I worked this past Saturday. I was put on call, then called in by 8 a.m. for ICU. When I saw my patient's, I had a sinking feeling in my heart. One patient was post surgical, no problem. The other, I had cared for several times over the last few months, over the course of several hospitalizations. I knew I was in for a hard day. Patient's mom is also a nurse, and is very helpful with the patient, but when the nurses kid (twenty) is sick, soooo sick....somehow, the whole family because a patient by extention.
Unfortunately I could tell this was going to be a heart wrenching day, and within hours the family finally decided to honor the patient's wishes and made her a DNR. OMG, it was so hard. The families pain was so hard to bear, as they bravely helped their loved daughter thru her last hours.
After it was all over, the mom and sisters insisted on doing after-care and saying good-bye. I gave them their privacy. I don't think I have ever been so sad at work. The secretary said she had too leave our unit because I was making her cry! I was so glad to leave work that evening.
The next day was my birthday, and I was called off, so I was able to recoop. I have prayed for this sweet girl and her family every single day since. It really makes you realize how precious this life is and how short it can be.
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2 comments:
Oh my gosh.. you have me crying. I'm so sad for their loss. It sounds like a very loving family and what time she did have with them, it was precious and treasured.
I hope you had time on your birthday to relax after such a difficult day. *hugs* and happy belated birthday!
I remember those days in the ICU. Its almost like the sadness radiates out into the hallway. Everyone knows that something bad is happening. I am sure you gave that girl your best and took care of her family as well. Sometimes that is all we can ask for. Hope the day off (Happy Birthday!) helped you re-center!!!
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