I want to recognize Cynthia for outstanding compassion and care she provided to a very special patient. Cynthia took care of an elderly patient with metastatic cancer who was pretty much asymptomatic, but he was just waiting for one more test to be done, so he could go home to spend the rest of his quality time with his precious family. After his scheduled test was done, the patient did not feel good. Even vital signs were good, Cynthia was concerned about his internal bleed from the biopsy. He just did not look and act the same as before. Cynthia made several phone calls overnight to the doctor, reporting and updating lab work and patient status, that confirmed blood loss. Cynthia did not leave his bedside while transfusing blood, managing his pain and comforting him. She also was taking care of four other patients the same night. This patient had a rough night, but Cynthia went above and beyond to ease his suffering. since I took care of this patient a few days ago also, Cynthia and I kept brainstorming and updating each other about his status. The patient and his family kept expressing a deep appreciation of the care that was provided by Cynthia. You cannot teach anybody to have this special compassion. It comes from the heart!
Unfortunately, the patient passed away the next night, comfortably in his sleep. There was nothing that could have been done differently, but provide the care, love and dignity to our sweet man and his loving family, as Cynthia did. Thank God for nurses like her!