ROCKINGHAM — Richmond County Hospice Inc. has received a $5,500 granted funded by the Arthur W. Perdue Foundation to purchase equipment to improve the process of administering blood tests, intravenous fluid and medications to terminally ill patients. The foundation is the charitable giving arm of Perdue Farms.
“At Richmond County Hospice, we’re committed to providing peace, comfort and dignity to patients with life-limiting illnesses,” said Jessica H. Mims, family services manager and social worker. “This generous support from Perdue and the foundation will help ensure we can provide the best quality of care for our patients.”
The funding will enable Hospice to purchase an Accuvein machine, which illuminates a patient’s veins and makes it easer for clinical staff to administer intravenous fluids and medications.
“For terminally ill patients, malnutrition and dehydration is common and creates an increased barrier in identifying useable veins,” said Mims. “This device will reduce increased discomfort and agitation for our patients.”
The second device Hospice will purchase will eliminate the need for a needle stick to draw blood. The procedure reduces discomfort and is more efficient in providing test results, Mims explains.
“Hospice is a valuable asset to any community that is fortunate enough to have one. The peace these talented and caring individuals are able to grant to patients and their families is simply priceless,” said Kendall Casey, director of Perdue operations in Rockingham. “We are honored to be able to support their efforts by helping them acquire much-needed equipment that will make administering medication and drawing blood easier on those who need it.”