Jennifer and I along with another orientee RN were caring for an elderly patient with dementia. She was admitted for behavioral disturbances. The patient received a good amount of medications on the day of admission and slept for almost two days.
Then the patient was very awake. She began to have escalating restlessness and a behavioral rapid was called. The patient's family was very particular about what meds could be given. I decided to do our best to try to deescalate the situation without medications. All staff involved were very accommodating and empathetic.
Jennifer displayed exemplary empathy and a humanistic approach towards the patient. I was there around the patient for almost 30 minutes or more. Jennifer did not show even a sigh of frustration or impatience despite she had a number of other things to execute.
We formulated a plan to support the patient, get family up to the room, and use meds as last resort. Jennifer continued to combine her medical learning and empathy hours after. This was way more than a job for Jennifer. Kudos to her.