There is a long-term patient who stayed admitted on PCU 400 with the primary diagnosis of Keratitis Ichthyosis Deafness (KID). This particular patient was admitted for a severe skin infection and extreme pain of the skin with burning sensations. His diagnosis included bilateral blindness and deafness. With no near-discharge date, a group of PCU 400 nurses signed up to be his primary nurses. With a compassionate heart, Niklas signed up to be a primary nurse.

One particular day I walked past the patient’s room, and saw Niklas and the patient sitting at the table together. The patient had a blanket over his head and had stacks of papers in his hands. Then I saw Niklas, who also had a blanket over his head and the same-looking stack of papers in his hands. I was a bit confused at how a patient who is blind and deaf was able to play card games with Niklas. I asked Niklas what he was doing with the patient when I walked by, he explained to me that one of the senses that comfort the patient is touch and tactile. Even though the patient couldn’t see or hear Niklas, he put a blanket over his own head to support the patient. It was Niklas’ way of showing the patient he was not alone. Niklas also told me he came up with a game with the patient to see who can rip up papers faster. Niklas would place a piece of paper in front of the patient and have one himself. He taps the patient to signal the start and they would compete to see who can rip up the paper smaller and faster.

I am so amazed by Niklas’ creative ways to engage with the patient. Niklas is an example of a nurse who goes above and beyond to provide comfort and a mirthful environment for the patient. He provided medically, psychologically, emotionally, and holistically, excellent care.