In the early morning hours, I sat with my father-in-law as he was quite incapacitated both physically and cognitively with severe Alzheimer's. My concerns were numerous as I watched him at the age of 89 begin his path or journey home. But as one, with no medical background who always questioned especially the "why" of certain procedures, Tarah appeared in his room as his night nurse. It was at this time I began the questioning as to "why this catheter, he hadn't had problems at home?" She explained to me the history of prostate difficulties especially in older men and how that affects urination. She also explained that when he was admitted he had retained urine and couldn't expel it and that on top of the administration of fluid IV, that his (due to dehydration) body couldn't pass the fluid he didn't need. She was so kind, not condescending in her explanation which was so very helpful. I do know she did not have to take the time to continue answering the questions I had about his previous night of severe sundowners and the amount of medication of Adavan/Haldol he was given. Tarah kept explaining why procedures are done and what they are for.
Today as we look at my father-in-law as he is truly terminally ill, I think back on the moments she spent caring for him and taking the time to "care" for "us" his family as we sought a way to keep him with us with all the "why" questions. Tarah is a nurse who not only cared for the patient, she cared for all of us who loved him! Thank you, Tarah!
Note: This is Tarah's 2nd DAISY Award!