Many times, as I reflect on my career, I pause and ask myself why I still stay. It’s in moments like these that I stay when a team member shows their compassion, their empathy, and a true reflection of what it means to be a nurse. Jenna was asked to assist with a pump on an ICU patient in ED. Upon her arrival, she discovered the patient in sub-optional care. The patient appeared in disarray, food crumbled under her, vented meds were missed for extended time. As Jenna reviewed the patient's status in detail, she noted the patient's recent cancer diagnosis with metastasis. She quickly addressed the care needs of the patient and then began discussing the current state of the patient with the family. Asking what the patient might want, what are their wishes? Were they aware? Jenna spent 45 minutes with the family to help them connect the dots and respect the patient’s wishes. The family went on to choose comfort care of which Jenna quickly coordinated a room to ensure we provide the most appropriate environment for extubation and comfort care. She wanted to ensure she showed compassion and empathy toward the patient and family. Jenna is a reminder of my “why”. We are here not only to provide the clinical aspects of care but the emotional end-of-life role that we take part in every time we encounter our sick patients. We provide an environment of caring even when we are not immediate bedside. This is one of many examples of where she shows compassion and empathy in a space that is not completely required of her.

Note: This is Jenna's 2nd DAISY Award!