Angela's work in the antepartum unit with one patient, in particular, was outstanding and showed excellence in skill and care above and beyond the expected scope of nursing practice. To say J was a difficult patient would be an understatement. She yelled, screamed, cussed, and made life difficult for any who crossed her path. Dietary refused to enter her room and most nurses, because of the abuses heaped on them at every opportunity, provided the care J needed and otherwise avoided any unnecessary contact. J hated everyone who walked into her room, except Angela. Angela made every effort to show J kindness. She accepted her assignment without complaining. She even went so far as to make sure J had a baby shower during her extended stay on her own dime. And she did all this while suffering the harsh language and treatment of a patient whose anger was almost insurmountable. Her patience afforded a few break-through moments where J felt safe enough to share pieces of her traumatic story and Angela listened quietly, calmly, and without judgment. J came to accept Angela as a friend and began to listen to her and, while she still did what she wanted, knew that Angela would accept her, despite her behavior.
Having the opportunity to watch Angela interact with J reminded me that nurses aren't nurses because of what we'll get out of the job. Sometimes we just have to meet the need, whether ever acknowledged or not. Angela sacrificed herself to meet needs J did not even know she had. Her nursing skills are excellent, but the care, concern, and compassion she showed J was above what anyone else would or could have done. Witnessing her behavior in response to such great pain and anger made me proud to be on her team.