While in a patient room a few weeks ago, I witnessed one of the most touching interactions between a staff person and patient. There was an elderly patient in Bed 1 having what appeared to me to be a panic attack. The patient was crying and trying to get out of bed, throwing her blankets off and saying, "let me die, I can't stay in this bed any longer". The PCA in the room was doing everything she could but to no avail, the patient remained upset. As I was looking to recruit more assistance, Denise Pine was walking by the room. Denise asked me what was happening, and I told her that the patient was very upset and needed help. Denise immediately stepped into action.
The dignity and compassion that Denise had for this patient was so genuine and sincere. She didn't talk at this patient; she had a dialogue with her. Denise explained that she understood the patient was in pain and reinforced to the patient how well she was doing and that she was doing better. Denise helped the patient to get out of bed and into the chair, and then Denise did something that brought a tear to my eye. She knelt down in front of the patient and held her hands and just talked with her. By the time I had to leave the room, the patient was calm and asking about her soup. There are not many people blessed to see such kindness and compassion. I felt honored to experience this encounter.