A 93-year-old dying patient asked Misa to help him discharge home so that he could be in familiar surroundings with his family in his final days. As Misa reviewed the notes from Oncology, Palliative, Hospice and the Chaplain, she discovered that his prognosis was indeed very poor and that the discharge plan was arranged to have him go home several days later when Hospice was available to see him in his home to support both him and his family. Knowing that this patient did not have much time to live, she took matters into her own hands by consulting the attending FIT MD who agreed to discharge the patient if Palliative was also in agreement. Misa anxiously awaited the arrival of the Palliative team that morning only to discover that there was no one in that day. Knowing from chart notes that this patient had a deep spiritual foundation, supportive family, Pastor and church friends, Misa felt very sure that this patient could successfully discharge home. Misa proceeded to call the Regional Palliative/Hospice team for the okay to proceed with discharge. She made all the necessary arrangements to support the patient and family until Hospice could be there several days later. The FIT MD wrote the orders and this patient was granted his wish to go home. Misa had him happily on his way with a grateful family by noon!
I truly believe that God placed Misa in this man's life that day. She was able to see the big picture and realize that it was more important to serve this patient and his family by changing the plan to meet his needs now and not just blindly follow what was already arranged. She made an impactful difference for this patient by honoring his desire to spend his last days at home with his family.