A very special patient came into the ER that needed emergent care. This patient had suffered severe abuse and neglect, and as a result, had several broken bones and severe wounds that needed painstaking care and attention. In addition to all she had endured, she was also septic, near-death, and very, very scared. We knew she would not stay in our emergency department, but before she could be transferred out, someone had to tend to her. ER nurses, not being the type to shy away from a difficult case, had a very hard time with the emotional toll this was going to take on the one who would walk into that room and assume care of this patient. She would need someone to clean her wounds, help her through painful tests, give her medications to ease her pain, and stabilize her life-threatening illness. She also needed kindness and gentleness to comfort her and let her know she was finally safe.
Knowing this would probably be one of the most challenging patients she'd ever care for, Davita Briggs walked into her room. For hours, Davita cleaned and dressed wounds, medicated, spoke softly, and touched gently. Nurses aren't taught empathy or caring. It's something we own deeply. It's a conviction and a promise we make to ourselves when we become nurses. Ask any nurse why they became a nurse and, most of the time, they'll tell you it's because they want to take care of people. It's our job to take care of patients but it's not a requirement to do it with love.
Thank you, Davita, for showing such love and compassion in a moment of such great need. You were your patient's safe harbor in a terrible storm.