In rounding to provide support to patients in the PCU, I visited with a family of a patient while they were waiting as the patient was in a procedure and heard the story of Justin and his attempt to provide joy and the fulfillment of a life-long desire for the elderly patient. The patient had been told of a moose outside the hospital door and expressed their desire to see it. They had wanted to see a moose for many years, and it was thrilling to even know that it was outside the building. Justin assessed that the health and condition were such that the patient could safely make it to the area in a wheelchair, communicated and discussed the venture with co-staff, and then quickly prepared the patient to go out and assisted them to the door to see the moose. They found the moose, which had bedded down, and the patient was able to have a wish granted – and a memory created that stayed with her past her hospital stay. Through her tears of appreciation, this patient spoke to her family and friends of the wonderful nurse who took the time, spent the energy, and “ran the extra mile” to meet not only her physical needs but also her emotional and soul needs.

Justin met and exceeded the criteria of the core value practice in his patient response of compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity. He assessed the patient's condition as stable and capable of safely making it to the hospital sidewalk, took the necessary steps to transport the patient, communicated with the staff, implemented care through the moose visit, and above all, treated the patient as a whole person. Justin not only saw the patient but understood the patient and quickly responded outside of the norm to know and meet his patient’s needs. The family told me, not only of their account to see their Alaskan moose but, also of their awareness of Justin’s care throughout the day with their elderly mother and were thankful. They called him their angel.

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