paul dukes, ASN, RN

Our unit cared for a "difficult" patient who was with us for over one year. He was a young man in his 40's who became a quadriplegic due to IV drug use. He demonstrated his anger and frustration by letting us know how much he "hated" all the staff. Two nurses, Paul and Paul, got along well with this patient and became close to him. The patient always wanted a drink, but being quadriplegic, he couldn't help himself. Paul and Paul used their own money, purchased a microphone stand, and created a device that allowed the patient to drink without asking for assistance. They gave this man back some of his independence.