Recently we had a life link case on our unit. This nurse provided outstanding care for the patient all week long. In doing so she developed a relationship with the patient's family. As the life link case progressed it was decided that the organ procurement would be held on a Saturday afternoon. The nurse made the decision to come in on her day off to be with the family during this process. She said she just felt like she needed to be there to help them through the process and that she didn't want the family to have to go through this alone. The nurse said that when she walked into the room on the day of the procurement the patient's wife's face just lit up with joy. The wife told the nurse how much her being there put her (the wife) and the rest of the family at ease. The nurse was allowed to escort the patient to the OR for the procurement and also stayed with the patient while the surgical team harvested the donor organs.

I feel that this level of kindness and compassion displayed by the nurse is exactly the kind of attitude and commitment to care we, as healthcare workers, should all strive for. This nurse went above and beyond to ensure that her patient and their family was well taken care of. The nurse provided emotional support and comfort to this family simply by just being there when the nurse did not have to be. I am proud to know we have this kindhearted, compassionate, dedicated nurse working on our unit and for this amazing organization. This nurse is a great example of our mission statement “To improve the lives of all we serve"" and our values: Integrity – Be a role model. Excellence – Be remarkable. Accountability – Be there for others always. Respect – Be mindful, accepting, and willing.