September 2020
Kristine
Kinney
,
BSN, RN
Mother Baby Unit
SwedishAmerican Hospital
Rockford
,
IL
United States
Kristine was caring for a mother who was trying her best to breastfeed. The mother was having difficulties and experiencing soreness so Kristine decided to order a special cream that would provide some relief. Unfortunately, the patient's insurance would not cover the cream, and the patient said she wouldn't be able to afford to cover the cost. Kristine decided to pay for the cream out of her own pocket. She felt compelled to do this because she thought if the family wasn't able to afford the cream, then breastfeeding was probably very important and necessary financially. The cream would allow the mother to continue her breastfeeding journey. Kristine only notified the oncoming nurse of her generosity and did not tell the patient because didn't want to make a "big deal" out of a "small gesture". This is a great example of the type of nurse and coworker we all should aspire to be.