My first time

[TonyafutureRN]

Today was the first time I had a patient die in my care, or a person die in front of me for that matter. It wasn't a surprise at all since she was a hospice patient and the hospice nurses had told the family the night before that she probably wouldn't make it through the night. It was still hard though. She was unconcious and had her eyes slightly open. The family asked me to read to her from the bible if I didn't mind so that was what I did all morning and what I was doing when her breathing started slowing down. I had a feeling the end was coming so I turned to 23rd psalm which her regular caretaker (I was taking over for her for a few hours while she had her dialysis treatment) told me was the patient's favorite. I read that over a few times after calling hospice and her next of kin. I guess this is something every aide or nurse has to go through at one point. I just thought I'd write this to get my feelings out. Take care everyone. Tonya

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

What a wonderful thing you did giving spiritual care to this patient. Sometimes it's more important than all the physical care you can provide. I'm sure you greatly helped a family at this trying time of their lives.

What a great lesson you've shared. Kudos to you. Experiencing your first patient death is not easy. The memories of how peaceful a death can be if patient and famly prepared will serve you well in your career.

[oramar]

God bless you, this is the type of caring we all dream about when we become nurses. So glad you got a chance to do it.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Glad you had the time to spend with this patient. and that your first time went well.

[nursemary9, BSN, RN]

Dear Tonya,

You did a wonderful job for your "first time". I wish all of us could do it so well! It's so good you had the time.

This is what good nursing is all about! My thoughts and prayers are with you and this family!

[SmilingBluEyes]

Dear Tonya,

You did a wonderful job for your "first time". I wish all of us could do it so well! It's so good you had the time.

This is what good nursing is all about! My thoughts and prayers are with you and this family!

I agree; you did well Tonya. Good luck with your future career. You have a gift.

[FranEMTnurse, CNA, LPN, EMT-I]

You're definitely off to a good start Tonya. You did the very best thing any nurse could hope to have done. You sent her away in peace. God bless you, and if you continue to do things like that, you're going to be one fantastic nurse.

[mimslaru]

You handled a difficult time with dignity, grace and professionalism. Your caring clearly showed. You have obviously set the tone for your nursing career and it is one of demonstrated success.