June 2015
Melaney
Mcgaugh
,
RN ADN, BSAg, MSEd, SANE
Emergency Services
University Hospital
Columbia
,
MO
United States
A patient was brought to us after his family contacted authorities with concerns he was in need of assistance with his ADLS. The patient hadn't had a shower/bath in over 9 months and had incontinence issues as well. The patient was oriented and was almost tearfully stating "I just don't want to fall." Melaney (and Erika Durdle, PCT) innovated and took the patient to our SANE room shower-it could accommodate a WC-our other shower had a bench but not a hand-held shower head. She rolled up her scrub pants and gave the patient a full shower. I watched as Melaney talked to this patient with compassion and kindness as she cleaned his beard and brushed his hair and the thought occurred to me: THIS is why I'm a nurse, what a great example of care. This display of teamwork, caring, delivering, innovating and serving all while treating this patient with such dignity. By the end, the patient was smiling and laughing and completely at ease. Melaney is a role model to all of our staff in providing patient centered care.