Over the last seven months, our world has been rocked by COVID-19. But, we also have dealt with many other difficult situations.
This year, we have had four pediatric deaths, which were devastating to the staff and also the patient's families. I was present for three of these cases, and I was amazed by Marian and her ability to support staff, care for families, and keep the department going.
I learned so much about how to interact and care for a grieving family by watching Marian. She was able to guide the family and support them during their most difficult life event - the loss of their child.
After one of the recent child deaths, Marian instituted a memory box program. The box includes a plaster imprint of the child's hand, feet, (or both), a lock of their hair, a card from the staff, and a beautiful saying. Marian purchased the boxes by securing a donation and got them ordered right away.
Recently, we had to use our first box on a child who came to the ER and passed away. The box was made and presented to the family. They were grateful for the memory of their child and for the compassion it showed. This is also very healing for the staff after this type of death.
Marian Martin is a DAISY Nurse.