Let me start by saying that Erica is always caring and kind but there was a specific example that really caught my eye.
We had a young woman here in the ED who was in emotional distress after approaching the anniversary of the death of a child. I want everyone to know that Erica was so kind and compassionate in supporting this patient. I feel that she went above and beyond to let this patient know that we were here for her, we did care for her, and that we wouldn't just abandon her in her grief.
At discharge, I witnessed Erica allowing the patient to give her a hug and cry on her shoulder. I feel that situations like this really showcase the caring and compassion that nurses are capable of and the difference that we can make with a simple gesture. Sometimes, in between the life and death situations, there are other types of healing that hang in the balance and we can often tip the scales in the direction of healing with the small things we do.
I feel that we all know our limitations in supporting patients with long term problems. However, it is refreshing to see nurses like Erica take hold of moments like this and use them to help our patients. The patient will probably never forget Erica, even if she never sees her again.