Liza was instrumental in the coordination of care for her patient who was nearing the end of life. When Liza arrived for her shift, she quickly identified that this patient was decompensating quickly despite having goals of full treatment. She immediately called the physician team to touch base about the plan of care, and advocated that they come to the bedside as soon as possible to see how the patient's condition had changed overnight.
While speaking with the patient and her husband at the bedside, Liza gracefully discussed the status of the patient, how her condition had changed and why she had called the doctors to the bedside. The patient and her husband were undecided about what their goals of care should be, and Liza compassionately articulated the seriousness of her condition. The physician team arrived to the bedside and a discussion between health care team and the family clarified that the patient's goals were to focus on her comfort.
Liza advocated that the husband speak with the rest of their family (who were not present), and soon the patient's family were by her side. This advocacy proved to be beyond meaningful, as the patient soon became unresponsive. Because Liza initiated conversations, supported the husband and patient with their decisions, and used her clinical reasoning to identify the pressing time-line, she was able to encourage family to come to the bedside and see their loved one before she became unresponsive. They were able to say their goodbyes, share words of love, and the patient was able to see that she was surrounded by those she cared about. If this plan of care had been delayed even minimal hours, the patient and family may have missed these important last moments.
Liza identified a change in clinical status, communicated clearly with health care team and patient's family and advocated for swift intervention. I am confident that this family will forever be thankful for Liza and the extraordinary care she gave, as she truly made a difference in the life of the patient and her family. She exemplified what it means to put our patients at the center of the care equation, showing them respect and treating them as individuals at each and every opportunity.