August 2024
Shequila
Edwards
,
MSN, RN PHN
Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center
Baltimore
,
MD
United States
She spent hours with the family, providing them with whatever they needed to help them cope.
Shequila was the primary nurse for a code, and she acted quickly. What made her stand out was what she did after. It was one family member present and once the code was over, Shequila offered support by staying with her until more family members arrived. She also showed support and compassion in ways above and beyond the role of a nurse! She listened to stories and looked at pictures, BUT most importantly, she waited for the family to get a bar of soap to wash the patient. Shequila ended up washing the patient with soap and water with about 6-7 family members. She also remained in the room when the family insisted that the patient’s 12-year-old daughter wash the patient’s face due to cultural/spiritual beliefs. After everything, Shequila even placed the body in the bag with the patient’s mother and zipped it out. She spent hours with the family, providing them with whatever they needed to help them cope. I can only imagine how emotionally exhausted she was after being a support system and nurse for such a big family and their needs.