December 2021
Laronda
Smith
,
RN, BSN
ICU/DOU
Kern Medical
Bakersfield
,
CA
United States
Laronda went into the room and held his hand and prayed with him. She stayed in the room so he wouldn't go alone.
I started my training in the ICU and was filled with excitement and thrill. I will never forget one of my first patients. An 80-year old John Doe with no family and no name. He had been with us for about a week. An indigent, who was run over by a car. During his stay, he was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer with mets. On full life support and with a poor diagnosis, I recall the doctors ordered comfort care. As a new nurse, I will never forget what Laronda did. She went into the room and held his hand and prayed with him. She stayed in the room so he wouldn't go alone. I have always admired her work ethic and kind demeanor. She always has a bright smile and is ready to help the patients, their families, and the staff. I want to thank her for her work, her service, and the kindness she continues to spread.