Mr. M was a 95-year-old World War II veteran who was hospitalized and placed on hospice/comfort care on 6 West. The entire floor contributed to exceptional end-of-life care and should be commended for their compassion and vigilant effort at ensuring that his needs were met. I visited him frequently during his final days and found that his room was always tidy and he always appeared clean and comfortable. I noticed that his progress notes indicated extra touches that were provided and there was mindful attention to his symptom management with staff working to ensure that his pain and dyspnea were addressed. Several of the nurses made efforts to just be in his presence and hold his hand recognizing that this brought comfort and made him calm.
Rena Baxter went the extra mile for the veteran during her shift. In addition to being present for him and spending time just holding his hand, she spoke with his family to find out about his favorite music choices then proceeded to track down a music player and borrow one from the ICU to play classical music for him in his room during his final days and hours of life. Rena not only went the extra mile to provide a meaningful presence and soothing environment for a dying Veteran, but she connected with the family, who were unable to be regularly at his bedside, and because of her efforts they were aware of the extra care that was being taken to ensure that the Veteran's final days were comfortable.
The family shared their gratitude for the care that he had been receiving at the VA and were very relieved that he was able to spend his remaining time here. Much gratitude is given to Rena Baxter for exemplifying what it means to be a nurse and for supporting our dying veterans with an extra measure of care and thoughtfulness, and to the exemplary care of all the 6W team members.