Abby has completed exceptional work in the PIMCU, from being the chair of our shared governance model, working on the scheduling committee, being a preceptor, serving as a core charge nurse and clinical resource nurse to attending numerous task forces. The area that Abby shines and is most impressive at is in her bedside manner. Her ability to interact with her patients and families is truly a gift. She values and cares for her patients as they were her own family and­ she has a full understanding of patient and family centered care.
Recently Abby went above and beyond for a patient and family that really struck my heart. It was a simple act of kindness that the family will never forget. The patient (M) and family were recently in the PIMCU for a lengthy hospital stay. M was a 17 year old gentleman with a world of dreams in front of him when tragedy struck and he became hospitalized. His emotions, thoughts, and actions were uncontrollable and often violent leaving his mother and family at a loss. This M was not the M they had always known. It was the kind words and actions of Abby that helped both M and his family through the hospital stay and eventually discharge to rehab. Abby would stop to see M and his mother on days she was working but not caring for M, stopping to sit and chat about the day and discharge plans. When M was discharged to rehab Abby, along with the unit, celebrated his discharge. It was a great day for all!
One week into M's rehab tragedy struck again and he passed away. The family's first thought was to call the PIMCU and let the unit know that M had passed and that the kindness shown to M was incredible. Upon hearing this Abby immediately went to collecting money for flowers for the funeral and family, she never skipped a beat, going right in to that caring mode for the family.