Claris Mua, BSN, RN

The care was for my aged father. Our night nurse during our stay was Claris Mua. I have been my father's primary caregiver for the past four years, and juggling his health issues, work, the house, and everything else has been challenging. His unexpected visit to the ER and subsequent admission felt like a tipping point for me. My father is very easily confused, with undiagnosed but suspected mild to progressive dementia. It often takes several attempts before he understands or accepts what is happening, and he has a fear of losing control. One particular evening was exceedingly challenging; he misunderstood what was being said to him and refused his nighttime medications, as well as the insertion of another IV for his antibiotics. I have given my contact information to all the staff, with express permission to call me if they need help while I step away.

On this occasion, even after I explained the situation and convinced him to agree to follow the nurse's directions, he still refused to listen and denied all medications and assistance when I walked into his room. Frustrated, angry, disappointed, and worried, I believed I was facing a losing battle. Despite my attempts to reason with him, he remained uncooperative, even after I shed tears of frustration and resignation. Then came Claris, with their soothing and nurturing voice and manner. They patted my back and simply said we would take it one step at a time. While I sat down to hide my pent-up tears, they calmly spoke to my dad, explained everything again, and assured him that he would not be hurt and that he was safe. Their quiet calm and approach had a profound effect on me as well. They managed to get him laughing and even received multiple apologies from him for his behavior. Without saying a word, they handed me a box of tissues, which meant the world to me in that moment. I could cry for the situation at hand, and for all the times I hadn’t before.

As I write this, I find myself crying again. Claris's simple approach and calm demeanor in handling what could only be described as a difficult moment were truly inspiring. I hope that I can find the strength to handle similar situations with the same grace in the future. Thank you. This may have been just you doing your job, but it meant the world to me.