We had a patient that was critically ill in the ICU. This patient was on every drip available, EV 1000, intubated, lined, and unresponsive. The family was at the bedside struggling with being able to take in everything and overwhelmed with what was happening.
Tess went into the room and went system by system, explaining everything in the simplest of terms to the family. She spoke slowly and calmly. She paused often to allow the family to take in what she was saying. She explained what we could offer here, which was everything we were already doing, and possible options that Main Campus might be able to offer.
Finally, she apologized to the family if what she was telling them seemed harsh or brutal, but she wanted them to fully understand what their loved one was facing. "I need to be 100% honest with you because that is the right thing to do. I know it hurts and I am so sorry for that."
She also explained the ICU plan, including following up on calling Main regarding bed availability and kept the family up to speed as she followed through with what she said she would do. That patient went to Main in the following few hours. That family was better prepared for the possibilities that lied ahead for them because of Tess. She is one of our best CNP's. She is kind, compassionate and one of the most intelligent nurses the Clinic has to offer.
The ICU can be a harsh brutal place. Tess makes it bearable for our patients and families. Today is just another example of her helping families cope and understand that we are here for them. She knows how to connect. We are a better ICU because of her.