Rheba works in our Coumadin Clinic; her job enables her to build relationships with her patients because of their frequent visits. Her patients let her know when they have company visiting, trips they are taking, and in general what is going on in their life. They also know when she is out and ask her about her vacation or what is going on in her life. I have seen her interactions with many of her patients, exhibiting kindness and concern for them. This is an example of what I was made aware of recently.
Rheba has a patient that had a cancer diagnosis in the past and had gone into remission for a while. She came in for her appointment recently and Rheba found out that her cancer had returned and Rheba explained to me how this time, it had really taken a toll on her; the patient was very weak and tired. She went on to explain that this elderly lady never complains and is always in a good mood, in fact when she was explaining about her illness and Rheba became a little emotional, the patient was comforting her. This patient also cares for her special needs adult daughter. She was not only trying to care for herself, but also meet her daughter's needs.
The day I was made aware of this situation, Rheba asked me if she could clock out for lunch and take a little longer break because she had prepared food for her patient and she wanted to be able to take it to her. She stated that she knew how weak this lady was and that it would difficult to prepare meals for herself and her daughter. The patient was very appreciative and grateful for this act of kindness that was shown her. I think this is a perfect example of seeing a need and taking action without being asked. Rheba is very kind to our patients and shows them that she cares on a daily basis.