RN Trombley and I were the primary day/night nurses for a baby diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfefcta (OI). It was unknown if Baby K would even survive delivery and, if she did, it was pre-planned that only comfort care would be provided so as not to induce unnecessary pain (OI is also known as “brittle bone disease,” and antenatal scans showed Baby K had multiple fractures at many different stages of healing). At the time of delivery, Baby K needed CPAP but was able to transition to a high-flow nasal cannula, allowing her parents more time with her than they ever expected.

Unfortunately, due to Baby K’s respiratory status, she could not safely eat by mouth, and her extremely brittle bones made it nearly impossible to hold her, let alone feed her. After spending almost an entire shift with the family, RN Trombley was able to convince them to allow her to place a nasogastric tube so that Baby K could receive some sort of nutrition (she had not received any type of feedings or fluids since birth, and would at some point deteriorate to the point of death). Mom was able to pump breastmilk for Baby K (which was highly beneficial for both mom and baby) and provided the necessary nutrition Baby K needed to survive for as long as she did. To everyone’s surprise (including the parents’), Baby K spent an entire week on this Earth before she went to Heaven.

During that time, RN Trombley facilitated getting the family off-unit privileges so they could take family photos outside (something they will cherish forever). There were several days that I would come in to get report from RN Trombley and would find handmade bows and onesies she had made for Baby K. I know the family was extremely appreciative of all of the care and additional time they had with Baby K. I firmly believe everything RN Trombley did to advocate for Baby K and her family ultimately led to more time together. RN Trombley is a nurse anyone would aspire to be, as she has a heart of gold and truly advocates for her patients.