Laura Thomson, RN, works on the Progressive Care Unit at Beaumont, Trenton, and often sees patients admitted to the hospital with torn or stained clothing.
“I had a patient who planned to walk home with no shoes or socks on upon discharge,” says Laura. “I didn’t have much at that time, but they were happy to go home in a double pair of hospital socks.”
That experience left Laura wanting to provide patients with more resources. She spoke with her manager, Kathryn, who provided the space and freedom to start a clothing closet for patients who need an article of clothing before being discharged.
Laura launched Brody Garrett’s Closet, named after her oldest son who she describes as having a great level of compassion for others. “Brody gives to everyone before himself,” explains Laura.
With the new space, Laura installed shelving units and shoe racks to make the closet more accessible for team members. The closet contains shirts, pants, shoes and coats for both men and women - all supplied by generous donations of new and gently used
clothing.
“The goal of the closet is to help provide patients with dignity when leaving the hospital, knowing and feeling that we took care of them to the best of our ability,” says Laura.
Laura’s idea has already received tremendous support and she’s helping other Beaumont nurses start similar programs.
Laura says, “We have to take care of our sick from the time they walk in, to the moment they step out. I expect that from Beaumont and that’s the kind of care I’m proud to be a part of.”