confusing, filled with fear, and sometimes urgency. In difficult times like these, Buffie Finney, Nurse Liaison for Homeland Hospice, is there to help patients and families.

For nearly 30 years, Buffie has worked in the nursing profession helping to meet the diverse needs of patients in and out of the hospital setting. For the past decade, Buffie has been part of the Homeland team, which helps patients navigate their end-of-life journey by providing compassionate, high-quality care and support for family members. Buffie is a subject expert on hospital discharges and the pressure it places on patients and families.

“Sometimes patients enter the hospital with an unknown illness and receive a diagnosis of a terminal disease,” Buffie says. “No one anticipates hearing the end is near.”

Buffie and the Homeland team have built strong working relationships with local hospitals who often refer patients to Homeland. In other cases, friends or loved ones of the patient recommend Homeland based on their experiences.

“Homeland’s word-of-mouth reputation is strong,” Buffie adds. “We strive to provide excellent care and are honored to be top-of-mind in the community.”

The first step for the Homeland team begins by meeting patients, family members and physicians in the hospital to assess the patient’s needs. This initial meeting is informational to give options for patients and their families to consider.

Sometimes shift changes and early rounds make it challenging for families to connect with the patient’s physician. Clear and consistent conversations are so important for families to be able to make the best choices for their loved ones. With emotions and frustration levels running high, Buffie finds the most important thing she can do to help is simply listen.

“We want patients and families to share their emotions, ask questions and vent their fears and anger,” Buffie says. “In that moment, they need a friend.”

For patients who choose Homeland Hospice’s services, a care plan is quickly enacted for a seamless transition from hospital to home. All supplies needed are ordered to be delivered and set up at the patient’s home. Depending on the patient’s needs, the Homeland team can include a physician, nurse, aide, social worker, chaplain, therapist and volunteers. Homeland provides a holistic plan of care to allow families to spend quality time with their loved ones during this emotional time.

“We understand how difficult these conversations can be,” Buffie says. “We encourage everyone to talk about end-of-life care with their loved ones before they are in a difficult situation.”

Conversations had during non-stressful moments allow time for research, reflection and planning to bring everyone comfort. End-of-life will come for everyone so planning now can ensure a continuum of care for patients and peace of mind for family members.

Despite the emotional situations her job may bring, Buffie finds beauty and love in her work and great admiration for the Homeland staff who deliver outstanding service with heart. She became a nurse as a second career after her corporate job ended abruptly. She was a single mom with two small children balancing classes to earn her nursing degree.

“It was the hardest time of my life,” Buffie adds. “It was all worth it because I love this work and the families I meet.”

For more information, visit Homeland Hospice or call (717) 857-7400.