During one of the hectic weeks in the hospital dealing with COVID, Capacity Red, and ICUs full, PACU was designated as an ICU overflow unit. On this particular day in January, PACU received an ICU overflow patient transfer requiring day of comfort extubation. It was determined the PACU setting would provide the best environment for the patient and family during this difficult time of letting go of a loved one and allowing the patient to transition as peacefully as possible.
Julia Morse (Jules) was assigned to manage this patient and coordinate needs with RT and family members. Ms. Morse facilitated the extubation with RT, arranged for spiritual and emotional support for the patient and her two sons at the bedside. Recognizing that the sons were uncomfortable sitting there, they said their goodbyes and opted to wait in the waiting room for the patient to expire. Seeing the patient was alone, Jules provided excellent nursing care to the patient. She went above and beyond by providing a caring bath, singing to the patient, and when I rounded the corner to check on the patient's status, I witnessed Jules holding the dying patient's hand and reading scripture to her. I know in my heart this patient had to feel Jules's acts of kindness and compassion and more importantly know she was not alone.
At that moment in time with everything else going on in PACU at max capacity, Jules demonstrated one of the most selfless acts and made that patient feel as though she was the only person that mattered. This demonstration of human kindness and compassion is a core measure of being a nurse, Jules went above and beyond in this case and for that I am grateful. She is a true DAISY Nurse.