| | Rita Epperson, RN, CRRN, Brain Injury Specialist Rehab/Acute Brain Injury, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Winston Salem, North Carolina |
Rita consistently does the "little things" that help brain injured
adults feel at ease and care for. On a day when several patients were
restless, she led a sing-a-long of familiar TV theme songs.
A particularly anxious patient was given the human touch of a manicure.
She made grits every meal for a patient with a wired jaw "just the way
you like them". Rita's communication with the patients reflects empathy.
She can be heard saying, "Of course you have a headache-you're
recovering from surgery. Let's see what we can do to make you more
comfortable."
When patients are admitted, she takes the time to sit with them, explain
the program, and reassure them and their families about the care in the
rehab program. Rita deserves to be recognized for her compassion and
nursing skills.
Submitted by Karen LaChapelle
