Reply to your classmate

Hello Class,

Within my tenure as a nurse in Colorado's chronic disease unit, I had the privilege of caring for a patient who was facing complications associated with end-stage kidney disease, ultimately progressing toward the final stage of life. The patient's journey commenced with recurrent urinary tract infections that gradually deteriorated over time, resulting in the emergence of pyelonephritis. As the patient's condition worsened, they started to manifest fever, chills, flank pain, and profound fatigue.

Collaborating closely with the medical team, we commenced a proactive course of action by administering potent antibiotics and diligently overseeing the patient's vital signs and laboratory findings. Despite our best efforts, the infection persisted and evolved into sepsis, placing the patient in a critical condition. This unfortunate turn of events has placed the patient in a critical condition, requiring immediate attention and intensive care. The patient and their family were provided with information regarding the gravity of the situation, and conversations transitioned towards prioritising the patient's comfort and preserving their dignity during their final moments.

As the patient's health continued to decline, the family remained a steadfast source of support, offering emotional solace and actively engaging in care-related choices. During the patient's final hours, I had the privilege of observing the remarkable influence of advanced pain management, palliative care, and the comforting presence of the family. The serene passing of the patient emphasized the significance of managing end-stage complications through a collaborative approach involving various healthcare professionals and effective communication.

This experience has further strengthened my dedication to advocating for the desires of our patients, fostering transparent discussions regarding treatment choices, and delivering comprehensive care throughout the terminal phases of life. As a nurse, I acknowledge the honor of providing assistance to patients and their loved ones amidst difficult circumstances, and I hold onto this knowledge as a testament to the significant impact nurses have in the lives of those they attend to during this sensitive period of end-of-life care.