This has been the week for death. Or rather, the last 3 days have been days full of death. At KBR, we have had almost 4-5 people die every day. It's been somewhat unnerving. While I realize that I am at a hospice inpatient facility and death is common, I don't think I've had as eventful a week as this has been. We start to get into the superstitions, trying to figure out if it's a full moon or new moon or some other celestially driven circumstance. I am thankful that the patient's I cared for were at peace. They did not suffer at the end. Their loved ones knew that I cared deeply for everyone who entered the room. I was supportive and compassionate. I can't say I was perfect at everything I did, and that I didn't need help. I know, though, that I put forth the best effort that I could in caring for each patient I managed this week. There wasn't one that I felt I somehow hastened their death, nor did I feel like any of them were allowed undue suffering or prolonged course. I was thankful for the support I received from the nurses, nurses aides, chaplain, social worker, and the other doctors and NP I worked with. It was another wonderful week of working with incredibly passionate caregivers. I am so thankful for the experience. I love what I do, and am thankful to work with others who love what they do just as much. I'm almost sad that I only have one more week there before transitioning to another team at the beginning of August.
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