A patient had been battling wound issues on her feet for 5 years. She had been at Quincy for about 8 years. Chelsea called to talk to the nurse at Quincy about a surgical consent to remove the patient's foot.
The RN (at Quincy) said the patient has been saying for years, "no one is taking any of my limbs." This was concerning to Chelsea because the patient was still saying this, and Chelsea was trying to get consent with the surgical doctor and the POA. (The POA has made decisions for the patient over many years.) The POA and doctor agreed via phone without the RN. Chelsea did not feel comfortable signing a consent knowing the patient has been saying all morning "I do not want my leg taken off."
Chelsea went to the NM and said, "I cannot in good conscience have the POA and surgeon sign a consent knowing the patient does not want this procedure."
Every day nurses make difficult decisions with their patients. This patient has no family. The POA was called on speaker-talking to the patient. Chelsea spoke up, to help the patient make this life-changing decision. Chelsea did not think "this is just another confused patient." This is a patient who still understands her wants and needs. She is pleasantly confused but in charge.
Chelsea needs to be recognized for speaking up, demonstrating kindness and compassion towards the patient. The patient did not have the ability to speak up for herself. Chelsea took the time to listen to the patient and help her make an end of life decision. We are now going to provide the patient with palliative care. Chelsea took the time to advocate for the patient.
Chelsea later said to the NM, "I could not go home knowing that I did not speak up for this patient."
Chelsea, thank you for speaking up for your patient.