As nurses, we often become invested with patients if we're fortunate to provide continuation of care spending a week or two at a time. Involved not only in their care but the care of the family as well. I had cared for a patient who came from a different cultural background. Caring for her for one week, I was very sad to hear that she was finally making her journey from this earth to the next but relieved to know Christina was caring for her.
Christina, knowing family couldn't be present at the bedside with this COVID positive patient and pandemic, coordinated with the family to have them meet outside of a room and moved their family member from one room to the new room. Being a culturally competent nurse, she gently placed traditional clothing that the family brought to the ED over the patient and played a song from their culture over and over for the family while they celebrated their family member's last moments. I'm eternally grateful for Christina's compassionate care, not only for the patient but for the family as well. Her example of cultural competence and compassion are above and beyond what night nurses do. I believe she is an amazing nurse and though I couldn't be there with the patient and their family that I had built a rapport with, I was grateful Christina was the nurse providing final and comfort care to this family. These times are unprecedented, and I feel this patient didn't truly pass away alone like so many unfortunate souls have. Christina, thank you.