Jessica Gutierrez
June 2020
Jessica
Gutierrez
,
BSN, RN
SDU
Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
Virginia Beach
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

Jessica was caring for a very elderly and very ill patient. His condition was continuing to worsen throughout her shift and it was time for the family to begin making very hard decisions regarding transitioning to comfort measures only and hospice. Jessica supported the patient and the family through this difficult time and truly went above and beyond to not only keep the patient comfortable but to also keep the family very informed and involved throughout the entire process. She took the time to sit with the family and explain exactly what she was doing and why she was doing it. It was these simple compassionate acts that provided the family comfort and peace of mind. The patient was transferred to another unit the next day and Jessica went above and beyond to still provide support and letting them know she was still there for them during this difficult time.
The patient passed away days later, and the patient's daughter in law came back looking for Jessica. Upon being notified of the patient's passing, she immediately went to the patient's room to hug the patient's family and to provide extra support. This act meant the world to this family as they came back to see the manager and tell her how close they hold Jessica to their hearts because of her compassionate and selfless acts of care.