Looking at Healthcare as a Vocation and a "Way of life"
The importance of knowing the Joint Commission Guidelines
The Joint Commission Accreditation Committee has set forth guidelines used in health care settings, and they have mandated that all patients receive a spiritual assessment upon admission. Healthcare workers should not be afraid to ask the patient or family regarding their spiritual needs. Some examples include determining one’s faith, and if they would like to see a priest or chaplain. Many times they are not asked their religion, and it is marked unknown or unaffiliated. It is important that healthcare workers speak to the patient of family and determine their needs and desires.
The importance of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick and praying for the dying
As Catholics, we believe the anointing of the sick is a sacrament for those very ill or those preparing soon to pass. Jesus said to Saint Faustina that if one prays the Chaplet at the bedside of a dying person, He will be there as the Merciful Savior and not as a Just Judge. But, reciting the Chaplet does not replace the Anointing of the Sick. The anointing of the sick is done by a priest; he ministers reconciliation for the forgiveness of sins, brings the Eucharist for the dying patient as food for their journey into the next life, and gives the person a complete absolution of all sins. If a priest is unavailable, remember that in emergency situation, laity can baptize those in need by saying, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
How crucial we are as vessels for God’s love and mercy in such perilous times?
Healthcare workers are to be the Hands, Feet, and Heart of Jesus to patients in need. During the COVID pandemic, some health care professionals are experiencing 10-15 patients dying per shift. This is so difficult to process and many are suffering spiritually. It is important that we stay close to God in these challenging times. One can read and learn about Healthcare Professionals for Divine Mercy by visiting the www.divinemercy.org/healthcare. Visit the main site at thedivinemercy.org and in Shop Mercy enter code NTHJ and learn more about the mission.
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