Today, I treated the deep gash on your forehead from an assault. While stitching the wound with careful precision, I reassured you that the scar would blend with your natural features. I assisted you in applying concealer to mask the bruises from where he had choked you, all while keeping a watchful eye on your breathing. I compiled a list of local shelters and hotlines for domestic violence victims and discreetly tucked it into your bag.
I offered to contact law enforcement for you multiple times, sharing my concerns about your safety. I worried that the next time you might not be so fortunate. Today, I addressed your visible injuries; however, tomorrow, when the emotional scars deepen or the physical wounds become critical, we could fail you.
You arrived at my office alone after collapsing while working at a local café. A college student far from home, you were alone when I delivered the unsettling news that your blood tests indicated a potential cancer diagnosis. I’m not certain you fully grasped the gravity of needing a blood transfusion and possibly a bone marrow transplant. You requested a note to excuse you from an upcoming exam—unfortunately, that may be the only note I can provide for you. Today, I identified a critical health issue and initiated a treatment plan, but tomorrow, when you face complications from treatment, we could let you down.
In our session, we discussed managing your type 2 diabetes. To my surprise, you were already well-informed, despite arriving in the emergency room with dangerously high blood sugar levels. You shared that your monthly insulin costs exceed $1,000, a burden on your fixed income as a senior. You had resorted to “creative” solutions, stretching one week’s supply to last a month. You asked, “Isn’t it better than nothing?” Today, I coordinated with a social worker to secure a month’s worth of insulin supplies. But tomorrow, when your health deteriorates from rationing, we could fail you.
Today, I took your clothing items and placed them in separate bags. I collected forensic evidence, swabbing areas where you had been injured and capturing the extent of your wounds in photographs. I provided medications to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, reassuring you that this was not your fault. I encouraged you to wash away the shame you felt, wrapping you in clean clothes afterward. Tomorrow, I will stand by you in court, advocating for you and other survivors of assault. Yet, when you find it hard to sleep due to fear and memories, we could still let you down.
Today, I changed your diaper and sang lullabies to you as I fed you your favorite meal. I read you our cherished story, reminding you of my love. Today, I was your caregiver. And I will continue to fight so that no one else has to experience what you have gone through.
For more insight into related topics, check out this post on intracervicalinsemination.com. You may also find valuable information on fertility issues at ACOG and resources at Make A Mom.
Summary
This narrative from a nurse practitioner illustrates the profound challenges faced by patients in various distressing situations, from domestic violence to health crises. It reflects on the importance of compassionate care and the ongoing fight against systemic barriers that could lead to patient neglect.