My sister A has Downs Syndrome and Dementia. During her six week stay on the ward, the whole team was wonderful but Beatrice stood out. She was immensely supportive, kind and caring. Beatrice listened to me and I noticed she quickly used phrases she had heard me use and so were familiar to A.
I recall an incident where another (very nice) nurse wanted to try a different method of administering medication but Beatrice knew that it wouldn't work for my sister and firmly explained to the nurse that wouldn't be appropriate in this case and why. I was very relieved as it saved me from worry and having to challenge and my sister didn't get distressed.
Beatrice was often late going home but would come to say goodbye and explain what she had handed over to the team.
I struggled emotionally with A's diagnosis/prognosis and Beatrice was so kind to me (I stayed with my sister at the hospital).
She attended a very important MDT meeting prior to discharge and was very supportive. It was a challenging case for all, but A and I were treated with the utmost respect and care.
When Beatrice was on duty leading the team, it was always of great comfort to me knowing she was there. Nothing was too much trouble for her. That is so important and reassuring for any family member to feel like that, but particularly when the patient is so incredibly vulnerable.