February 2015
Brenda
Rubel
,
ADN, RN
Acutity Adaptable Cardiac/Renal Stepdown Unit
Mercy Health Saint Mary's
Grand Rapids
,
MI
United States

 

 

 

While caring for this patient, Brenda Rubel knew she had to help him and the best way to do that was to find a way to connect with him. Brenda spent most of her shift reminding the patient that she was there to work with him and help him, not punish and control him. The patient wrote these words for her nomination:

"Brenda was amazing. She took time to really listen to me and care for me as a person. I finally feel joy in my life. This is the first time in a very long time. Thank you!"

This was true compassionate nursing! She took the time to care and now the patient is being cooperative and talking in a normal tone as we work through his issues. What a difference when Brenda just took the time to listen and care! In the following days she worked to get him out of restraints where he could sit at the edge of his bed and enjoy a Popsicle."