Jackie demonstrated exceptional care and dedication while going above and beyond for a challenging East 6 cardiothoracic patient. This patient had recently suffered a stroke and had a history of traumatic brain injury, seizures, methamphetamine withdrawal, and agitation. 

The patient's condition presented significant challenges. Due to confusion, agitation, impulsivity, and inability to follow directions, the patient required restraints and struggled to take medication. The patient attempted multiple times to pull off monitoring, IVs, climb out of bed, combative by swinging and trying to kick at nurses all the while swearing obscenities at them. The nursing staff, including physical therapists and the BEST Team, encountered difficulties in providing care due to the patient's combative behavior.  This validated patient restraints for safety purposes.  Subsequently, the patient was placed in a Posey bed to prevent hand and leg restraints and promote more patient autonomy while in bed.

Jackie fostered and built a trusting relationship with the patient’s mother, which was initiated during the first patient care conference. The patient’s mother was in distress and tearful over her daughter’s hospitalization, thinking there was no end in sight.  Jackie took the time to attune and listen to the mother without interruption and holding by creating a safe haven. She provided information and support during times of transition to assure the mother knew what was happening and what to expect. With the strong mutual trust that had developed, Jackie was able to assist the case manager with discharge information and acted as a liaison.  

Jackie distinguished herself through her compassionate approach. Recognizing the patient's underlying distress, Jackie sought and continued to build rapport. She adopted various relational and therapeutic practices to connect with the patient. A turning point came when Jackie shared a picture of her black labrador retriever, which remarkably resembled the patient's own dog. The patient thought Jackie’s was her own, so Jackie let the patient keep the picture of the dog. This small gesture sparked a connection, fostering trust and forming a bond that led to a more positive patient-nurse dynamic.

Jackie's commitment extended beyond this interaction. She consistently demonstrated care and kindness. She engaged the patient in activities like playing cards and coloring, an Easter egg hunt to encourage mobility, painting her nails, singing to her, and scheduling a haircut. She also arranged for a visit by the patient’s beloved dog. Recognizing the importance of human connection, Jackie took the time to simply sit with the patient, listen to her express her feelings, and offer comfort. Jackie's dedication went as far as to come in on her days off to spend time with the patient and ensure her well-being.

The positive impact of Jackie's approach was undeniable. The patient's behavior improved significantly. She became more cooperative with treatment, allowing for discontinuation of Posey bed, participation in therapies and nurses to administer medication. This progress paved the way for the patient to participate in therapies and ultimately be discharged to a long-term care facility closer to her family.

Jackie's leadership and unwavering dedication had a ripple effect, influencing the care provided by the entire staff. By fostering a trusting relationship with the patient, Jackie demonstrated alternative approaches to managing challenging behaviors, ultimately promoting a more nurturing and collaborative environment for all parties involved.

A testament to Jackie's impact is the positive outcome for the patient. Through her dedication, the patient was placed in a suitable long-term care facility near her family, a far better alternative to a locked facility, which was initially considered necessary. The patient experienced much anxiety upon discharge in anticipation of the new surroundings. Jackie went above and beyond by accompanying the patient in the ambulance to the patient’s new facility. Jackie was able to introduce the patient to the new staff members to help her reduce fear and anxiety while settling into her new surroundings. Even after discharge, Jackie continued to follow up, receiving updates and pictures from the patient's parents, highlighting the patient's progress and continued bond with her beloved dog.

Jackie's extraordinary story exemplifies the true essence of a DAISY Nurse. Her unwavering compassion, relational approach, and dedication to patient care not only made a profound difference in the life of this patient and parents but also served as an inspiration and role model to her colleagues. A big thank you to Jackie’s service and unwavering care which illustrated in this case, as well as her nursing career overall!