January 2010 Quarterly Meeting Presentation Highlights

A program for providing compassionate healthcare with a personal touch was presented by Sheila Brune, RN, MS, CPHQ, CMC from Memorial Hospital and Hancock County Nursing Home in Illinois. Sheila’s Living History© Program focuses on the patient’s life story. It provides an opportunity for medical staff and caregivers to learn things about a patient that lead to more compassionate care, providing a connection to the patient as a person through their life story.

A hospital setting can leave a patient feeling helpless and dehumanized. Integrating an understanding of the patient’s personal world creates a holistic approach to their care and has proven to increase patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans and improved health outcomes. Reaching the person behind the illness provides an opportunity to care for the heart and soul of the patient. 

In Sheila’s program, an employee or volunteer will visit the patient and ask questions such as:  Where and when were you born? Would you tell me about your family? What do you do for enjoyment?  (See link to Storywriter Worksheet) A story is written and the patient is provided a copy to make sure it is correct. The Living History© is always confidential. It is included in the patients chart and only those caring for the patient read it unless the patient chooses to share their story with family and friends, which is often the case. The story allows for patient-centered care whereby healthcare staff can show an interest in the patient by speaking directly to them, relating to their story.

The impact goes beyond customer satisfaction. It creates a personal connection between the person writing the story and the patient or the staff member who may find a common interest by reading the story. Storytelling can be a powerful tool for providing compassionate care and helping to make a hospital stay a positive experience.

Download Storywriter Worksheet

Download Highlights from the January 2010 Quarterly Meeting "Practical and Tactical"