A patient was struggling with overwhelming pain, having survived a terrible trauma both emotionally and physically. This individual had been hospitalized for weeks, undergoing significant treatment with outcomes that changed the entire course of their life and that of their family. Throughout the healing process, the patient experienced intense pain and was under the care of the pain services team, relying on medications to tolerate recovery. As with many patients’ journeys, the time eventually came to reduce pain medication and prepare for the journey home. This transition often brings anxiety, frustration, and decreased tolerance, and this patient’s experience was no different; it was a challenging time both emotionally and physically. Fortunately, the pain nurse assigned was Shawna.

Shawna is not only a skilled clinician but also empathetic, thoughtful, and kind. Shawna approaches anger and challenging conversations with calm curiosity, always actively seeking solutions. When Shawna visited, the patient's pain and irritation were apparent. Shawna could have explained the care plan, kindly reinforced that this transition is complex, and reviewed the available pain management options. However, being the compassionate professional she is, Shawna chose a different path. With gentle encouragement, Shawna introduced the patient to new ways of coping and the power of distraction and redirection, a simple yet profound approach to pain management that can be difficult to implement when someone is struggling and resistant. To put this into practice, Shawna brought in coloring pages and pencils, explaining the power of mindful distraction. With patience and kindness, Shawna encouraged the patient to redirect their mind from suffering toward small moments of peace. By the following day, it was clear that Shawna’s persistence had made a difference: the patient’s pain was less overwhelming, and their spirits had lifted.

Shawna’s actions show how much a caring nurse can change a patient’s experience. By going beyond routine care, she helps patients feel less alone and more hopeful. When she meets patients struggling with pain, she doesn’t just rely on medicines; she brings new ideas to help them cope, like encouraging coloring to distract from discomfort. Shawna’s kindness and patience make her patients feel seen and supported, even when things are tough. Her creative approach helps lift their spirits and gives them new ways to handle difficult moments. This not only eases their pain but also helps them believe in their ability to heal. By setting this example, Shawna inspires other caregivers to try new methods, care deeply, and remember that compassion can have a powerful impact, especially in challenging times.