Recently, Heather was caring for a younger patient with stage 4 cancer, who also had surgery and therefore became a patient on our unit. The family struggled with active care versus palliative care. On this particular day, during this patient's admission she was becoming more lethargic with an increased heart rate. It was clear to Heather that an intervention was needed. As the family was unable to decide on the plan of care, an RRT was called. At this same point the family decided on comfort measures. A morphine drip was started for comfort. During this entire scenario Heather provided skilled, compassionate care for both the patient and the family.
Several hours after the drip was infusing, the family had a change of heart and wanted the drip turned off. They were confused with themselves on the "right thing to do" with their family member. Again, Heather was there to provide care and to educate and listen to the families concerns. Heather contacted the right healthcare providers and straightened out the situation. The short end of this situation: the patient passed away shortly after, comfortably, in the presence of her family.
I feel Heather should be recognized because of the extraordinary care she provided in this challenging scenario. She developed trust within the family while providing emotional support to all involved. She collaborated with the healthcare team to provide the best care possible. She demonstrated many of the qualities, which I believe, classify her as an excellent nurse.