A 17-year-old male was brought to the ER in full cardiac arrest. The 14-year-old sister of the patient was in the waiting room while the team attempted resuscitation efforts. The parents were not in town at the time the patient was brought to the ER. After resuscitation efforts ceased and the room was cleaned, Lauren went to the waiting room to get the sister so she could be with her brother, who had passed.   

Upon entering the room, the 14-year-old sister began to cry and scream. Lauren guided the sister to the bedside and stayed with her for over an hour and a half. Lauren was comforting the sister. Lauren was allowing the patient’s sister to hold, hug, and comfort her for an extended time, as the sister did not have her parents at the bedside, as they were traveling back to St. Louis, since they were out of town. 

Lauren was able to be there for the patient’s sister in the most difficult time, due to the passing of her only sibling. Lauren showed true compassion, sympathy, and empathy. 

As a fellow nurse, I am proud of her passion to be with patients and families in the most difficult of times. What makes Lauren an outstanding nurse is that she cares from the bottom of her heart about patients and families and would never seek recognition for doing her job. 

I know the patient’s sister, as well as other members of the pediatric emergency department, know Lauren is truly compassionate and caring. That night, Lauren had the most difficult job of any of the staff members. 

It takes a special nurse to be with families and provide comfort after the death of a loved one!