Alexis is one of the most compassionate nurses I've had the privilege to work alongside. On this particular day, she was caring for a post-stroke patient that was on the ventilator. The patient was admitted with a small stroke, underwent carotid endarterectomy and then suffered a larger stroke post-op that initially left him minimally responsive.
On the day the family was set to meet with Palliative care and discuss withdrawal options, the patient woke up and started to follow commands. The withdrawal was delayed but it was decided he would remain a DNR active status and a couple of days later, Alexis was caring for him when he was being evaluated for extubating from the ventilator. The doctor was ready to extubate based on numbers ran by respiratory therapy; however, the patient was very drowsy, and the family was not present.
Alexis advocated for her patient to delay the extubating until the family could be contacted to determine a plan should he not breathe well on his own, as his DNR status would have prevented a reintubation, and he was alone. The family was contacted and was able to be at the bedside for the extubating. The DNR status remains but the patient is thriving on his own at this time. Alexis shows true compassion every day but especially this day. I am sure the patient and family are grateful for her care.