A Time for Every Activity Under the Sun
"Hey, one of our patients is coding! Can you help?!"
PEA. No shock advised.
Chest compressions, epinephrine, pulse check.
Family called. Patient valued quality of life.
A time to die.
Luminescent hallway lights,
No comfort. Mom is sick, very sick.
"Do you know what mom would want?
Have you thought about hospice?"
Tears like rain. A time to weep.
Swollen joints, fever, tachycardia,
Leukocytosis, diarrhea.
Infection? No source yet.
Autoimmune? No positive labs.
Etiology unknown. A time to search.
Admission: bilateral swollen legs,
Shortness of breath with pulmonary edema.
CHF exacerbation. Aggressive diuresis and GDMT.
Discharge: legs thinner, breathing well
On room air. Feels much better.
A time to heal.
Co-resident on call,
Four Diet Dr Pepper bottles, plastic
chicken box, candy wrapper,
Countless tangerine peels.
A trail of perseverance.
A time to laugh.
Agitated, patient has had trouble
With healthcare. "I don't want to be here.
I am leaving. I don't trust this place.
I can handle myself at home."
Sir, I am sorry you have had that experience.
Can you tell me more?
A time to be silent.
Where ya from? Me, I'm from Mississippi.
Apparently, I have a southern accent.
What are your sons' names? Where do they live?
Got any recs for somewhere to eat around here?
Tell me about your family, they sure seem to love you.
Rapport: a time to build.
Children surround mom's bed.
Spouse holds patient's hand.
Update a family friend.
Hey, daddy, it's me. I'm here. I'm here with you.
I love you.
Pain, disappointment, fear,
But love, always,
A time for love.
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