The couple had been married for 53 years. They were the typical couple who loved a lot, fought some and above all supported each other through their lives together. The husband had been diagnosed with a terminal illness in the few weeks before this accident. As the days progressed, our team met with the family to help them understand the care that was necessary for these two people and the anticipated prognoses. He was made a DNR (do not resuscitate) soon after admission due to his pre-morbid diagnosis, but our team continued to provide him with expert care.

On the morning of the fifth hospital day, the wife's condition deteriorated dramatically. Another discussion with the family ensued and a decision was made to provide comfort care only for the couple. lt was at this point that these three nurses went into action for this couple and their family. They moved him to her room. Both patients were placed on room air via a t-piece and made comfortable with prescribed pain medication. After conferring with family, these nurses pushed the patients' beds together and rested his hand on hers. As family members said their goodbyes, he was the first to go. She followed him within three minutes. What was tragic was made somewhat less tragic in this simple but expert gesture to ensure comfort and closure for this grieving family.