SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Seeing Patients as People: Reflections From Meet My Loved One

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The “Meet My Loved One” (MMLO) project was created by palliative care teams to preserve patient personhood and strengthen connection during the COVID-19 pandemic, when family visitation was severely limited. UNC Palliative Care implemented the MMLO form, which was completed with family members—and patients when possible—to share meaningful personal details and photos that could be displayed at the bedside.<br /><br />The project studied 50 COVID-19 patients, their loved ones, and 21 health care workers (HCWs). The MMLO team contacted families, completed the survey, collected photos, and posted the materials at the patient’s bedside. Surveys were administered before MMLO completion and again 2–7 days afterward. HCWs also provided feedback.<br /><br />Results showed clear benefits. Loved ones reported improved perceptions of care, with 79% saying MMLO had an excellent or very good effect. Their comments suggested the project helped families feel reassured that staff saw their relative as a whole person. HCWs reported that MMLO helped them learn more about their patients, with 96% agreeing it taught them something new about the patient and 58% saying it helped them learn something new about themselves. Ninety percent said it would positively influence their future care. Qualitative feedback highlighted that patient photos and stories improved morale, reinforced purpose, and created a stronger emotional connection.<br /><br />Overall, MMLO improved perceptions of care, supported HCW well-being, and restored a sense of human connection for patients and families. The project’s positive outcomes have led to hopes for broader implementation across the UNC Health Care System and beyond.

Asset Subtitle

Jennifer J. McEntee

Meta Tag

Author List Alyssa Tilly, Anjana Kumar, Ellen L. Ozier, Emily Aarons, Geoffrey Houtz, Jasmine Sun, Jennifer J. McEntee, Jessica N. Stevens MD, Joseph Dayaa

Category Innovations

Concept Meet My Loved One initiative

Concept Person-centered care

Concept Patient personhood

Concept Photograph

Concept Patient-family connection

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Unc

Presenting Author Jennifer J. McEntee

Track Communication

Keywords

palliative care

COVID-19 pandemic

patient personhood

family visitation

bedside photos

health care workers

care perceptions

emotional connection

patient stories

UNC Palliative Care

Meet My Loved One initiative

Person-centered care

Patient personhood

Photograph

Patient-family connection