Melissa Schulz
October 2023
Melissa
Schulz
,
BSN, RN
Case Management
Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital
Athens
,
OH
United States
It shows the behavior Melissa demonstrates on a daily basis: her compassion and ability to truly listen to the goals and needs of a patient, even when they aren't medical.
Melissa Schulz, RN is a case manager at OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital. I have worked with her for several years and am in constant awe of her dedication to her patients, her compassion, and her patience in listening to their unique needs. A particular story comes to mind during her recent care of a gentleman who became quite known to our department in the last 6 months.
Cancer and chronic respiratory issues led to multiple prolonged hospital stays. Melissa, who always takes the time to get to know her patients and their goals, became quite familiar with the man. It became clear after several admissions that his illness was not improving despite our best efforts, and the decision was made to transfer him to a larger hospital to offer him additional services. He expressed sadness that he wouldn't make it to his high school reunion. This event had been a huge milestone that he'd been looking forward to for months, but unfortunately, his condition would not warrant him to leave the hospital.
Transferring to Columbus sealed the deal that he wouldn't be able to attend. Despite this obstacle, Melissa was determined to ensure the man got to participate somehow in his reunion. She reached out to the man's contacts, and then to the care team at the larger hospital. Because of her efforts, the man was able to attend his reunion virtually. The man passed away a few weeks later. This is an incredibly touching story to me for so many reasons. It shows the behavior Melissa demonstrates on a daily basis: her compassion and ability to truly listen to the goals and needs of a patient, even when they aren't medical.
It also shows the collaboration of healthcare workers across disciplines and facilities for a common goal - inspiring and heartwarming. Melissa inspires us all in the ICU to do better and be better for our patients.
Cancer and chronic respiratory issues led to multiple prolonged hospital stays. Melissa, who always takes the time to get to know her patients and their goals, became quite familiar with the man. It became clear after several admissions that his illness was not improving despite our best efforts, and the decision was made to transfer him to a larger hospital to offer him additional services. He expressed sadness that he wouldn't make it to his high school reunion. This event had been a huge milestone that he'd been looking forward to for months, but unfortunately, his condition would not warrant him to leave the hospital.
Transferring to Columbus sealed the deal that he wouldn't be able to attend. Despite this obstacle, Melissa was determined to ensure the man got to participate somehow in his reunion. She reached out to the man's contacts, and then to the care team at the larger hospital. Because of her efforts, the man was able to attend his reunion virtually. The man passed away a few weeks later. This is an incredibly touching story to me for so many reasons. It shows the behavior Melissa demonstrates on a daily basis: her compassion and ability to truly listen to the goals and needs of a patient, even when they aren't medical.
It also shows the collaboration of healthcare workers across disciplines and facilities for a common goal - inspiring and heartwarming. Melissa inspires us all in the ICU to do better and be better for our patients.