Brittany Kowalchick went "above and beyond" when she demonstrated attunement and deep sympathy for a patient in need. This patient was in a serious motor vehicle crash with her husband. While both husband and wife were receiving care for their injuries during this admission, the patient's husband died. The patient anxiously shared her grief and concerns regarding the loss of her longtime life partner and upcoming funeral with Brittany. Recognizing the need to provide a conduit for adequate grieving for her patient, Brittany sat down and had a conversation with her. While discussing their love for each other and the wonderful memories she will always have for her husband, the patient disclosed her biggest source of anxiety is how she'll look for the funeral this weekend, "especially my nails." Brittany told her not to worry and sprang into action.
Brittany took personal time on her break, using her own money, to purchase items for a manicure spa. She returned to the patient's room with a manicure kit and proceeded to give the patient a wonderful surprise manicure spa and even provided color options for the patient to select. She chose pink. The patient was extremely grateful. Both patient and nurse cried throughout the process. Adequate grieving process goals were met. The nurse-patient relationship was strengthened and UF Health's commitment to putting patients and families first in everything we do was emboldened. Brittany Kowalchick epitomizes what the professional nurse is and exhibits standards for others to emulate.