During the peak of our Delta COVID surge, I received a patient from Rhonda. This was a very sick patient who needed to be intubated as she was rapidly deteriorating. She had been refusing intubation because she was terrified she might not survive. Rhonda brought the patient to the ICU, but she didn't just give a quick report and head on her way, because she knew how anxious this patient was.

Rhonda stayed with her patient. She combed her hair, she talked calmly with the patient and the patient's husband explaining what was happening. I was busy, this ended up being one of 4 patients we intubated that day. I was racing to get equipment and meds and all the things that needed to be done. Having Rhonda stay with the patient and her husband gave them such calm.

At the time, we didn't know it, but these would end up being the last moments this couple would spend together when they were able to talk together. I felt so much peace knowing that her last moments awake with her husband were as calm as they could be, and that her hair was combed. Thank you, Rhonda, for being such a big-hearted compassionate nurse. I feel proud to work by your side!