Independence Plus Blog
What Sets IPI Apart
The word “choice” is something we often hear in conversations and news about the ever-changing world of healthcare. “Choice” relates to types of care, clinicians, insurance, cost, and so on. When it comes to home healthcare, the most basic decision is which provider you choose.
IPI at AccessChicago 2016
Independence Plus, Inc. (IPI) was proud to take part in AccessChicago, an expo for people with disabilities, held earlier this week at Navy Pier. The event, put on by the Chicago Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD), showcases the latest state-of-the-art products and services for the disabled community.
Someone You Should Know: Shannon L., IPI Healthcare Recruiter
One thing that makes Independence Plus, Inc. (IPI) unique is in the home health care field is that caring for our adult and pediatric patients is extremely challenging. Nurses hired at IPI are immersed in a hands-on training and education program designed to prepare them to provide the best possible care for patients with complex medical and respiratory needs living at home. IPI is always searching for great RNs and LPNs who want to join our team, and at the forefront of that effort is our new Healthcare Recruiter, Shannon L. Although she has only been on the job for a few days, Shannon has hit the ground running and will soon be attending career fairs, hosting college information sessions, and networking to help bring IPI the VERY best nurses who want to learn ICU skills while working in the home.
Someone You Should Know: Anna R., RN, IPI Clinical Manager
Two and a half years ago, Anna R., RN, was seeking a job that fit her love of caring for patients in the home setting. She was introduced to Independence Plus, Inc.’s (IPI) Home Nursing Residency program by a friend, and from there her sparkling personality and outstanding bedside manner made her a quick favorite of our patients. Now, after making the transition to IPI’s Home Nursing Clinical Management Team, Anna continues to care for her patients – many of whom she worked with in the field – from the office.
An exciting employment opportunity for new graduate nurses!
Five ‘Must-Have Resources’ as a Nurse
Three of the primary qualities I’m finding that are necessary to make it as a private duty nurse at Independence Plus, Inc. (IPI) are: undeniable passion, inherent confidence, and a science-enthusiast mentality. The first quality is a no-brainer. Being passionate about advocacy, relationship-building, and ensuring that people receive the best care will only grow as we develop as nurses. The last two will be a constant learning experience as healthcare continues to evolve. As a nurse it is essential to know the science behind disease processes, clinical skills, and interventions. It is this foundation that influences patient outcomes and our confidence when providing life-saving care.
Someone You Should Know: Karolina W., RN, IPI Clinical Manager
IPI’s Director of Nursing Services Nancy Tafoya was conducting a clinical supervisory visit in the field with a patient when she recalls a new Primary Care Physician asking her, “What part of heaven did you get this nurse from?” The doctor was referring to Karolina W., RN, who at that point had spent more than four years as a field nurse caring for IPI’s most medically complex adult and pediatric patients. “I commented that Karolina is one of the best field nurses we have,” Tafoya said. “At the end of the visit I asked her if she would consider interviewing for a Clinical Manager position.” Shortly thereafter Karolina joined the IPI Home Nursing Clinical Management Team, and just a few months into the job her colleagues say she has been an outstanding addition who brings a positive and straightforward attitude to her interactions with patients and nurses. We sat down with Karolina earlier this week to find out more about why she became a nurse and how she is enjoying her new role.
“Once I emerged from the depths of futility, I viewed my diagnosis as an opportunity to spread awareness.”
Three years ago Eric Von Schaumburg was at that sweet spot in life. He was 29 years-old with an amazing job, a wonderful girlfriend, and a future as bright as one could hope for. Then in early summer of 2013 he received the shocking news that he has ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Faced with a devastating progressive neurodegenerative disease that has little treatment option and no cure, the Chicago man says he spent a short amount of time coming to terms with the battle ahead of him, and then quickly turned his focus to doing whatever he could to inspire others.
Fighting Like a Champion Against ALS
It’s the end of May and a time for graduation and life change for many high school and college students. It’s also a time for inspirational speeches. At Independence Plus, Inc., we were recently honored to hear a speech given by our patient Eric Von Schaumburg, who was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) nearly three years ago at the age of 29. Since then, Eric and his family have become amazing advocates to raise awareness of this devastating progressive neurodegenerative disease.
A Nurse’s Perspective: 8 Things I Learned While Caring for Patients with ALS
When hearing or reading information about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), I am often reminded of how individuals are “rarely” affected by this disease. This is quite the contrary in my field of nursing. Being diagnosed with ALS is challenging, not just for the patient but also for surrounding loved ones. At times, patients with ALS are referred to as “difficult.” After having patients of my own with ALS, I found them to be misunderstood, just like their disease.
Someone You Should Know: Marcheta, IPI’s Senior Healthcare Recruiter
Almost three years ago, after spending 20-plus years in the healthcare field, Marcheta came to Independence Plus, Inc. (IPI). Since then she has been working hard and we have been relying on her as a key member of the scheduling and recruiting team. We know Marcheta as a calming spirit who cares deeply about the work that she does and the people we serve. Our nurses, patients, and their families know her as the woman on the other end of the phone during the day and after-hours on-call, doing her very best to make sure all of their shifts are covered and their needs are met.
Celebrating National Nurses Week 2016
At Independence Plus, Inc., we appreciate our nurses every day! There is one week of the year, however, when the spotlight is completely on them. National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 through May 12. The end date is significant because it marks the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
This week is a great time to thank all nurses for their integral role in health care, and the important work they do every day. To celebrate IPI’s team of nurses who work diligently to care for our medically complex, technology-dependent patients, we have compiled a list of recent blog posts featuring them.
Grow With Us
We’re expanding our services and offerings. We want you to be a part of the team that is delivering personalized, individual, people-focused skilled home healthcare to those in need. Come join us.