I was assigned to an 8-yr old patient whose latest diagnosis is TB Meningitis. I received her awake and was lying on bed, in an upright position. She has no fever. Assessing her overall appearance only revealed sluggish eyes with delayed response to any stimulation. She has NGT inserted on her right nares, and a dry,cracked lips was noted. I monitored her vital signs hourly, and stayed at the bed side for most of the times. I provided am care, gave her a bed bath, assisted in the nebulization, fed her, and kept her dry and comfortable at all times. She would moan to some movements I make her do. Her consciousness slips from time to time, and she really wouldn't talk. I asked her to kick my hand and squeeze it as well, and she did both with little strength, although I'm glad she followed because that's a good response.
I noticed a yellow rosary on her neck and her grandma explained that while I was out for beak, an old woman entered the ward and placed that rosary on her neck, said she has no one to give it to. A complete stranger. When I was back to feed my patient, she started doing the sign of the cross for so many times, and she was all of a sudden alert and much more aware of her surroundings. Whatever it is that made her do that, I'm happy she did it. It was that strength coming from a strong faith of a weak patient highlighted my day.
Strangers, in one way or another do make miracles. That old woman, whoever she is, who came in to give the rosary to my patient and brought her a sudden strength, has blessed me as well. It's funny how we never met, and never will; yet through my patient, God is once again revealed and reflected.
I'm grateful to have helped ease my patient's discomfort even just for a day. It was even just for eight hours. I'm happy because I was armed with God's Word and protection as I boldly rendered care to a TB Meningitis patient. When you're in that kind of hospital setting, your patient matters most to you. Your safety and protection only comes next. What's more fulfilling is that I left her talking; speaking to her mother through the phone. It was a goal met for me to leave her in her active mood; it's like she's sending me goodbye with an assurance that she'll soon be fine.
Yes, TB Meningitis may deteriorate her body, but her building faith on fire gives hope and strength to everyone around her. To me, especially.
Hebrews 13:2 - "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."
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