I am an RN, I got to see a whole different side of things being the patient recently. Amanda went above and beyond. She never seemed rushed, and treated me as a person - not just a task to complete. Just offering little things like getting me a cool cloth when I had a fever, encouraging me to walk when I didn't feel up to it, or getting me something special to drink to try and got me to drink some fluids. The little things mean a lot to the patient lying in the bed. She is everything a nurse should be!
***
While I was hospitalized for the unusual diagnosis: fistula, I had blood pressure issues. She was persistent with the doctor to fully understand the mean arterial pressure. Because she was caring and kind, she did not overlook a possible blood pressure/heart issue.
She personified what a good nurse is: educated, a patient advocate, one who communicates concerns to a doctor and perseveres till she feels comfortable with the patient's issue. She is cheery, in spite of being kept very busy and responsible for many others.
She deserves recognition as a health care employee who takes her job seriously, but is relaxed enough to be a friend to a patient dealing with a difficult and uncertain problem.
***
On Friday morning, at 9:30 am, I was called by Dr. C's office to come to LGH by 11:00 for an IV. I had no idea what to expect other than I have acute diverticulitis and micro-perforated bowel (new diagnosis for me). I was very scared and apprehensive. I had no idea how long I'd have to stay and with five children at home (three in school) and being Old Order Mennonite, it felt like I was drowning - especially in self-pity. Then, Amanda was my nurse one evening and I knew I would be okay.
I relaxed whenever I heard her "in-charge" voice come out in the all - how did she know I am so lonely and homesick for my family at home. She'd come in with a smile every time! She explained everything to me - my new diagnosis looked huge until nurse Amanda went over and above explaining so patiently to me and even making copies of things I would have otherwise not gotten since we don't have internet. After finding out that I am used to sleeping with a fan, she even tried to hunt one up for me! That never happened for me before, and this is my fourth time to be in a hospital overnight. That meant more to me than any words could say!
One afternoon when I was terribly lonely and was looking at a picture book, she came in to check up on me and took time to look at the page I was at. She knew what this Mennonite lady needed when I saw no one else from my church on that floor - she didn't act like she was a few steps above me and when she was there I could relax and tell her exactly how I felt. Is it any wonder that when I was discharged I fought back tears and said "I'll miss you" as I gave her a goodbye hug!
Amanda, you were super to me and I hope you know you'll be blessed for it someday. You will always have a special place in my heart.