A very young patient lost her life in a tragic manner. A mother should never have to experience the loss of her child, but unfortunately, we see it too often in the ICU. Luckily, there are nurses like Angela Bacon to care for these patients and their families. Angela worked tirelessly to stabilize the young woman suffering from a host of complications; however, despite her efforts (and those nurses caring for the patient previously), she progressed to brain death. The news was unfathomable for the mother and grandmother of the patient. Angela was everything these women needed throughout the course of the day. She provided understanding, empathy, and compassion. She allowed them time to process, to ask questions, to be angry, to cry. Angela held and hugged them when needed, but also knew when to step away and allow them the privacy to grieve and think. Angie gave them the time and understanding. Angie embraced the family and the patient. The family truly loved Angie and developed a very strong bond with her. When it was time to remove the patient from life support, the family wanted no one else present, but Angie. She stayed hours after her shift to provide support and make sure the patient passed with comfort and dignity. She truly became a member of their family and provided exceptional comfort and acceptance. Although it was a very emotional day for Angie, she remained strong for the family. When the time was right, Angie allowed her emotions to be seen, offering more comfort for the family.
Angie has always demonstrated exceptional clinical skills and compassion for her patients, but the level of care she provided to this family during such a tragic time was more than I could have ever expected. We are blessed to have Angie as one of ours, and I am so thankful Angie was the nurse caring for this patient and family.