I remember a patient, A, rolling up to the unit smiling. I welcomed her to the unit and she immediately let me know that her grandson was the voice of a famous animated character and she sounded so proud. Even though she is going through a lot, A came across as very chipper and talkative. Prior to A's discharge, I rounded on her. A spoke highly of the nursing care but especially Jackie. Jackie made such an impact on her. She instantly bonded with her. Something about Jackie just made her day better. She insisted on seeing her prior to going home and luckily Jackie was working and was able to say bye.
A couple of months ago Jackie comes up to me and says, "Remember A, the lady who asked for me? Well, I went to see her and she even played the accordion for me." I was surprised to hear this. Jackie was very happy to show me pictures and explained how it happened. A had called the nurses' station after discharge and asked for Jackie. They had a long conversation as if they were lifelong friends. A asked Jackie to come and visit her and she did. They talked, had lunch, and she played the accordion. They instantly bonded and became friends. They now talk on a regular basis. This past week, A got some difficult news and Jackie has reached out to her, just to be there, and even took her some ice cream.
Jackie is always bright and smiling. She has a very kind, caring, and friendly personality. She sees the patients as if they were her own grandmother, mother, or father. Her actions are genuine and she truly cares. She will go above and beyond, just because this is who she is. Not only is Jackie making a difference in A's life, but A is also making a difference for Jackie. Jackie develops a very strong rapport with her patients and during leadership rounds last week I was told by another patient that she would like to invite Jackie for coffee. Jackie exudes compassion in all her interactions with patients and their family members.