Birth and death are natural parts of our lives. Having a baby is usually a joyous occasion, death, on the other hand is difficult. It causes pain, anger, wonder, and many other emotions. In nursing, death isn't just a part of life it's also our work. Sometimes, the hardest part is consoling the family that will be left behind. The family may have had to make a difficult decision for someone who can't, they need time to gather family and friends and to say goodbyes. In critical care, nurses play a major role in the dying phase. Educating family on what to expect, addressing questions, being honest, and an active listener.
This particular day I helped transition a young man to comfort care. I had a special connection to the family and as I handed of report to this night shift nurse, there wasn't a doubt in my mind she was just the right person to take care of them. Shortly after the RN assumed care, the young man passed away. This nurse bathed and cleaned the patient, fixed his hair, made him presentable, and gave mom and brother as much alone time with their son and brother as they needed. She also made fingerprints for them, cut a lock of hair and printed a sweet poem out, and put his handprint over the top of the words of the poem for the mother to frame and keep. This nurse helped ease the transition from life to death. She has been blessed with a special gift, I know the family will never forget her.