When face-to-face visits wasn’t an option for her patient, Francisca Tamanaha found a way to provide a wow experience in care.
Francisca, M.S.N., R.N., CMSRN, CNL, clinical nurse leader in orthopedic trauma at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth was caring for a patient who needed to decide about surgery but wanted to consult with family first.
The problem was that the only family the patient had nearby was in self-quarantine after recently visiting England during the COVID-19 outbreak. “I discussed my concerns at the nursing station about how the patient’s relative could not come up to visit because of self-quarantine. Several nurses threw out ideas and one was FaceTime,” Francisca said.
FaceTime became an instant digital doorway to let the patient speak with their relative about vital next steps in care. “I ran with it because I knew it was the best action to take,” said Francisca. She even allowed the patient to use her personal cell phone to make the FaceTime calls.
“I utilized Question and Resolve from our Error Prevention Tools to make sure the relative, also the patient’s medical power of attorney, felt that they were making the best decision for the patient,” she added.
When the patient saw their relative on the screen, heard their voice and talked through the care decision together, the patient’s demeanor was immediately uplifted.
“When I saw them speaking and smiling it reminded me about the power of human connection, especially in times like these.”
Francisca is one of thousands of nurses doing incredible work every hour that’s making a difference as we navigate this health crisis together. Thank you for all that you do.
By Kari Littrell • Posted March 24, 2020
