You Need Care Too

Book excerpt: As professional caregivers working with people who are dying we face challenges other health care professionals do not. We must keep ourselves balanced and healthy amid constant sadness. We must create a fulfilling work environment. And we must maintain a happy, engaged, personal life.Health care workers are traditionally trained to make people better, not participate in their patient's dying and eventual death. End of life work goes against all we as professionals have been taught.This booklet is short and easy to read. It is filled with ideas and guidance for the nurse, social worker, nurse's aide, chaplain, physician, end of life doula, or Eleventh Hour volunteer. Anyone who is immersed in the responsibilities of supporting, educating, and guiding a person and their family through the dying experience can find insight into making their work healthier.