Earlier today I witnessed the truest form of a nurse. Jolene had a patient who had extubated herself, and made the decision to change her code status due to chronic illness. The patient, though struggling to breath, had requested for pastoral services to read from the Bible. Contact was made with the Chaplain but he was unable to come right away. The patient had requested for him to read from the book of Psalm. Jolene quickly gathered a New Testament Bible that was on the unit, and went in to read to the patient. Jolene asked her if she would like her to start from the beginning and the patient nodded yes. With each fluent word calmness appeared over the patient along with a huge smile. Though the patient continued to struggle for breath, she found solace in the written Word of God spoken by Jolene.
Often the work of a nurse is busy, chaotic and demanding. Jolene had two patients today, but still managed to provide time for her dying patient. Jolene's selflessness and thoughtful compassion was heartwarming. I was so privileged to have witnessed such outstanding care. Jolene Rench has a healing touch, and is an extraordinary nurse. Her devotion to patient care brightens not only Grandview but the World!