October 2018
Kassandra
Williams
,
BSN
5EW
UPMC Presbyterian
Pittsburgh
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

Kassandra Williams was taking care of a patient who was very confused and scared. The patient was at the end of her life and rarely had family members visit. The patient had a stuffed panda bear named Bamboo that meant very much to her and was her companion. When the patient needed her dressing changed on her arm, Kassandra applied a dressing to Bamboo's arm, so the patient wouldn't be afraid. When the patient was going to have to leave the floor to go to a test, the patient was worried that no one would look after Bamboo. Kassandra assured the patient that she would take care of the Bamboo and put him "down for a nap". Kassandra had created a little bed with a bath basin for the stuffed panda and covered the stuffed panda bear with a washcloth "blanket". All these little things helped to provide the patient with added comfort and security. Even though the patient was unable to verbally express her thanks, she would smile, and I know she appreciated all Kassandra had done.