Primary Palliative Care RN Resource Team Initiative

Summary

In 2018, an internal survey at Sarasota Memorial Hospital revealed that 86% of bedside nurses at our hospital wanted to learn more about strategies to care for patients with serious medical conditions, including end of life care. From this survey emerged a partnership with oncology, nursing leadership, and the Supportive Care Team (palliative care) to develop a team of strong RN peer mentors to extend the reach of palliative care system-wide. The program included the use of CAPC online resources, in-person education, and the commitment of ongoing mentorship from the established Supportive Care team.

Enhancing bedside primary palliative nursing skills benefits patients regardless of the ability to pay. Primary palliative nursing skills elevate the experience of patients’ families and staff no matter the unit or floor.