June 2009
Kaye
Haas
,
RN
7 South - heart failure
The Christ Hospital Health Network
Cincinnati
,
OH
United States

 

 

 

On the heart failure unit, we have some patients who are admitted with pulmonary hypertension. A particular patient, P.F., was an inpatient for more than a month as we attempted to improve her quality of life with various methods, mediations and finally Hospice. P.F. became a "favorite" patient on the unit. Kaye spent hours with the patient and her family, providing support, listening to concerns and advocating for the patient as she came to terms with her poor prognosis. Once the patient was discharged home with Hospice, Kaye kept the unit updated on P.F. Kaye continued to visit her and to check in on her family as they cared for her at home. The family was fortunate one morning when Kaye came to visit P.F. She was uncomfortable and having difficulty breathing. Kaye notified Hospice of her change in status, ensured the family and she stayed with the patient during her final moments. Kaye continued to support the husband and family in the days following her death. Kaye is a reminder to all of us how we care for not just the patient but also the family. Thank you Kaye!!