A couple of weeks ago, a patient of ours was discharging to another facility. The patient had a brain injury and suffered from aphasia. Unable to understand many things or to voice needs/wants clearly. Over time this patient was with us, Jack built a special, trusting relationship with her. When it was time for the patient to DC, the patient was angry and scared, yelling, refusing to go and all of the patient's usual care providers were unable to redirect the patient. Transportation was on the floor with the stretcher, waiting to transport the patient. All other staff members stepped back as the patient grew increasingly angry and Jack stepped in. Jack spent an hour and a half with the patient, building on their trusting relationship, and was eventually able to convince the patient to get on the stretcher. Jack rode on the ambulance and helped the patient to get settled at the new facility. Jack was a constant advocate for the patient, was so patient and kind, and was able to successfully and safely get the patient to the new facility.
Since meeting Jack, I am proud to say I have witnessed a young man grow so much as a nurse, but think it's important to note that beneath all that growth was a strong foundation of an incredibly kind, generous, thoughtful, and compassionate person. Jack is the type of person who would give the shirt off his back, even if the recipient already had 5 shirts, with no questions asked. Our staff and patients are lucky to have him!