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DiversityNursing Blog

Ryanna Brown

Recent Posts

The Role of Hospice Nursing in End-of-Life Care

Posted by Ryanna Brown

Fri, Nov 03, 2023 @ 11:23 AM

Understanding Hospice Care

Hospice care is a specialized type of care that focuses on providing comfort and support to individuals who are nearing the end of their lives. It is designed to help patients maintain their dignity and quality of life during this challenging time. Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including the patient's home, a hospice facility, or a hospital.

The primary goal of hospice care is to manage the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients, as well as provide support to their families. It is provided by a team of healthcare professionals, including hospice Nurses, who play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

The Importance of End-of-Life Support

End-of-life support is essential for patients and their families as they navigate through the final stages of life. It encompasses a range of services and interventions aimed at providing comfort, pain management, emotional support, and guidance.

Hospice Nurses are trained to address the physical and emotional needs of patients, as well as provide guidance and support to their families. By offering compassionate care and ensuring that patients are comfortable and pain-free, hospice Nurses help individuals and their loved ones find peace and comfort during this challenging time.

The Key Responsibilities of Hospice Nurses

Hospice Nurses have a wide range of responsibilities when it comes to providing care for individuals in the end-of-life stage. These responsibilities include assessing patients' physical and emotional needs, developing and implementing care plans, administering medications, as well as providing education and support to patients and their families.

Additionally, hospice Nurses coordinate care and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive comprehensive, holistic care. They act as advocates for patients and their families, helping them navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about their care.

Providing Physical Comfort and Pain Management

One of the primary responsibilities of hospice Nurses is to provide physical comfort and pain management to patients. They are trained in various techniques to alleviate pain and discomfort, such as administering pain medications, implementing relaxation techniques, and using therapeutic touch.

Hospice Nurses closely monitor patients' symptoms and adjust their care plans accordingly to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. They also provide support and education to patients and their families on pain management strategies to help them understand and cope with the physical challenges that may arise during the end-of-life journey.

Emotional and Psychological Support for Patients and Families

In addition to addressing the physical needs of patients, hospice Nurses also provide emotional and psychological support to both patients and their families. They understand the emotional challenges individuals may face during the end-of-life journey and are trained to provide compassionate care and counseling.

Hospice Nurses create a safe and supportive environment where patients and their families can express their fears, concerns, and emotions. They offer a listening ear and provide guidance and resources to help individuals cope with grief, loss, and other emotional challenges. By providing emotional support, hospice Nurses promote overall well-being and quality of life during the end-of-life stage.

Topics: end of life care, hospice, hospice nurse

Summary of the EEOC Strategic Enforcement Plan

Posted by Ryanna Brown

Mon, Oct 02, 2023 @ 06:42 AM

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has unveiled its groundbreaking Strategic Enforcement Plan (SEP) for Fiscal Years 2024 – 2028. With a laser focus on eradicating unlawful employment discrimination, the SEP sets forth the EEOC's top priorities, aiming to create a future where every workplace is fair, inclusive, and offers equal opportunities for all individuals.

The main objective of the EEOC's Strategic Enforcement Plan (SEP) is to effectively concentrate and synchronize the agency's efforts throughout multiple fiscal years (FY) in order to make a lasting and influential contribution toward the advancement of equal employment opportunities.

“Through the SEP’s effective implementation, the agency will continue to advance equality and justice for all in workplaces across this nation, even as significant challenges remain,” said EEOC Chair Charlotte A. Burrows. “We are grateful to the public—especially to those who participated in our listening sessions in Buffalo, New York, Washington, D.C., and virtually, for their engagement and investment in the development of the SEP. This plan will help guide the agency’s work for years to come.”

In implementing the SEP, the Commission can – and will – do more to combat employment discrimination, promote inclusive workplaces, and respond to the national call for racial and economic justice.  Among other changes, this SEP:

  • Expands the vulnerable and underserved worker priority to include additional categories of workers who may be unaware of their rights under equal employment opportunity laws, may be reluctant or unable to exercise their legally protected rights, or have historically been underserved by federal employment discrimination protections—such as people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; workers facing mental health related disabilities; individuals with arrest or conviction records; LGBTQI+ individuals; temporary workers; older workers; individuals employed in low-wage jobs, including teenage workers; and persons with limited literacy or English proficiency;
  • Refines the recruitment and hiring priority to include addressing policies and practices that limit access to on-the-job training, pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship programs, temp-to-hire positions, internships, or other job training or advancement opportunities based on protected status;
  • Recognizes employers’ increasing use of technology including artificial intelligence or machine learning, to target job advertisements, recruit applicants, and make or assist in hiring and other employment decisions, practices, or policies;
  • Updates the emerging and developing issues priority to include protecting workers affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act; employment discrimination associated with the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including Long COVID; and technology-related employment discrimination; and
  • Preserves access to the legal system by focusing on overly broad waivers, releases, non-disclosure agreements, or non-disparagement agreements.

With the SEP as its guiding compass, the EEOC will navigate through all aspects of its work, from reaching out to the public and providing educational resources to offering technical assistance, enforcing regulations, and even engaging in legal battles. By effectively implementing this plan, the agency will continue to propel the nation's workplaces towards the fundamental principles of equality and justice for all.

Topics: inclusion, EEOC, equal opportunity, equal employment opportunity, inclusive workplace

Combating Depression and Suicide in Nursing

Posted by Ryanna Brown

Tue, Sep 19, 2023 @ 01:40 PM

Depression and suicide are significant concerns in the field of Nursing, and it is crucial that we address these issues head-on. The mental health of Nurses plays a vital role not only in their own well-being but also in the quality of care they provide to their patients. The demanding nature of the profession, coupled with the high-stress environments they work in, can contribute to the development of depression.

Long hours, emotional strain, and exposure to traumatic situations can take a toll on a Nurse's mental health. The constant pressure to perform at their best, coupled with the responsibility of caring for the lives of others, can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and despair. It is essential we recognize the signs of depression and suicidal ideation in Nurses and provide them with the necessary support they need. 

During Suicide Prevention Month (September), we have a unique opportunity to raise awareness about these issues and take steps to support Nurses who may be struggling. It is important to note that suicide prevention efforts in Nursing should not be limited to a single month. Continued advocacy and support for Nurses' mental health should be ongoing priorities. 

Here are some key points to consider:

Prevalence of Depression in Nursing: Nurses often work in high-stress environments, and the demands of the profession can contribute to the development of depression. Long hours, emotional strain, and exposure to traumatic situations can all take a toll on a Nurse's mental health.

Studies have shown that Nurses are at a higher risk of developing depression compared to the general population. 

Furthermore, the pressure to provide the best possible care adds an additional layer of stress. They are responsible for the lives and well-being of their patients, and any mistakes or perceived failures can weigh heavily on their conscience. This constant pressure to perform at their best can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and ultimately contribute to the development of depression. 

Suicide Risk: Nurses, like many healthcare professionals, may be at a higher risk of suicide due to the stress and emotional toll of their work. It's crucial to recognize the signs of depression and suicidal ideation in Nurses and provide them with appropriate support.

Awareness and Education: Healthcare organizations and institutions can focus on educating Nurses and other healthcare professionals about the signs of depression and suicide risk. Training programs and resources should be made available to help staff identify these issues in themselves and their colleagues. 

Warning signs

Something to look out for when concerned that a person may be suicidal is a change in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors. This is of sharpest concern if the new or changed behavior is related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

Talk- If a person talks about:

  • Killing themselves
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Having no reason to live
  • Being a burden to others
  • Feeling trapped
  • Unbearable pain


Behavior- Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
  • Withdrawing from activities
  • Isolating from family and friends
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Aggression
  • Fatigue


Mood- People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of interest
  • Irritability
  • Humiliation/Shame
  • Agitation/Anger
  • Relief/Sudden Improvement

Destigmatizing Mental Health: Reducing the stigma around mental health is essential in Nursing and healthcare in general. Nurses should feel comfortable seeking help for depression or suicidal thoughts without fear of professional repercussions.

Support Systems: Healthcare institutions should establish support systems, including access to mental health services, counseling, and peer support programs. Providing these resources can make a significant difference in helping Nurses cope with the challenges of their profession.

Workplace Stress Reduction: Hospitals and healthcare organizations should also focus on reducing workplace stressors where possible. This can include implementing strategies to manage Nurse-patient ratios, providing adequate breaks, and promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Encourage Self-Care: Nurses should be encouraged to prioritize self-care and seek ways to manage their stress outside of work. This may involve activities like exercise, mindfulness, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Check-Ins and Communication: Supervisors and colleagues should regularly check in with their Nursing staff and create an open and supportive environment where they can discuss their mental health concerns without judgment.

Access to Crisis Hotlines: Ensure that Nurses are aware of and have access to crisis hotlines and mental health resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) or text 988.

Continued Advocacy: Suicide prevention efforts should not be limited to a single month. Continued advocacy and support for Nurses' mental health should be an ongoing priority.

It's crucial to remember Nurses play a vital role in patient care, and their well-being is closely tied to the quality of care they provide. Addressing depression and suicide is not only a matter of supporting healthcare professionals, but also ensuring the safety and well-being of patients.

Topics: mental health, depression, suicide, Nurse suicide, Suicide in Nursing, mental health awareness, mental health nursing

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