Lost a patient last night.........

[webblarsk]

I lost one of my favorite patients last night. But it was one of the most wonderful experiences. My patient had cancer of the larynx. He didn't have any family in town...........but had a handful of friends and a very devoted pastor that had taken him into the church family. I got the call yesterday afternoon that he was not doing so good. I arrived at the nursing home before anyone else. I sat down on the side of his bed, grabbed his hand and told him what a difference he had made in my life. This man had a sorted past but in the recent years had found a relationship with god. But towards the last few weeks he became anxious, not knowing if he was going to heaven. We did lots of spiritual counseling along with lots of visits to support and offer reassurance. So last night when I took his hand I told him not to be afraid. I stroked his hand. His pastor showed up shortly after that and we stayed with him till the end. Holding his hands and giving him comfort. At one point his sister called from Michigan and we held the phone to his ear to let her speak to him. He smiled off and on that evening and it was just a wonderfully peaceful experience. I just felt a renewed sense of a belief that there are still good people in this world. I don't know many pastor's in my area that would have stayed till the end and offered so much support. Anyways.........I hope this makes sense. I just had to tell my story. Thanks

[z's playa]

That is a really beautiful story. You went beyond the call of duty which is what I will probably do as well. This man was very lucky to have you there all the way to the end and there is no doubt in my mind you made all the difference in his life while supporting his beliefs. Feel proud!

PS. Ever think the pastor is saying the same things about you (staying till the end, renewed faith in the kindness of people) ?

Pretty neat thought.

[akcarmean, LPN]

Sarah that was a very touching and renewing story. You did something great for the man. This is one of the good sides of nursing being there with the pt. to help them throught whatever they need. Hats off to you:saint:

Angie

[leslie :-D]

often time is the most valuable gift we can give someone.

and that is exactly what you did.

you did a great service to your pt.

leslie

[stbernardclub]

very nice story...thanks for sharing :)

[Ashera, LPN]

What a beautiful experience for you! And what a gift he gave you - in letting you be a part of the most intimate part of his life - his death. Keep sharing you...you touch so many!

Pam