July 2020
Brenda
Alexander
,
RN
Oncology
Anne Arundel Medical Center
Annapolis
,
MD
United States

 

 

 

A couple of months ago we had a young cancer patient. He was newly diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Treatment options were limited. His family consisted of his wife, his 2-year-old daughter, and newborn son who had been born the week before his admission. While we strived to care for this young family, Brenda was the one who really reached out and developed a trusting and honest rapport with him and his wife. When we all realized he was terminal and that he only had days to live, Brenda cared for him and his family.
At some point she realized he had on an electronic monitoring device and, wanting the patient to be comfortable and have some dignity at the end of his life, she called the proper authorities and had the ankle bracelet removed. Regardless of what he had done, Brenda treated him with the greatest respect and kindness. Her actions did not go unnoticed by his family and even after he passed away, Brenda stayed in touch with his wife. Brenda then organized a Thanksgiving basket donation so the family wouldn't have to worry about buying items for Thanksgiving dinner.
Just today the patient's wife came to visit the unit with the babies and couldn't help but express her appreciation to the unit, especially Brenda. The overflowing basket of goodies was given to her. This is just one example of how Brenda treats her patients and their families. She is a true DAISY Nurse.