We received a patient from the emergency room who was originally admitted for confusion that was later determined to be multiple brain tumors. This patient was found at a bus stop, and had no family. Efforts were made over the first month to locate a relative or friend unsuccessfully. The patient did not want to receive treatment for the illness and guardianship was pursued in order to get long term care center care. Guardianship is a lengthy process and during this time, the staff grew very attached to her. Jamie took care of the patient almost every day she worked. She treated the patient like she was her own family. As the illness often does, it progressed and the patient declined before a facility could be found.
One day, Jamie came to work not knowing how difficult the day ahead would be. After receiving report that morning, Jamie set up her work base in the patient's room, only leaving to pass medications and check on her other patients. Jamie was in the room when the patient took her last breath. Jamie prayed over the patient and was there when heaven gained yet another angel. Because of Jamie's compassion and dedication to her patients, this patient did not die alone; instead she was in the company of an amazing nurse who had cared for her for months.
Jamie was a preceptor that day to one of the new nurses. We all learned a lesson in love, compassion and human kindness. I cannot think of a better example of nursing excellence than Jamie's care of this patient.