June 2022
Justine
Ang
,
RN
Comprehensive Cancer Center
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
Berkeley
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

In understanding his needs, Justine was also sensitive to meeting the patient's cultural needs.
Several months ago, a post-lung and kidney transplant patient began treatment at the Cancer Center for albumin infusions, often accompanied by his spouse during his appointments. During one of the infusions, the patient was signed to Nurse Justine. The patient's wife explained that her husband wasn't feeling well that particular day and they were struggling to make it to their appointment. Upon arriving in the infusion room, Justine was already prepared and immediately started taking care of the patient. Being a healthcare worker herself, the patient's wife immediately recognized Justine's kindness towards her husband. Despite having other patients in her assignment that needed her attention, Justine continued to spend the time to connect with and understand the patient's needs at the time. The patient's wife stated that Justine was always so gentle towards her husband, especially when she was starting his IV and when she was completing her assessment of him. In understanding his needs, Justine was also sensitive to meeting the patient's cultural needs. At one point during this appointment, the patient started to feel worse. Justine acted immediately and connected the appropriate provider to further assess the patient. The patient's hemoglobin was extremely low. The patient was transferred to the Emergency Room. The patient's wife remarked that the communication that Justine provided reduced their anxiety and helped them understand the next steps. She further stated that the qualities that Justine possesses mean the world to patients and their family members during stressful moments of their lives. This made such a positive impact on both the patient and his wife.