For the whole week, Kristina took care of a particular patient as well as the week prior. This patient came in with minimal symptoms and presented as a very active older woman. During her admission, she became very ill. The patient was told she had metastatic cancer and quickly deteriorated. Kristina was at the family's side every day supporting and helping them through this. She told the family they should bring their mom's beloved dog in to be by her side to make her day brighter.
The same day the daughter brought the dog in the oncologist delivered the diagnosis. Kristina stood by the patient's side while she received the information. Had the dog not been there, I do not think the patient would have been able to handle the news she received. As the week progressed, the patient became even sicker and ended up being admitted into hospice care. Kristina continued to carry out the patient's wishes and kept her comfortable until the last day she was her nurse. She held the patient's hand while she took her last breaths. She then called the family to deliver the news that the patient had died. They responded to Kristina that she "was an angel'"