Kayleigh Lawrence, BSN, RN

Unfortunately, death happens frequently in on our unit. And often times the busy environment and complete diagnosis can be overwhelming and even traumatic for family members. The patient had been critically ill on our unit for a few days, and the family made the difficult decision to pursue comfort measures. Once the decision was made, the nurse allowed each member a moment alone in the room with the patient to say their individual goodbyes in private (there were 10 family members). She printed out 10 rhythm strips of the patient’s final heart rhythm, rolled them up, put them in little glass vials, one for each family member. When they were all ready, she pulled the curtain and closed the door to make sure that the chaotic, crowded, busy environment of the unit was transformed into a safe and warm place for family to grieve. The breathing tube was removed, and the patient passed peacefully.