Michelle gave wonderful care to a recent patient with liver failure. The patient was from out of state and had very few visitors, causing her depression to deepen. After seeing the nail polish chipping more and more as the patient's length of stay increased, Michelle decided to do something about it. During her lunch break, Michelle went to the hospital's gift shop to buy the patient some new nail polish for this patient. After returning to the unit, Michelle quickly ate her lunch to allow her more time to give the patient a manicure. The patient loved every second of her manicure and time spent with Michelle.
During this time spent with the patient, Michelle learned that the patient loved Taylor Swift and her music. Thankfully for youtube.com, Michelle played several songs for the patient while providing cares throughout her shifts. As the patient became more coherent and gained some of her strength back, Michelle taught the patient a dance to Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off." This song and dance brought the patient back to life! She wanted all the staff, nurses and providers alike, to see her dance. Other nurses would come in and do the dance with the patient, putting smiles on everyone's face.
Unfortunately, the patient was not able to receive a liver transplant before she passed away. A couple weeks after the patient's death, I had the privilege of receiving a phone call from the patient's son. He thanked us for all of the care we provided and mentioned her singing and dancing with the staff. He reflected on how excited his mom became when the nurses came in the room to do the dance. His only wish was that someone had a video of her doing the dance as that is the memory he wants to be able to remember forever.
Without Michelle taking the time to get to know her patients, none of this would have been possible. This is one story about one patient. Michelle goes above and beyond for all of her patients and deserves this recognition or more!