Behind the Scenes with an MVES Nurse

As we continue our series that explores what various individuals do at Mystic Valley Elder Services, we spoke with Registered Nurse Dorothy Buccieri. Nurses play an important role for clients and the general community through their work at MVES.

Editor: What is your primary responsibility?

D. Buccieri: Our main responsibility is to make medical insight available to numerous people—both inside and outside the agency. We continually confer with case managers when medical issues arise, we make home visits, and we conduct screenings.

Editor: What are screenings? Why are they important?

D. Buccieri: Whenever someone in our service community refers an elderly Mass Health client for long-term medical care, we complete a detailed screening. This screening is very specific and helps us, along with the client and his or her family, determine what medical avenues would be best for the client. Many screened clients can be well served by receiving services offered by MVES. One of the newest programs available is the Community Choice program that allows more in-home services and still costs less than other, more common alternatives.

Editor: How often are you in the field compared to in the office?

D. Buccieri: It depends, but typically we’re in the field 40 percent of the time, doing community screenings, personal care home visits, and Group Adult Foster Care visits. The balance of our time is spent completing screening paperwork and conferring with case managers, clients, physicians, families, etc. We’re always busy with something!

Editor: What is the most challenging part of your job?

D. Buccieri: The biggest challenge is making sure clients receive the best care possible. This means being an active client advocate when dealing with everyone involved in the individual’s medical treatment. Another challenge is ensuring that clients’ family members are aware of all the options available for their loved ones.

Editor: And the most enjoyable part of your job?

D. Buccieri: Being with the clients. They are funny, inspiring, and full of wisdom. It’s rewarding to know that I make difference in someone’s quality of life.