May 2025
Glenn
Bourgoin
,
BSN, RN
Med Surg/Swing
Northern Maine Medical Center
Fort Kent Main
,
ME
United States
While Glen was on duty, we were able to get some rest because he was watching over us.
My brother was in ICU receiving Care and Comfort as he approached the end of life. My sister-in-law, niece, and her husband, along with me, made sure someone was with my brother 24/7. Glen was our overnight nurse for one night. When his shift began, Glen made sure to explain what his role was and then asked us what he could do for us, the caregivers. He went on to say that we, as a family, should take care of ourselves during this difficult time and ensure that we have everything we need to get through it. To ensure that my brother was comfortable, he worked with the staff and us to find the best position possible to lie in. It turned out to be the position that gave my brother the best sleep he had during his 7-day stay. That position was also the go-to whenever my brother was uncomfortable. My sister-in-law and I were spending the night with my brother. Glen volunteered to check in on my brother and us every hour so we could rest and know he was okay. This was in addition to having to give my brother medications every 2 hours. I sensed him coming into the room a couple of times. During the time he came in to check on everything, he would stand a couple of feet away from my brother, watch, and listen to ensure my brother was resting comfortably and breathing. In addition, he would look around to be sure that my sister-in-law and I were sleeping and okay. Also, when he did come into the room to reposition and give meds to the patient, he was so quiet that you could barely hear him. At one point, I became nervous about my brother's breathing and had to get Glen. He immediately came into the room and assured us that all was good. I was concerned that I had bothered him, but he assured me that that was why he was there and not to hesitate if I needed him again. While Glen was on duty, we were able to get some rest because he was watching over us. His coming in to check on everyone during the off hours to administer the meds was above and beyond his nightly duties. His concern extended not only to the sick patient but also to the caregivers.