Kelsey had a very sick patient in the MSICU. The team had set up a meeting with the patient's sister and brother-in-law, who traveled here from far out of town.
Once they arrived, Kelsey greeted them and updated them on the patient's condition, and she updated the team of the family's arrival. Once the team came by to have the family meeting, Kelsey stayed with the patient and his family throughout the whole meeting, giving them as much support as needed.
After the meeting, Kelsey gave the family time to think about the difficult decision they had to make. They decided it was best for the patient to withdraw treatment and keep him comfortable.
Kelsey stayed with the patient and his family throughout the process of getting lines removed and making the patient comfortable. Later in the afternoon, the family told Kelsey they wouldn't be able to stay as they lived far away and didn't want to drive at night.
Kelsey promised them she would frequently sit with and check on the patient. For the rest of the afternoon and her shift, Kelsey was constantly going into his room to make sure he was comfortable and not in any pain.
She also had learned earlier in the shift that the patient loved classic country music, so she pulled up some on the computer in the room and continually made sure it had some great music playing to keep the patient relaxed and comfortable.
Kelsey went far above and beyond what was required of her. She made sure to inform multiple other staff that the family had to leave and for everyone to keep an extra close eye on the patient since he didn't have any family and she didn't want him to pass by himself.
This small gesture and extra bit of care not only made the patient feel better but helped put the family at ease, since they were sad they had to leave to head home.
Kelsey is a DAISY Nurse due to her actions not only with this patient but countless others. Kelsey is the epitome of what the DAISY Award stands for: skillful, compassionate care provided to patients and families every day.