Abigail Blanc recently provided compassionate care to a dying patient and his family. The patient's wife had been struggling with a decision about whether her husband should go home with home health or hospice services.
Sadly, the patient's condition took a sharp decline and his Doctor informed them his death was approaching too rapidly for him to return home. Abigail was this patient's nurse throughout this very long day for the family. Abigail always spoke directly to both the patient and his wife, even as he became increasingly non-responsive. Abigail treated the patient with great respect and helped him maintain his dignity.
Abigail went out of her way to answer every question that the patient's wife asked and explained how all the end-of-life medications would make him more comfortable. Abigail checked in frequently with the patient and his wife. She listened patiently to the family remembrances and showed interest as the patient's wife showed photos. Even though Abigail was working on a very busy floor and had other patients to care for, I never saw her look at her watch or seem in a hurry.
As the family dealt with all the changes, Abigail calmly shifted her care to comfort care and quietly did all the things that make such a big difference. She removed the compression devices from the patient's legs, worked with his aides to reposition him in the bed, fluffed up his sheets and pillows, and removed equipment that was not needed.
I was very comforted and inspired to see all that Abigail did for this patient and family. Abigail made a huge difference.