Verdi 4 west is a medical unit with patients over the age of 65. Patients in this age group may have delirium and dementia which can be very challenging to care for. Sam excels with this population. She takes the time to learn about their likes and dislikes. Often using music therapy to calm and comfort patients in distress often leading to less use of physical or chemical restraints.
Sam has created a connection with many patients but one, in particular, stands out. NB was a patient who was with us for about a year. Sam developed a bond with this patient and often provided comfort in the absence of her family. Sam would play her music and dance with NB. NB would not remember Sam's name or role in the hospital, but she remembered how she made her feel. She would light up and smile when she saw Sam walk in every morning and get upset and ask her where she was going every night when leaving. NB was happier and in less distressed when Sam was here with her.
There were two different occurrences when Sam made a significant difference in NB's life and care. On the day she was leaving us NB was very afraid and confused because she spent so much time with us. She did not understand why we were packing her things and trying to get her on a stretcher. Sam came in on her day off to help NB with the transition. She comforted NB and ensured her everything would be okay. She even went with NB in the ambulance and helped her get settled into the new place. The second occurrence was once NB was there. We often went together to visit her and spend time with her. NB always remember Sam and was always happy to see her. NB was very particular about her care and what she wore. The new facility did not have the specific underpants and pads that she was used to. Sam brought some over for her to make her more comfortable. Even though she was not a patient on our floor anymore Sam was still caring for her and ensuring she was taken care of.