Patti King demonstrated the standards of excellence for ICU nurses when she went above and beyond the scope of her duties. Family meeting was called with spouse and 2 grown daughters to determine the Goals of Care for an intubated patient with multiple medical issues. His prognosis was dismal. Family opted for comfort care to allow a natural death. Patti was the primary nurse and she exhibited great compassion and patience towards the family as they asked questions, sometimes the same questions, as they were trying to make a decision about comfort care. The biggest fear of the family was that patient would suffer when he was liberated from the breathing tube.
As the process began, the patient had his eyes closed and he was and looked peaceful. Just as the patient was liberated he opened his eyes and raised his arms about two inches off the bed. The family got very alarmed and upset. Patti was at the bedside. She held the patient's hand and assured the family that the patient was comfortable. She spoke to them in a calm comforting way. She spoke to the patient in the same way and encouraged the family to speak to the patient too. She stayed with the patient and family and helped them through a most difficult time. She showed compassion, generosity and the skill that it takes to be an exemplary ICU Nurse.
Patti consistently exhibits professionalism, compassion, team work and dedication to excellent patient care. She easily engages the patients and families with her easy going spirit and her sense of humor. She is an asset to Orange Regional Medical Center.