During the holiday season, Altru Health System in Grand Forks transforms into a supportive environment for patients and caregivers, according to Case Manager Courtney Caron. Staff members dedicate additional effort to create a festive atmosphere and enhance patient care, making the hospital feel like a “home away from home” for those in need.
Altru’s commitment to uplifting the spirits of both patients and staff is evident through various initiatives. Hundreds of employees work tirelessly to provide care during a time when many people are often unwell. Kortney Clarke, an intensive care unit nurse, highlighted the reality that sickness does not take a holiday. She expressed the importance of ensuring that patients “still deserve to be cared for,” noting the strong sense of camaraderie among staff during this period.
To foster a sense of community, Altru organizes multiple holiday events. In November, the hospital conducts a food drive to assist patients facing food insecurity. During Thanksgiving, a Thanksgiving tree is displayed, allowing staff and patients to share what they are thankful for. Throughout the festive season, departments participate in an “adopt-a-family” program, providing gifts to brighten the holidays for families in need. Additionally, Altru hosts a candlelight memorial service for families who have experienced the loss of a child, offering support during a difficult time.
Efforts to create a joyful atmosphere extend to the decorations throughout the hospital. Staff members take the initiative to adorn their departments with holiday decorations and often dress in festive attire. Caron emphasized the importance of making the hospital experience special, acknowledging that many people may not choose to be there during this season. “Making it comfortable, making it still feel special for them, is really important,” she remarked.
While delivering exceptional patient care remains paramount, staff members also prioritize supporting one another. Team members readily swap shifts to accommodate those wishing to spend time with family, and they gather for department-wide potlucks during holidays like Thanksgiving. Caron noted, “We work really well with each other… We do support [staff] to ensure that everyone kind of gets work-life balance.”
To facilitate fair holiday scheduling, Altru often plans shifts years in advance, ensuring that the same individuals are not consistently required to work during significant holidays. Ken Hanson, senior marketing and communications specialist at Altru, underscored the need for constant staffing in healthcare, stating, “In health care, patient needs don’t pause for holidays.” He added that the hospital offers “holiday premiums” to recognize the dedication of staff working during these critical times.
Despite the additional efforts to enhance the holiday experience, Caron pointed out that the quality of patient care remains consistent throughout the year. The commitment of the Altru staff shines particularly bright during the holiday season, as they embody the organization’s mission of caring for the community. “At Altru, really helping our patients and caring for our community is really who we are,” Caron stated, reflecting pride in the staff’s dedication.
As the holidays approach, Altru Health System’s initiatives continue to demonstrate the importance of compassion and community support, ensuring that both patients and caregivers feel valued during this special time of year.
