A long-term patient who has been hospitalized for 9+ months between the general surgery and cancer care services had the great fortune of being cared for by Debbie, both before transferring to cancer care and subsequently upon completion of chemo and returning to the surgery service.
While the patient-RN dyad may not have known at the time, their time spent together early in his hospitalization set a foundation that proved beneficial later in his hospitalization when he needed consistency, companionship, and support. Debbie unfailingly provided this patient with structure, setting expectations and following through. She never forced her presence but rather approached each of their days together with the same compassion - even on his most trying days.
Post-operatively, Debbie was caring for the patient during an especially trying time as he fought through pain, anxiety, and loneliness (as his family was unable to visit on account of the snowstorm). He desperately needed her companionship and care; as frequently as her patient load allowed, Debbie returned to his room to sit with him and hold his hand. Additionally, Debbie communicated effectively between the patient and the providers regarding his needs, coordinating care that was the least interruptive as possible. Her presence on those early post-operative days helped him heal and recover and finally approach discharge.
As we all reflect on our time with this patient, I want to acknowledge all the small things Debbie did for this patient. None of the gestures were done in hopes of recognition, which is such an admirable quality about Debbie. May her compassion and patience serve as a positive example for her colleagues and the student nurses and new nurses she mentors.