As I sit here contemplating end of life decisions regarding my mother, eight days post her traumatic fall and brain injury, I keep remembering her nurse Ashley. From the first encounter with her, I knew my mom was in healing hands. Her compassion, skill, and expertise were evident. I am a nurse of 28 years and have been instructed on Swanson's Theory of Nursing. Sometimes you meet that 'one' nurse - Ashley - who doesn't need instruction on how to provide the concepts of compassionate care to patients and families. She made a statement to me on that first day that she watches 'her' families and evaluates their interactions and expectations. She matches them with the patient's situation and condition and tries to guide them through the process of healing in a way that matches the potential outcome. Her statement made me think of my own nursing practice and how much more her approach could make a lasting impression on the patients' and families' lives. At no time did she try to tell us what the outcome would be but she continually made my whole family feel that Mom was going to be taken care of in a way to give her the best outcome possible. Ashley never once tried to distance herself as many others do. Instead, she listened and let me know she would try to help the entire family with questions we had or information we needed to make an informed decision.
Mom was moved off her unit and we will make decisions that will direct the plan of care for my mom. I wish Ashley was here, not to tell us what to do but to listen, inform, and ease us through this process. Ashley, if I never see you again, please know you made a difference and are gifted. I can't think of a better example of the 'Wake Way'.