Obstetrics Department is traditionally viewed as the happiest department in the hospital to work in. It is an honor to be part of a family’s birthing experience. What is often not spoken about is when these families lose their babies. In October, tragedy struck the OB department. Andra RN was the primary nurse for a patient who was told that her baby had passed away while in utero. Andra began advocating for this patient from the moment she received her into care. She became the patient’s voice and fought for the care this patient deserved. She went above and beyond to ensure that this patient was cared for with compassion and dignity as all of our patients deserve. This patient came from a high-risk situation and background and unfortunately these patients do not have the same resources as others. Andra had developed a special bond with this patient. This mother was all alone, nobody to share her grief with when she was told her baby no longer had a heartbeat. Andra not only was the nurse that wiped her tears, hugged her, and let her cry every emotion, she was also the nurse who cried for the loss of the unborn child.

When this patient awoke from anesthesia she asked specifically for Andra, unfortunately, due to OB having a busy day she was unable to come to the PACU as she had promised the patient. This devastated the patient, as well as Andra. When I returned the patient to the OB Department Andra immediately hugged the patient, cried, and apologized for breaking her promise. For many who know Andra, they know she never breaks promises, especially to patients.

Once the patient was settled back into her room, she was handed her baby for the first time. No words can ever describe the cry of a mother who has lost her child. If you have never heard this cry consider yourself lucky and if you have heard this cry then you can appreciate the kind words, hugs, and tears that Andra shared with her as she had no support person.

Andra demonstrated true care and compassion for a patient who truly needed it. When she cried with this mother she stated: “You are not the only person that lost a baby today all of us lost this baby along with you.” I will never forget the mother’s reaction because you could see that this patient felt she and her baby were loved no matter what the circumstances.