Melissa took care of a new patient with newly diagnosed congestive heart failure, diabetes, and kidney disease. He was here for an angiogram where both of his legs were found to have bad heart disease. He needed bypass surgery. During his stay, he became difficult at times since his control was taken away. He was here for over a week and developed a relationship with Melissa.
At one point the cardiologist talked about his plan of care and Melissa noticed with her attention to detail his anxiety increasing. She literally noticed him holding his breath while not understanding and listening to what the doctor was saying. She told the doctor to pause until the patient could take some deep breaths. After that, the patient was able to sign the consent for his last angiogram where he had four stents placed.
After Dr. L left the bedside, Melissa took a long period of time to sit down with the patient and talk about how he was self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. Knowing that he wasn't telling his wife of his activities, she maintained confidentiality to have the conversation away from family. She maintained trust and authenticity with the patient as she took the time to explain that everyone needs help and loses control at times. She went above and beyond to teach strategies and give tips on how to cope with anxiety when obstacles are thrown at you.
One of the strategies she taught was stress release utilizing a rubber band, counting to ten and deep breathing, and how to maintain a grateful heart. She could identify with the patient from her own experiences with family and anxiety. She was able to relate to the patient showing empathy and compassion. She brought the Case Management team together to get items needed for diabetes, aid to help pay for his medications while making sure that he understood all the important appointments that he needed after his discharge. She also brought in the care navigator to set him up for success.
Going out of her way to make sure that this patient was taken care of displays what kind of nurse Melissa is. She embodies the values that we embrace and truly has displayed so in the way she guided this patient to live for a better world.