Stephanie Burton works in the Post Cardiac Cath Unit at CAMC Memorial Hospital.
A patient with mental and physical deficits was brought to the emergency room by a sibling.
He was dropped off with no belongings or information about how to care for him. To most he would have been considered non-verbal and bedridden.
Burton took the time to learn that he could communicate using some sign language and gestures. She discovered he liked being in a wheelchair and going for walks or just sitting near the nurse’s station. She learned that he could write his name, liked to color and draw.
The patient went from being sad and crying to laughing and hugging.
Since he was expected to be in the hospital long term due to his extraordinary situation and needing placement, Burton brought him a full wardrobe, purchased socks, underwear, bibs and shoes. She also did his laundry weekly at home, often picking up or delivering his laundry to him on her days off. She even took extra time to make him holiday gifts.
When the patient was moved to a different unit, Burton still visited him and continued washing clothes.
It was obvious that her visits brought him joy. This continued for several months until the patient received placement and left the hospital.
Burton’s actions, and the love and care she gave this patient who had no one else, went above and beyond the duties of a nurse. She spent her free time selflessly ensuring that he had clean clothes and a hug.