Makenna rotated with me on HC5. During one clinical shift, she was assigned to what would be her first experience with an actively dying patient who was on comfort measures. The patient was anticipated to expire during our 12-hour shift, and Makenna was anxious. The patient’s wife came out of the room distraught at the passing of her husband. Makenna was standing at the desk by the room. Makenna, without missing a beat, took her hands and shared how very sorry for her loss she was and that she would have the physician paged right away. The staff and I were absolutely floored at her compassion and calm manner. She demonstrated obvious compassion toward the family and behaved in a manner far above the expectation of a student at her level. 

A short time later we were preparing to perform the post mortem care of the patient, and a family member wished to stay and be present until the patient was transported. Makenna provided such delicate and compassionate care. She led her peers who assisted her with clear direction and courteous communication. I was present for the care and was moved by her approach, empathy, and compassion. She behaved like an experienced nurse and interacted with this family during one of the worst and most emotionally charged events. Her care, compassion, and leadership were so obvious and heartfelt that the family member who remained present sought me out to express how much she appreciated Makenna and wanted to make sure I understood how special it was to see her interacting with her family and her loved one.

Makenna truly demonstrated compassion and empathy so valued in nursing, that we as nurses would want for ourselves and for our loved ones.