Susan purchased pizza for the grieving family in room 25, bought Play-doh and other kids' activities for the small cousins, nieces, nephews, and children of the patient; she even had a mini dance party with the kids to help with the stress of the situation. I know that I work with amazing people, but tonight I was reminded of why I do what I do. Susan and her team were fantastic with this family and because it seemed so natural for her I have to assume that she is this way with every patient and family she touches.
Honestly, I don't even feel like this note does the justice to how emotional tonight was for the patients' family and how wonderful the SICU team reacted to the situation. It takes an amazing leader to keep a team focused on not only the medical side of hospitalization, but also the needs of the family members and their emotional needs.