Each of the nurses in the Peds ARU demonstrates caring and compassion for the patients who are seen each day. Tayler went above and beyond with a patient who demonstrated in the clinic a fear of immunizations. Moments into the visit, the patient became anxious and refused to proceed with the planned immunization. Team support was continued until Tayler noticed that the patient’s anxiety increased with the interventions. At this time, with the patient’s permission, she asked to work with the patient individually. Patiently, she developed a rapport and inch by inch moving toward completing the immunization. The process continued for an hour. Gradually she was able to complete the procedure. As the team debriefed, she shared that the reason she persisted is that she knew he wanted to be successful but his fear took over.

A few weeks later the patient returned to complete the immunization protocol. Once again Tayler exhibited compassion and patience. The process once again was completed over a length of time. She allowed the patient the time needed to control his anxiety and become ready. Realizing the anxiety this patient was battling and providing him the time needed to complete the immunizations demonstrates compassion and understanding. She met this patient where he was and supported him throughout.