carissa collins, RN

It is one of the most difficult situations that a nurse can face when the desires of a patient at odds differ with the desires of the family. Carissa was drawn into such a situation recently. The patient, near the end of life but alert and oriented, requested to be placed on comfort measures only. However, a family member stated the patient was not competent, in contradiction to a physician's declaration of competency. Despite objections, Carissa was able to grant the patient's wish, and the patient died the next evening. The acceptance of the patient's wish over that of the family showed great strength and showed the power of advocacy and that is an extraordinary nurse.