SOUTH KINGSTOWN – Eight University of Rhode Island nursing students have begun clinical rotations in hospice and palliative care through a new partnership between the University of Rhode Island College of Nursing and HopeHealth, a nonprofit hospice and palliative care provider based in Providence.
The students started their clinical training Sept. 10 under the supervision of assistant professor Daina Worcester. The academic-practice partnership is designed to expand clinical education opportunities in hospice and palliative care while creating pathways for student training, research collaboration and potential employment.
Selling Luxury Real Estate Requires More Than Exposure
By Emilio DiSpirito IV License Partner | Private Office Advisor Engel & Völkers Oceanside www.DiSpiritoteam.com…
Learn More
According to URI, students will gain experience working with patients in hospice and palliative care settings, including providing care in patients’ homes. The program also exposes students to end-of-life care practices, patient assessment, and communication with patients and families facing serious illness.
Jada Rodriguez, one of the participating students, said observing conversations between hospice nurses and families has highlighted the importance of communication and emotional support in nursing care.
Another student, Yamelle Garcia, said the experience differs significantly from traditional hospital-based clinical placements and has provided exposure to a new area of healthcare.
URI and HopeHealth formalized the agreement in May following previous collaboration through the Susan D. Flynn Palliative Care Undergraduate Fellowship program. Under the new arrangement, HopeHealth will provide clinical placements for URI students and support research opportunities for faculty members and graduate students pursuing doctoral degrees. The partnership also includes plans for guest lectures and workforce development initiatives.
Danny Willis, dean of the URI College of Nursing, said the partnership reflects an effort to strengthen palliative and end-of-life care through collaboration between academic and clinical organizations.
HopeHealth provides hospice, palliative care, dementia care, caregiver support and grief services throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The organization is marking its 50th year of service.
Veer Mudambi is the special projects editor of the Providence Business News. He can be reached at mudambi@pbn.com.
