We have had a mentally challenged patient on our floor for a while now. She is such a delight to be around. Her sister had been her primary caregiver for most of her adult life. Unfortunately, her sister brought her into the hospital for long-term placement as she couldn't take care of her on her own anymore due to her own age and decreasing health. During her stay, this patient had been pretty distraught about having to leave her sister and go somewhere unknown. Caitlyn was taking care of her recently and noticed it was her birthday. She came to me for assistance to help her gather staff willing to sing happy birthday to the patient.

With little effort really on my part, everyone was willing to come make this patient feel a little bit happier today. The entire 5E and 5W staff met outside her room in preparation. When we had permission to all come in, she looked shocked as to what was going to happen next. Caitlyn explained to her that we heard it was her birthday and we would like to sing to her.

She instantly agreed and the staff sang her happy birthday. The patient was so touched she started to cry. Caitlyn rubbed her shoulder for comfort and gave her a vanilla ice cream, her favorite, as she said she doesn't like cake.

Later while visiting this patient again, she told me she never had that many people sing for her like that before and she was never going to forget it. I nominate her for going above the role of nurse and providing this joyful service to our patient and for helping her feel cared for and loved in her time of need.