Discharge planning can many times be a challenging process. Thus was the case with Mr. T. This veteran was not in agreement with options for discharge as he felt he wasn't strong enough to care for himself. After multiple conversations and interdisciplinary meetings, the veteran agreed to go to a CNH for a short term contract for physical therapy.
Collaboration with the accepting facility, social worker, and bedside nurse along with nurse tech and unit lead (Joshua Salazar) was accomplished. Transportation arrangements were made, and the pick-up time was set for 10:00.
The veteran's personal belongings were placed in two plastic bags. However, when he arrived at the accepting facility, his belonging didn't arrive with him. The staff at the accepting facility contacted the 4SW unit and expressed the veteran's complaints. Mr. Salazar searched the veteran's room in vain as the housekeeper had already done the cleaning. Mr. Salazar then went to the soiled linen department and searched through 12 soiled laundry bags and was able to locate the veteran's enclosed plastic bag that had the items he was demanding to have. Collaborating with the social worker on the case and the accepting facility, an agreement was made to meet the facility's staff in the lobby to hand-off said bag with items.
Mr. Salazar's willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty and take it upon himself to search through 12 soiled laundry/linen bags is commendable. His act exemplifies the VA's mission, vision, and ICARE values. Mr. Salazar clearly understands the importance and value of veteran satisfaction with care received while hospitalized. Mr. Salazar was professional and maintained a positive attitude in executing his duty to assist this veteran.
It was a pleasure for me to witness such caring and professionalism on the part of a nurse colleague and I look forward to continue working closely with him in the future.