I was really impressed and grateful for the help that one of your RNs gave to the Hospice/Palliative Care Team. We were on 3E rounding on Mr. R, who was very clearly in distress. He was in an immense amount of pain, and before we could even hunt down who the RN was to see what kinds of meds had been given and when, Billy was in the room to give us a mini report. After talking with us (and helping to reposition the veteran), he gave Mr. R another PRN for pain. We stayed in the room for some time, trying to comfort Mr. R and settle him enough to allow the meds to work. When it was clear that he needed more, I called the doctor and got a one-time order for additional pain medication, got the pharmacy to verify it, and then told Billy about the veteran still needing meds and the orders, etc. He stopped what he was doing, had to run to 3N to get the medication, and then gave the meds. Mr. R was finally able to relax and looked comfortable.
I felt bad that I kept bothering Billy for additional help when he was so busy with his other patients, but he never was short with me or told me that I would have to wait. He understood the situation and did everything he could to help, and we were very grateful to him for being so attentive. Mr. R was consented for hospice care later that night, brought to the hospice unit the next day, and was able to pass with peace and dignity. I am extremely grateful that the process started with Billy, and I know that Mr. R (and his family) was too. Additionally, the Joint Commission was on the unit as all this was happening. Iknow that sometimes that can frazzle people and get them off track, but not Billy.You have a fantastic nurse working for you. Thank you so much to Billy!