Tara Souza spent an entire night with a difficult patient in labor. Her patient had suffered extensive trauma. As a result of her history, the patient coped poorly in labor. She was abusive to Tara, screamed at her, was angry at her, and accused her of many things unfairly. The patient was in pain and had no true support. The patient suffered from PTSD, and took out all of her fear and frustration on Tara. However, Tara was at her bedside all night. She was calm and friendly. She gave her physical support by rubbing her back and gentle massage.
Tara provided as much emotional support as possible. She was patient and encouraging, even when the patient pushed for 4.5 hours until she finally had a vaginal birth. Tara never left her and never gave up, even when the patient tried to give up a dozen times.
Ultimately, the patient was able to express that she was grateful and hopes that Tara knows how much she impacted the patient positively, even if it was a difficult experience. In the end, the patient has serious mental and social difficulties that came out as anger and abuse towards her Nurse. Tara could have had a negative reaction back or traded assignment. Instead, she truly held it together to be a positive force, and I am sure this patient in her way will be appreciative. Tara - you are a star!!