Nils (Petter) Norrlof
November 2024
Nils (Petter)
Norrlof
,
RN
Wound ostomy care
University of Virginia Health
Charlottesville
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

He engaged Mr. X in conversations that lightened the mood, allowing him to feel more at ease. By setting small, achievable goals, Petter empowered him to take ownership of his care.
I would like to nominate Petter for the DAISY Award in recognition of his extraordinary care and dedication as a Wound Ostomy Continence Nurse. Recently, Petter worked with Mr. X, a young male patient who had experienced a major trauma that included broken limbs and a diverting ileostomy. This patient was struggling to manage his new ileostomy due to homelessness and an injured hand. He had to be readmitted for complications.

Upon his readmission, Mr. X was understandably angry and frustrated. His circumstances had left him feeling overwhelmed and powerless. Peter approached the situation with compassion and a unique ability to connect with Mr. X. He understood that addressing his emotional state was as crucial as teaching him the technical aspects of ostomy care. Petter employed humor and kindness to break the ice. He engaged Mr. X in conversations that lightened the mood, allowing him to feel more at ease. By setting small, achievable goals, Petter empowered him to take ownership of his care. Each step forward, no matter how minor, was celebrated, helping to build Mr.X's confidence. Petter was also honest and straightforward in addressing really hard family dynamics and the debilitating impact of the patient's anger on his decision-making.

Recognizing the need for a collaborative approach, Petter worked closely with the occupational therapist and bedside nurses to develop a tailored plan. Together, they adapted techniques to optimize Mr. X's use of his injured hand, allowing him to learn how to empty and pouch his ostomy independently. The focus on offering choices--whether it was selecting the supplies or determining the best way to perform each task--further enhanced Mr. X's sense of control over his health. Mr. X made remarkable progress. He moved from being an angry, anxious patient to an individual ready to manage his own ostomy. Thanks to Petter's leadership and dedication, Mr. X was able to leave the hospital safely. He was discharged to home with extended family rather than a homeless shelter. This not only addressed his physical health but also set the foundation for his emotional and social well-being.

Petter's compassion and commitment to connecting with Mr. X, collaborating with the healthcare team, and fostering autonomy made a profound difference in this patient's life. Petter inspired our whole team with this example of exceptional, empathetic, effective nursing!