shelly lilja, BSN, RN

During the discharge of a psych patient, Shelly was reviewing the discharge instructions and safety plan with the patient. The patient became distressed and began pacing. Ultimately the patient sat down on the floor in the doorway of the room. Shelly suggested that the patient sit on the chair or bed, but the patient refused. Shelly had the option of insisting the patient leave the doorway and stand up from the floor, however, after appropriately assessing the patient was not causing a disruption or posing harm to anyone, instead joined the patient on the floor and discussed the patient's distress and was able to successfully complete discharge. Shelly recognized that the patient needed, in that moment, a measure of control and autonomy. Instead of leaving the patient alone on the floor or forcing a situation that could have quickly escalated, she joined her patient on the floor, offering understanding and compassion.
I believe Shelly's willingness to be humble, compassionate and in the trenches of nursing, make her a true DAISY Nurse. I only wish it had been appropriate to take a picture! Truly a touching sight!