I was assigned an exceptionally difficult patient today in the Center for Women and Children. The patient was scheduled for surgery and we were not able to control her pain. She was NPO, which she perceived as us “not caring if she died from starvation”. She demanded to speak with the charge nurse. Cathy immediately came and did her best to explain the plan of care, that we were waiting for the surgeon, why the patient was NPO and what we were doing to manage her pain.
1. She helped with direct patient care and continued to try to do patient teaching
2. Spoke with the patient’s family
3. Spoke with the doctor
4. Kept in contact with the House Supervisor
5. Provided emotional support to me and
6. Was in charge of a very busy unit doing transitions as well
Cathy is the ultimate multi-tasker. I hope she knows how she is loved and appreciated.