The care of my son in the CSICU has been exceptional. J was born with congenital heart defects and experienced several heart surgeries as an infant and toddler. J has always known that a heart transplant was a possibility in his future. J had a cardiac event while at work and was transferred to a local hospital by ambulance. After being transferred to VCU/MCV, J was placed on ECMO as the only option for his survival. After a week on ECMO, J underwent surgery for the total artificial heart. J's body showed signs of organ failure as the liver, kidneys, lungs and other systems struggled to manage the demands being placed on them. Many nights and days our family prayed that J would survive and many times we were unsure of the answer as we saw his condition decline.
Amanda Donaldson, RN was assigned to J's care a number of days after his surgery to receive the total artificial heart. Amanda's care of J was constant and tireless. She consistently attended to his needs and proactively attended to his changes in medical status. Her clinical skills were outstanding and her ability to explain the continuously changing medical procedures in a manner understandable by the family was both professional and authentically kind. Amanda sat in on two very emotionally difficult meetings with doctors as we discussed J's chances of survival. When other staff on the unit diverted their eyes as we came and went from the unit, Amanda consistently met ours and offered support.
After days of our son's continued medical decline, Amanda identified the need for a "quiet day" to see if all external stimulation was decreased would he be able to maintain his blood pressure and manage the dialysis pull of fluid which was crucial for his survival. A darkened room, gentle movements during clinical procedures and serene music throughout the shift made a difference in his status. This was the first day fluid was able to be pulled and his blood pressure remained stable. This approach was continued for shift after shift and truly resulted in a change in the direction of J's continued life. As we continue as a family to support the recovery of our son, we will be eternally grateful for the caring nurses and support staff of the CSICU, especially Amanda Donaldson.
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Amanda showed nothing but compassion and concern to me and my family while my brother has been in critical care. She had great patience with us at a time when we thought my brother may not make it. She answered every question with great detail even when we asked more than once. She deserves this award. Thanks and we appreciate her and her personality.
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Nurse Amanda demonstrated exemplary critical care skills, compassion, and integrity above and beyond the call of duty. She consoled, counseled and maintained a professional demeanor the entire period of time our son was hospitalized in Critical Cardiac Surgery ICU. We feel she deserves this award wholeheartedly, and her level of care was worthy of all nurses and doctors appreciating, acknowledging, and living up to her standard of duty.
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She was friendly, kind and gave great care to my little brother. And was also helping us get through this difficult time with true understanding. I want to sincerely thank you!