May 2017
Meghan
Harvey
Edgecombe Community College
Rocky Mount
,
NC
United States
Meghan has demonstrated compassion, advocacy, and leadership on many occasions throughout nursing school--in both the classroom and clinical setting. The most recent example of these attributes came during her precepting rotation this spring. Her patient's last hours of life were closing in quickly, and family and friends were naturally concerned. As they struggled with the finality of the situation, they stayed continuously at their loved one's side--trying to offer comfort and care as much as they could. However, they were unaware that their constant presence was overwhelming for the patient who was unable to express her concerns in the fullness of that moment. The patient was in tears, restless and agitated at a time when total peace was desperately needed. Meghan stepped forward to be the voice of this patient--and asked the family to step out of the room so she could "talk with the patient". During this brief, quiet conversation alone with Meghan, the patient was finally able to voice her desires about family presence during her last few hours on earth. With compassion and professionalism at the forefront, Meghan became the voice for this patient at the very moment it was needed the most. The patient's wishes were honored, family's presence was respected, and her patient's last moments were full of peace. Without the compassion, advocacy and leadership of a student nurse, this scenario would have ended differently. Thank you, Meghan, for being the still, strong voice for your patient.