Melissa is a little bundle of energy that radiates from her as she goes about her job. She has a smile that goes from ear to ear and can light up my day especially during stressful times. She epitomizes the Mission statement of Providence caring and easing her patient's way. One incident comes to mind that showed the qualities of caring and compassion that Melissa has.

An elderly patient of Japanese culture was admitted several times over the last year. This patient spoke limited English and was very stoic not wanting to offer any complaints. She was also at the end of her cancer treatment and discussions started about stopping any further treatment. This was difficult for the family; they wanted her comfortable but also wanted her to be able to enjoy the rest of her life. She was the matriarch of this family and very important to them. The way that Melissa communicated her caring to the patient and family helped diffuse the anxiety they all felt. Melissa was able to develop a plan of pain control for the patient that dealt with her pain but did not make her too sedated. She also developed a way to communicate with the patient to find out what her wishes were and give her respect and independence even though she was very dependent on others to care for her.

This type of nursing care cannot be taught but comes from the heart. This is the way Melissa takes care of all her patients with clinical skill and a caring heart.