Leah and I inherited a patient one morning that was actively dying in our intensive care unit. I was blown away by Leah's thoughtful approach to caring for this gentleman and his family during such a traumatic time. His family knew him to be someone who would want all procedures and life-saving measures, yet we had met a point of no return where it was clear our best efforts would only keep him alive another few moments to hours.
Leah coordinated his care with absolute grace. She had a calming presence over the room. At one point, the family's goals for our patient changed to keep him alive so they could see him and say goodbye. Leah gave him every chance of that and was able to keep the patient alive for his wife and sons to see him one last time. She constantly ensured the patient's comfort.
After the provider team discussed the goals of care with the family and left the room, the family ruminated on what the patient would want given the rapid deterioration. Leah was there to unpack their feelings, questions, and worries while also juggling multiple meds, communication with the provider team, and staying on top of changes in orders.
After some time, the family determined to transition to comfort measures, and I believe this was because Leah was so open and forthcoming in her delicate communication with the family. I am so honored to work alongside her. I was and am still absolutely blown away by her compassion and equanimity.