Karen stayed with me when I was having a severe autistic panic attack. She called the nurses' station to let them know that I was okay but that she was staying in my room. Karen called for the heaviest black blanket on the unit. I was laying on the floor between my bed and the window for two reasons; first, I need the small space and second, I was so hot that I needed the cold of the floor.
Karen stayed with me for what felt like an hour. Her motherly instincts kicked in and she was rubbing my knee, knowing that touching was not allowed. She cared more about me than herself.
The following work day she brought in a book of inspirations. It was too much for me, but she did not give up. The next time she brought eight pages of short self-esteem pages. She sat with me in my room for one last talk and shared some favorite quotes. Karen said, "these may help you when you are ready". Awesome nurse.